If you’re a truck driver—or considering a career in trucking—one of the first questions on your mind is likely, “What are the highest paying jobs in trucking?” With rising demand for freight and specialized hauling, there are many lucrative opportunities across the industry. In this article, we’ll break down the top 10 best-paying trucking jobs, what they involve, and how you can qualify for them.
1. Private Fleet Driver (Walmart and Similar Companies)
Average Salary: $85,000 – $110,000/year
Private fleet drivers work directly for companies like Walmart or UPS, hauling their own goods. These positions offer some of the best pay in trucking, along with excellent benefits, regular schedules, and job security. However, competition is fierce and experience is usually required.
2. Owner-Operator
Average Salary: $100,000 – $300,000+/year (after expenses)
Owner-operators are independent drivers who own or lease their truck. They can choose their loads, routes, and schedules, but are also responsible for all business expenses. Profit potential is high, especially for those who operate in niche markets like heavy haul or expedited freight.
3. Ice Road Trucker
Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000+ for just a few months of work
This seasonal job is as dangerous as it is profitable. Ice road truckers drive across frozen terrain in Alaska or Canada, delivering critical supplies to remote locations. The extreme conditions mean high pay for a short season, but safety risks are significant.
4. Tanker/Hazmat Driver
Average Salary: $70,000 – $95,000/year
Tanker drivers transport liquids such as gasoline, chemicals, or hazardous materials. These jobs require a CDL with a Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsement, but the pay reflects the added responsibility and risk.
5. Oversized Load/Heavy Haul Driver
Average Salary: $75,000 – $120,000/year
Heavy haul drivers transport oversized loads like construction equipment, wind turbine parts, or military machinery. Special permits and advanced driving skills are required. The routes can be challenging, but the financial rewards are substantial.
6. Team Driver (Especially for Expedited Freight)
Average Salary: $80,000 – $110,000/year (per driver)
Team driving involves two drivers taking turns to keep a truck moving 24/7. It’s popular in long-haul and expedited freight scenarios. Couples or close partners often take on this job to maximize income and minimize downtime.
7. Specialized Car Hauler
Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000/year
Transporting new or luxury vehicles requires precision and care. Car haulers need experience, attention to detail, and sometimes additional training. The job can be physically demanding but offers strong pay for experienced drivers.
8. Flatbed Driver
Average Salary: $65,000 – $90,000/year
Flatbed drivers carry loads that don’t fit into standard trailers, like steel, lumber, or machinery. These loads often require strapping, tarping, and specialized securing techniques, which justify higher pay rates.
9. Refrigerated (Reefer) Truck Driver
Average Salary: $60,000 – $85,000/year
Reefer drivers haul perishable goods like produce, meat, or pharmaceuticals in temperature-controlled trailers. Deadlines are tight, but consistent demand in this sector helps ensure good pay and job stability.
10. Freight Broker/Dispatcher with CDL Background
Potential Salary: $50,000 – $100,000+ (or more as a business owner)
While not traditional driving roles, many experienced truckers transition into freight brokering or dispatching. With industry knowledge and contacts, you can earn excellent income by coordinating shipments rather than driving them.
How to Land a High-Paying Trucking Job
To secure one of the highest paying jobs in trucking, here are a few tips:
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Earn endorsements: Hazmat, tanker, and doubles/triples endorsements can significantly boost your eligibility and income.
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Gain experience: High-paying positions often require 2–5 years of accident-free driving.
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Build a clean record: Safety and reliability are top priorities for premium employers.
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Network smartly: Join industry forums, attend trucking expos, and connect with recruiters.
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Invest in yourself: Advanced training and certifications pay off in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to level up, the highest paying jobs in trucking offer rewarding opportunities for skilled and motivated drivers. From owning your own rig to hauling heavy loads or driving across frozen tundras, there’s a niche in the industry for every ambition. With the right experience, endorsements, and mindset, six-figure trucking jobs are within reach.
