Average Pay For Over The Road Truck Drivers
Introduction
Over the road (OTR) trucking is a vital part of the transportation industry. It involves the transportation of goods over long distances, usually between states. OTR drivers are responsible for the safe and timely delivery of these goods. The compensation for this type of work is an important consideration for anyone considering a career in this industry.
Factors That Affect Average Pay
The average pay for OTR drivers varies depending on a number of factors. These include:
- Experience
- Location
- Company size
- Freight type
- Equipment type
Drivers with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience. The location of the job also affects pay, as some areas have a higher cost of living. The size of the company and the type of freight being transported also play a role in determining pay. Drivers who transport hazardous materials or oversized loads typically earn more. The type of equipment being used, such as a newer or more specialized truck, can also impact pay.
Current Average Pay
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for OTR truck drivers was $47,130 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent of earners made less than $30,560 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $86,720 per year.
However, it is important to note that these figures are for all OTR drivers, regardless of experience or other factors that may affect pay. In reality, pay can vary widely among individual drivers based on these factors.
Pay by Experience
As mentioned earlier, experience is a major factor in determining pay for OTR drivers. According to data from PayScale, the average pay for OTR drivers with less than a year of experience is $0.41 per mile. Drivers with 1-4 years of experience earn an average of $0.43 per mile, while those with 5-9 years of experience earn an average of $0.45 per mile. Drivers with 10-19 years of experience earn an average of $0.48 per mile, and those with 20 years or more of experience earn an average of $0.49 per mile.
Pay by Location
The location of the job also plays a major role in determining pay for OTR drivers. According to data from Indeed, the average pay for OTR drivers in the United States is $0.53 per mile. However, this can vary widely by state. The states with the highest average pay for OTR drivers are North Dakota, Wyoming, and Alaska, while the states with the lowest average pay are Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
Pay by Company Size
The size of the company can also impact pay for OTR drivers. According to data from Glassdoor, the average pay for OTR drivers at large companies (those with more than 1,000 employees) is $67,000 per year. At medium-sized companies (those with 201-1,000 employees), the average pay is $62,000 per year. At small companies (those with 1-200 employees), the average pay is $58,000 per year.
Pay by Freight Type
The type of freight being transported can also impact pay for OTR drivers. According to data from Indeed, drivers who transport hazardous materials earn an average of $0.60 per mile, while those who transport dry goods earn an average of $0.50 per mile. Drivers who transport oversized loads or specialized equipment can also earn more than those who transport standard loads.
Pay by Equipment Type
The type of equipment being used can also impact pay for OTR drivers. According to data from Indeed, drivers who operate newer or more specialized equipment (such as flatbed or refrigerated trailers) typically earn more than those who operate standard equipment.
Conclusion
The average pay for OTR drivers varies depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, company size, freight type, and equipment type. While the median annual pay for all OTR drivers is $47,130, individual pay can vary widely based on these factors. Anyone considering a career in this industry should carefully consider these factors when evaluating potential compensation.