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If you love the idea of being paid to get out on the open road, a career as a truck driver could be ideal for you. You’d have the opportunity to see the country, clear your head, and enjoy exploring off the beaten path. However, there are a few things about trucking that some people might see as disadvantages. For example, you may need to spend long periods on the road and away from home. If you’re considering a career driving a truck, it’s essential to bear in mind all aspects of the job, the perks, and the downsides. That way, you can determine if the absolute position aligns with your priorities. To figure out whether trucking is the lifestyle for you, let’s look at a few truck driving pros and cons.  

Pros of being a truck driver:

There are many benefits of truck driving. It’s a career path that attracts people for its accessibility, salary, prospects, and overall nature of the work. For those starting, the job itself has minimal educational requirements. Then for those who want to progress in the industry, there’s the opportunity to become certified or take extra training courses in order to open new doors later on. Here are a few examples of the benefits of truck driving. 

Great starting salary

The first thing most people want to know before embarking on a new career is the financial prospects. This is one of the main advantages of becoming a truck driver. Most companies offer a great starting salary. The average truck driver can earn a very attractive salary when just starting out. At Warrior Logistics, we provide a competitive driver pay package that pays upwards of six figures. The job also often includes a number of other benefits, including paid time off, health benefits, and fuel program perks. It’s a comfortable place to start, especially when you consider you won’t need to fork over money for expensive college tuition in order to qualify for the job. 

Minimal qualifications required

This brings us to our next point. The role of a truck driver requires minimal educational qualifications. You will, however, need to apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL-A). Once you have this, you’ll be licensed to operate large, heavy, or placarded hazardous material vehicles for a range of companies. Certain jobs may require a specific endorsement on your CDL, but in most cases, the standard license is sufficient, and training is provided on the job. The best thing about getting a CDL is that you’ll then be qualified to work as a commercial driver in a variety of fields. This could open up many doors for you in the future and will be your ticket to achieving the next step in your career. 

The open road experience

The main appeal of the job for many truck drivers is the open road experience. You’ll be getting paid to explore the country, and no day will be the same. You’ll get to travel to more locations than you would in a typical job that’s more geographically restricted, which gives you the opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten path. If you enjoy taking the scenic route, a career in trucking could be the perfect role for you. Not every route will necessarily take you through stunning landscapes, of course, but one thing you’ll definitely be able to appreciate is the variety. You’ll never have to worry about being stuck behind the same desk every day. 

Independence and freedom

Life on the open road can offer an amazing sense of freedom. Truck driving can give you the chance to explore new places, especially if you’re on a layover or long-distance journey. You’ll also get to work pretty much independently. If you enjoy the quiet life and appreciate a distraction-free setting, you should seriously consider if the trucking lifestyle could work for you. You’ll only need to communicate with your fleet management team, most likely via radio, who will give you instructions and updates on your route. Driving times can also be flexible, so if you need a job that allows you to plan your personal life around work, there are trucking jobs in which that is possible. The downside to this is that you may need to drive at night or for longer periods, but you can find a schedule that works for you. 

Cons of being a truck driver:

The trucking lifestyle is not without its downsides, however. The important thing is to weigh up truck driving pros and cons according to your unique preferences and priorities. Although being alone on the road for long stretches may suit some people, it may not be ideal for others. Before you decide whether you’re up for the challenge, it’s a good idea to explore additional details of the work. 

Independent Road Warrior

One of the main aspects of the job that can put people off is that it can be a solitary occupation. Driving a truck, you’ll mostly be alone on the road but have access to lots of virtual buddies, fleet managers, or a good podcast. Depending on the lane details, some routes may have you out longer than others.  Having said that, this kind of lifestyle suits many people. It’s peaceful, can be low-stress, and you can clear your headspace while watching the landscape roll by.  At Warrior Logistics, however, we are primarily a team company. Having a well-matched partner can make all the difference! 

Tuition commitments

You’ll need a CDL for most truck driver positions. This will require time and financial commitment as you’ll be required to participate in a truck driving school program. The course takes roughly four to seven weeks and can cost anywhere from $3,000-$7,000. Many companies will offer to cover a part of your tuition fees, however. All in all, it’s a worthy investment if this seems like the right career for you, as you’ll be certified to drive commercial vehicles, which will open the door to many opportunities. 

At Warrior Logistics, we empower all our truck warriors to achieve their maximum potential. If you’re considering becoming a Warrior, our friendly team is available to provide more information about this exciting career path, along with driving details to help you decide whether it’s right for you. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of truck driving and the warrior experience, get in touch today.