After getting your CDL, choosing the right trucking company can mean a difference of $20,000+ per year in earnings. Here are the highest paying trucking companies in 2026.
Top Paying Trucking Companies
1. Walmart Private Fleet
- Average salary: $95,000 - $110,000/year
- Requirements: 30 months experience, clean record
- Benefits: Full benefits, home weekly, quarterly bonuses
2. Costco
- Average salary: $85,000 - $100,000/year
- Requirements: 2+ years experience
- Benefits: Excellent benefits package, local routes
3. UPS Freight
- Average salary: $80,000 - $95,000/year
- Requirements: 1+ year experience
- Benefits: Union job, pension, home daily
4. FedEx Freight
- Average salary: $75,000 - $90,000/year
- Requirements: CDL-A, some experience preferred
- Benefits: Good benefits, consistent freight
5. Sysco
- Average salary: $70,000 - $85,000/year
- Requirements: CDL-A, ability to handle foodservice delivery
- Benefits: Local routes, physical work (unloading)
Highest Paying Trucking Sectors
Beyond specific companies, these trucking sectors pay the most:
- Ice road trucking: $80,000 - $250,000 (seasonal)
- Oversized/heavy haul: $80,000 - $150,000
- Tanker (hazmat): $70,000 - $100,000
- Private fleets: $70,000 - $110,000
- LTL linehaul: $65,000 - $95,000
How to Get Hired by Top Companies
The best-paying companies are selective. Here's how to stand out:
- Build experience: Start with a training company for 1-2 years
- Keep a clean record: No accidents, no tickets
- Get endorsements: Hazmat and tanker open more doors
- Be professional: Dress well for interviews, be on time
- Network: Talk to drivers at truck stops, get referrals
Entry-Level Companies That Train
If you're just starting out, these companies offer paid CDL training:
- CRST - Paid training, team driving
- Swift - Large training program
- Schneider - Good reputation, various divisions
- Werner - Paid CDL training available
- PAM Transport - Paid training, dedicated routes
Start Your Trucking Career Today
Ready to get your CDL and start earning? Find CDL schools near you and compare programs.