There are several types of truck-driving jobs available. Each has their unique benefits. If you are giving some thought to getting into this profession, you should be aware of them.
Team Drivers
If you like fixing up or driving used trucks in your space time, then you might decide to pursue driving as your profession. Becoming a team driver might appeal.
Team drivers move loads of goods across the country, but they only complete one portion of the journey before handing the load off to another driver. The main benefit of this is that you do not need to go very far from home before you can come back again.
Tanker Drivers
Tanker drivers typically move liquids or gases from place to place. This job usually pays pretty well, which is considered its main benefit. However, you will need a special license to land one of these coveted positions.
Over-the-Road Truck Drivers
These types of truck drivers operate larger trucks moving greater amounts of goods. With the proper license, you might operate a tractor-trailer as an over-the-road driver.
The main benefit of this position is that you get to travel across the country frequently. While that might not be best if you have familial obligations, if you’re single and like seeing new places, this job may be ideal.
Refrigerated Drivers
These kinds of drivers operate vehicles that take refrigerated items from place to place. These types of jobs are not generally as difficult to get as some of the others on this list. The key benefit is that you can usually operate within a limited geographic area so that you’re never far away from your home and family.
Less-Than-Truckload Drivers
These drivers handle smaller shipments and loads. Probably the best aspect of this job is that there are more of them available than some of the others on this list. Finding one may be relatively easy if you ever get laid off, provided you have the requisite skill set.
Local Truck Drivers
A local truck driver is one who drives a truck within a limited geographic region, such as within their state and perhaps one or two neighboring states. They usually get to sleep in their own bed at night, which some prefer vs. having to stay in hotels or motels thousands of miles from home.
Flatbed Drivers
Flatbed drivers usually transport cars or other equipment. This is a great position for individuals who love to show off their physical strength. That’s usually a prerequisite for this type of driver, so an individual who values fitness may thrive in this role.
Dry Van Hauler
In this job, haulers operate trucks with attached trailers. There is some variation regarding whether you do this locally or nationally, which gives this position more flexibility than most.
Freight Haulers
Freight haulers typically haul larger goods either long distance or locally. There are usually more of these jobs available than most, as you might work for a manufacturer or retailer as well as delivery companies.
