Why Trucking Makes a Great Career
Great Pay for Little School
If expensive two- or four-year programs don’t suit you, you’re not alone. Class A CDL courses, (license that’s required to drive a commercial vehicle) often last for only a month or two. There are many trucking companies that require experience, however, several will offer truck driving jobs with little to none – Melton being one of them! Plus, Melton also offers up to $10,000 in tuition reimbursement for recent cdl grads. While pay varies by company, miles driven, and cargo hauled, the annual average for over the road (OTR) trucking pay sits at around $70,000+ a year.
Work Independently
Many people dream about working a job different from the standard 9 to 5 with a boss standing over their shoulder. Truck driving is far from that image! Drivers spend most of their time by themselves, away from management and the office. This makes trucking perfect for those who prefer their alone time. Although, this doesn’t mean total isolation. Help is just a call away in case any issues arise, and technology like FaceTime means you can always keep in touch with your loved ones.
Varied Amounts of Home Time
Admittedly, trucking isn’t renowned for its work-life balance. However, there are options for more home time depending on where you drive. Melton offers OTR opportunities, which means driving cross-country and being out for a few weeks at a time, depending on the load requirements and your home domicile. Drivers with Melton are guaranteed one day of home time for every seven days on the road. Regional driving is also an option, which stays within a specific region of the country. Regional drivers’ home time can vary depending on the carrier, but these drivers are typically home at least once or twice a week. There are also companies that offer local opportunities that allow drivers to be home most nights.
See the Country
How about the opportunity to see more of the United States than most people will see in their lifetime? One of the most popular benefits to OTR truck driving is the chance to see the country and travel, while getting paid for it. Every driver has stories about the sights they’ve seen and people they’ve met on their travels, making truck driving perfect for those with an adventurous spirit.
Check out some photos taken by Melton drivers while out on the road!
Career Stability
If a truck driver wants to work, there will be jobs available. Most of the trucking workforce is aging out and retiring, resulting in a vast shortage of class a cdl drivers. The skills that are acquired through training and time on the road are in constant demand. Therefore, experienced CDL drivers will always have opportunities for employment. Plus, the more experience you have, the more you get paid!
Every Day is Different
Monotony works for some people, but for those who want to challenge themselves every day, trucking is a perfect fit. Drivers pass through various parts of the country, haul different types of loads, meet new people, and learn new skills/tricks through new obstacles they may face.
Make a Difference
Truck driving is one of the most important careers to the country’s economy. Drivers haul everything from essential building materials, to life-saving medicine. Most cities in America depend on trucks to bring them necessities. Truck driving careers are often overlooked when searching for an impactful career path. However, drivers are essential in helping people live their everyday lives.
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