How Much Do Truck Drivers Make In Canada?
In the world of trucking, experience is a priceless asset. Drivers who have honed their skills over the years and got the right certifications from a reputable trucking school in Canada
tend to command higher salaries. Workers who handle difficult loads, like oversized cargo or perishable goods that need specific temperature control, usually get paid more.
The average truck driver salary in Canada is $79,963 per year
. However, Truck driver salaries in Canada vary based on location, type of equipment, and experience
Factors That Affect A Trucker’s Salary
Recent data shows salaries can range from $65,481 to $320,031 per year
. It's important to consider these factors when thinking about earning potential.
- Trucking companies value drivers with clean records, as they represent lower insurance risks and potential liabilities.
- Trucking companies also value truckers who graduated from a reputable trucking school in Canada . Consequently, drivers with good training can negotiate higher wages and bonuses.
- Companies valuing safety, benefits, and career growth retain experienced drivers who earn higher salaries.
- Some people may earn more money if they are willing to work in faraway places or in bad weather.
- However, perhaps the pinnacle of truck driver compensation lies in transporting hazardous materials. Their rigorous hazmat training , stringent safety protocols safeguard them against potential disasters. Consequently, hazmat drivers earn significantly higher salaries, reflecting the risks involved.
- Solo drivers follow strict regulations for rest breaks, while team drivers share responsibilities for continuous operation.
- Over-the-Road drivers earn more by delivering across the country, while regional drivers have more predictable schedules and weekends at home.
For drivers who want to avoid transporting dangerous materials, there are plenty of ways to increase their income. Focusing on specific industries like refrigerated transport or specialized freight handling can lead to higher pay and job stability.
Highest Paying Provinces For Truck Drivers Ranked
According to recent data below are the highest paying provinces for truckers in Canada ranked;
Highest Paying Trucking Roles Ranked
According to recent data below is the list of highest paying trucking roles in Canada ranked according to average salary per year.
Owner-Operator
Average Salary: $320,031 per year
An entrepreneurial-minded individual who runs their own truck-driving business. As an owner-operator, you're not just a driver but also a business owner. You need to have a truck, find things to transport, and run the business every day. This includes handling business expenses, overseeing truck maintenance, and making employment decisions.
To be an owner-operator, you need a CDL and knowledge of business management. At Trukademy, we offer expert-led CDL training courses
tailored to aspiring owner-operators. Join us today to start your journey towards becoming a successful owner-operator in the trucking industry.
Team Truck Driver
Average Salary: $104,577
Team truck drivers typically work in pairs, combining their skills and efforts to continuously deliver goods across long distances. They are essential for meeting tight delivery schedules and maximizing productivity in the transportation industry.
Team truck drivers take turns driving to ensure continuous movement, often working up to twenty-two hours a day. Their main goal is to make long-haul deliveries without stopping. This allows goods to be transported faster than if done by solo drivers.
Mine/Haul Truck Driver
Average Salary: $101,432 per year
Truck drivers in the mining and quarry industries are essential personnel. They operate large dump trucks to help with site-related activities.
Mine truck drivers transport materials at mining and quarry sites. They also assist with waste disposal. Additionally, they ensure that work flows smoothly and prioritize safety to prevent injuries.
Tanker/Liquid Hauler
Average Salary: $89,883 per year
Individuals experienced in transporting hazardous materials, such as gasoline, via tanker trucks. Safely transport hazardous liquids, adhere to strict safety protocols, and undergo regular safety checks.
To become a tanker/liquid hauler, you need the appropriate commercial driver's license (CDL) with tanker endorsement. At Trukademy, we offer comprehensive training programs specifically tailored to tanker hauling.
Hazmat Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $85,690 per year
A hazmat tanker driver is a specialized professional who transports dangerous materials, like toxic waste, in tanker trucks.
Responsibilities:
- Safely transport dangerous and unstable materials in accordance with federal and state regulations.
- Undergo specialized training and obtain necessary certifications for handling hazardous materials.
- Conduct pre-trip inspections to ensure the tanker is in optimal condition for transport.
- Adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and environmental hazards.
- Collaborate with authorities and emergency responders in the event of incidents or spills.
- To drive a hazmat tanker, you must have a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) on your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). You also need to pass a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
At Trukademy, we offer specialized hazmat training programs. These programs are led by experts. They are designed to help you acquire the necessary skills and certifications for hazmat roles. Contact us today to start your journey towards becoming a qualified hazmat tanker driver.
Ice Road Driver
Average Salary: $80,024 per year
Ice road truck drivers are skilled professionals equipped to navigate treacherous winter conditions and remote locations. They thrive in extreme environments, ensuring essential freight reaches its destination safely and on time.
Ice road drivers face the difficult job of moving goods across frozen landscapes, typically in the northern regions of Canada. Their main job is to drive through tough winter weather. They travel on icy roads. They deliver supplies to faraway places like mines and small towns.
To become an ice road driver, you need specialized training and the appropriate licenses. Trukademy offers winter driving programs
led by experts. These programs help aspiring drivers learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in difficult conditions.
Specialty Vehicle Hauler
Average Salary: $79,290 per year.
A specialty vehicle hauler is a professional entrusted with the transportation of high-value specialty automobiles, including race cars and luxury collectibles.
The primary duties of a specialty vehicle hauler involve the safe and secure transportation of expensive vehicles. This entails implementing extra precautions and protective procedures to prevent damage and safeguard against potential theft during transit.
Long-haul Truck Driver
Average Salary: $77,429 per year
Long-haul truck drivers are individuals who are responsible for transporting goods over long distances.
Responsibilities:
- Monitoring expenses, such as fuel and tolls
- Creating schedules
- Planning journey routes
- Logging pick-ups
- Recording mileage
- Truck maintenance
- Assisting with unloading goods
Oversized Load Truck Driver
Average Salary: $72,730 per year
Big load truck drivers are skilled professionals who transport large, heavy items like industrial machinery, wind turbines, or mobile homes.
Oversized load truck drivers have to drive carefully to transport big loads. They must follow state rules about when and where they can drive with these large loads. Sometimes, they may need someone to escort them during the trip.
Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $65,481 per year
Delivery drivers are individuals who are responsible for transporting goods to domestic households and businesses.
Their key responsibilities include delivering various items such as groceries, parcels, mail, office supplies, clothing, and home furniture. May also involve packing delivery trucks and unloading deliveries at the final destination.
Would you like to become a trucker in Canada? As mentioned in this post the highest average annual salary of a trucker is a whopping $320,000+. The trucking industry offers many opportunities and high demand, making it a promising career choice for those who pursue it. However, to navigate this path successfully, you need the right skills, experience, and certifications.
At Trukademy
, located in Ontario, we specialize in shaping aspiring truckers into seasoned professionals. Our training programs
are led by experts. They are designed to give you all the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the trucking industry. From honing your driving skills to mastering safety protocols and logistics, we cover every aspect of the profession.
Imagine yourself behind the wheel, on a journey filled with adventure and financial stability. With Trukademy by your side, this vision can become your reality. Our trucking courses cover a range of popular topics. These include AZ License Training, Dispatcher Training
, MELT Program, HAZMAT Training, and more.
If you want to drive large vehicles in Ontario, you can obtain an AZ License
. With this license, you can earn over $55,000 in your first year as a truck driver in Canada. Sign up for trucking courses at Trukademy to start a successful career in the trucking industry. Reach out to us today!
