Long-haul trucking forms a huge part of the transportation industry and contributes a large portion of the economy. 71% of all the freight in America is transported by truckers which forms a key contributor to any supply chain.
There is an ever-increasing demand for long-haul truckers because the transportation industry is growing exponentially and will continue to expand further.
As per the American Trucking Association (ATA), the shortage of truckers will increase to 160,000 by 2028. As an entrepreneur, you should see this as an opportunity. You can scale up your supply chain business. More drivers can be employed to take advantage of this scarcity and scale your business. You can also start a dump truck business if you would love to handle people at a driving job.
Coming back to our topic, let’s begin with exploring long-haul trucking features and then move forward with understanding its associated benefits and challenges.
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Features of long-Haul Trucking Business
Long-haul trucking is heavy transportation that involves moving goods over long distances using large trucks or tractor-trailers.
A long-haul trucker spends several days or weeks at a stretch on freeways and byways away from home, driving across the country to deliver goods. These truckers are responsible for transporting goods safely and on time. They ensure that the cargo is secured properly and follow traffic laws and safety regulations.
Here’s everything you need to know about long-haul trucking in detail.
1. Required Licenses and Certifications
Firstly you need to get a driver’s license. Obtain a Class A License from Commercial Drivers Licence (CDL), a physical examination certificate, and pass the drug and alcohol tests from the Department of Transportation (DOT).
2. Training and Experience
To become a long-haul trucker, you will need to attend a truck driving school to learn the skills required for the job. Some companies also offer on-the-job training for new drivers. But, many trucking companies prefer to hire drivers with previous experience in the industry.
3. Income
Long-haul truckers can earn a good living, with monthly income ranging from $40,000 to $80,000(Approx.) per year. As in all other businesses, the initial revenue will not be high, but with more business coming in the net profit increases gradually.
4. Equipment
Long-haul truckers drive tractor-trailers, which consist of a cab, where the driver sits, and a trailer, the part that carries the cargo. These trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and require specialized equipment, such as air brakes and transmission systems.
5. Industry Trends
The long-haul trucking industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies regulating how drivers work. Truckers are responsible for their vehicle insurance, the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs), complying with regulatory standards, and arranging and coordinating loads for themselves. These are all mandatory to improve safety and efficiency.
Now that we have understood the features governing the long-haul trucking business. Get ready to discover the thrills and challenges of life on the open road with our insider’s guide to long-haul trucking.
Benefits To Reap From A Long-Haul Business
Trucking businesses like Uber trucks need to gain immense popularity and benefits from the transportation industry. The reason is to penetrate this lucrative business at the required time.
Below are some benefits of running a long-haul business:
1. Good Payment
Long-haul trucking offers high payments and benefits, particularly for experienced drivers or those who work for larger carriers. Drivers earn a significant amount of money on each freight transportation and enjoy benefits like health insurance, and retirement plans.
2. Job Security
There is a steady demand for long-haul trucking, and many companies are seeking reliable drivers to transport their goods. The high demand for long-haul truckers provides job security for those with the right skills and experience.
3. Independence
Long-haul truckers enjoy a level of independence and control over their work, including setting their work schedules and routes. This can be appealing to those who prefer to work independently.
4. Travel Opportunities
Heavy-haul drivers have the opportunity to visit numerous parts of the country and experience different cultures and landscapes. For all those who enjoy traveling and exploring new places, this job can interest them.
5. Community
The trucking community is tight-knit and supportive of each other. And drivers often form connections and friendships with others in the industry. These communities prove helpful in times of adversity and provide a sense of belonging for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road.
Long-haul trucking offers many benefits and along comes to the challenges associated with it.
Challenges To Withstand A Long-Haul Business
Here are a few challenges that long-haul truckers need to overcome for a successful business.
1. Long Hours
Long-haul truckers should spend up to 8 hours a day driving, with a maximum of 10 hours on duty per day. Long hours of driving lead to fatigue, which is a significant safety risk for drivers and other road users. Fatigue can also lead to health problems like sleep apnea, obesity, and heart disease.
2. Lifestyle and Challenges
Long-haul trucking is a demanding job, requiring drivers to spend long hours on the road and deal with unpredictable weather and traffic conditions. This is the toughest job, as drivers spend a lot of time away from home and family.
3. Isolation
Long-haul drivers spend a lot of time alone on the road, which can be challenging for some drivers. Isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, homesickness, and depression. However, some drivers enjoy solitude and use it as a time for self-reflection and personal growth.
4. Safety Risks
Trucking is considered a high-risk occupation due to the potential for accidents. Long-haul drivers have additional safety risks due to the long hours spent on the road, which causes fatigue, distracted driving, and other safety concerns. The physical demands of the job can also contribute to safety risks.
To reduce these risks, drivers must follow safety regulations and Hours Of Service (HOS) policies, such as taking breaks and resting when needed.
5. Physical Demands
Long-haul trucking is a physically demanding job with related health problems like back pain, eye strain, and poor blood circulation. Drivers must maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health issues.
6. Regulatory Changes
The trucking industry has a wide range of regulations that change frequently. Drivers must keep up with changes to regulating safety, environmental standards, and other issues. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, penalties, and sometimes serious consequences.
Wrapping Up On Long-Haul Trucking!
Get ready to hit the open road and experience the adventure of a lifetime with long-haul trucking.
Long-haul trucking is a promising career for those who enjoy driving and don’t mind spending long durations away from home. With proper training and experience, drivers can earn a good living and contribute to the transportation of goods across the country.
Moreover, long-haul trucking can be a challenging but rewarding career for those with the right skills and mindset. It offers good pay, job security, independence, and travel opportunities, but also involves long hours, isolation, safety risks, and physical demands.
Are you ready to see the world from behind the wheel of a big rig? Let’s go!!
