7 Alternative Careers For Truck Drivers 2025

May 30, 2025

7 Alternative Careers For Truck Drivers 2025 - Choose Yours

7 Alternative Careers For Truck Drivers 2025

The trucking life can be rewarding, but it’s no secret that long hours on the road, time away from family, and the physical demands push many drivers to seek new career paths.

Whether you want a more stable schedule, better work-life balance, or new chances to grow professionally, 2025 offers exciting opportunities within or beyond the trucking world. This article will guide you through 7 career alternatives tailored for truck drivers, so let’s get right into it.

Freight Broker ($68,000 – $113,000 yearly)

Freight brokers connect shippers with carriers. They help arrange transportation for goods, negotiate rates, and ensure both sides are satisfied with the deal.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

Delivery drivers already understand how the freight industry works. They know the lingo, routes, and challenges on the road, making it easier for them to relate to both shippers and carriers.

Key benefits

  • No truck driving required
  • Can work from home
  • Offers more schedule flexibility
  • Potential to earn commissions on every load

What you’ll need to get started

Warehouse Manager ($60,000 – $83,000 yearly)

Warehouse managers oversee the daily operations of storage and distribution centers. They manage inventory, coordinate shipments, lead warehouse staff, and make sure that warehouse operations run safely and efficiently.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

Former truck drivers understand the flow of goods and the importance of timing, freight handling, and proper communication. This gives them a strong foundation for warehouse work and leadership roles.

Key benefits

  • More predictable schedule and work-life balance
  • Opportunities for career growth in logistics and operations
  • A chance to apply industry knowledge in a new setting

What you’ll need to get started

  • Familiarity with warehouse operations and inventory systems
  • Leadership or team supervision experience is helpful
  • Certifications like OSHA may be required

Note: It may be difficult to jump straight into a management role. Instead, delivery drivers can start as warehouse associates or shift leads and work their way up.

Transportation Supervisor ($69,000 – $96,000 yearly)

Transportation supervisors oversee the daily operations of a trucking business team. They manage drivers, coordinate schedules, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

Truck drivers have “been there, done that”. The firsthand experience working for trucking companies will help you lead others effectively, support new drivers, and manage driver hours.

Key benefits

  • Better work-life balance compared to driving
  • Opportunity to influence company operations
  • Often higher pay than driving positions

What you’ll need to get started

  • Strong communication and leadership skills
  • Knowledge of transportation regulations and safety
  • Experience with route planning and logistics
  • Even though not required, a CDL license can be a plus

Freight Dispatcher ($51,000 – $60,000 yearly)

Freight dispatchers coordinate between shippers, carriers, and drivers to ensure goods are picked up and delivered on time. They schedule loads, assign drivers, and monitor routes and delivery progress.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

Drivers already understand how the job works on the road, which helps when planning realistic schedules and routes.

Key benefits

  • Regular hours and remote-work options
  • Strong demand in logistics and freight
  • Lower startup requirements compared to other roles

What you’ll need to get started

  • Strong communication and multitasking skills
  • Basic knowledge of dispatching software and truck driving operations
  • Familiarity with DOT rules and freight paperwork

Forklift Operator ($43,000 – $61,000 yearly)

Forklift operators move and organize materials in warehouses, factories, and construction sites. They load and unload trucks, stack goods on shelves, and keep inventory moving safely and efficiently.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

This role is a great fit for former truck drivers because it requires similar skills, such as handling cargo and operating vehicles. This makes it a smooth transition for drivers who want to stay behind the wheel without being on the road.

Key benefits

  • Work mostly indoors with regular hours
  • Less travel and a more stable daily routine
  • Good stepping stone for other warehouse or logistics roles

What you’ll need to get started

  • Forklift certification (usually a short training course)
  • Good attention to safety and detail
  • Basic physical fitness to handle lifting and moving goods
  • Some warehouses may prefer prior experience, but many offer on-the-job training

Owner-Operator Entrepreneur ($100,000 – $200,000 yearly)

An owner-operator runs their own trucking business, driving their trucks or managing small fleets while handling all aspects of operations, from contracts to finances.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

Drivers already know the trucking industry, routes, and customer expectations. Being your own boss gives you freedom and control over your schedule and business decisions.

Key benefits

  • Independence and control over work
  • Higher earnings than company drivers
  • Flexibility in choosing routes and clients
  • Opportunity to build your own brand and business
  • Opportunity to grow a fleet and hire drivers

What you’ll need to get started

  • Your own truck or lease agreement
  • Business and financial management skills
  • Understanding of freight brokering and contracts
  • Insurance and necessary permits/licenses
  • Strong network of clients and contacts in the industry

Bus Driver ($40,000 – $60,000 yearly)

Bus drivers operate vehicles to transport passengers along scheduled routes, usually working for schools, transit systems, or tour companies. It’s a driving role with a community focus.

Why it’s a good fit for truck drivers

For those who love driving but want a change from trucking, this role keeps you behind the wheel in a less demanding environment. It’s perfect for connecting with people while staying local.

Key benefits

  • Variety of opportunities in public and private sectors
  • More predictable routes and hours
  • Chance to engage with passengers

What you’ll need to get started

  • Commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger endorsement
  • Clean driving record
  • Good communication and customer service skills
  • Training or certifications (varies by employer)

FAQs

1. How can truck drivers transition into a freight broker role?

Truck drivers can become freight brokers by:

  • Learning the business side of logistics.
  • Investing in training programs, like the 90-Day Freight Broker Course.
  • Registering their freight brokerage business.
  • Obtaining the necessary licenses, such as a freight broker authority and a surety bond.

2. What transferable skills do truck drivers have?

Many drivers bring valuable skills like route planning, load coordination, time management, knowledge of DOT regulations, and strong communication skills. These skills are key for other career paths in the trucking industry, reducing the need for additional training.

3. How much can a freight broker make compared to a truck driver?

Freight brokers can earn between $40,000 and over $250,000 per year, depending on their client base, experience, and volume. It’s a great career path for truck drivers who want roles with lower physical demand.

4. Can I run a freight brokerage from home?

Yes, many freight brokers successfully run their businesses from home.

Final Thoughts

Changing careers can feel overwhelming. However, for many truck drivers, it can open the door to better work-life balance and new opportunities.

If you’re considering a career in freight brokering, join our 90-Day Freight Broker Course. This program offers comprehensive training and step-by-step guidance to help you launch your freight brokerage business quickly and confidently.

With lessons available in video, audio, and text formats, you can learn at your own pace and start building a successful new career in less than three months. Take the first step toward a fresh start today!

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