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Truck driving is a popular career choice for many people. And why not? It offers the opportunity to travel, work independently and earn a good living. But how much can you expect to earn as a beginner truck driver?
Factors that Affect Truck Driver Beginning Salary
The answer to that question is not straightforward as there are many factors that affect truck driver beginning salary. Some of these factors include:
- Type of trucking job
- Location
- Experience
- Company
- Industry
- Specialization
Type of Trucking Job
The type of trucking job you get will have a significant impact on your beginning salary. For instance, local trucking jobs that involve making deliveries within a specific region or city pay differently from long haul trucking jobs that involve traveling long distances.
Location
Location is another important factor that affects truck driver beginning salary. Truck drivers working in urban areas may earn more than those in rural areas. Additionally, different states have different minimum wage requirements, which affect the earnings of truck drivers.
Experience
Experience is another critical factor that affects truck driver beginning salary. New and inexperienced truck drivers earn less than experienced ones. As you gain more experience, you can expect to earn more.
Company
The company that you work for can also impact your beginning salary. Different companies offer different pay rates to their employees. Some companies may also offer extra benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses, which increase the overall compensation package.
Industry
The industry in which you work can also affect your beginning salary. For instance, truck drivers who work in the construction industry may earn more than those in the retail industry.
Specialization
Specialization can also impact your beginning salary. Truck drivers who specialize in hazardous materials, for instance, may earn more than those who do not.
How Much Can You Expect to Earn as a Beginner Truck Driver?
So, how much can you expect to earn as a beginner truck driver? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $45,260 as of May 2020. This figure, however, varies depending on the factors mentioned above.
New and inexperienced truck drivers can expect to earn less than the median annual salary. On average, beginner truck drivers earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year. However, this figure can increase as you gain more experience.
Conclusion
Truck driving can be a lucrative career choice, but your beginning salary will depend on several factors. Type of trucking job, location, experience, company, industry, and specialization all play a role in determining your salary. If you are interested in becoming a truck driver, you can expect to earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year as a beginner. However, this figure can increase significantly as you gain more experience and specialize in different areas of truck driving.