Survey: Driver Compensation Is Up, but Tell Us: Is It Making a Difference?
After many years of stagnant pay, truck driver compensation is rising substantially.
Dry van truckload drivers earned on average $53,000 in 2017, up from $46,000 in 2013, according to data from American Trucking Associations. That’s a jump of 15% in four years, with most of the increase coming in the last year, as freight hauling capacity tightened and motor carriers have raised pay rates to attract and retain drivers.
In 2009, by comparison, dry van truckload drivers earned about $47,000 annually.
Drivers of all kinds are getting paid more. Here’s the breakdown from ATA’s Driver Compensation Study in 2017 and 2013:
- Dedicated: $57,000 vs. $51,000
- Flatbed: $60,000 vs. $50,000
- Refrigerated: $66,000 vs. $56,000
- Private Carrier: $86,000 vs. $73,000
What impact are these increases having on drivers, the way they live and how they feel about their job and careers? Are they optimistic that the trend will last?
To find out, Transport Topics is asking for comments from drivers and from those whose livelihoods depend on drivers. Tell us how higher driver pay is making a difference in your life or your business by leaving a comment here. Please include your name, company, title and contact info.
