A truck driver’s pay scale will depend on many different things.  There are many different ways for a driver to get paid.  By the mile, by the hour, by the load and by the day are typically the most common forms of pay.  Local truck drivers, meaning drivers who specifically deliver to short destinations, mainly get paid by the hour.  They earn overtime when applicable and are able to make more trips during a day.  Drivers who make long hauls, or drive to further destinations, are generally paid by the mile.  The rate per mile varies depending on the employer.  This may also depend on the type of cargo or load they may be hauling.  Some long distance drivers also earn compensation by commission.  They essentially earn a percentage of the revenues generated by the specific load or sale additional product upon delivery. 

Many drivers who own their own trucks primarily drive long hauls.  They are also involved in the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which is a union that represents and endorses the needs of truckers.  They also work with the truck driver and individual companies to negotiate rates, benefits and treatment.  Owner-operators earn a higher yearly earning based on the fact that they are merely responsible for themselves.

Seniority is generally the basic qualification for advancement.  Those who have been with the company for the longest amount of time begin to receive the most profitable drives along with the preferred hours.

Driver’s salaries may also be dependent on the particular state in which the individual is employed as well as the nature of the haul.  Many different factors will effect an individual salary.

Here are some salaries that reflect the median average earnings of heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers.

 General freight trucking    $14.67 per hour

 Grocery and related product wholesalers  $13.55 per hour

 Specialized freight trucking    $12.36 per hour

Employment services     $ 6.77 per hour

Cement and concrete product manufacturing  $ 6.59 per hour

Light drivers or delivery service trucks reflect the middle earnings of the industry.  Here is a breakdown of the median average earnings.

 Couriers      $17.94 per hour

 General freight trucking    $14.79 per hour

 Grocery and related product wholesalers  $12.44 per hour  

 Building Material and supplies dealer  $10.85 per hour 

 Automotive parts, accessories and tire stores  $ 8.07 per hour

Earnings for drivers who also assisted and sales and commission reflected the lowest average of truck drivers.