Top Paying Trucking Companies from a Driver’s Perspective
“How much will I make?” and “What’s the average pay per week?” are questions we truck drivers always have on our minds. Whether it’s for supporting a family or reaching personal financial goals, ensuring we get paid fairly for the hard work we put in is crucial.
As truck drivers, we deserve to be compensated for all our efforts, from long hours on the road to tasks like tarping loads and going the extra mile for customers. No one should ever feel like their job isn’t enough to support themselves or their family.
To help you find the best opportunities, here’s a list of some of the top-paying trucking companies. These companies might not always offer the highest pay in the industry, but they ensure you are well-compensated for your work.
Old Dominion Freight Line
Founded: 1934
Headquarters: Thomasville, North Carolina
Insight: Known for their on-time delivery and low claims rate, Old Dominion offers great benefits, including a 401(k) match and tuition reimbursement. Local drivers can make around $78,000 a year, while line-haul drivers average $100,000 annually.
Mercer Transportation
Founded: 1977
Headquarters: Louisville, Kentucky
Insight: Specializing in hauling for the Department of Defense, Mercer works exclusively with owner-operators who often make well over six figures. They offer fast pay after each load and support for all your paperwork needs.
Sysco Foods
Founded: 1969
Headquarters: Houston, Texas
Insight: As a private fleet, Sysco pays its drivers well, with an average annual salary of $80,000. They focus on their own products, making their logistics efficient and well-organized.
Walmart
Founded: 1962
Headquarters: Bentonville, Arkansas
Insight: Walmart’s drivers are part of a large, safe fleet. They pay well, offering up to $110,000 in the first year, and compensate for all time spent on the job, including overnight stays in the truck.
UPS
Founded: 1907
Headquarters: Atlanta, GA
Insight: UPS rewards long-term drivers with high pay and benefits. Tractor-trailer drivers start at $35 per hour, and there are various positions available, from package delivery to freight movement.
GP Transco
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Joliet, Illinois
Insight: GP Transco is known for its competitive pay and technology-driven approach. Company drivers can earn between $80,000 to $90,000 in their first year, with opportunities for raises after six months.
Marten Transport
Founded: 1946
Headquarters: Mondovi, Wisconsin
Insight: Specializing in reefer freight, Marten Transport offers guaranteed pay of at least $70,000 annually for new drivers, with a variety of regional, dedicated, and OTR routes available.
ABF Freight System
Founded: 1923
Headquarters: Fort Smith, Arkansas
Insight: As an LTL carrier, ABF offers both local and OTR routes with high-touch, high-stop freight, compensating drivers well, with averages above $70,000 annually.
Barr-Nunn Transportation
Founded: 1982
Headquarters: Granger, Iowa
Insight: A dry-van truckload carrier known for consistent pay raises, Barr-Nunn offers solo and team driving positions, with company drivers averaging $111,000 per year.
Hogan
Founded: 1918
Headquarters: St. Louis, Missouri
Insight: With over 100 years of operation, Hogan offers competitive pay and benefits, including comprehensive health coverage and a 401(k) match. Dry van drivers can expect to earn around $88,000 annually.
Choosing the Right Company
When picking a trucking company, it’s not just about the pay. Consider the culture, home time, and the type of freight you’ll be hauling. Companies with high retention rates generally offer more than just good pay – they provide a work environment where drivers feel valued and supported.
Your hard work deserves the right compensation. Choose a company that values you and helps you meet your financial goals while keeping you and your family supported.
