The term "truck drivers wanted" could indicate the need for a variety of jobs. These positions are frequently categorized based on the design of the trailer, the size of the shipment, ownership of the truck and the vicinity or region that is serviced. This article will define the different types of positions and share particular characteristics of each.
The following are examples of jobs that are classified by the type of trailer:
Dry Vans. A dry van is the most typical design of trailer. The freight is totally enclosed and needs only a small amount of labor to secure the freight.
Flatbed Trailer. As the name indicates, these are the basic flat (open) trailers. These trailers may be used for anything that as a result of size or shape could not go in a dry van. Flatbeds involve more work to secure and tarp the shipment. This can be equally tiresome and arduous but can also mean extra compensation.
Refrigerated Trailers. Also known as refers are comparable to dry vans except the interior area of the trailer is refrigerated. This is for food items and other freight that must be held in a continual cool temperature or perhaps frozen. Again this provides increased responsibility that will result in additional pay.
TankerTrailers. Tankers are created to move liquid or any other item that can't be packaged. Operating a tanker requires more training and, depending on the company, could mean added compensation.
Containerized Trailers. Containers move cargo into and out of ports.
Specialized Trailers. This is a broad Category that may include Low Boys (Heavy Equipment), Car Haulers, Furniture Movers, and Bull Haulers (Livestock). All these kind of employment opportunities require specific skills and can translate to extra money.
The following are examples of jobs that are classified by the area being serviced:
OTR. Most brand new drivers start out in an OTR (Over the Road Driver) position. These drivers regularly have runs which take them throughout the United States. The time these drivers are absent from their home can vary. Some companies have the drivers home on the weekends while others require them to be absent for 2 or 3 weeks.
Regional Drivers. Regional drivers normally stay in a particular region (Southeast, Midwest, etc). Some of these jobs permit a driver to be home a couple times a week if not more.
Local Drivers. Local drivers normally receive the most time at home. Some local drivers also have careers where they can be home each day. Many times these particular careers pay by the hour Driving a Rental Truck .
Team Drivers. Companies utilize teams to get optimal production and keep the truck moving. Teams consist of two members. Usually one team member sleeps while the other drives. Teams can be away from home for very long amounts of time. Pay varies from one company to another. Living inside the truck with another person can be tough.
LTL stands for Less than Truckload. This is a distinct classification that is not classified by the trailer or area serviced. It is instead classified by the size of each shipment. Each shipment is less than a truckload in size. The benefits of these types of jobs are that drivers are typically home every day and earn decent money. The shortcomings are that the job can be mentally and physically challenging.
One last type of job is classified by who owns the truck and pays the expenses. Company drivers drive a truck furnished by the company. The company will pay the expenses and upkeep for the truck. Owner Operators, however, supply the truck and pay for much of the expenses but also earn a great deal more per mile.
As we discussed, there are various kinds of truck drivers wanted opportunities. Each type has intricate details that are worthy of an individual article. But for now, this offers some ideas of the type of truck driving job opportunities and briefly what you should expect from each job.