So.. idk what to say.. like I just want to know if how I am feeling is valid. I got my CDL in June. Been driving solo since August, so it’s been 3 months now. I am in my company’s flatbed division. I’ve been bringing in roughly $800 a week. And I don’t know if that’s what I should be expecting as a new driver or not? I do OTR nationwide and have been staying out for a month at a time. $800 a week isn’t bad definitely, a nice bump over what I was making before, but that’s what? $38,400 a year, still far below the average/median salary in the US.
I run pretty much nonstop, I know some may blame that freight has been slow, but not really for me, I usually get a preplan before finishing up the one I am on. No time between loads, constantly running. Already been to almost all 48 states during these 3 months. Cargo securement is okay at times, but putting up 2 large tarps in 114 degree Phoenix was hell, and I am sure winter will bring some new challenges. I am not trying to say flatbedding is super hardcore, there are jobs far more difficult, but it’s more demanding than most other trucking lines right? Again not complaining really, I enjoy it mostly, I just don’t know if it’s worth it.
Like I know people say not to envy people on social media, etc, but I am seeing people saying they’re making 100,000+ a year in trucking. And so is what I am doing really worth just 40k?
TLDR: Is doing OTR, staying out for a month at a time, doing flatbedding, worth $800 a week?
Please give me some advice whether if this is common, that all drivers have to suck it up for a while when they start. Or if this is not worth it at all?
