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The Pros and Cons of Sprinter Van Driver Jobs

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sprinter van driver jobs

What is a Sprinter Van?

While the phrase “Sprinter Van” has almost become interchangeable with “Cargo Van,” a Sprinter is actually the brand name for a van exclusively manufactured by Mercedes-Benz. Sprinter Vans have been around since the mid-90s in both cargo and passenger models, but have just recently skyrocketed in popularity. This is thanks to the trend of people downsizing by living in them along with Amazon using them as their go-to delivery vans over the past few years.  But, it’s not just the big box carriers like Amazon who are looking to fill these Sprinter Van Driver Jobs. Delivery companies all over the country are looking for drivers to complete the all-important “Final Mile” in the logistics chain. This gives prospective Sprinter Van Drivers a great amount of leverage in finding the right job for them.  

Like with every driving job, there’s pros and cons, and that’s definitely true with Sprinter Van jobs. If you’re thinking about making the jump into Sprinter Van driving, here’s what you need to know about this line of work. 

Pros 

No CDL Required

Maybe the biggest plus for people considering driving Sprinter Vans is that there’s no CDL requirement. Some states have a few additional requirements for delivery drivers, including proof of a clean driving record and the ability to pass a physical and drug test. Aside from that and passing any company training, there’s nothing stopping you from hitting the road. 

Part-Time Possibilities

You’ve probably heard of people who work on the weekends or during the holidays for Amazon as part-time delivery drivers. In addition to getting experience driving a large vehicle, working as a Sprinter Van Driver is also a great job for someone trying to make a little extra money on the side. 

Easier Path to Owner Operator

Another benefit to driving Sprinter Vans is that there’s a much easier path to becoming an Owner Operator than there is with a traditional semi-truck.  The starting MSRP for a new Sprinter Cargo Van is $36,000. Compare that to the average price for a commercial truck, which is anywhere from $130,000-$200,000 and you can see why so many people are looking to buy Sprinters instead.  

Home Time

While there are a few exceptions, most Sprinter Van Drivers can expect to be home every night. The shifts might be long, but you’ll still make it to your own bed at the end of each day, which can’t be said for all trucking jobs.  

Cons 

Tight Deadlines

You’ve probably heard already, but being a Sprinter Van driver can be a very stressful job. Drivers are expected to deliver close to 300 packages per shift. While some might enjoy this fast-paced environment, it definitely isn’t a role for everyone, especially drivers with physical limitations. 

Customer Service

Another element involved in Sprinter Van driving that may be overlooked is customer service. In addition to driving, you may be dealing with customers who can sometimes prove to be difficult. This won’t be a problem for some, but many drivers got into this line of work to avoid these types of interactions altogether.  

Physically Demanding

With Sprinter Van Driver jobs, it’s almost certain that you’ll be working with touch cargo. This may not be a huge deal for drivers unloading one or two big deliveries a day, but it’s a much different beast when you’re a Sprinter Van Driver. Delivering hundreds of packages and walking up and down driveways for 8+ hours a day makes this one of the most physically intensive jobs you can do in the logistics industry. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a job that will get you fit while you earn some money, look no further.  

If you’re a disciplined worker who doesn’t mind—or even enjoys—a bit of stress, Sprinter Van driving could be the right career path for you. It’s also a great job for those considering a career in trucking but want to try their hand at something smaller before going through the process of getting their CDL. And with the wide variety of jobs available in Sprinter Van Driving, there’s no doubt that you’ll find the job right for you. 

two men in a truck

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The Best Truck Driving Jobs for 18 Year Olds

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truck driving jobs for 18 year olds

Looking to get into trucking but think that you need to wait until you’re 21? That’s not the case! In most states, drivers can earn their CDL and begin driving at 18.  Because of this, there are a ton of truck driving jobs for 18-year-olds that pay well, give great experience, and will give you a leg up when you turn 21. 

Why Won’t Some Companies Hire 18-Year Old Drivers?

While it’s a myth that you can’t start driving until you’re 21, it is more difficult to find the kind of high-paying work that older, more experienced drivers can. There are two reasons for this. The first and biggest is that you can’t carry freight across state lines. There have been pushes to do away with this requirement over the past few years, but nothing has happened yet. Since most OTR routes will take you beyond your home state, larger companies won’t even consider hiring you until you hit 21. The second is insurance. Many of the large insurance companies that specialize in trucking insurance won’t even consider insuring a driver until he or she is 21 (even 25 in some cases).  

What Kind of Trucking Jobs Am I Able to Land?

Since you won’t be able to drive across state lines, your work is limited to intra-state. This isn’t a bad thing by any means. Many of these jobs will help you learn the essential skills you’ll need when you turn 21. While some of these jobs will require a CDL, there’s a good number that don’t, depending on the type of truck you’ll be driving and the state you’re in. 

1. Furniture Delivery

Large retailers are always looking for drivers to deliver large furniture to customers. These jobs are great for young drivers since all deliveries are within state lines and you’ll get straight truck (think of a large U-Haul) experience. Be aware though, these jobs are more than driving, you’ll most likely be doing the labor of moving the furniture as well.  

truck driving jobs for 18 year olds

2 Repo/Tow

You’re probably familiar with the concept of repo/towing. This job entails towing wreckage from an accident, or a perfectly good car from a driver who chooses not to make their car payments. Either way, this job is a great way to not only get you driving experience, but learning worthwhile mechanical skills that will help you further along in your career.  

3. Dump Truck

This is another example of a Class B vehicle that almost never crosses state lines, making it a prime option for 18–year-old drivers. Dump truck drivers can either work for a company or be owner-operators, but if you’re under 21, you’ll most likely be going the company route. This work can also be a gateway into a career specializing in construction equipment. If you tend to be more social, that’s another reason dump truck driving might be for you. This line of work will have you working with the same crew on a consistent basis.   

4. Livestock Hauling

Hauling livestock isn’t the easiest job on this list, but if you’re young, want driving experience and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, it may be the job for you. Because of the extra sanitation and safety concerns present when hauling live animals, livestock haulers are considered “specialty” drivers and are usually compensated as such. If you live in a rural area with a lot of farmland, chances are there will be some sort of livestock hauling work near you. 

5. Beverage Delivery

While larger beverage carriers may require you to have a Class A, many smaller beverage companies and regional beer makers may use smaller trucks that only require a Class B. Hiring requirements for this job will vary from company to company, it’s a great way to get valuable hours of experience behind the wheel before you turn 21. Be warned, like furniture, beverage delivery will have you not only driving, but unloading and even stocking product in stores and restaurants.  

6. Truck Driver Assistant

This job is perfect if you’re interested in trucking but want to make sure it’s right for you before spending time and money earning your CDL. Truck driver assistants mostly help with the loading and unloading of cargo and getting documents signed from customers upon delivery. More importantly, you’ll be getting firsthand experience inside a truck, observing the ins and outs of what it takes to be a driver and ultimately seeing if the position is right for you.  

Donald Wedington-Clark is a trucker out of Phoenix who started driving when he was 18. He had the following to say about starting your trucking career early,

“Just starting out, I was lucky enough to have an old time driver teach me what he knew. He accepted nothing short of excellence.  During my first year OTR, I was teamed with a driver who loved his job and passed on so much information on how to do all the little things that make the job great. The best thing in my training was being teamed with an experienced driver and staying as a team for an entire year.” – shared Donald.

Many young people think that trucking careers start at 21. Don’t make that mistake. There are plenty of truck driving jobs for 18-year-olds that will help you earn valuable driving experience as well as some good money. 

truck driving jobs for 18 year olds

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5 Tips for Finding the Best Garbage Truck Driver Jobs

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garbage truck driver

Garbage truck driver jobs can be a great fit for new drivers and experienced drivers alike. These jobs are typically local, so drivers get regular home time. They’re also great for drivers who like to stay on the move throughout their day. Garbage truck jobs often require some physical labor. As with many trucking jobs, it can be easy to find a garbage truck driving job, but hard to find a good one. Here’s what you need to know to find the best garbage truck driver jobs.

1. Know the Lingo

  • Residential: Residential garbage truck drivers are the ones you see in your neighborhood if you live in an urban area. These drivers are responsible for picking up cans from individual residences. 
  • Commercial: These drivers are the opposite of Residential garbage truck drivers. Commercial drivers pick up waste from businesses or apartment complexes. 

2. A Day in the Life

Garbage truck driver jobs can be quite different from other CDL jobs. Most of these positions are local, so drivers will stay within a relatively close radius. Typically, drivers are home nightly. That said, hours are not always consistent, so a garbage truck driver may find that their schedule does change at times. Another important thing to decide before you take a new job is what level of touch you prefer. Most garbage truck driver jobs call for a high level of touch, and there is usually manual labor required. If you like to be active, this job will keep you moving!

trashguyninja

Kevin, Garbage Truck Driver for EZ Pack

We talked to Kevin, a garbage truck driver for EZ Pack, and asked him if he had any suggestions for other drivers looking for a garbage truck driver job. He shared his perspective with Drive My Way.

“Well I guess everyone is always looking for a good driver with a clean CDL. So if you have those key ingredients you’re bound for success anywhere. Good perks and benefits if you find the right place, they’re out there, if you’re willing to work for it,” shared Kevin.

Commercial garbage truck drivers usually work in urban environments, so if city driving isn’t for you, think twice about this job! Similarly, many garbage truck driver jobs are for residential positions. That means that drivers need to be comfortable maneuvering in tight streets. In addition, because there are a lot of jobs in residential areas, some drivers may have a higher level of interpersonal engagement than in other local positions. 

3. How are Dump Truck Jobs Different?

If you are taking a job as a dump truck driver early in your CDL career, there are a few things to consider. This type of job can be a great way to get started in trucking, BUT you should know that not all employers consider this type of work good experience for other CDL jobs. Also, if you find yourself thinking that garbage truck driver jobs are an easy way to get started in trucking, that’s not necessarily the case! These trucks have a higher center of gravity than many other types of trucks, so it takes skill and experience to avoid incidents. Dump trucks are often considered more dangerous than other types of CDL work.

4. How To Become A Garbage Truck Driver

Once you’ve decided that this is the job for you, there are a few things you’ll need to get started. First, get your CDL A or B license. Some companies will accept either, and deciding between the two licenses will depend a lot on your plans for the future. If you want to drive dry van, tanker, reefer, or other similar jobs, a CDL A is more flexible. Some employers also value mechanical experience. While it may not be the main part of your job, a driver who can fix machines can be valuable. 

If you want to drive dry van, tanker, reefer, or other similar jobs, a CDL A is more flexible.

In addition to the technical requirements, there are some personal attributes that are helpful for garbage truck driver jobs. Often, driving a garbage truck requires a high level of physical fitness, so it’s helpful to be in good physical condition so you don’t strain or injure yourself. Also, it’s important that you like to be outside and are willing to work in different weather conditions. When you’re ready to make your next job change, check out Drive My Way to find companies hiring near you who are a good fit for your lifestyle and job preferences.

5. What Questions Should I Ask Employers?

truck driver holding steering wheelAny time you prepare for a CDL job change, there are a few important questions to ask. These questions will help you find the best garbage truck driver jobs for you at a reliable company. Before you even talk to the company, do your research on compensation, hours, and benefits.

If a company meets your needs, get in touch. Otherwise, stay away and move on to the next company. If possible, ask to speak with a current company driver to get their perspective. 

For garbage truck jobs, ask a recruiter about your route. Then, find out whether you will be working with a partner or solo. Equipment also plays a particularly big role for garbage truck drivers. Older truck models may not have the same grabbing hooks and may require more manual labor than newer models. Similarly, what level of touch can you expect? As you finish your conversation, make sure to ask about opportunities for advancement. You may not be looking for a career move right now, but you may be looking for a promotion in the future.

garbage truck driver

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9 Pros and Cons of Local Truck Driving Jobs

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Local Truck Driving Jobs

So you’re looking at local truck driving jobs? Great choice. Local trucking is a good fit for many drivers. Remember, as with any job, there are pros and cons to local trucking jobs. Before you make the switch, get to know the benefits and drawbacks of local trucking, and decide whether it’s a good fit for you. 

The Pros 

family life 1. Home Time

Many drivers are drawn to local truck driving jobs because of the home time. It’s for a good reason. Local jobs typically get drivers home every night. If not every night, drivers can expect to be home almost every night. For drivers with a family, that’s hard to beat. 

2. Frequently Off on the Weekends

In addition to being home every night, many local drivers are off on the weekends. This does depend on your company and what you’re hauling, but many local drivers have weekends off.

Weekends off are much more likely in a local position than for OTR drivers.

Attending social gatherings or events on the weekends becomes much more possible with a local truck driving jobs. 

3. Health Benefits

In addition to more home time, local truck drivers pick up some serious health benefits. Local drivers tend to spend less time behind the wheel than regional or OTR drivers. As a result, local drivers are less exposed to the safety risks of being on the road for long periods of time. They are also usually more active. Because local drivers make more stops, there are more opportunities to move around throughout the day. 

4. A Set Routine

If you like to have a fixed schedule, local trucking is for you. Drivers generally have a set hourly schedule that they can count on. That’s great for planning things outside of work. It also gives you a little extra peace of mind to know when you’ll be home and when you need to leave. 

work life balance of Local Truck Driving Jobs5. Excellent Work/Life Balance

Work/life balance is a huge consideration for local drivers. Local truck driving jobs are hard work, but they also help drivers be present for the day to day relationships at home. Local drivers still have to find a balance with their loved ones, but the rewards can be great. If you value being physically present for life’s little moments, local truck driving jobs are for you. 

The Cons

There’s a lot to love about local truck driving jobs. At the end of the day though, they’re just not for everyone. There are a few downsides to consider when you are deciding whether to become a local driver. 

6. Lower Pay

On average, local truck driving jobs pay less than the average OTR position. According to Ziprecruiter, local drivers in the United States earn an average of $51,355. Consider your personal budget and whether the finances work for you in the short and long term. For many drivers, the lower wage is worth the extra work/life balance, but pay is an important consideration.

7. Positions are Competitive

Local truck driving jobs are often extremely competitive. Trucking companies can afford to be choosy because they have a lot of interested candidates.

A good position may require drivers to have some experience first. In addition, there will likely be lots of applicants, so you have to make a strong positive impression when you apply.

If you don’t get offered a position right away, keep getting more experience to help you stand out from other candidates. 

load unload Local Truck Driving Jobs8. Loading and Unloading

Some local truck driving jobs make frequent stops and require physical labor. This depends heavily on your company and type of haul. In some positions, drivers may need to load and/or unload their trucks. Think of it as a built-in weight lifting workout! This might be minor for some drivers, but if you are only interested in no-touch freight, read the job descriptions carefully.

9. Long Hours

The hours you work as a local driver depend heavily on your company. However, for many drivers, days last 10-14 hours. In addition, local drivers may start at any time of the day. For example, it’s not uncommon for a work shift to begin at 4:00 AM. The good news is, many companies offer overtime pay. Longer hours can help bring in a bigger paycheck. With such long days, some drivers find home time a challenge during the week. While local drivers are home every night, there may not be a lot of downtime between shifts. Some drivers feel like they finish work just in time to go home, eat dinner, sleep, and wake up to do it all again. 

Additional Factors

Some parts of local truck driving jobs aren’t exactly pros or cons. It all depends on your preferred work experience. Here are a few additional things to think about.

Are you a People Person?

Some local jobs require more customer interaction than regional or OTR positions. Others don’t ask drivers to interact with customers regularly. Also, local drivers tend to communicate very frequently with their coworkers and dispatchers. This can be a huge plus for some drivers and a downside for others. It’s really about personal preference. Decide for yourself whether you want more interaction with others. Then, seek out jobs that fit your preferences. 

CDL B licenseCity Driving

Like more regular communication, city driving isn’t necessarily a pro or a con. If you don’t mind spending more time in cities and towns, local driving is a good fit. If you strongly prefer to drive on highways as much as possible, consider whether the benefits of local truck driving jobs outweigh the downsides.

Choosing Your Company

You’ve heard it a million times—good employees don’t leave bad jobs, they leave bad bosses. It’s true for local truck driving jobs too.

For any trucking job you’re considering, read the details carefully. When talking to recruiters, try to get a sense of the company culture.

Each fleet traits drivers differently. Look for a fleet that matches your professional qualifications and your personal lifestyle preferences.

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Job of the Day: Distillata

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distillata cdl b driver job

Today’s job of the day comes from Distillata

The Distillata Company, a small family-owned company, is looking for a Class A Route Driver to deliver bottled water to local homes and businesses. The company trusts this person to be independent and allows flexibility to complete their route daily.

The best part? You will be home every night and on weekends to spend time with your family and friends! This role is commission-based and typically pays $40,000+ per year and includes an excellent health package. This job requires you to join a union as well.

What’s required to apply?

  • 1 year of experience as CDL A driver required.
  • Valid and current CDL A license required.
  • High School diploma/GED preferred.
  • Tanker endorsement is a plus!
  • Meet all Federal Motor Carrier D.O.T. requirements and safety qualifications.
  • Current D.O.T. medical card.
  • Must be able to pass D.O.T. and Worksteps pre-employment physical.
  • Flexibility in schedule and ability to work weekend shifts on occasion.
  • CDL certification from accredited driving school and one year of similar driving experience; experience may be substituted.

This position works a 40+ hour work week, Monday through Friday. Distillata offers competitive pay, commission based and a comprehensive benefits package.

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Job of the Day: Santmyer Companies

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Today’s Job of the Day comes from Santmyer Companies

Santmyer Companies is a growing fuel transport company that has been family owned and operated since 1952. They transport commercial fuel products regionally throughout the Midwest.

They have openings for CDL A Local Fuel Drivers out of multiple locations in Ohio.

This is a tanker position with company-provided equipment, and runs within a 100 miles of pickup origin. In addition, the position offers great pay and benefits, and drivers are home daily!

Santmyer asks that applicants are at least 23 years of age, have a minimum of 2 years of Class A tractor/trailer experience, and have current Hazmat and Tanker Endorsements.

Interested in applying?

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Canton, OH Richfield, OH

Job of the Day: Ullman Oil Company

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Today’s Job of the Day comes from Ullman Oil Company

For 50 years, the Ullman family worked tirelessly to serve their customers and the community. In 1965 Bob Ullman left his job as a District Manager with Sinclair Oil to purchase a small heating oil distributor in Chagrin Falls. A true ‘Mom & Pop’ business, Bob ran the operation and drove the truck while his wife Marilyn answered the phone and kept the books. From a small two truck heating oil company, they now supply commercial fuels for on-road and off-road equipment. In addition, they service over 35 retail fuel stations and sell lubricants to commercial and industrial customers. They proudly represent industry premier brands, Chevron, BP and Marathon.

Currently, Ullman Oil is hiring full-time CDL A Local Fuel Drivers in Chagrin Falls, OH.

Some of the perks of these positions include:

  • Home Every Day
  • Great Pay: Avg $18/hr – $20/hr+
  • Health/Dental/Vision/Life insurance
  • 401K with a company match up to 4% – FREE $$$!
  • Stable, growing company with caring environment
  • Professional team treats people with respect

Ullman doesn’t provide gimmicks or fine print to get you in the door. Ullman Oil Company pays and treats drivers well because they want to attract the best people.

In addition, Ullman requires that drivers are over the age of 25, have their CDL A with verifiable experience & Tanker/Hazmat endorsements. Also, they ask that drivers have a clean driving & safety record and prefer 1 year of Tanker/Tank Wagon experience.

Interested in applying?

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