A Truck Driver’s Salary in B.C.

A salary for a truck driver varies depending on several variables:

1. Whether they are an owner/operator or a company driver,

2. What type of drivers’ license and truck they have,

3. What type of material they are hauling, and

4. What area they are servicing (local or long haul, national or international).

The data of this article focuses on the most common type of truck drivers (local owner/operator in a courier, cartage, or crane vehicle).

Trucking Salary Structure

Owner/operator positions are when a company contracts the owner/operator’s vehicle and services to complete their jobs.

Owner/operators are typically paid out on a commission basis with percentages varying depending on the size of vehicle. Commission is generally:

• 70% for courier vehicles,

• 72.5% - 75% for cartage vehicles, and

• Up to 80% for larger cartage and crane vehicles.

Note that payment can be delayed for up to 45 days. Before signing your contract, make sure you fully understand when you’ll be receiving payment and for which period.

Average Salary of Truck Drivers in Canada

According to data collected for the industry in Canada, owner/operators can make anywhere from $4,000 - $18,000 per month, depending on the type of vehicle and the service area.

For local owner/operators, the estimated average gross income per vehicle type is:

• Courier (GVW under 3,900): $4,000/month

• 1 Ton (GVW under 5,490): $5,000/month

• 3 Ton (GVW under 8,000): $6,000/month

• 5 Ton (GVW under 14,500): $6,500/month

• Tandem (GVW over 14,500): $7,000/month

• Crane (GVW over 14,500): $10,500/month

Remember, these are averages. There’s some slower months and busier months that result in higher and lower revenue depending on the industry served as well as the exact type of vehicle used. Vehicles with power tailgates typically see higher revenue.

Owner/operators are responsible for all their own expenses including but not limited to:

• WCB Coverage,

• Fuel Expense,

• Vehicle Insurance, and

• Vehicle Maintenance.

Make sure you know what expenses you are responsible for before you sign your contract so that you can more accurately estimate your net income.

ACI offers competitive performance-based pay. That means, we pay commission to keep our team excited and motivated. If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver in the Lower Mainland, contact us now.