Are you considering a career in over-the-road (OTR) trucking? While this type of job can offer higher pay and travel opportunities, it also comes with its own set of challenges. In this article, we’ll explore:
- What OTR trucking is
- How OTR trucking works
- Pros and cons of OTR trucking jobs for new drivers
- Qualifications needed to become an OTR driver
And when you’re finished reading, check out the other articles in our ‘Insights and tips for new drivers’ series:
- What to expect as a new trucking company driver
- How to choose the best trucking company for new drivers
- Flatbed trucking insights for new drivers
- Pros and cons of OTR trucking jobs for new drivers
What is OTR trucking?
OTR refers to over-the-road trucking.
What is over-the-road trucking? It’s the transport of cargo or goods by truck over long distances, typically between states or across the country. OTR trucking is a crucial aspect of the transportation industry as it helps to facilitate the movement of goods throughout the country efficiently and cost-effectively.
OTR jobs require drivers who are highly skilled and capable of spending extended periods on the road. They must ensure that their cargo reaches destinations safely and on time. The average OTR truck driver salary is quite high for the trucking industry.
How does OTR trucking work?
Here’s a general idea of how an OTR trucking job works.
- The OTR trucking companies receive orders for goods to be transported over long distances.
- The company assigns an OTR truck driver to transport the goods to the destination.
- The truck driver travels to the cargo origin point for loading and secures it properly so the load is protected during transit.
- The driver then hits the road and drives for several hours or even days to reach the destination, depending on the distance.
- Along the way, the driver must adhere to traffic laws and comply with all relevant regulations.
- Once the driver reaches the destination, the goods are unloaded. After confirming that all cargo has been delivered in good condition, the driver obtains all necessary signatures and documentation.
- The driver then returns to their origin or travels to the next delivery point, depending on their schedule.
OTR trucking involves long hours of travel and requires drivers to navigate different weather and road conditions. It also involves strict adherence to safety regulations to ensure that goods are delivered safely and on time.
Example of OTR trucking
A driver picks up a load of industrial products from New Jersey. She then drives long hours across multiple states to deliver the load to Indiana, sleeping in the truck between stops.
The driver follows all specified regulations and safety protocols along the way. She adheres to speed limits, and takes rest breaks at designated intervals until she returns to New Jersey.
What do you need to become an OTR driver?
Wondering how to become an OTR truck driver? You typically need to:
Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
To operate a commercial vehicle, you must hold a valid CDL. You will see this in most OTR driver job descriptions. To obtain a CDL, you will need to pass a written knowledge exam and a skills test that includes pre-trip vehicle inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Meet DOT physical requirements
The best OTR trucking companies require that you are in good physical health and pass a medical exam to meet the Department of Transportation regulations for operating commercial vehicles.
Obtain appropriate endorsements
Depending on what type of cargo or vehicle you plan to haul, you may need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL. Some common endorsements that CDL pros have include tanker, hazmat, and doubles/triples.
Complete training
Many employers will require you to complete training to learn the skills necessary to operate a commercial vehicle safely. This may include classroom instruction, on-the-road training, and supervised driving experience.
Have a clean driving record
A good driving record is essential for over-the-road truck driving. Employers may conduct background checks and review your driving history to ensure you are a responsible driver.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
While not always required, many OTR employers prefer candidates who have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Meet age requirements
To operate a commercial vehicle across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old. For intrastate driving (within your state), you may be able to obtain a CDL at 18 or 19, depending on state regulations. Read more in our In-depth CDL guide.
Pros and cons cons of being a truck driver OTR
Pros
- High earning potential: OTR drivers can earn a good living, with an OTR trucker salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 or more per year. It is much higher than a local trucker salary.
- Job stability: There’s always a demand for truck drivers, and OTR driving offers job stability. Top OTR trucking companies offer many benefits.
- Travel opportunities: OTR driver jobs allow drivers to travel to different places and see different things along the way.
- Independence: OTR in trucking allows drivers to work independently and be their own boss.
- Flexibility: Unlike local truckers, OTR drivers can often choose their own schedules, and many trucking companies offer flexible routes.
Cons
- Long hours: Unlike local hauling, OTR drivers can be on the road for days or even weeks at a time, which can be mentally and physically exhausting. These hours can make a driver wonder, “is OTR trucking worth it?”
- Health concerns: Sitting for long periods can lead to health concerns such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Isolation: OTR driving can be a lonely profession, as OTR trucking company drivers spend a lot of time by themselves.
- Safety concerns: OTR truck driving can be dangerous, with risks such as fatigue, accidents, and theft.
- Difficult for inexperienced drivers: Inexperienced OTR trucker drivers may find it hard to navigate unfamiliar routes and deal with unexpected situations on the road.
FAQ
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020 data, the median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, including OTR drivers, was $48,930. However, many factors can affect a truck driver’s salary, such as experience, employer, location, and cargo type. Top earners in this field can make over $70,000 a year.
In general, rates for OTR CDL truck driver jobs may be higher than local trucking jobs due to the longer distances traveled and the extended time away from home. However, there are other factors involved in determining pay rates, such as experience, type of freight, and company policy. It’s best to research current OTR schedule pay rates for specific trucking jobs in your area to get an accurate idea.
Being an OTR driver can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding career if you enjoy driving long distances. The OTR experience offers the opportunity to travel across the country and meet new people. However, it comes with its own set of challenges and lifestyle adjustments, such as spending long hours away from home and dealing with weather and traffic conditions. Ultimately, whether being an OTR driver is worth it depends on individual preferences and priorities.
OTR drivers typically drive between 2,500 to 3,000 miles per week on average.
It generally depends on the company and the driver’s specific route. Regional truck drivers typically travel within a specific region and may be home daily or several times a week. Some companies may offer more extended routes, which can raise their average pay but result in less home time.
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