Over-the-road (OTR) trucking is what keeps the US economy going. It gets things and commodities to their final places, whether they are in a busy city or a quiet small town. OTR trucking is more than just transporting goods over long distances; it’s a job that requires commitment, skill in driving big trucks, and strict adherence to rules and regulations.
In this blog, we will break down the basics of OTR trucking, highlighting what it truly involves and the necessary qualifications for those interested in pursuing this career. For seasoned drivers, newcomers to the field, or curious readers, this piece aims to shed light on the profession that plays a pivotal role in keeping America’s economy rolling smoothly.
What is OTR trucking?
OTR trucking refers to over-the-road transportation of goods, where truckers travel long distances, often crossing state lines and international borders. Engaged in a pivotal role, these truckers spend 3–4 weeks on the road, either in their truck’s cabin or in accommodations along their route. The industry sees a mix of solo drivers and two-person teams, with teams working in shifts to ensure compliance with driving laws while maintaining efficient freight movement.
These dedicated professionals handle various freight types, including heavy machinery, automobiles, construction materials, and consumer goods. OTR trucking is a career launchpad for many drivers, while experienced ones often choose it for its steady demand and lucrative pay.
With the responsibility of transporting goods ranging from fresh produce to imports from ports, covering distances over 3,000 miles at times, OTR drivers are vital to the supply chain, ensuring the economy functions smoothly by facilitating the timely delivery of goods from coast to coast. Their role is challenging and rewarding, making them an invaluable asset to the freight industry and the economy.
Requirements of OTR Trucking
To qualify as an OTR truck driver, individuals must meet several requirements. Firstly, one must be at least 21 years of age. A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is mandatory and must be obtained after passing both a written and practical driving test.
The CDL comes in three classes:
- Class A, for operating vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more;
- Class B, for driving single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more; and
- Class C, for smaller vehicles towing another weighing less than 10,000 pounds.
Obtaining a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) endorsement is necessary for those transporting hazardous materials, which involves passing an additional test.
Employers also expect OTR drivers to maintain a clean driving record and pass a background check and a drug test. Experience driving large vehicles is often a prerequisite, along with a fundamental understanding of vehicle maintenance and repair.
Physical fitness is crucial, given the job’s demands, including long driving hours and lifting heavy items. OTR drivers should also possess essential qualities like reliability, responsibility, and the ability to work independently.
Good communication skills are vital, as drivers often must interact with customers and other transportation team members. Meeting these requirements is essential for anyone pursuing a rewarding career in OTR trucking, a profession that significantly keeps the economy moving.
Top 5 Driving Schools for OTR Truck Drivers
If you want to become a truck driver, picking the right training school is one of the most important things you can do. Many schools in the United States teach people how to be truck drivers. Each one has its specific programs for people who want to become truck drivers. Here are the top 5 for you:
CRST International
Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- Known for top-notch training.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- – Experienced instructors.
- – Comprehensive program, basics to advanced.
- – Emphasis on hands-on training.
Prime Inc.
Location: Springfield, Missouri
- Focus on safety and excellence
- Diverse program offerings
- Modern training facilities
- Dedicated experienced trainers
- Company-sponsored training available
Roehl Transport
Location: Marshfield, Wisconsin
- Renowned for CDL training
- Various training options
- Paid CDL training offered
- Strong emphasis on continuous learning
- Ideal for career advancement
Swift Transportation
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
- Career-focused training
- Extensive hands-on experience
- Large fleet and innovation
- Tuition reimbursement for grads
Stevens Transport
Location: Dallas, Texas
- Dedication to skilled, safe drivers
- Comprehensive training, including simulators
- High demand for graduates
- Classroom, simulator, and on-road instruction
OTR Truck Driver Salary in the USA
Average Salary
OTR truck drivers in the USA have an average annual salary between $52,518 and $126,882. Entry-level positions may offer around $57,739 annually, while experienced drivers earn up to $105,429.
| Job Title | Average Salary (per year) | Salary Range/Additional Info |
| OTR Truckers | $108,292 | Low: $72,804, High: $161,079 |
| Owner-Operators | $323,870 | Earnings can vary greatly depending on workload and business expenses. |
| Ice Road Drivers | $66,917 | Earn your annual salary in a few short, high-risk months. |
| Oversized load drivers | $71,091 | Transport large items like construction equipment and mobile homes. |
| Specialty Vehicle Haulers | $78,490 | Transport high-value vehicles with extra precautions to prevent damage. |
| Team truck drivers | $101,079 | Work in pairs for long-distance deliveries, often driving up to twenty-two hours a day. |
| Private Fleet Drivers | $95,000-$110,000 | Work for major retailers or manufacturers with benefits like shorter work weeks and comprehensive benefits packages. |
| Mining Industry Drivers | $62,868 | Operate in mining and quarry operations. |
| Liquids/Tanker Drivers | $90,894 | Transport hazardous liquids with specialized skills and equipment. |
| Hazmat Drivers | $70,475 | Transport hazardous materials with increased risks and requirements. |
| Regional truck drivers | $71,882 | Work within specific geographic areas, offering a balance between long-distance and local driving. |
fig 1: Annual Salary Breakdown for Various Truck Driving Positions
OTR driver’s additional compensation
Besides their base salary, OTR truckers often receive various non-cash benefits and bonuses. These additional benefits contribute significantly to the overall compensation package for OTR truckers, enhancing their financial stability and job satisfaction.
Job opportunities in OTR trucking
Over-the-road (OTR) trucking offers abundant job opportunities due to the perpetual demand for long-haul drivers. This demand ensures job security for OTR truckers, which is crucial in transporting goods nationwide.
For individuals valuing independence and willing to spend extended periods away from home, solo OTR driving positions are ideal. These positions allow drivers to explore the country and offer substantial income, with top earners averaging $86,000 annually.
Platforms like Schneider provide many OTR job listings, offering various driving opportunities, including solo and team positions. Each position has unique benefits and compensation packages, allowing job seekers to find roles that align with their qualifications and preferences.
These companies offer positions in different locations, such as Bridgeport, WV, Delta, CO, and various areas in North Carolina, allowing drivers to select jobs that best suit their lifestyle and career goals.
With the continuous growth in the logistics and transportation sectors, OTR trucking remains a promising career path with numerous opportunities for employment and advancement.
Challenges of being an OTR truck driver
Over-the-road (OTR) trucking is a rewarding career, but not without its set of challenges. One of the significant challenges includes the strict adherence to Hours of Service (HOS) rules.
These rules, designed to prevent fatigue, limit the driving hours for truckers, necessitating careful planning and scheduling. Additionally, truckers often encounter lengthy detentions during pickups and deliveries, significantly disrupting their schedules.
The condition of U.S. infrastructure further complicates the job. With 65% of major roads in less than good condition and a considerable number of bridges either aged or structurally deficient, truckers often find navigation challenging. High stress is also a constant companion for OTR truckers due to the long hours, time away from family, adverse weather conditions, traffic jams, and the pressure of tight deadlines.
Moreover, the career is predominantly sedentary, with truckers having limited access to healthy food options on the road. This lifestyle leads to health challenges, with OTR truckers reporting higher rates of diabetes and obesity than the general working population. The obesity rate among long-haul truckers is 69%, compared to 31% in the general working population.
Given these challenges, it is imperative for individuals in the OTR trucking profession to proactively manage their health and wellness, engage in careful planning, and employ stress management strategies to have a successful and rewarding career. Despite the challenges, OTR trucking is essential, providing stability and financial rewards to those who successfully navigate its demands.
Ending Note
Over-the-road (OTR) Trucking is indispensable to fueling the American economy. This career is not only about transporting goods over long distances; it demands unwavering dedication, specialized skills, and strict adherence to regulations.
For individuals considering a career in OTR trucking, it’s essential to understand that while the job is challenging, it is equally rewarding. With lucrative pay, job security, and the opportunity to travel across the country, it offers many a unique and fulfilling career path.
However, success in this field requires meeting specific qualifications and a deep commitment to navigating the challenges that come with life on the open road. For those ready to embrace these challenges, OTR trucking offers a promising and stable career in a sector vital to the nation’s well-being.
James Johnson is a former truck driver who now works as a writer, specializing in the trucking industry. With over 15 years of experience on the road, James has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by truck drivers and the trucking industry as a whole. His writing focuses on issues such as safety, regulation, and the latest industry trends. His work has been featured in several trucking publications and he has received recognition for his contributions to the industry. In his free time, James still enjoys being around trucks and often attends truck shows and other industry events.