Why is trucking such a low paying industry?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by snowbird_89, Feb 15, 2013.

  1. snowbird_89

    snowbird_89 Road Train Member

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    Really, why is it? Whether it's OTR or local. Most of these local job ads I see here in MA and RI only pay $15-$17 per hour. I rarely see $18-$20/h or more than $20/h. It's so sad that most of these companies don't pay a good living wage. Is it simply because they don't give a ****?
     
    RAGE 18 and Arkansas Frost Thank this.
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  3. Emulsified

    Emulsified Road Train Member

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    It's the old supply and demand thing. There are far more (desperate) people out there that need jobs due to our 'recovering economy' than there are positions available. They pay low because people are standing in line looking for work.
     
  4. RAGE 18

    RAGE 18 Road Train Member

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    that inflation n high fuel prices.
     
  5. critters

    critters <b>Late For Dinner</b>

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    I dont OTR drivers that get paid by the hour, there parts of the trucking industry that pay really well, just gotta put in the time to get there.
     
    Tonythetruckerdude Thanks this.
  6. dschmidt201

    dschmidt201 Light Load Member

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    Your also forgetting these people are making 17 an hour and overtime after 40 hours and working 60 a week
     
  7. Pound Puppy

    Pound Puppy Heavy Load Member

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    Because its so easy to get a CDL now with automatic transmissions and CDL mills sponsored by the large carriers. Anybody can do it now.
     
  8. RickG

    RickG Road Train Member

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    Driver wages are the one expense carriers can control . They pay increases in prices for trucks , parts , insurance , and taxes without question . Driver pay ? Why pay more when people are lined up to do it for less ?
     
    gpsman and chalupa Thank this.
  9. Dinomite

    Dinomite Road Train Member

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    If they have to pay tons of money to ship products. Its going to cost tons of money to buy product. So because you love your country. You take one for the team and be a hero truck driver. Serving your country:)
     
    koncrete cowboy Thanks this.
  10. wyldhorses

    wyldhorses Medium Load Member

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    Cause there are millions, upon millions of immigrants ready and willing and working to come to the US, get their CDL and hop in a truck and be thrilled to make even $9 an hour. The companies love it and will sponser them.
     
  11. Ironman6622

    Ironman6622 Light Load Member

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    Dec 28, 2011
    knoxville, tn
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    Yep u can get ur cdls in 3 weeks and start making 800-1000 a week and be home every weekend haha according to the tn truck driving school lol
     
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