Setting the Bar Higher: Unprecedented Earning Potential for Truck Drivers

Unlocking the Advantages of Soaring Truck Driver Salaries

The backbone of the American economy heavily relies on the dedicated efforts of professional truck drivers. Beyond transporting our daily essentials, these individuals play a pivotal role in closing the loop in the supply chain. However, the persistent shortage of drivers has created hurdles for businesses in timely goods delivery, and recent events have only intensified the challenges. In response, a wave of carriers is shattering records by offering unheard-of salaries to entice fresh talent into the trucking profession.

Tracing the Evolution of Truck Driver Compensation

A closer look at historical data highlights that the reported median salary for professional drivers in 2005 stood at $35,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Back then, the country had 1.625 million truck drivers. The first documented truck driver shortage emerged in 2005, as noted by the American Trucking Association, albeit temporarily disappearing when freight volume plummeted during the Great Recession in 2008. However, the shortage resurfaced in 2011 and escalated over the years, reaching a demand for over 60,000 drivers in 2019. Surprisingly, the average pay increased by a mere $12,400 during this entire period.

Future Trajectory of Truck Driver Salaries

Confronting the challenges linked to the driver shortage, carriers are reimagining their recruitment strategies, placing a significant emphasis on elevating driver salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of professional drivers earned over $69,480 in 2020. To sweeten the deal, many carriers are introducing additional incentives, such as enticing sign-on bonuses and local routes enabling drivers to return home daily. In an effort to attract new talent, legislative proposals are being explored to lower the CDL carrier age to 18.

New Sound Trucking School: Your Gateway to Elevated Salaries

At NSTS, we can kickstart your new career in just four weeks! Our Class A & B CDL Training Programs provide a well-rounded blend of classroom education and hands-on driving experience. Graduates successfully completing their training and obtaining their Washington CDL through our program are presented with opportunities from our employment partners through our job placement aid program. To smooth the transition into a new career, we also offer various tuition support options. Obtain your CDL conveniently at our Fife campus.