Many people have preconceived notions about what the life of truckers is like, some of which aren’t wholly inaccurate. Plus, many of these ideas prevent people from looking at companies that are now hiring CDL drivers as viable career options, causing them to miss out on opportunities. 

Often, truck driving is a far more viable career than some would expect. Additionally, it can provide excellent work-life balance, reliable income, solid benefits, and other perks that make life far easier to manage. 

Learning about what it’s like to work as a trucker makes it easier to see how it can be an excellent fit for anyone looking for a new career. With that in mind, here are some insights. 

Shift Flexibility Is an Option

Many truck drivers have a surprising amount of shift flexibility. Typically, the main time-sensitive targets are pickup and drop-off times. Outside of that, how a trucker structures their day is usually in their hands. That can let you decide precisely when you want to be on the road. 

Additionally, even when a job has set hours, that doesn’t mean truckers don’t have options. Companies operate on unique schedules. Since that is the case, there are roles to fit essentially any preference. Whether you prefer traditional day shifts, overnights, or anything else, you can potentially find a job that meets your needs. 

College Isn’t Necessary

Starting a career as a truck driver doesn’t require college. Instead, after earning a high school diploma or GED, you’ll focus on career-specific training programs, ensuring you can safely operate vehicles and secure a CDL-A or CDL-B license. You can also earn a variety of endorsements, allowing you to drive more types of trucks and loads professionally. 

In most cases, CDL training programs last several weeks, not months or years. That’s far less time than you’ll spend training for essentially any other profession. 

Additionally, while CDL training programs can cost several thousand dollars, they’re less expensive than most college programs. Plus, some companies may offer to cover your CDL training costs in exchange for concessions in your initial employment contract, giving you an alternative way to launch a career. 

Entry-Level Pay Is Competitive

Since truck drivers are in-demand, entry-level pay is incredibly competitive. Truck drivers can earn anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the role and whether you’re an owner-operator. Plus, many of the jobs come with critical benefits. That increases the value of your total compensation package, often far exceeding what you can typically make from jobs that don’t require college degrees. 

Long Haul Isn’t a Requirement

Many people assume that all truckers are long-haul. While there are certainly multi-state and cross-country positions, a surprising number of CDL jobs focus on the local area. Along with staying in a single city, county, or small region, drivers on these routes are typically home daily. 

However, for those who do want to travel, there are opportunities in that arena, too. As a result, you can choose the kind of role that fits your lifestyle best. 

Now Hiring CDL Drivers

Ultimately, life as a trucker isn’t what most people expect. As a result, looking for companies now hiring CDL drivers may be a far better choice for you than you initially assumed. If you’d like to find out more, the team at PTS® wants to hear from you. Contact us today. 

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