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How to Make Money With a Semi Truck

how to make money with a semi truck
In This Article
8 March, 2024 | Written by Mike Skliar

Semi trucks are the backbone of the transportation industry. Regardless of the brand or model, semi-truck jobs are always available on the market. Suppose you are new to the trucking industry or want to change things in your ongoing career. In that case, Owner Operator Land is happy to assist all semi owner operators in getting their golden ticket. In this blog, we will look at the requirements for semi trucks and how you, as its owner, can make the most of it.

Do You Need A CDL to Drive A Semi Truck?

In the US, there are three main CDL classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. To operate a semi-truck, you will need a Class A CDL because the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of any semi-truck is 26,001 pounds or more. In addition to that, the amount of weight hauled in the trailer exceeds 10,000 pounds because semis always haul a lot of cargo.

To obtain a CDL, you will need to pass the legal requirements stated by the FMCSA. Also, check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent licensing agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as requirements may vary by jurisdiction.

Profitable Ways to Build a Stable Income with a Semi Truck

Regardless of whether you own, rent, or lease it, you can find multiple ways how to make money owning a semi truck. It is for you to decide which path to choose. We are here to provide insights and make the picture clearer for you. So here are the most profitable ways to make money with a semi-truck.

Becoming an Owner Operator 

If you own the vehicle and have all the licenses and documentation, you can become an independent contractor and take loads from trucking companies, businesses from other industries, or brokers.

Government Contracts

If you don’t want to work with brokers or untrusted companies. In that case, you can bid for government contracts for transportation services, especially for agencies that require the movement of goods regularly.

Becoming a Fleet Owner

What can be better than owning a semi truck? Owning several of them! As a fleet owner, you can start your own freight trucking company or rent your vehicles to other drivers.

Start a Moving Company

A semi truck can fit most, if not all, of the belongings from the apartment. So, if you do not fancy dealing with freight and regulations around the country, you can earn honest money as a mover.

How Much Do Semi Truck Drivers and Owner Operators Make?

How much money can you make owning a semi truck? The average annual income for a semi-truck owner-operator in the United States was often reported to range from $60,000 to $150,000. The average income of a semi-truck company driver in the United States typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year.

It’s important to note that the trucking industry is subject to changes, and economic conditions, industry demand, and regulatory changes can impact driver income. Additionally, addressing driver shortages and improving working conditions may influence compensation trends.

If you want to be reassured in your future as a semi-truck owner-operator, Owner Operator Land can provide you with great opportunities and connect you with reputable companies. You can haul for them and get semi truck owner-operator jobs constantly.

User avatar Mike Skliar
Editor Mike Skliar

As the truck driver recruiting agency's CEO, I deeply understand the unique challenges and demands truck drivers face.

Drawing from my extensive work experience, I bring knowledge in truck driver recruitment, logistics, and transportation management. I possess a comprehensive understanding of industry regulations, safety standards, and best practices, ensuring that the agency adheres to the highest standards of professionalism and compliance.

Now, looking back and remembering my path from the very beginning, it seems to me that this story is a lifetime. During all these years of development and growth of our agency, I took part in no less interesting projects in which my experience, knowledge and vision were needed. And I was also able to gain new skills, contacts and experience by participating in the development of these projects from various fields, such as cargo transportation, trucking companies, e-commerce, parcel delivery and much more! But the best is yet to come!

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