Should you be in the market for employment, think about pursuing a career as a truck driver. Authorities from The Star calculate that there is a deficit of approximately 51,000 drivers in the trucking sector, which is necessary to satisfy current demands.

Trucking firms are eager to compensate you generously: on average, salaries have surged by 10 percent over the past 18 months, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To entice new drivers, many are providing signing bonuses that can reach as high as $8,000.

Here are five trucking firms looking for you:

1. C.R. England

C.R. England, the biggest cold transport carrier, currently has 6,700 drivers on its roster, yet the firm is actively seeking to hire no fewer than 500 additional drivers at this moment.

The paramount core value at C.R. England is safety. The company's management emphasizes the importance of drivers achieving a satisfying equilibrium between their professional duties on the road and personal life at home. Furthermore, C.R. England is dedicated to enhancing environmental health and has been recognized with numerous awards in the industry for these initiatives.

The firm seeks both seasoned and novice CDL-A drivers who possess unblemished driving histories. They offer training for license acquisition.

Eligible employees receive benefits such as:

• Weekly pay
• Consistent home time
• Health insurance including dental and vision
• Life insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid vacation
• Bonus incentives
• Unlimited cash-for-referrals program

Initiating the application process involves completing a brief form available on the company's website. New drivers commence their roles with a weekly income of $570, equating to an hourly wage of $14.25.

2. Swift Transportation

With over 16,000 trucks, 60,000 trailers, and 16,000 dedicated drivers, Swift Transportation takes great pride in its advanced fleet. The company's official site states that their trucks are never older than 3 years.

The firm is deeply dedicated to supporting its workers in career progression. It offers ongoing educational schemes for those looking to become mentors or operate at a Swift terminal.

Individuals new to the company will typically begin earning from $17 to $18.50 hourly. Compensation additionally enhances based on several factors: distance driven, punctuality in deliveries, client contentment, safety achievements, and duration of service. Extended trips that cover long distances, referred to as over-the-road (OTR) journeys, are eligible for bonuses reaching $3,000.

Besides advantages like insurance, medication coverage, weekly salary, and paid holidays, Swift also provides these additional benefits:

• Leasing program
• Stock purchase program
• Rider program
• Program for nonaggressive, vaccinated dogs weighing up to 40 pounds

Swift is now recruiting drivers across the U.S., and applications are accepted via their website.

3. Knight Transportation

Operating with 4,000 tractors and 8,800 trailers, Knight remains a more modest-sized company compared to others mentioned, yet it consistently prospers and expands. Currently, it employs approximately 5,000 people and has been featured in Forbes' list of Top 200 Best Small Companies for 15 consecutive years.

Knight prioritizes efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction. It stands on solid financial ground with a promising outlook. The corporate culture cherishes trust, respect, and openness. Despite its size, it maintains a small-company, familial atmosphere. Leadership is committed to nurturing skills, offering mentoring opportunities, and favoring internal promotions.

Here are additional benefits of being employed by Knight:

• A diverse fleet with cutting-edge, frequently recycled equipment
• Dry van refrigerated or port-and-rail opportunities
• More than 30 service centers with full amenities across the country
• A choice of daily or weekly pay
• High ratio of dispatch and support per driver
• One-on-one relationships with managers, trainers and service staff

At present, Knight is advertising numerous positions for all skill levels, from CDL beginners to seasoned OTR drivers. However, training is not available in every state, so it's advisable to contact 1-888-4KNIGHT for more information.

The typical initial wage stands at $10 an hour, yet at Knight, advancement in one's career is highly valued.

4. FFE Transportation

Frozen Food Express, commonly abbreviated as FFE, has existed for 75 years. It ranks as one of the major temperature-controlled transport companies in North America and has earned a spot on Forbes’ Best Companies to Work For list.

FFE diligently backs the SmartWay Transport Partner, a body devoted to ecological projects; the Texas Department of Public Safety Officers Association, an organization focused on enhancing safety on rural highways, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The firm is dedicated to promoting diversity and fostering the personal growth of its workforce.

FFE is currently seeking skilled less-than-load drivers across multiple states. LTL drivers handle smaller shipments, typically operate nearer to their homes, and cultivate strong relationships with direct clients. Depending on where you are based, you may qualify for a $5,000 signing bonus and can make as much as $1,100 weekly.

The extra advantages provided make FFE an excellent employment destination:

• Company-sponsored training
• Weekly home time
• Weekly pay
• Paid vacation
• Rider program
• Open-door management policy

Opportunities exist for both company drivers and owner operators. Detailed job qualifications can be found on the FFE website.

5. Amazon Flex

This variant stands out. You have the opportunity to operate your personal vehicle, choose your working hours, and earn $18 to $25 per hour by distributing parcels for one of these companies:

• Amazon.com
• Amazon Prime Now
• AmazonFresh grocery delivery
• Amazon Restaurants local restaurant delivery

Presently, Amazon Flex is active in 50 regions throughout the U.S. Should your location not appear on the site, you can register your specific area and anticipate notification from Amazon when Flex is accessible in your region.

To deliver for Amazon.com, your vehicle must feature a minimum of four doors. For alternate delivery services, a dependable vehicle suffices.

It is required that you possess either an iPhone 5 or a later model, or an Android device that is version 6.0 or newer. The necessity for GPS functionality and a camera to scan barcodes is mandatory. Regular utilization of the Amazon Flex app is expected, which must be downloaded exclusively via the provided link on the Amazon Flex website.

You have the option to "cash out" and receive your compensation bi-weekly. The amount you earn is influenced by the volume of orders awaiting delivery and the number of drivers available in your vicinity.

Become a Truck Driver Today

As companies urgently seek new drivers daily, it's an optimal moment to submit applications. You could start earning your sign-up bonus right away, embark on journeys, and accumulate an impressive salary. Simply apply for one of the myriad truck driving positions currently up for grabs to initiate this process!

Should you be keen on pursuing a career as a truck driver, commence your job hunt immediately.