According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the average annual income for semi-truck owner operators in the United States was $61,151 in 2019. This figure includes income from all sources, such as freight hauling, leasing, and other services.
Factors Affecting Income:
The income potential for semi-truck owner operators can vary significantly based on several factors, including:
- Experience: More experienced owner-operators typically earn higher incomes than those who are new to the industry.
- Type of freight: Hauling specialized or high-value freight can command higher rates.
- Region: The demand for trucking services and the competition in a particular region can impact earnings.
- Business structure: Owner-operators who lease their trucks to a carrier may earn less than those who operate independently.
- Operating expenses: The costs associated with operating a semi-truck, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance, can reduce net income.
Earning potential:
Some owner-operators can earn significantly more than $61,151 per year by hauling specialized freight, working for a high-paying carrier, or operating in a region with high demand for trucking services. However, it's important to note that the trucking industry can be competitive and unpredictable, and income levels can vary considerably from year to year.
