What is Over the Road (OTR) Trucking?
Over-the-Road (OTR) truck drivers are those who transport cargo over long distances. OTR driving is considered among the most challenging driving positions in the logistics industry. It is common to drive 2,500 miles or more in a week. For those who want to travel while earning a living, this may be the career for you.
Many economists agree that trucking still plays a vital role in the US’s economic health. According to the National Transportation Institute, driver compensation has risen by 6.3% over the past five years. Today, more than 7 million Americans have jobs tied to the trucking industry, and 1.8 million are heavy-duty and tractor-trailer truck drivers. The job outlook for truck drivers is bright with an expected 6% growth between 2016-26.
OTR Driving vs. Regional vs. Local Trucking
Local Trucking:
Like its name suggests, local drivers typically follow routes that are relatively close to their home terminal. Local drivers usually transport materials to retail stores and other warehouses close by.
Regional Trucking:
Regional drivers are assigned certain areas and routes. For example, a driver based in Memphis could be assigned Tennessee, Arkansas, and Missouri. Regional drivers often deliver commercial products to warehouses or manufacturing facilities.
Over-the-Road Trucking:
OTR drivers cover much more ground than regional and local truck drivers. OTR truck drivers can enjoy travelling, while also earning a living. Another benefit of OTR truck driving is receiving 34 hours off for every 70 hours worked. Mid South Transport makes sure all drivers are home with their friends and family on the weekends for their 34-hour restart.
How to become an OTR driver
To become an OTR driver, you need to have a CDL A license. This license allows you to drive any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more. Most companies will also require new hire OTR drivers to go through an orientation.
Over-the-Road (OTR) Truck Driving Jobs in Memphis TN
At Mid South Transport, we are looking for safety-minded OTR truck drivers to join our team. An over-the-road truck driving career will give you a lifetime of job security for you and your family. Though our corporate office is in Memphis, TN, we also offer OTR trucking jobs in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia.
We are a 100% NO touch freight company, meaning you do not have to load or unload your freight. As we are looking for safety-minded OTR truck drivers, we also hold up our end by making sure our trucks are top of the line and properly maintained. Our entire fleet consists of 2016-2019 Cascadia Freightliners.
At Mid South Transport, we know how important family is, so we ensure drivers make it home on the weekends, for special occasions, and for any unforeseen emergencies.
If you are a good fit to join our team, we pay for your orientation. The orientation lasts 2 and a half days, with paid for travel arrangements, private lodging, and two meals daily.
OTR Truck Driving Benefits
We offer truckloads of benefits! Along with the benefits mentioned above, we also offer:
- $1000 Sign on bonus
- Safe driving bonus
- 401k with company match
- A free $15,000 employee life insurance policy
- Single medical coverage for only $6 a week
- Affordable medical and dental insurance for you and your family
- Paid vacation time
- 100% NO touch freight
- Much more!
Interested in an OTR Truck Driving Job?
If you are ready to become part of the Mid South Transport family, you can apply here.
For more information please visit our website, or contact Denise at 1-800-264-5683.
