The demand for truck drivers keeps growing. Many respectable trade companies offer high wages and appealing bonuses to talented and dedicated truckers, making the job ideal for those who love roads and seek steady income. Yet, before entering the industry, it’s crucial to determine the requirements and potential advantages of different trucking jobs.
Our article may become an effective guide to finding the ideal job that matches your skills and goals.
Types of Trucking Jobs
When searching for new CDL jobs in Fayetteville, North Carolina, or other states, remember that the delivery of goods and raw materials is an essential part of any business. Trucking is, therefore, an inseparable part of the economy.
Below we will dive into a detailed review of trucking jobs and will help you to pick one for yourself.
OTR Trucking
Long-distance trucking ensures cargo delivery across several states. OTR drivers transport different types of goods that may safely fit into standard-size trucks.
For whom: This job may become a perfect choice for starting a trucking career, as it requires basic truck driving skills. As with most long-distance trucking occupations, it fits drivers who don’t suffer from being away from home for days or weeks.
License: CDL A
DAT Trucking
Dry van trucking implies transportation of resistant to temperature changes cargo by semi trucks with 53-foot trailers. Delivery trips usually take several days or even weeks, sometimes with a switch of drivers.
For whom: DAT trucking is a demanding job recommended for those who have some trucking experience and are ready to stay far from their families for weeks.
License: CDL A
Flatbed Trucking
Flatbed trucks are constructed to transport cargo that can’t fit inside standard trucks. This job is often associated with transporting heavy machinery or oversized building materials.
For whom: Such jobs require extra skills, like controlling the load balance and using straps and chains to secure cargo. It also needs a driver to be fit and physically strong to climb on a flatbed, adjust heavy chains, etc.
License: CDL A
Tanker Trucking
Tanker trucks are used for the safe transportation of liquids and gases, they may include hazardous transported materials, like chemicals or fuel, or food-grade products.
For whom: Driving a tanker truck is only possible after undergoing extra training to handle different liquids and gases.
License: CDL A
Refrigerated Truck Driving
Refrigerated vehicles differ in size, scope, loading configuration, etc. However, operating any of the vehicles requires a driver to monitor the work of the refrigerator and the temperature of the transported cargo.
For whom: As drivers are often responsible for the quality of transported goods, strong attention to details may be an important feature for excellent job performance.
License: CDL A or CDL B (depending on vehicle size)
Car Hauling
This job is connected to transporting vehicles with specially-equipped trucks. Depending on the type of transported vehicles such trucks can be opened or covered.
For whom: Car transporting can be extra satisfying for those drivers who dream of working with popular car brands. Having impressive driving expertise may open opportunities to work for luxurious car producers, which often result in higher wages and bonuses.
License: CDL A
Types of Licensing
- CDL A, also known as ‘Commercial Driver License’, permits operating 26,000-pound trucks or 10,000-pound loads.
- CDL B is necessary for operating smaller transport like vans or buses.
- CDL C allows the transporting of low-weight items or small passenger groups.
Conclusion
Choosing a trucking job may be a challenging task. It’s crucial to know more about the diversity of trucking jobs, their main features, and their pros and cons, to pick up the right occupation.
