Breaking Into the Trucking Industry: What New Drivers Should Know

Jul 14

If you’re thinking about starting a career in trucking, you’re not alone. The demand for truck drivers in the U.S. remains high in 2025, with logistics continuing to power the economy behind the scenes. Whether you’re just graduating, looking for a career shift, or want to start fresh in a field with stability and growth, trucking offers real opportunities. But like any profession, it takes preparation, patience, and smart decision-making to get off to a strong start.

Here’s what every new driver should know before stepping into the industry.

Get to Know the CDL Basics

To drive a commercial truck, you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). In the U.S., there are three classes:

Class A: Lets you drive tractor-trailers and most combinations of vehicles. It’s the most versatile and often preferred for long-haul jobs.

Class B: Covers straight trucks like dump trucks and box trucks.

Class C: For smaller vehicles that carry hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers.

Most drivers aiming for higher-paying freight or cross-country opportunities start with a Class A CDL.

Tip: Choose a reputable truck driving school. Some carriers offer paid training or tuition reimbursement programs. Look for schools certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify schools and licensing requirements on FMCSA's official training page.

Understanding Trailer Types, Rates, and Expectations

The type of trailer you haul can significantly impact your earnings, daily routine, and long-term career path. Here's a breakdown of the most common trailer types and what drivers can expect with each:

1. Dry Van

CDL Required: Class A

Experience Needed: Entry-level friendly

Pay Range: Moderate — stable freight, consistent miles

Expectations: Most common type, lower physical demand, freight is typically no-touch

2. Reefer (Refrigerated)

CDL Required: Class A

Experience Needed: 6+ months preferred

Pay Range: Higher than dry van due to temperature-sensitive freight

Expectations: Tight delivery windows, night shifts, continuous reefer unit monitoring

3. Flatbed

CDL Required: Class A

Experience Needed: 1 year preferred

Pay Range: High — but more physical work involved

Expectations: Strapping and tarping loads, exposure to weather, extra training often required

4. Tanker

CDL Required: Class A + N or X endorsement

Experience Needed: 1–2 years depending on carrier

Pay Range: Very high, especially with Hazmat

Expectations: Liquid loads shift during transit; higher safety standards and insurance requirements

5. Hazmat

CDL Required: Class A or B + H or X endorsement

Experience Needed: At least 2 years typically

Pay Range: Top tier due to risk and regulation

Expectations: Strict security protocols, additional background checks, detailed training

6. Intermodal/Port Freight

CDL Required: Class A

Experience Needed: 1 year preferred

Pay Range: Moderate to high, depending on region and port

Expectations: TWIC card may be required, local or regional runs, more wait time at ports

Understanding the pros and cons of each trailer type can help you align your goals with the right freight — whether you're after higher pay, home time, or building up experience for specialized loads.

Know Your Endorsements

Endorsements are special qualifications added to your CDL that allow you to haul certain types of freight. Some popular ones include:

H (Hazmat): Required to haul hazardous materials.

N (Tanker): Needed for transporting liquid cargo.

X: Combination of Hazmat and Tanker.

T: For operating double or triple trailers.

P: Passenger vehicles.

Endorsements increase your value to carriers and expand your job options. In 2025, with more specialized freight on the road, having one or two endorsements can make a big difference.

You can learn more about endorsements and requirements from your state DMV or visit TruckingTruth's Endorsements Guide.

Entry-Level Tips for New Drivers

Getting your CDL is just the first step. What comes next can shape your experience in the industry.

Build your hours smart. Many new drivers jump into over-the-road (OTR) driving to gain experience. OTR builds miles fast and helps you learn real-world navigation, weather management, and customer interaction.

Be consistent with your logs. Learning how to manage your Hours of Service (HOS) correctly helps you avoid penalties and sets a foundation for safe habits. Apps like KeepTruckin or Samsara make it easier to stay compliant.

Listen more than you talk. Veteran drivers, dispatchers, and trainers have hard-earned experience. Ask questions, take notes, and treat every haul as a chance to learn.

Know how to inspect your truck. Pre-trip inspections are more than paperwork. They help prevent breakdowns, violations, and safety issues.

Mistakes to Avoid in Your First Year

It’s easy to make costly mistakes early on. Here are the most common ones:

Jumping between companies too fast: Your first year is about building reliability. Frequent job-hopping looks bad to future employers and resets your learning curve.

Ignoring rest and health: Long hauls can wear down your body. Schedule rest breaks, eat real meals, and hydrate often.

Poor trip planning: Failing to plan routes, fueling stops, or traffic windows can lead to late deliveries and frustration.

Misunderstanding pay structures: Always ask how you’re being paid—per mile, per load, or salary—and what bonuses or deductions apply. CDL Life regularly shares updated info on driver pay trends.

Why the Right Company Makes All the Difference

The company you start with can influence everything—from your experience and growth to your income and mental health.

Look for a carrier that:

Has experienced trainers and safety programs

Respects work-life balance and home time

Pays fairly and transparently

Offers advancement paths for drivers (e.g. becoming a trainer, moving into local work, or fleet management)

At Sounders Transport, we focus on real support. From our dispatch team to our maintenance crew, we back our drivers with fast communication, modern equipment, and a driver-first culture.

Want to know what makes a great carrier? Here’s a deeper dive on how to spot a trustworthy trucking company.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Breaking into the trucking industry is a bold move—but it can pay off for years to come. Start smart, stay humble, and choose a company that helps you build, not just haul.

Looking for a place to grow your career? Sounders Transport is hiring motivated professionals who bring experience, consistency, and a passion for the road. If you’re ready for strong support, reliable miles, and a team that actually has your back—we’d love to talk.

Ready to roll? Reach out today and let’s talk about your future on the road.

Maryna Albul