Over the road (OTR) trucking jobs are among the most rewarding and high-paying positions in the transportation industry. If you’re searching for the best over the road truck driving jobs, you’re likely aiming for excellent pay, consistent miles, and strong company support. Whether you’re a seasoned CDL driver or just exploring OTR opportunities, this guide covers the best companies to work for, what they offer, and how to get started.
What Is an Over the Road Truck Driving Job?
OTR truck drivers transport freight across long distances — often crossing multiple states or even the entire country. These jobs typically require drivers to be on the road for days or weeks at a time, with breaks in between hauls.
Key features of OTR driving:
-
Long-distance hauls
-
Flexible routes across states or regions
-
Extended time away from home
-
Higher pay compared to local or regional roles
Top Companies Offering the Best OTR Truck Driving Jobs
Here are some of the top-rated employers for OTR truck drivers in the U.S.:
1. Walmart
-
Known for high driver pay, often exceeding $100,000 per year.
-
Offers excellent benefits, bonuses, and consistent routes.
-
Requires clean driving records and experience.
2. Crete Carrier
-
Offers one of the highest CPM (cents per mile) rates in the industry.
-
Great home time flexibility and reliable miles.
-
Well-maintained equipment and safety-first culture.
3. Schneider National
-
Provides multiple OTR options: solo, team, and dedicated.
-
Sign-on bonuses and paid orientation.
-
Strong focus on driver training and safety.
4. Maverick Transportation
-
Known for excellent training programs and modern equipment.
-
Specializes in flatbed and temperature-controlled OTR freight.
-
Competitive pay structure and frequent bonuses.
5. Prime Inc.
-
Offers OTR jobs in refrigerated, flatbed, and tanker divisions.
-
Lease operator options available.
-
Great for new drivers — CDL training programs offered.
Why Choose an OTR Truck Driving Career?
Here are several reasons drivers choose OTR positions:
-
Higher earning potential: OTR drivers earn more with longer routes and extra mileage.
-
Explore the country: See new places while getting paid.
-
Job security: Trucking is essential to the supply chain, ensuring steady demand.
-
Career growth: Many drivers move into specialized hauls or owner-operator roles.
Average Pay for OTR Truck Drivers
On average, OTR truck drivers earn between $60,000 to $95,000 annually, depending on experience, type of freight, and the company. Team drivers or specialized haulers (like hazmat or oversized loads) may earn more than $100,000 per year.
Requirements for OTR Truck Driving Jobs
To qualify for the best over the road truck driving jobs, you’ll generally need:
-
A valid CDL-A license
-
Clean driving record
-
Ability to stay on the road for extended periods
-
Basic truck maintenance knowledge
-
In some cases, endorsements (Hazmat, Tanker, etc.)
New drivers can often start with training programs offered by major carriers like Prime, CRST, or Swift.
Tips to Land the Best OTR Truck Driving Job
-
Compare pay per mile (CPM): Look for companies that offer consistent miles and competitive CPM.
-
Ask about equipment: Modern trucks with comforts like sleeper cabs, APU, and WiFi can improve life on the road.
-
Review home time policy: Know how often you’ll return home and if the schedule fits your lifestyle.
-
Consider sign-on and safety bonuses: These can significantly increase your annual earnings.
-
Check reviews from other drivers: Learn from the experiences of others to choose a reliable company.
Where to Find OTR Truck Driving Jobs
You can find great OTR opportunities on:
-
CDL job boards like CDLjobs.com, TruckersReport, or SimplyHired
-
Company career pages (e.g., Schneider, Roehl, or CR England)
-
Recruiter calls/emails from verified carriers
-
Facebook groups and trucker communities
Final Thoughts
Finding the best over the road truck driving jobs depends on your experience, preferences, and career goals. Whether you’re seeking high pay, new equipment, or flexible routes, there’s a company out there ready to put you behind the wheel.
Be sure to do your research, read reviews, and talk to current drivers before committing. With the right company, OTR trucking can be a financially and personally rewarding career.
