Before buying new truck and starting a new business, owner operators might want to know how much money they can make. This can help owner operator trucking salary after expense and know how much they can save per month. However, the income might vary and can depend on factors. Those factors are age, experience, and adaptability of truck driver in challenging terrain.
This blog will show how much do owner operators make and what factors decide their net income.
How Much Do Owner Operator Make Per Load Per Month?
The average monthly income of a Truck Owner Operator varies greatly depending on factors such as location, experience, and other factors. On average, the base income for owner-operators is nearly $12,000 per month. However, this can vary greatly depending on experience and other factors.
The figures change when we look at specific states like Florida and California. The average truck owner-operator salary in Florida is approximately $10,833 per month. In California, the average monthly pay for an owner-operator truck driver is $18,712.
On the other hand, average pay per mile for truck drivers ranges from $0.94 to-$1.79 according to Indeed (data recorded of April 25, 2024). Additionally, they can make anywhere from $300-$1000 per load depending on miles driven and the load type.
What are the Factors Deciding the Owner Operators Salary
Many factors influence the salary of an owner-operator. It’s not just about the number of loads or miles driven but also:
- the type of loads
- the operator’s experience
- their business management skills.
Let us understand all these factors in detail:
Experience
One of the critical factors that can significantly impact an operator owner’s salary in the transportation industry is their ability and experience in handling difficult loads. Experienced operators with a proven track record of successfully delivering difficult loads on time and without incidents are in high demand. This is because they can mitigate risks and ensure the safe transportation of valuable cargo.
The more experience owner operators have, the more they are trusted with valuable cargo. This leads to higher demand and potentially higher earnings in the transportation industry.
Clean Professional Record
Operators with no history of traffic violations, accidents, or suspensions are highly sought after by logistics companies. They are often viewed as more reliable and trustworthy. Hence, they pose a lower risk of accidents, violations, or incidents that could result in costly delays, damages, or legal liabilities. This makes them more promising candidates for high-paying jobs.
A clean record can lead to lower insurance rates, translating into substantial cost savings for the owner operators. So, if you had a clear professional driving record, your changes of earning more are high.
Willingness to Travel to Remote Locations:
An owner operator’s willingness to travel in remote locations can significantly impact their earning potential in the transportation industry. Remote areas often present unique challenges, such as limited infrastructure, harsh environmental conditions, and longer transit times. Ultimately, this can deter many operators from taking on these assignments.
Industries in sectors like mining, oil, and gas exploration have operations and business activities in remote areas. Whats more, they are often willing to pay premium rates to secure reliable operators. Owner operators who possess these capabilities and are eager to undertake these challenging assignments can command higher salaries. This is because they provide invaluable services to industries operating in remote regions.
Consistently Drive More Miles:
The number of miles driven is a crucial factor influencing an owner operator salary in the transportation industry. Longer hauls and increased mileage translate to more productive hours behind the wheel. This allows you to transport more significant cargo volumes over extended distances.
This maximizes your earning potential and attracts clients and logistics companies seeking efficient and reliable long-distance transportation services.
Efficient Load Delivery:
Operators with expertise in safely and efficiently transporting challenging loads, such as heavy machinery, construction materials, or sensitive electronics, can command higher salaries. These jobs often involve intricate loading and securing techniques, adherence to stringent regulations, and the use of specialized vehicles or rigging equipment.
Proper Documentation for Hazmat Shipping
Hauling hazmat loads pays really well. But transporting hazardous materials (hazmat) requires proper documentation to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Operators must possess the necessary paperwork, including shipping papers, placards, and emergency response information. Furthermore, hazmat truck drivers must carry proof of specialized training and certification, demonstrating their competence in handling dangerous goods.
Truck Availability
As an owner operator, availability of different types of trucks freight can increase your chances of earning more. Trucks like Flatbed, Refrigerated or Dry Van, Hotshot trucks, etc can give you flexibility to choose the truck based on load. The availability of these specialized truck types plays a crucial role in increasing your potential revenue and overall profit.
Conclusion
If you’re an owner operator, you can easily make around $10,000- $12,000 per month. Moreover, with experience your net income will increase. Finally, your willingness to travel more miles and adaptability to travel in tough and challenging terrain can bring you extra income.