Insights Into Modern OTR Trucking Jobs

The trucking industry is changing. As the current demographics of truck driving professionals approach retirement, the trucking and logistics industries are broadening their gaze toward new, passionate, and more diverse drivers interested in learning more about the types of jobs in the transportation industry available to them. 

OTR trucking jobs come packaged with a wealth of benefits. As the modern trucking industry grows and adapts to a changing environment, those benefits are evolving as well. Not only have trucking companies started offering perks like “signing bonuses and increased pay” to try and attract more drivers, but new truck industry trends have also introduced a variety of technological advancements into the industry as well. 

The idea of an OTR driver—or two, if they’re working as an OTR driving team—traveling for hours a day in relative isolation is becoming nearly obsolete. Technology in logistics has introduced new and dynamic features into truck cabins that make it easier than ever for long-haul drivers to stay in touch with their dispatcher, their family, and the world around them. 

Jobs in the transportation industry are more accessible than ever before. With the truck driver shortage still a motivating factor in the industry, companies across the country are eager and excited to work alongside new drivers and help them get settled into the OTR driving lifestyle. 

If you’re one of the people interested in learning more about OTR trucking jobs and the emerging truck industry trends, or if you’re simply bored with your job and are looking for something new, then Lily Transportation is here to help. Keep reading and see firsthand how the modern trucking industry is changing to meet the needs of its drivers.

Table of Contents:

Modern Logistics Industry Trends

  1. Technology in Logistics
  2. Updated Truck Cabins
  3. Truck Driver Health and Wellness
  4. Increased Emphasis on Diversity

Settling Into the Truck Driver Lifestyle

Modern Logistics Industry Trends

The trucking and logistics industry has been a dominant force in the country since the first gasoline-powered internal combustion engines entered the scene in 1910, suddenly making it possible for trucks to “carry large amounts of freight from one location to the next.” 

In the years since there have been countless truck industry trends and developments that have each helped the concept of long-distance trucking evolve and adapt to the needs of its drivers. Here are just a few of the (many) trends that are either currently growing roots in the industry or are expected to do so in the not-so-distant future: 

Technology in Logistics

Technology is on an endless cycle of iteration and evolution that means there’s always something new and groundbreaking that promises to change the world for the better. This is true for every industry you can name, including the logistics industry and the OTR trucking jobs it provides. 

When it comes to trucking, technology is being used to improve the driver’s comfort, increase safety, maximize efficiency, and even reduce the industry’s overall environmental footprint. 

For example, in an article on Trucker.com, Sandeep Kar—the global vice president for a business consulting firm and a renowned expert in heavy truck systems and technologies—says that the “‘future truck is going to be a green truck; it will save fuel and have a smaller environmental footprint.’” 

According to Kar, these future trucks will be “connected to the world outside, and the world outside will be connected” to our trucks. Where OTR trucking jobs once meant spending days or weeks separated from your loved ones, technological advancements have made it easier than ever before to stay in touch with your friends and family back home. 

Drivers “can now video chat with loved ones in their downtime,” Advanced Career Institute says. “They can receive text messages, emails, and make phone calls from their trucks. This has created a more socially connected trucking world that is healthier for the OTR truck driver as well as those back home missing a truck driver.” 

Technology in logistics doesn’t stop there though, as NPR reports that “Many new trucks have automatic transmissions and the type of safety features you might expect on a new car: cameras and computers that watch lanes, look out for obstacles and even hit the brakes automatically sometimes.” 

While many are talking about the potential of self-driving, automated trucks, a future without truck drivers is nowhere close to reality. Just as planes still have pilots, so too will the OTR trucking industry still have drivers. As such, new trucking technologies are designed to better the comfort, safety, and productivity of OTR drivers across the world. 

Updated Truck Cabins

One of the most obvious places new technology has influenced OTR trucking jobs is in the truck cabins themselves. It’s no secret that the trucking industry needs drivers, and updating the way the truck cab works with the driver to promote comfort and accessibility is one of the most important things the industry can do to attract and retain more drivers. 

On Trucking Info, the product marketing manager for a prominent trucking company says that “‘The simple fact is that as trucks continue to offer more desirable features, the profession becomes that much more appealing. And, if a fleet can appeal to drivers with their equipment and use it to differentiate themselves from their competitors, they’re willing to spec more premium driver-friendly features.’” 

Some of the “driver-friendly features” that Trucking Info outlines include: 

  • Automated manual transmissions 
  • Foldable dinette and work tables
  • Full-size Murphy beds 
  • Additional storage 
  • Electronics like a TV, refrigerator, microwave, sound system 
  • More outlets for devices 
  • Heated/ventilated seats 
  • Aircraft-inspired LED lighting and dimmer switches 
  • More accessible layouts of switches and gauges 

There are even trucks emerging on the market that come with a mini-gym so drivers can stretch, exercise, and keep themselves active and healthy when they stop driving for the day. 

Starting Your Next OTR Team Driving Career with Lily

Truck Driver Health and Wellness

Another essential addition to the growing list of new truck industry trends is one that’s been around for many years: truck driver health and wellness. 

Ensuring the continued health of its drivers has been one of the industry’s most valuable and long-lasting “trends,” and it’s doubtful that it to ever go out of style. A trucking company can have the most meticulously maintained equipment, but without well-taken-care-of drivers to operate that equipment, they’ll have some trouble filling their open OTR trucking jobs. 

Sound dampening has become an especially big deal in truck cab design, and Trucking Info reports that many of the newer truck models feature “dramatically reduced interior noise levels – both when a truck is moving and when it’s at rest.” This means that drivers can sleep more comfortably, regardless of what time of day they prefer to do so, and drive without the distraction of passing cars, sounds, and other abrasive noises. 

Drivers are also making great strides toward bettering themselves and their daily routines. Truck stops offer a wealth of snacks and beverages to help you stay energized and nourished on the road, but instead of going for the classics (candy bars, chips, sodas) focus on food items that DrivingHealthy.org says “will keep you fuller longer, like string cheese, pretzels, popcorn, and fresh fruits and vegetables.” 

Many truck stops even offer resources that help support OTR drivers exercise. There are walking and running trails for you to enjoy, fitness rooms, and even gym setups where you can get a traditional workout in before hitting the road again. 

If you need some help getting started, then you’re in luck, as DrivingHealthy.org says that “There are numerous exercise resources online and through phone or tablet applications. These resources range from workout podcasts, to videos, to images of exercise instructions. Many of these resources are free and can be completed with little to no added equipment.” This means you can get the blood flowing, stretch your muscles, and keep yourself in-shape regardless of the equipment you may or may not have access to. 

Increased Emphasis on Diversity

In the past, the majority of OTR trucking jobs were occupied by men. While this demographical stereotype is no longer as widespread, it exists for a reason, as women still hold only a sliver of OTR trucking jobs. 

However, with the industry in need of drivers, and logistics companies and carriers actively pursuing newer and more diverse drivers, the needle is moving toward progress. For example, in January of 2017, the renowned organization Women in Trucking (WIT) reported that “women comprise over seven percent of female over-the-road drivers and 23 percent of management.” 

That may not appear to be a large percentage, but it is progress. This progress becomes especially pronounced when you take into account how the carriers themselves have also begun to measure and report the growing diversity of the drivers they recruit into their OTR trucking jobs. 

In that same January 2017 report, WIT says that “there has been a 19 percent improvement in those companies tracking the percentage of female drivers and managers. This means that more companies are actually monitoring these figures and can benchmark with other carriers in the industry” to work together towards a better, brighter, and more diverse future of OTR trucking jobs.  

Unlike other careers, there isn’t a disparity in the way the logistics industry pays its drivers. Like Ellen Voie—President and CEO of the Women in Trucking Association—says on CNBC, “A carrier sets the pay based on mileage, hours or percentage of the load. It is not related to age, ethnicity or gender.” This means that every driver is subjected to the same expectations, payment, and workload: the more miles a driver covers, the more money they make. 

The broader logistics industry is taking note of this trend toward diversity as well, and CDL Career Now explains how “truck stops are amping up the parking lot lighting to make the area safer for women. The technology in trucks is advancing, and what was once difficult for anyone to use is now not challenging for any gender. Truck manufacturers are designing the trucks to be more adaptable for women drivers—easier access, closer pedals, and better-positioned seat belts.”

There are more OTR trucking jobs than ever before, and logistics companies like Lily Transportation are actively working to recruit, hire, and support female truck drivers. 

Settling Into the Truck Driver Lifestyle

Modern trucking jobs are beginning to look quite a bit different. With more age and gender diversity, and newer, more technologically-compatible trucks, OTR trucking jobs are moving into a “driver first” future that’s sure to benefit the entire industry. 

OTR trucking jobs are unlike any other career path out there. Not only do they supply their drivers with a sustainable income—especially if you drive long-distance with a partner—but if you get behind the wheel, you’ll also be able to set a driving schedule that works for you and your preferred lifestyle. Like Career Builder says, “OTR truck drivers don’t have set starting hours, unless they’re calling in to dispatch after returning from ‘time off.’” 

OTR trucking is a lifestyle, certainly, but it’s one that’s full of exciting opportunities that are sure to enrich your personal and professional lives. “While trucking requires flexibility in scheduling,” Advanced.edu says, “most drivers do establish routines that provide some sense of stability. For instance, they establish favorite truck stops in every region of the country. There’s nothing like a friendly face, a warm cup of coffee, and a hot shower when you’ve been on the road.” 

If you’re interested in seeing firsthand what OTR trucking jobs look like, then Lily Transportation is here to help! When you join the team at Lily, you’ll not only be joining a group of passionate and experienced professionals; you’ll also become part of a large and diverse family of drivers who genuinely love the work they do. 

Our people are our greatest asset at Lily; they’re the foundation of our success and the secret to our continued growth. This is why we do everything we can to ensure our brilliant drivers are equipped with the tools, support, and training they need to succeed on and off the job. 

To learn more about the OTR trucking jobs and truck driving lifestyle available here at Lily Transportation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 800-248-5459, or visit us on our website! 

Starting Your Next OTR Team Driving Career with Lily

Women in Logistics: Truck Driving as a Viable Career Option

The logistics and transportation industries are fundamental to our country. Without them, the e-commerce industry wouldn’t be the juggernaut it is today, and people across the world wouldn’t have access to the products and services they so fiercely rely on. 

As a result, pursuing a career in logistics is a surefire way to get plugged into a valuable profession, help support people’s day-to-day routines, and ultimately contribute to one of the country’s most influential fields. While logistics and trucking may appear to be primarily male-lead industries, that couldn’t be farther from the truth, as women in logistics have been around since the formation, development, and continued evolution of the industry. 

Women in the Transport Industry

Women have played a crucial role in the transport industry since its very beginnings. Not only have women in logistics and transportation been a constant presence, but as of 2018, there are more female-owned trucking companies than ever, and the number of women working in logistics only continues to go up. 

Driving Diversity

While men still make up the majority of truck drivers, with women comprising “between 4.1% and 6% of the overall truck driver population” as of 2017, the trucking industry has always been eager for new and more diverse drivers and has made great strides in continuing to recruit and support women in logistics. 

Organizations like Women in Transportation (WIT) have been instrumental in this respect, as they have strived “to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments, and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the industry.” However, it’s also the logistics companies themselves that have played a significant role in supporting women who pursue a truck driving career. 

Not only does a career in truck driving offer consistent income and a wealth of benefits, but it also rewards all of its drivers equally. Ellen Voie, the President and CEO of the Women in Trucking Association, puts it like this: “A carrier sets the pay based on mileage, hours or percentage of the load. It is not related to age, ethnicity or gender.” This means that female truck drivers salary is no different from anyone else’s in the industry. 

With the industry in need of drivers (and plenty of them), it should come as no surprise that the American Trucking Association has reported over 28,000 women joining the industry since 2014. Here at Lily Transportation, for example, we’re always actively pursuing women for roles across our company. 

Truck driving is not only a viable career option for women, but it’s also a flourishing one. There are more women in logistics, transport, and trucking roles than ever, and the industry is making great strides towards finding new and meaningful ways to accommodate and encourage this trend. 

If you want to learn more about women in logistics and how Lily Transportation can help you get started, then reach out to us today! We’re always on the lookout for new and passionate drivers and would love to talk to you.

Driving Diversity

Is Long Distance Truck Driving Fun for OTR Team Drivers?

When it comes to the trucking industry, there is no shortage of job opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a regional driving position or the more ambitious lifestyle of an over-the-road (OTR) driver, there’s an opening just waiting for you to claim it. 

An industry veteran said on Trucking Truth that having a career as an OTR driver means “You’ll make very good money, have a ton of fun, and have a career that keeps our economy moving and makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something worthwhile.” This sentiment rings especially true for OTR team drivers, who not only get an opportunity to make more money but also get to experience the open road with a partner. 

If you’ve already spent some time driving alone, or are a first-time trucker looking to get started, then OTR team driving might be a route worth pursuing. When you hit the open road with a partner, you’ll be making a higher profit, covering (and seeing) more of the country, and yes, even have more fun. 

Share the Adventure

Driving across the country is an adventure in its own right—you’ll see the sights in a way very few people get the opportunity to—but doing it with another driver is an adventure all its own. 

OTR driving is, by nature, structured around a schedule that keeps you moving. Your day-to-day driving schedule may not look that different, but the things you’ll see and encounter will look different each new day on the road. And when you’re traveling with a partner, you’ll have someone to share the workload and the adventure with. 

Roadmaster.com even says that “you may find that team driving is even more fun than solo driving because it’s a shared experience. Having someone to talk to and to share both the work and the fun with can keep your time on the road from getting stale.” You can even travel with a significant other and share the drive with them if you’re both CDL-certified. 

This is becoming an increasingly popular option for OTR team drivers, as it means both drivers get to make almost twice as much as they would driving solo while also working alongside someone they already trust and rely on. 

With the extra income you’ll both be making, and the reduced living expenses since you’ll be spending so much time on the road, you’ll have the freedom to expand your retirement fund, savings account, or put your income toward other goals. OTR team driving jobs can become a flexible and dynamic career, and many companies are more than happy to work with you and find a schedule that meets you (and your partner’s) needs. 

For example, in an article on The Atlantic, a married couple is asked what it was like driving together on an OTR team and said, “Oh, it was fun. It was like we were on vacation everywhere we went.” 

Get in Touch Today!

Truck driving can be hard work, but it rewards those who are willing to commit to the truck driving lifestyle. With competitive pay, a wealth of benefits, and the ability to drive with a partner (and make more money while doing so), the industry is rife with opportunity for professionals looking for an exciting new career path. 

If you’re interested in learning more, reach out to Lily Transportation today! 

Starting Your Next OTR Team Driving Career with Lily

Benefits of a Truck Driving Career for Military Veterans

Military veterans are some of the most qualified people in the job field. With their impressive array of technical, mechanical, leadership, and knowledge-based skills, they possess a sense of flexibility and commitment that is difficult to find anywhere else. 

These skills don’t go unnoticed either, as all of the traits veterans possess make them great prospects for a truck driving career. Whether it’s their ability to take the initiative, make educated decisions in unpredictable scenarios, or the way they commit to the job at hand, trucking companies are excited about hiring veterans. 

If you’re trying to find civilian jobs for veterans, then look no further. Here are just a handful of the many benefits military veterans can expect to find in a truck driving career: 

You’re Already Qualified for a Truck Driving Career!

To be a professional truck driver, you need to be motivated, hard-working, attentive, and adaptable to changing environments. Military veterans make excellent truck drivers for this very reason. Not only does your extensive experience in the military make you specially qualified to handle the truck driving lifestyle, but it also means you’ll be able to bypass some, if not all, of the training requirements needed to become a full-fledged truck driver. 

For example, if you used to operate heavy machinery as part of your MOS then you may qualify for a Military CDL Waiver. This waiver, provided by the FMSCA, will excuse you from the driving skills test and let you earn your commercial driver’s license after taking a simple written exam. This will expedite the hiring process and help you get out on the road (and start making money) in record time. 

Even if you don’t qualify for the CDL Waiver, some trucking companies—like Lily Transportation, for example—offer truck driving career scholarship programs that won’t only provide you with a weekly paycheck during your truck driving training course, but also won’t drain your GI Bill Benefits. 

Lots of Benefits

The trucking industry is always in need of drivers, and with the variety of skills veterans can bring to the job, it’s no surprise that trucking companies across the country are eager to provide driving careers to veterans. When you drive with Lily Transportation, not only will you be inducted into a family of passionate professionals but you’ll also be inundated with a wealth of benefits. 

These benefits range from 401k to competitive pay to flexible work schedules and beyond. The transportation industry rewards its own and is more than willing to work alongside you to provide a truck driving career that meets your needs, rewards your good work, and retains you for years to come. 

Join the Lily Family Today!

If you’re intrigued by the prospect of the dynamic truck driving lifestyle and would like to learn more, then please reach out to Lily Transportation! We’re excited about your new career opportunities, and want to help you succeed in anything and everything you do. Lily is committed to growing our number of employed veterans by 10% every year and would love to talk with you today about our Veterans Network. 

If you have any questions about the benefits of a truck driving career or want to hear more about how Lily Transportation strives to be one of the most veteran-friendly employers in the industry, then contact us on our website, or give us a phone call at 800-248-LILY (5459).

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Providing Jobs for Military Veterans Without Degrees

Military veterans returning home can sometimes have a difficult time settling back into civilian life. The fast-paced and often unpredictable day-to-day of the military looks very different from the more routine functions of civilian life. If you’re a veteran without a formal degree, then this dilemma can feel even more daunting, as jobs for veterans without degrees can feel harder to come by.  

This is what the trucking industry sets out to do. With flexible working hours, an extensive variety of travel opportunities, competitive pay, veteran friendly employers, and an abundance of jobs for military veterans without degrees, trucking companies across the country are more than willing to work with veterans—regardless of their education level—and help them find a career behind the wheel of a truck. 

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Here are a few of the ways that trucking and logistics companies like Lily Transportation can offer some of the best jobs for military veterans, even if they don’t have a degree. 

Training Programs and Scholarships

Every professional truck driver needs to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you regularly operated heavy machinery and vehicles as part of your military service, however, then you may be exempt from the mandatory skills test required of all CDL-drivers. 

In most cases, you would have to visit your local DMV, acquire a training manual, use it to study for a written test, and then take a driving skills test. After passing both exams, you would then spend two-weeks with a commercial driver’s permit before being allowed to obtain your CDL and start your trucking career in earnest. 

However, thanks to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, veterans can apply for a Military CDL Waiver within one year of their departure from the military. 

Even if you don’t have prior experience with heavy vehicles, then there are still plenty of training programs that can teach you how to become a truck driver. Here at Lily Transportation, for instance, we offer a unique program that is fully paid for by Lily, won’t deplete your GI Bill benefits, and comes with a weekly salary of $800—plus company benefits—so you can continue to support yourself during the training process. 

After graduating from Lily’s Veterans Program, you will officially become a member of the Lily family and can expect to receive annual compensation in the $70,000 range along with a wealth of other benefits. 

No Degree Required

Unlike other career options, there’s a lower barrier for entry into the trucking industry. All you need to do is complete a driving skills and safety course, obtain your CDL, and then you’re ready to go. No college degree is required to find sustainable success as a professional truck driver.

With your experience in the military, you’d be hard-pressed to find a trucking company that wouldn’t jump at the chance to work with you. If you would like to learn more about how a trucking and logistics company like Lily Transportation can help provide truck driving jobs for military veterans without degrees, then contact us today!

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Truck Driver Schedule: Will I Still Get Holidays and Vacation Time?

If you’re considering a career in the truck driving industry, you probably have a few questions. What’s the truck driver schedule look like?  How often do truck drivers come home? What are the expected truck driver hours? Are there driving holidays for truckers? Ultimately, these all circle back to the one question every trucker has to ask themselves: what is it like to be a truck driver? 

The truck driving lifestyle is fast-moving, dynamic, and exciting. You spend long days on the road, see sights that few people ever get the opportunity to, make a competitive income, and yes, you’ll also get holidays and vacation time. 

Trucking companies value and rely on their drivers, which means they’re always willing to provide their employees with the time they need to refuel themselves. If you’re looking to learn more about what the truck driver schedule looks like, and how holidays and vacation time factor into it, then keep reading!

Truckers Can (and Should!) Take Vacations

Just like any other career path, trucking can wear someone out. Even the most passionate of drivers will run the risk of burning themselves out if they don’t take some time off. While drivers are required by law to take a full 34-hours off-duty after working 70-hours, that break is not enough to recharge a driver completely. 

The 34-hour break is essential and provides drivers with the time they need to rest and recover after a long week, but it doesn’t replace the need for vacations. Just like United Truck School says, “As a professional truck driver, you have to be alert and healthy to perform your responsibility to the best of your ability. Truck companies understand that vacations are necessary and you may get sick from time to time.” 

In most cases, trucking companies provide their drivers with about two-weeks vacation time a year—just like most careers do—but that number will usually go up once you stay with a company for a specified number of years. This vacation time is often paid as well, although every company is inevitably going to be a little different, as there’s not a rock-solid standard that all carriers abide by. 

Holiday Time

While you might imagine that truckers don’t get much holiday time, they do. The need for truckers is steady throughout the whole year, and the end-of-the-year holiday season is often a time where truckers don’t have to spend long days on the road. 

CDL Training Today explains it like this: “With sufficient inventory going into the holiday season, there are usually large sales to move products after the holidays and to reduce the overstocking they did prior. This means a truck driver will have fewer routes and can easily take a week off during the holidays to spend with family and friends.” 

The bottom line is that, yes, truckers get vacation time and holiday time off. Truck driving is one of the most critical jobs in the country, and as such, trucking companies are well aware of how important it is to ensure that their drivers are well-rested and taken care of. 

The Benefits of a Career at Lily

Excellent Benefits and New Adventures: Why Young Truckers Choose a Career with Lily

The transportation industry is full of opportunities for drivers from all walks of life and demographics. Regardless of your level of experience, professional trucking blends stability and adventure in equal measures and can be an excellent option for anyone who’s looking to kickstart a new career path.Starting any new career can be a lot to take in, especially for younger demographics who have yet to acquire years of experience in a particular field. While this remains true for young drivers entering the trucking industry, starting a truck driving career is far more straightforward and accessible than a large percentage of other occupations.

Instead of demanding years of experience, or additional (and expensive) education, you can start a trucking career right out of college. With a little training and studying, you can earn your commercial driver’s license, get hired by a company that’s eager and excited to be working with you, and hit the road in a relatively short length of time.

The requirements to become a truck driver are incredibly approachable, and since the industry is always looking for new and excited drivers, a trucking career can be an advantageous and lucrative path for anyone and everyone who is looking for an alternative to a traditional office job. With trucking, your desk is your cockpit, and your office is the open road.

If you’re a new truck driver looking to get on the road, then Lily Transportation is here to help. To encourage you on your way, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the benefits and experiences you can expect to encounter when you start your trucking career with Lily.

Table of Contents:

Ease of Entry

  1. Obtaining a CDL
  2. Training Programs

The World Behind the Wheel

  1. The Open Road

Opportunities and Benefits

  1. The Industry Needs Drivers
  2. Financial Security

Kickstart Your Career with Lily!

Ease of Entry

If you have a valid state driver’s license and a high school diploma (or GED equivalent), then you’re already qualified to begin pursuing a truck driving career. There are other steps, of course, but the barrier for entry is relatively minuscule compared to many of the other industries that offer its employees the level of compensation that trucking does.

According to information gathered on Study.com, “A truck driver should possess good communication, customer service, and judgment skills. A truck driver must have excellent hearing and vision and be in good physical condition, especially if their job requires loading and unloading freight. They must have the ability to sit for long periods and adapt to changes in driving conditions.”

Clearly, then, becoming a professional truck driver is a relatively attainable role for just about anyone willing to apply themselves. And on account of the industry’s eagerness for younger and more diverse drivers, companies are often prepared to help young drivers find their footing however they can.

Here’s how you can get the wheels rolling on your trucking career:

Obtaining a CDL

The first step in attaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is to visit your local DMV/RMV and request a CDL Manual. This manual will be your anchor point as you move toward a professional trucking profession. Study this manual, become familiar with its touchpoints and the information it provides you with, and use it to prepare for your written test.

Taking the written test is the doorway that will allow you to get behind the wheel of a truck and practice the skills you’ve been studying. After successfully passing the written exams, you’ll be provided with a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), which enables you to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) on public roads as long as a CDL holder is in the vehicle with you.

In addition to the written tests, your driving record for the last ten years will also be checked and reviewed. This is the case in all 50 states (and the District of Columbia) and is an integral part of determining someone’s readiness and ability to operate a CMV successfully. You’ll also need to provide proof that you’re medically able to drive a commercial vehicle.  

Once these steps have been taken, and you’ve had your CLP for two-weeks, you’ll be able to schedule your skills test. It’s essential that you spend ample time practicing the maneuvers and inspection tasks you’ve learned about from your CDL manual before taking the skills test, as it is these abilities that will dictate whether you pass the test or not.

What To Expect inYour First Year of Over the Road Trucking at Lily

The Skills Test itself consists of three distinct parts, according to FMSCA:

  • The Vehicle Inspection Test
  • The Basic Controls Test
  • The Road Test

After you pass each of these tests, and proper documentation signifying your success has been recorded, you will receive your CDL and can begin looking for driving jobs in earnest.

Training Programs

Some drivers get their CDL before they enroll in a truck driving school, while others find it helpful to start with the school program and then move into the CDL testing process. Enrolling in a professional truck driving training program isn’t mandatory, but it’s never a bad idea to participate as it will make your transition into your new career that much smoother.

In the end, the order is up to each driver’s preference. Truck driving schools usually teach their students how to drive trucks “as well as learn the regulatory details to pass licensing exams,” but it’s also not uncommon for a driver to earn their CDL and then attend a driving school after a company has hired them.

In the latter scenario, the driver will usually sign an employment contract with a company in exchange for a scholarship that will often cover the expenses of your schooling. This contract often involves an over-the-road (OTR) driving assignment and will help the company feel confident that they’re investing in someone willing to invest in them.

The World Behind the Wheel

There are very few careers that enable people to travel as much as truck driving does. As you spend your days behind the wheel, you’ll be earning some great money and you’ll simultaneously have unique access to an ever-changing landscape of stunning nature, industry, and community. If an office job isn’t for you, then maybe truck driving is the alternative you’re looking for!

Not only is the transportation industry one of the best opportunities you’ll have to see the country in all of its many forms—but every day on the road is going to look different, both literally and figuratively speaking.

The Open Road

According to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the more exposure someone has to nature while working, the lower their levels of stress will be.  The study claims that “Increasing nature contact at work may offer a simple population-based approach to enhance workplace health promotion.”

This is good news for truck drivers because they spend almost all of their days on the open road surrounded by an ever-changing view of nature and the outdoors. If there’s ever been a part of the country that you’ve wanted to see, then you’ll probably get a chance to see it (and more!) as a professional truck driver.  

Opportunities and Benefits

Regardless of your level of experience, the truck driving industry is a field rife with benefits and opportunities for anyone and everyone willing to buckle up and get behind the wheel. Not every trucking company is the same though, so once you’ve acquired your CDL and are ready to hit the road, be sure to do your research and find a company that is willing to invest in you just as much as you’re willing to invest in them.

In addition to competitive pay—which is becoming increasingly commonplace in the industry—most companies will have standards and systems in place to ensure the well-being and safety of their drivers. This means having well-maintained equipment, ample vacation time so drivers can recover after long trips, insurance and other benefits, and more.  

The Industry Needs Drivers

According to an often-cited report by the American Trucking Association, “the trucking industry will need to hire roughly 898,000 new drivers, or an average of nearly 90,000 per year” if it wants to keep up with demand. “Replacing retiring truck drivers will be by far the largest factor,” the report elaborates. It then explains that almost half of all new drivers will be hired for this purpose with the second largest factoring being “ industry growth, accounting for 28% of new driver hires.”

Those statistics are far from insignificant, and paint a picture of an industry that is very eager to recruit younger and more diverse drivers. Trucking companies are taking action, too, and many carriers are “aggressively, and smartly, raising driver sign-on bonuses, increasing pay, and providing financial aid options for potential drivers to attend driver training schools to get them their CDL licenses.”  

Even if there wasn’t a shortage of drivers, the industry would still be eagerly searching for recruits. With Statista reporting that 40% of American internet users purchase products online more than once a month, and 20% of them buy items weekly, it’s safe to assume that the need for truck drivers isn’t going away anytime soon. Especially if industry analysts are correct and those percentages end up doubling by 2021.

Financial Security

The industry’s chronic need for new drivers has created an environment of stability and opportunity which is great news for truck drivers.  Not only do companies pay their drivers on a per-mile-driven scale—meaning that the more miles you cover in a day, the more you earn—but opportunities for growth and expansion are frequent. Your first year of driving may be part of an over the road (OTR) team, to help you build up experience, but the longer you commit to the job the faster you’ll be able to accelerate your career.

There are other financial factors to keep in mind as well, such as the income incentives many companies offer their drivers via safety and loyalty programs. This means that the safer you drive, and the longer you drive for the same company, the more opportunities for additional income you’ll unlock.

Success in the trucking industry comes down to commitment and integrity, and carriers across the country have no qualms about rewarding drivers who represent those qualities.

Kickstart Your Career with Lily!

When you kickstart your truck driving career with Lily Transportation, you’ll not only be taking the first steps toward a wealth of professional experience, but you’ll also become part of a large and diverse family of people who love what they do. We’re always looking for new, passionate drivers to join our team, and would love to hear from you!

At Lily, we believe that it’s our people who are our greatest asset. They’re the backbone and foundation of what makes Lily Transportation such an enduring presence in the transportation industry. This is why we do whatever we can to make sure every one of our employees is equipped with the tools and support they need to thrive on-and-off the job.

When you join our team as a new driver, you’ll have access to a diverse array of benefits, including:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical and Dental Insurance
  • Paid Holiday and Vacation Time
  • Matching 401K
  • Safety Bonuses
  • Health and Wellness Program
  • Meticulously maintained equipment
  • And much more!

If you’re interested in learning more about how Lily Transportation can help you find a place in the trucking industry, then please visit our Careers Page or give us a call at 800-248-5459. We can’t wait to hear from you!

What To Expect inYour First Year of Over the Road Trucking at Lily

How Much Do Truck Drivers Make? (It May Be More Than You Think!)

If you’re considering a truck driving career, then you’ve probably asked the question, “how much do truck drivers make?” It’s a valid question, and something anyone approaching a new job or position would be wise to consider. Thankfully, not only are truck drivers well compensated for their time on the road, but the industry’s need for drivers also means that drivers are often provided with a litany of benefits and perks as well.

Let’s delve into some statistics involving the average truck driver salary, how much truck drivers make per mile, and more:

Average Salary

In 2017, Business Insider reported that only 11% of truck drivers in the industry received wage increases. However, in 2018 that percentage jumped up to almost 50%. “We’ve definitely seen spikes before, but nothing like what we’re experiencing now,” Business Insider said, quoting the co-founder and president of an Ohio-based supply-chain company.

The Benefits of a Career at Lily

That’s a substantial percentage and helps illustrate how the trucking industry, and the companies that operate within it, are taking action in response to the driver shortage the American Trucking Association initially reported on several years ago.

While the average salary for a truck driver depends on several factors—such as the driver’s experience and qualifications, the carrier they’re working for, and the state they’re located in—the Bureau of Labor says that the median yearly income for a professional truck driver falls around the $44,000 range.

However, every company is going to look a bit different. For example, here at Lily Transportation, a military veteran enrolled in the Lily Veterans Network can expect to receive an annual in the $60-70,000 range after they complete their training. In almost every context, however, the longer you stick with a company, and the more experience you earn, the more income you’re likely to make.

How Drivers Get Paid

Depending on the company, a professional truck driver can be paid in several ways. While uncommon, some companies pay their drivers on an hourly scale. This is usually reserved for local drivers, where being paid by-the-hour is often the better option.

In most cases, it’s safe to assume that a truck driver, especially a driver in an OTR role, will be paid on a per-mile-driven scale. This means that the more miles they cover in a day, the more they will earn. According to Roadmaster Drivers School, “a Truck Driver can expect to drive between 2000 and 3000 miles per week. When you get paid by the mile, your odometer counts your money for you as the miles fly by. This makes it easier to track your expected pay.”

If you’re asking yourself “how much do truck drivers make per mile,” then check out Roadmaster.com, where they explain that most companies pay their drivers “between $0.27 to $0.40 per mile.” Of course, that rate will vary depending on how much experience the driver has, the region where they drive, the company they drive for, and what kind of license the driver has. Class A licensed drivers, for example, are sometimes in higher demand and will be paid more as a result.

Learn More Today!

Do truck drivers make good money? The simple answer is a resounding yes. While there’s a range of incomes, trucking and logistics companies like Lily Transportation are devoted to compensating their drivers for a job well done, and in addition to their annual income, will often offer additional truck driving benefits.

These benefits can involve safety bonuses, signing bonuses, and more, and are reflective of an industry that is eager and excited to reward its workforce. If you’re interested in learning more, then reach out to Lily Transportation today!

The Benefits of a Career at Lily

How Female Truck Drivers are Driving the Industry Forward

The trucking and transportation industry has been a pillar in our country for years, and its importance shows no signs of decreasing. As the e-commerce industry reaches new levels of vitality every year, so too does the need for reliable transportation and shipping grow along with it.

Even as the trucking industry continues to search for new drivers to fill its ranks, one demographic in particular is bringing new ideas and developments into a tried-and-true industry: women truck drivers.

While popular stereotypes may lead you to believe that women don’t inhabit the trucking industry, in actuality they’ve been a vital part of the continued development and advancement of transportation since the founding of the United States. As the number of women in trucking slowly but surely grows higher, here are just a few of the ways they are helping to drive the industry toward a better and brighter future.

Safer Truck Stops

As the needs of truck drivers change, so too have the characteristics of truck stops had to change. For example, in an article by American Trucker, Kelly Rhinehart—founder and co-owner of a long-running truck stop—explains how “Truck stops made a ton of money off of payphones once. Then we turned the phone rooms into computer rooms. Now they’re TV rooms or workout rooms.”


In addition to the technological upgrades that modernity has demanded, truck stops have also begun to emphasize better safety measures. This is a development that has as much to do with general necessity as it does with the increasing number of women truck drivers, but it’s a notable, and valuable, development nonetheless.

For example, Ellen Voie, the president and CEO of Women in Trucking, said on NPR.com that “We work with the truck stops on lighting and fencing and reporting to them a truck stop that’s not safe.” By taking strides toward eliminating dark and vulnerable spaces on their ground, truck stops can provide a better sense of safety for all their drivers.

Better Trucks

The accommodations don’t stop there though. CDL Career Now reports that “Truck manufacturers are designing the trucks to be more adaptable for women drivers—easier access, closer pedals, and better-positioned seat belts.” Trucks are also getting outfitted with other modern features, such as cameras and computers that increase situational awareness and improve quality-of-life for drivers.

Putting Drivers Behind the Wheel

The trucking industry needs drivers, now more than ever. With many veteran drivers approaching retirement, trucking companies are eager for new and diverse individuals who are excited about the opportunities they can find behind the wheel. As such, companies are becoming far better about pursuing, recruiting, and accommodating female truck drivers.

As long as organizations like Women in Trucking (WIT) continue to help raise awareness, the more companies—like Camo-route, an umbrella organization that works to develop Quebec’s transport industry—will strive to increase the percentage of women behind the wheel. And the more women behind the wheel, the easier it will be for the industry to evolve and thrive for years to come.   

Here at Lily Transportation, for example, we’re actively recruiting women to join our team of professional truck drivers. We’re proud of our current female driver base and are always encouraging women to apply so that base can continue to grow for years to come. To learn more about what driving with Lily Transportation looks like, reach out to us today! We would love to hear from you.

Skills and Qualities that Make a Great Over the Road Truck Driver

Over the road truck driving can be a demanding, but deeply rewarding career track for professionals looking for new experiences, challenges, and opportunities.

Over the road truck drivers live a unique lifestyle, and as such, tend to possess specific skills and qualities that help them succeed on the open road. Here are some of the critical skills an OTR truck driver should have:

Training and Experience

Before you get behind the wheel of a truck, you’re going to need to have the proper training and experience. While the truck driving qualifications are relatively accessible, you’re still going to need to go through some training to prepare yourself for the situations you’ll undoubtedly encounter behind the wheel.

Just as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) says, “Driving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) requires a higher level of knowledge, experience, skills, and physical abilities than that required to drive a non-commercial vehicle.” As such, the first step toward an OTR truck driving career will always be the same: attain your commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Upon completing all of the CDL-certifications and tests, you’ll be suitably equipped with the information and experience you’ll need to transition into a formal trucking role for one of the many companies eager to work with you.


Excellent Teamwork

Whether you’re driving solo or as part of an OTR team, you’re going to need to know how to work (and thrive) as a team.  You will have an entire support team working alongside you to help ensure that you get from point A to point B, and as such, strong teamwork skills will be essential to your success.

This will be especially important on an OTR team. Since you’ll be sharing the cockpit with a co-driver for hours a day, the two of you will have to be comfortable working together. A good OTR team is defined by trust, and trust can only come if you’re willing to work alongside your co-driver in every situation you find yourselves in.  

Communication Skills

The trucking and logistics industries require a great deal of coordination, timing, and communication. When you’re on the road for days or even weeks at a time, your ability to communicate with your co-driver, your company dispatchers, and other drivers is paramount to your success.

If you can’t communicate clearly with the world around you, then your ability to navigate the unpredictable nature of over the road driving assignments will be impaired. No matter what, always make communication a priority. The stronger your communication skills are, the more comfortable and enjoyable your OTR experience will be.

Flexible Problem-Solving

OTR driving involves long hours traveling across multiple states, environments, weather conditions, and seasons. While you can (and should) plan ahead for each day of travel, it’s impossible to predict what the open road will throw at you on any given day, which is why flexible problem-solving is a skill all great drivers strive to perfect.

Being able to react both quickly and smartly to unpredictable situations and challenges is a crucial ability that will help truck drivers complete their job and stay safe while doing so.

If you want to learn more about the OTR driver lifestyle, then don’t hesitate to reach out to Lily Transportation today! We currently have over 50 driving teams running coast-to-coast and are always looking to expand that number. If you have any questions or want to apply, then visit our website or give us a call at 800.248.5459.