The life of a trucker is not always plain sailing, and so it pays to be on the lookout for opportunities to increase your earnings wherever possible.
With that in mind, here are a few options for doing just that which will help newcomers and veteran truckers alike to boost their income quickly.
Leverage Your Network to Find Profitable Loads
Truckers have the power to tap into their networks to root out potentially profitable loads. Leveraging existing relationships and following industry trends can be an effective way of finding out about available loads and negotiating higher rates.
Start by connecting with other truckers who are already in the business, or reach out to freight brokers and carriers in your area that may need help transporting goods. Talk directly with them so they can get an understanding of how trustworthy and reliable you are as a driver.
Additionally, use social media platforms such as Facebook groups or LinkedIn to expand your network beyond those physically near you – this could result in opportunities on longer routes that pay better than short-distance trips.
Use High-Quality Load Boards to Find the Most Profitable Loads
Load boards are a great way for truckers to find available loads that can be profitable. By using high-quality platforms, like Truckstop’s load boards, you will have access to information on thousands of potential jobs, and be able to compare them side by side in order to choose the most suitable one.
You’ll also get accurate market rates so you know what rate is fair for each job – no more over or underpaying!
Furthermore, many load boards provide ratings from other drivers who’ve taken similar trips, so you can see how successful previous journeys were before making your decision. Take advantage of all these features today and start finding the most lucrative loads out there.
Negotiate Higher Rates for Longer Trips
As mentioned, truckers can earn more money by taking on longer trips, but doing so often requires a bit of negotiation to agree upon the best rates.
The good news is that carriers and shippers are often willing to pay a premium to have goods transported over long distances, as it saves them time and resources. As such, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate when taking on these jobs – you may be surprised at how much they’re willing to offer.
Additionally, look into fuel surcharge programs that allow truckers to recoup costs associated with the increasing price of diesel fuel. With the right negotiation skills and knowledge of market conditions, you can make sure your pockets stay full while doing what you love!
Take Advantage of Tax Deductions as a Trucker
As a trucker, you can take advantage of tax deductions to boost your income. Being self-employed gives you access to deductions that other professions don’t have – so make sure to use them.
Deductible expenses may include anything from vehicle maintenance and repairs, fuel costs, tolls and parking fees charged for business purposes.
In addition, some states allow the deduction of meals when traveling on business trips if receipts are kept for proof. Make sure to speak with an accountant or financial advisor about all available options so you get the best possible return at tax time.
The Bottom Line
The only inconvenience about all of this is that if you want to make more money as a trucker, you will have to put in a little bit of work upfront, whether that’s negotiating better rates of pay for long distance slogs, or sifting through the available loads to pinpoint the most profitable option. But learning how to maximize your earnings in this way will pay dividends year after year.
