New Compensation Package Aims to Reward Drivers and Strengthen Recruitment
Nussbaum Transportation has announced what it describes as the largest compensation update in company history, significantly increasing pay and benefits for over-the-road (OTR) drivers. The Illinois-based carrier is introducing higher mileage rates, increased weekly pay guarantees, a new profit-sharing program, and expanded transition incentives as part of its effort to improve driver retention and attract new talent in key hiring markets. The company says the changes reflect its commitment to recognizing drivers for their contributions while creating more competitive earning opportunities within the trucking industry.
The pay increases primarily affect irregular-route OTR dry van drivers. Existing drivers will receive a 3-cent-per-mile raise along with a $50 increase to their weekly minimum pay guarantee. New hires will see even greater benefits, with starting mileage rates increasing by 5 cents per mile and weekly guarantees rising by $100 compared to earlier rates. Drivers hired in designated key locations—including parts of Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio—will receive the largest increases, with starting pay rising by 10 cents per mile and weekly guarantees increasing by $200.
One of the most notable additions to the compensation package is a new fleetwide profit-sharing program. Under the initiative, drivers will receive quarterly bonuses tied directly to company performance. Nussbaum estimates that in an average year, the profit-sharing payments could add approximately 2 cents per mile to a driver’s earnings, while stronger financial years could increase payouts to more than 4 cents per mile. The company believes this approach allows drivers to share more directly in the organization’s success and strengthens the connection between employee performance and company growth.
The carrier is also enhancing its recruiting incentives. New drivers joining the company will receive a $3,000 transition bonus paid during their first six months of employment. In addition, Nussbaum has doubled its Early Exit Option from $1,000 to $2,000. This program provides financial support to drivers who determine within their first 90 days that the company is not the right fit. According to Nussbaum, the initiative aligns with its “No Surprises” recruiting philosophy by encouraging transparency and reducing risk for prospective employees.
The updated compensation structure is expected to substantially increase annual driver earnings. Nussbaum estimates that new irregular-route dry van drivers could earn between $81,000 and $92,000 during their first year, depending on experience. Drivers hired in key recruiting markets may earn between $86,000 and $95,000 in their first year, with second-year earnings potentially exceeding $100,000 through tenure increases, performance incentives, certification programs, and profit-sharing opportunities. Prior to these changes, the company reported that its top-performing OTR drivers already averaged approximately $100,000 annually.
The announcement comes at a time when trucking companies continue competing for qualified drivers in a challenging labor market. By increasing pay, offering performance-based rewards, and expanding financial incentives, Nussbaum hopes to strengthen its position as an employer of choice while providing drivers with greater earning potential and long-term career opportunities.
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