The U.S. economy largely depends on truck drivers. They deliver everyday necessities and supplies to stores, doctor offices, businesses, and hospitals across the country. But, because of the driver shortage, we’re experiencing a disruption in the supply chain.
Due to the shortage, there’s new opportunities and benefits available for drivers that weren’t here before. In fact, many companies are offering sign on bonuses and raising salaries to attract new drivers. Therefore, now is the perfect opportunity to start your career as a truck driver.
The Reasons Behind the Driver Shortage
One of the reasons for the driver shortage is the increased demand for moving goods. U.S. truck drivers moved more than twelve billion tons of freight across the country in 2019. These numbers have steadily increased year after year. Therefore, this has caused a driver shortage to emerge across the country. However, this has problem has been exacerbated due to the pandemic.
Secondly, the driver’s lifestyle has a great influence on the shortage. Long-haul drivers have to spend several nights away from their families. Spending more time on the highway can take a toll on a driver’s nutrition, finances, sleep, and family life.
Also, there’s a tremendous gender and age gap in the trucking industry. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 90% of the drivers are male. A lot of these drivers are also near retirement age, which only increases the need for drivers even more.
Why Should You Become a Truck Driver?
Some of the major benefits of becoming a truck driver are:
1. Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that truck drivers on average earn $47,130 every year. However, some drivers are earning more than $69,480 a year. Due to the shortage of drivers, some companies are attracting new hires by offering $10,000 to $20,000 signing bonuses. Some companies are also increasing the salary of their drivers.
2. Job Security
Without drivers, the economy and the supply chain would suffer greatly. Truck drivers are responsible for delivering necessities all across the country and we rely on them greatly. The need for drivers will only increase with time as the population and economy grows. Therefore, professionals are suggesting that this profession has maximum job security.
3. Insurance
By applying as a full-time driver with a trucking company, you’ll have access to numerous benefits such as life and health insurance. Also, many offer dental and vision plans and flexible spending accounts to their drivers. With profit-sharing opportunities and 401k accounts, drivers can start saving for their retirement.
However, as the demand for truck drivers increases, many businesses will offer more benefits and perks to their employees.
4. Travel
When you become a truck driver you’re able to travel all across the United States and can even go to Canada and Mexico. This may be an opportunity to visit a lot of places you haven’t had the chance to see.
Conclusion
If you want to join a profession without extensive educational requirements that also offers incredible opportunities, you should consider becoming a truck driver. There are many resources available on the internet to help you move in the right direction and join a company that supports their truck drivers.
Source
https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/becoming-a-truck-driver/