There are many reasons drivers fall in love with life on the road. If you love exploring the country, seeing multiple destinations throughout the year, you may enjoy a career as an over-the-road (OTR) truck driver. These drivers transport cargo across long distances, logging hundreds or even thousands of miles per trip. Typically, OTR drivers ship various types of freight, including heavy machinery and equipment. At H.O. Wolding, we offer aspiring and experienced drivers exceptional opportunities, with great pay and benefits to match.
Where OTR Drivers Travel
Long-haul truck drivers operate big rigs and tractor-trailers that transport primarily through interstate travel. The deliveries required by OTR drivers are often very time-sensitive, requiring tight delivery schedules. Many OTR drivers spend as long as a week and sometimes a few weeks on the road on any given shift, before getting a week off.
OTR drivers operate in different structures, depending on whether they are independent contractors, owner operators, or company employees. Some drivers are reimbursed for lodging, food, and travel expenses. Owner operators and independent contractors have the advantage of setting their own work schedules, along with being able to drive for more clients and make more money. Company employees that work for an experienced, well-established trucking company have the advantage of gaining a long-term, lucrative career, and a host of work/life benefits.
Driver Qualifications
OTR drivers must have a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) to legally operate a large commercial truck. It is also beneficial that drivers have great time management skills, a passion for life on the road, and the ability to assist in loading and unloading cargo, depending on the requirements of the trucking company.
Driver Training
If you are interested in becoming an OTR truck driver, you need to go through the proper OTR and CDL training. Some trucking companies may also offer tuition reimbursement once you are hired, to help mitigate the costs of going to a truck driving school.
If you are looking for a solid OTR truck driving job that pays well, give us a call today at 800.950.0054, get in touch with an H.O. Wolding recruiter through our online form, or peruse the available truck driving opportunities listed on our website.