Short-Haul Trucking for New Drivers: An FAQ

What types of trucking jobs won't require you to drive long distances across the country? If you're ready to start a new career but don't feel comfortable with a long-haul job right now, take a look at the top short-haul questions for soon-to-be truck drivers.

How Is Short-Haul Different from Long-Haul?

It's all in the name. Like the title implies, short-haul drivers haul loads or drive for short distances. Long-haul truckers drive for long distances - hauling loads across state lines or even from coast to coast. While different companies have different routes of service, short-haul truckers often drive within a 150 airmile radius. This creates an exception to the federal hours-of-service regulations.

As a new or future driver, you need to understand what an air mile is and how it differs from what you may think of as a regular driving mile. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an air mile is 6,076 feet and a statute mile is 5,280 feet. This makes air miles (also known as nautical miles) longer than statute miles.

A set air-mile radius doesn't mean short-haul truckers only drive 150 air miles per day. This is the radius drivers stay within. You may drive more or less miles back and forth between stops within your geographic work area. But you won't drive more miles over the road to one destination.

What Are the Advantages of Driving a Short-Haul Job?

Now that you know more about the difference between long- and short-haul driving, take the next step and decide which option is right for you and your career goals. While you don't have to stay with one option or the other, you do need to decide which type of jobs you want to apply to after completing a driver's training program.

Work-life balance is one of the primary reasons to choose a short-haul truck driving job. Whether you have children, a spouse, a significant other, or family who live nearby or just enjoy spending time with your friends, a short-haul route makes it easier to come home, relax, and see your loved ones. While long-haul drivers do get time off, they may not get to come home nightly or even weekly.

Along with work-life balance, some short-haul drivers enjoy the geographic familiarity a local route offers. Instead of constantly navigating new terrain, you'll get to know your city, country, or a specific part of your state well. This can provide a sense of comfort and can even help you to navigate the area during your off-work hours.

Do Short- and Long-Haul Jobs Pay the Same?

This question has no universal answer. In 2020, the median pay for a heavy or tractor-trailer truck driver was $47,130 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The specific salary you make as either a short- or long-haul driver depends on several factors. These include the company's pay rates, your geographic region's economy, the number of hours you work, and your experience level.

An entry-level driver may make less than the national average, while an experienced driver who has worked for the same company for years may make more. Before you accept a new job, consider the pay rate versus the number of hours on the road. Long-haul drivers typically spend more time away from their home base. The quantity of time on the road can impact the value of a long-haul driver's salary.

What Types of Short-Haul Jobs Are Available?

The answer to this question depends on your local driving market. Common types of short-haul jobs include construction vehicle and delivery driver positions. A truck driving career school or program may have access to job banks or may help you to find short-haul jobs nearby.

Are you ready to start a new driving career? Contact Commercial Trucking School for more information.