With a high demand for truck drivers and an ever-dwindling number of qualified drivers available, new truckers have boundless career opportunities. The pay is what attracts many drivers to the industry, and new drivers can quickly see their salaries increase as the demand for drivers far outpaces the supply. Even in this marketplace that is so beneficial to drivers, there are still things that you can do to increase your earning potential over the course of your career. Here are some of the strategies you can use to boost your salary and grow you income even more.
Build Up CDL Certifications
After you pass your CDL exam, you can quickly get on the path to adding additional certifications. There are nine different CDL classes, and each one allows you to carry a different kind of hazardous material, from explosives to flammable liquids, radioactive materials, and poisons. Drivers who haul these materials make more for these loads, so adding these endorsements will help you earn more. You can also add certifications for driving double and triple trailers, air brake vehicles and tanker vehicles, which all allow you to do higher paying work.
Boost Your IT Skills
With electronic logbooks and other requirements for drivers, trucking is becoming increasingly reliant on technology. Many drivers only know the basics about how to use tech in their trucks, but companies are looking for drivers with a higher degree of tech savvy. Being well versed in IT knowledge can make you a more in-demand driver, which will allow you to command higher pay.
Stay the Course
One of the best ways to earn more money as a trucker is to stay committed through your first two years of driving, when you are still considered a rookie. Don’t get distracted or cut your hours short because you’re frustrated at the starting pay rates. After two years, your earning power will increase dramatically, both in terms of salaries plus pay per mile and bonuses.
HDS Truck Driving Institute will give you all of the tools you need to succeed in your new career in trucking service. Find out how you can start training today by calling our CDL school in Tucson by calling (877) 205-2141.
