Truck drivers play a crucial role in the supply chain. Without them, delivering goods to the final destination would be impossible. The trucking industry has always had high demand, but it has drastically increased in the last few years. The shortage of drivers was justified by the large percentage of retiring drivers and the increase in demand in the supply chain due to changes in consumer behavior.

 The high demand on the market opens new opportunities for your truck driver career. The stable salary, travel opportunities, and benefits are why many pursue a career in the trucking industry. In addition, there are many jobs to choose from.

Dry van truck driver

This job position is usually where beginner truck drivers start their careers. Dry van truck drivers operate single large trucks. The vehicle has a semi-trailer that is covered to protect the freight. This type of vehicle has no temperature regulation and can't transport oversized freight. Also, this type of truck isn't used for perishable products or dry cargo. In most cases, the truck driver doesn't need to load and unload. 

Flatbed trucker

The flatbed truck driver is an excellent choice if you're looking for a high-paying trucking job. Due to its nature, this job requires extra skills but guarantees excellent pay. The flatbed trucks are responsible for transporting cargo that doesn't belong in standard sizing. It can be oversized or weirdly shaped, making transporting it with a regular truck impossible.

The flatbed truck drivers need the proper knowledge and skills to secure nonstandard cargo. 

Oversize load truck driver

The oversized load truck driver is responsible for transporting oversized goods such as windmills and construction equipment. Heavy haulers need special certification and training to handle large cargo. As a result, they are at the top of the list of the most-paid trucking jobs. 

Refrigerated freight truck drivers

Some goods, such as food, medicine, and poultry, require specific temperatures during transport. The truck drivers operate a particular refrigerated vehicle and are responsible for maintaining an optimal temperature. The higher responsibility comes with a higher rate, so the refrigerated freight truckers are paid more. 

Ice road truck drivers

Navigating through the icy roads to deliver the freight is very challenging. But this job is gratifying. The truck drivers specialized in ice roads work seasonally. They will drive for three or four months per year. Due to the challenging driving conditions, the pay is way higher. Ice road truckers can earn up to $60,000 during the season. However, some like to get other trucking jobs during the off-season to make money. 

Local and regional truck drivers

Over-the-road or OTR driving is where truck drivers usually start. The regional drivers transport goods within a metropolitan area. At the same time, the local drivers operate within the same city. These jobs are excellent for the ones starting in the trucking industry. But also driving locally and regionally allows drivers to return home every day. 

LTL freight drivers

LTL or less than truckload shipping refers to a transportation method where few shippers share the same truck. The truck transports goods from various companies to different destinations. For the truck driver, this means more drop-off points, loading and unloading cargo. 

Final thoughts

This article sums up the seven best types of trucking jobs. It all depends on your skill level and needs. Regional driving is perfect if you want to be home with your family daily, but being an ice road driver and flatbed trucker has a higher salary.