Truck drivers earn different wages depending on the type of freight they haul. On average, truckload drivers across the industry make around $76,000 annually, according to the American Trucking Associations’ driver compensation study. Specialized freight like tanker and flatbed loads often pays significantly more, reflecting the skills required and regional demand. If you want to maximize your earnings, understanding how tanker and flatbed pay compares by region is essential.
Pay Comparison by Freight Type
Tanker hauls pay premiums for handling hazardous materials and require specialized endorsements. Flatbed drivers earn more in regions with strong construction and infrastructure needs due to the labor-intensive nature of securing loads and handling oversized freight. Both tanker and flatbed pay surpass dry van averages, which sit around $55,000 to $80,000 annually.
| Freight Type | Average Annual Pay Range | Key Pay Factors | Example Biweekly Gross Pay |
| Tanker Hauling | $64,000 to $119,000 | Hazmat endorsements, steady routes | Around $4,271 |
| Flatbed Loads | 10%+ above dry van rates | Tarping, oversized load bonuses | Around $4,181 |
| Dry Van | $55,000 to $80,000 | Standard mileage rates | N/A |
Regional Earnings Breakdown
Freight pay varies by region, depending largely on local market and industry needs.
- Midwest: Tankers lead with higher pay from refinery and fuel transport routes. Flatbed pay is solid but generally lower than tanker lanes here.
- Southeast: Flatbed haulers earn the most due to booming construction material transport. Tankers remain competitive with chemical freight in the area.
- West Coast: Tanker drivers’ top earnings by hauling fuels along major corridors. Flatbed rates are strong but slightly below tanker pay.
- Northeast: Flatbed freight sees higher pay thanks to construction projects in urban centers, with tankers close behind.
Why Pay Differs Between Freight Types
Hazmat skills and steady scheduling boost tanker driver pay, while flatbed drivers receive extras for the increased physical demands of load securing and exposure to weather. Infrastructure investment fuels flatbed demand, especially in developing regions, while energy sector needs keep tanker freight lucrative.
Which Freight Is Best for Your Routes?
If your preferred routes involve the Southeast or areas with major construction growth, flatbed loads will often maximize your pay. For Midwest or West Coast runs with access to fuel or chemical hauling, tanker freight is typically more rewarding. Adding endorsements like hazmat can increase pay by 15 to 35 percent beyond base rates on many tanker routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tanker hauling always pay more than flatbed?
No, flatbed freight earnings can exceed tanker pay in construction-heavy regions.
What endorsements increase freight pay?
Hazmat endorsement boosts tanker freight earnings. Flatbed premiums may require specialized handling skills.
How is pay affected by miles and hours?
Flatbed drivers often earn higher rates per mile on shorter hauls, while tanker drivers may benefit from hourly pay during facility wait times.
Where is the best region for flatbed pay?
The Southeast region, fueled by construction and infrastructure projects, offers the highest flatbed earnings.
For drivers ready to find the highest-paying tanker or flatbed loads in their area, visit TruckDriversUSA to explore current job openings and maximize your freight income.
