Whether you want to work in the heavy truck driving industry or want to find out what qualifications you need to get hired, you have come to the right place. We’ve included information about salary ranges, qualifications to operate a truck and even a bit about ice road trucking.
Qualifications to operate a truck
Obtaining qualifications to operate a truck in Canada involves a number of different steps. Each province has its own specific requirements for licensing. A driver will need to obtain a specific license classification for each truck type. In some cases, additional certifications or endorsements may be required. In other cases, a driver may be required to complete an accredited training course.
Before a driver is licensed, he or she must pass a medical examination. This is designed to ensure that the individual has the physical strength to maneuver the heavy vehicles that he or she is required to operate. The exam also focuses on eye and hand coordination. The individual will also be required to take a vision test.
Those interested in becoming a truck driver must also possess a valid Canada driver’s license. This license will allow the individual to operate a variety of vehicles, including tractor-trailers, dump trucks, and articulated trucks. These vehicles are designed to transport materials, including hazardous goods, over long distances.
Long-haul trucking
Getting a long-haul trucking job isn’t the right for everyone, but for the right person it can be a rewarding career that allows them to see some of the most beautiful parts of Canada while they get paid to do so. Fortunately, there are a number of companies who are looking for long-haul trucking job seekers.
In a nutshell, a long-haul trucking job involves driving a tractor-trailer to transport goods across long distances. These hefty trucks have to be capable of carrying cargo of all sorts, from household items to heavy machinery. If you are considering a long-haul driving job you should know that most contracts last for one year. Most transportation companies offer competitive salaries and perks, such as health and dental benefits.
There is a large number of trucking companies in Canada that are always looking for drivers to fill their quotas. In fact, there are even trucking companies in Manitoba that require drivers to fill out an LMIA (Local Majority Occupation Assessment) form, which is a federal government form that determines whether or not a foreign national can be employed in the province.
Ice road trucking
During the peak ice road driving season, which runs from mid-January to mid-March, an ice road trucking job is a sure fire way to make big money. Depending on the time of year, an ice road driver can earn $20,000 to $80,000 for eight weeks of work.
Ice road trucking is not for the faint of heart. If you’re not experienced in driving in the snow, you might want to look for another type of driving job during the off season.
You’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), a valid work permit, and some sort of driving history. Depending on the state, you may have to pass a driving test and take a written exam.
If you are experienced in the shipping industry, you’ll likely have the skills necessary to tackle an ice road trucking job. Experienced drivers can even find more comfortable routes.
Oversized hauling
Depending on where you are, you might be required to display a special oversized load permit. Having this special permit is required for heavy haul trucks on the road. To obtain this permit, you can apply online.
Oversized loads need to meet a number of specifications in order to pass inspection. These include the weight, width, height and overhang. There are some exceptions, such as manufactured housing and prefabricated assemblies for construction projects. Oversized loads also need to comply with state and provincial regulations.
The most notable requirement for carrying an oversized load is safety equipment. This includes a wide load banner, a yellow and black “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign, and safety flags. These measures are designed to ensure the safety of other drivers and pedestrians.
Salary ranges
Depending on where you live, the type of freight you haul and your experience level, your trucker salary will vary. The national average salary is about 19 CAD per hour, but the rate can be as high as 58 CAD per hour.
Truckers in Canada can earn between $48,750 and $82,875 CAD per year. If you work for an owner-operator, your salary will be higher. These people operate their own trucks and handle both business-related tasks and driving. They also have higher insurance costs, but the pay is higher.
Depending on the type of freight you haul, your salary can range from 50 to 65 cents per mile. Several companies will pay for time spent loading and unloading the truck, and there are even some that will pay you extra if you are picking up freight for them.
