What is an Over-the-Road (OTR) Truck Driver?

An over-the-road (OTR) truck driver, also known as a long-haul or line-haul driver, is a CDL-A licensed driver who transports freight across long distances, often nationwide. Unlike local or regional drivers who run consistent routes and return home frequently, OTR drivers typically stay on the road for 2–4 weeks or longer, using a sleeper-equipped truck as their home away from home.

If you’re considering a career in trucking, here are the key benefits of becoming an OTR truck driver.

Key Benefits of OTR Driving

OTR Truck Driver Requirements at U.S. Xpress

 To qualify for an OTR driving position, you must:

Is OTR Truck Driving Right for You?

If you’re looking for higher pay potential, travel opportunities, and a flexible driving career, becoming an OTR truck driver could be a great fit. While it requires time away from home, the financial and lifestyle benefits make it a popular choice for many drivers.

What is a Dedicated Truck Driver?

A dedicated truck driver is a CDL-A licensed driver assigned to a specific customer or account, running consistent routes on a regular schedule. Unlike Over-the-Road (OTR) drivers who haul varying loads for different customers, dedicated drivers typically deliver to the same locations and work with the same teams, creating a more predictable and routine driving experience.

If you’re looking for consistency and home time, here’s why a dedicated truck driving job may be the right fit.

Why Choose a Dedicated Truck Driving Job?

Dedicated Truck Driver Requirements at U.S. Xpress

To qualify for a dedicated driving position, you must:

Is Dedicated Truck Driving Right for You?

If you want consistent routes, reliable pay, and regular home time, a dedicated truck driving job is a strong option. It’s a great fit for drivers who value routine, stability, and building relationships on the job.

This year marks a major milestone at U.S. Xpress – 40 years of moving freight, supporting drivers, and delivering for our customers across the United States. Since delivering our first load in 1986, U.S. Xpress has grown from a small trucking company with big ambitions into one of the nation’s leading transportation providers. But while a lot has changed over the years, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to our people and the communities we serve. 

Built on Relationships

From day one, our success has been driven by the relationships we’ve built with our drivers, employees, customers, and communities. Trucking is more than freight and miles; it’s about trust. For four decades, drivers have trusted U.S. Xpress as the place to build their careers and achieve personal goals. Many have spent decades with us, and some families even have multiple generations who’ve worn the U.S. Xpress name with pride.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude

Anniversaries are a time to reflect and say thank you—to every driver who trusted us with their career, every team member who contributed their talent, and every customer who partnered with us. 

Here’s to the people and relationships that built U.S. Xpress—and to many more safe miles ahead.

At U.S. Xpress, setting our truck drivers up for success isn’t just a goal, it’s something we strive towards each day. This commitment is important for student drivers who have recently completed CDL school and are ready to begin their truck driving careers. Through our Driver Trainer Program, we take a driver-focused approach that helps recent CDL school graduates build confidence and sharpen the skills needed to be successful behind the wheel at U.S. Xpress. And for current drivers who step into the trainer role, it’s a chance to grow their own careers while guiding the next generation of drivers.

Through our program, student drivers are paired with a U.S. Xpress driver who serves as both an instructor and mentor. Our trainers help students learn the day-to-day functions of the job, understand our safety culture, and prepare them for the expectations that come with operating a U.S. Xpress truck. This one-on-one training supports students as they transition from the classroom to the road with confidence.

Trainers With Real Experience

Our trainers aren’t just experienced truck drivers, they’re drivers who lead by example and take pride in helping the next generation succeed.

Positions That Pay

Becoming a Driver Trainer at U.S. Xpress doesn’t just make a difference—it comes with meaningful benefits. U.S. Xpress drivers who step into the trainer role enjoy additional pay and the opportunity to grow professionally while helping others do the same. On average, our full-time Driver Trainers earn about $300 more per paycheck than non-trainers.

Some of the additional benefits of becoming a Driver Trainer include:

• Compensation for training student drivers
• The opportunity to mentor and shape new drivers
• Additional bonuses after your student upgrades to a first-seat driver position
• Specialized Trainer decal for your truck
• Trainer-specific merchandise
• And more

Grow Your Career With U.S. Xpress

At U.S. Xpress, our Driver Trainer Program is more than a training step, it’s an investment in our drivers, our culture, and the future of our company. Both current and future truck drivers benefit from this program, earning more money in their paychecks and more miles under their wheels.

Interested in starting your trucking career with U.S. Xpress or becoming a Driver Trainer? Visit our Driver Trainer page to learn more about the benefits and earning potential U.S. Xpress has to offer.

Winter driving brings a different set of challenges for truck drivers. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and sub-zero temperatures don’t just affect road conditions, but they can also expose weak spots in your equipment if you’re not prepared. Taking time to winterize your truck can reduce breakdowns, delays, and help keep you moving safely. 

Here are some best practices to help ensure your equipment is winter-weather ready. 

Start with a pre-trip inspection 

Cold weather can magnify small issues. When conducting a pre-trip inspection in colder weather, it’s important to pay extra attention to: 

• Belts and hoses: Cold temperatures can cause brittle hoses and cracked belts to fail. 
• Air lines and fittings: Look for moisture buildup that can freeze and restrict airflow. 
• Electrical connections: Ensure lights, sensors, and wiring are secure and corrosion-free. 

Catching issues early can help prevent costly downtime in inclement weather.

Check and double-check your tires 

Tires are your first line of defense in winter conditions. 

• Tread depth: Make sure steer and drive tires meet or exceed minimum tread requirements for winter traction. 
• Tire pressure: Cold air causes pressure to drop, so check PSI frequently, especially when the temperature drops. 
• Tire condition: Watch for uneven wear, sidewall damage, or embedded debris that could lead to a blowout. 

If chains are required in your region, confirm that you have the correct quantity, size, and know how to install them before you need them. If road conditions require chains, it’s likely a good idea to find a safe place to shut down until conditions improve.

Test batteries and electrical systems 

Winter is tough on batteries. A weak battery that works fine in warm weather may fail overnight in freezing temps. 

• Have batteries tested and replaced if needed 
• Ensure all lights, defrosters, and heaters are working properly 

Reliable electrical systems are critical for visibility and safe operation in winter storms. 

Prepare your fluids for freezing temperatures 

Fluids that aren’t winter-ready can lead to serious mechanical issues. 

• Engine oil: Use the manufacturer-recommended viscosity for cold weather. 
• Coolant/antifreeze: Verify proper mixture and freeze protection. 
• Washer fluid: Use winter-grade fluid to prevent freezing. 
• Anti-gel: Ensure you’re stocked with anti-gel fuel and follow company and manufacturer guidelines when adding fuel treatments. 

Inspect brakes and air system components 

Moisture in the air system is a common winter issue. 

• Ensure that air tanks are drained regularly (Tractor / Trailer) 
• Watch for slow air buildup or warning lights 

Frozen air lines can compromise braking performance, making this one of the most important winter checks. 

Stock essential winter supplies 

Keep your truck stocked with winter essentials, including: 

• Emergency Kit: Warm clothes, gloves, blankets, flashlights, flares, shovel, first aid, tools, jumper cables, portable charger. 
• Traction Aids: Sand, salt, or cat litter for traction. 
• Food & Water: Non-perishable food and water. 
• Stay Informed: Monitor real-time weather and road conditions (e.g., 511, weather apps). 
• Fuel: Keep fuel tanks at least half full to prevent freezing and add weight. 
• Parking: Find well-lit, plowed areas; avoid shoulders; chock tires if stopped on a grade. 

Best practices for driving in winter weather 

• Slow Down: Follow FMCSA guidance by reducing speed by at least one-third on wet roads and at least one-half on snow-packed roads for more reaction time and control. 
• Increase Distance: Leave extra space between your truck and vehicles ahead. 
• Use Low Gears: Improves traction and prevents wheel spin, especially uphill. 
• Avoid Sudden Moves: No sudden braking, accelerating, or steering; ease into turns. 
• Braking: Brake early and gently; avoid stopping on inclines when possible. 
• Black Ice: Watch for it on bridges and overpasses; they freeze first. 
• Skid Control: Steer gently in the direction of the skid; take foot off the accelerator. 

Being prepared helps keep you safe and comfortable if weather conditions require you to shut down. 

Post-trip checks matter, especially in winter conditions 

Winter prep doesn’t end when the truck is parked. After a delivery, take a few minutes to check for: 

• Ice buildup around brakes or under the trailer 
• Leaks caused by frozen seals 
• Damaged or worn tires 
• Damage from road debris or plow spray 

Addressing issues early helps ensure you’re ready for the next dispatch. 

Stay prepared, stay safe 

Winter driving demands patience, preparation, and respect for the conditions. Ensuring your equipment is winter-weather ready isn’t just about compliance, it’s about protecting yourself, your freight, and everyone sharing the road. 

A little extra time spent inspecting and preparing your truck can make a big difference in winter weather conditions. Stay alert, stay prepared, and find a safe place to shut down when necessary. 

U.S. Xpress participates in several Veteran programs, supporting service members as they transition into civilian careers. Senior Talent Acquisition Manager, Christina G., heads the team that makes it all happen, essentially acting as a matchmaker. She receives over a dozen inquiries each month from service members interested in our programs.  

Her team assesses each potential candidate in several areas, like their willingness to learn, industry knowledge, open-mindedness, and level of self-motivation, to see if they will be a good fit for one of our Veteran programs: SkillBridge, Advanced Rate of Pay, Military Apprenticeship Program, and Corporate Fellows Program.  

Veteran Programs at U.S. Xpress 

SkillBridge 

The Department of Defense SkillBridge Program is a unique opportunity for service members to gain real-world experience in the civilian workforce before transitioning out of service. Service members may participate within 180 days of being discharged or released from active duty.  

SkillBridge is designed to ease the transition to civilian life by providing: 

• Real-world, civilian work experience 

• Roles that align with your skills and interests 

• Continue to receive full military pay & benefits while job training 

• Networking opportunities 

• Clarity on “what’s next” after your service 

• Career development opportunities 

SkillBridge graduate Joel H. credits the program with making his military transition a smooth one.

“U.S. Xpress was incredible throughout my Skillbridge internship. Their support, guidance, and mentorship made all the difference in my transition from military service. They went above and beyond to ensure I had a place with U.S. Xpress at the end of my internship, helping me seamlessly step into a full-time role in Talent Acquisition.” 

Advanced Rate of Pay 

Our Advanced Rate of Pay program allows you to save your GI Bill^® benefits as you kick your driving career into high gear. Get paid more thanks to your military experience.

Once you have your CDL, you’ll start at the same rate of pay as a driver with two years of experience — that’s up to $70,000 in your first year. Plus, we’ll reimburse you up to $7,000 to cover your CDL school tuition, even if you used your Post-9/11 GI Bill^® to pay for it.  

This program is open to aspiring drivers with 2+ years of active-duty service and less than 2 years of driving experience. Participants must have separated within the last 3 years to be eligible.  

Military Apprenticeship Program 

U.S. Xpress offers a Military Apprenticeship Program for drivers and diesel mechanics that is Department of Labor-approved and recognized by the VA. This program was developed by the VA to help veterans transition from their military career to the civilian workforce by offering on-the-job training.  

Veterans who qualify can get access to their benefits for up to 24 months while training to be a driver or 36 total months while training as a diesel tech at U.S. Xpress. 

To qualify for the Military Apprenticeship Program, the driver or diesel tech simply needs to qualify for the Montgomery or Post 9/11 G.I. Bill and have benefits remaining. 

Corporate Fellows Program 

Through Hiring Our Heroes, service members are matched with civilian employers that fit their career goals. The 12-week program features three cohorts per year.  

“The Corporate Fellowship Program was key to getting my foot in the door at U.S. Xpress as I transitioned out of the military,” shared program graduate John G. “It helped to mitigate much of my apprehension after over 22 years as a Marine and served to make the company more accessible. Bottom line: This program is essential for transitioning servicemembers, and I’m happy that U.S. Xpress has continued to take advantage of it.” 

Why Should Veterans Consider Our Programs? 

Veteran programs at U.S. Xpress provide a unique opportunity to gain experience in a civilian environment. Through these programs, you’ll get: 

• Networking opportunities 

• Industry and company connections 

• Career training and mentorship 

• Civilian skills development 

Plus, with U.S. Xpress, you’ll have a dedicated team behind you, helping you succeed. Senior Talent Acquisition Manager, Christina G., and her team oversee these programs and help find the right fit for each veteran who applies. She looks for individuals who are proactive, willing to learn, and self-motivated.  

Participants are urged to have an open mind and explore positions they may not have thought about before. “Reach out. Ask questions. Make sure you have the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family,” Christina shared. “There’s a lot of opportunity out there for veterans post-service, and programs like SkillBridge, Corporate Fellows, Military Apprenticeship Program, and Advanced Rate of Pay, provide a bridge during a time with a lot of unknowns.” 

Learn More 

Interested in learning more about opportunities with U.S. Xpress as you enter civilian life? Visit USXjobs.com today to discover options available to you.  

Your essential packing list as you begin your driving career 

Starting your career as a student truck driver with U.S. Xpress is an exciting journey, and orientation is your first step toward hitting the road. As a student driver, you’ll be spending time in both the classroom and on the road with a trainer, so it’s important to be prepared.  

Packing for orientation can be a bit tricky. How do you know what you’ll need out on the road during driver training? We’ve put together a practical student packing list to ensure you’re comfortable and ready for the next step in your driving career. 

Be sure to pack: 

• Seven days’ worth of clothes: Aim for seven sets of clothing. This should be enough to last the week, with room for laundry. You’ll be able to do laundry during your training, so there’s no need to pack extra. 

• Layer up: Depending on the weather, you’ll want to bring layers. A light jacket or coat is a must, especially if you’ll be heading into cooler climates. It will keep you warm while you’re out of the truck or waiting for your next load. 
• Footwear: Bring two pairs of closed-toe shoes. A good pair of boots is great for outdoor activities and any tough conditions you may encounter, while tennis shoes are a good option for comfort inside the truck or during breaks. Don’t forget shower shoes; you’ll want something easy to slip on when you’re stopping for showers during your travels.

2. Toiletries: Stay fresh on the road                                                                                                               Hygiene is important, especially when you’re living out of a truck for extended periods. Be sure to pack the essentials: 

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Basic but crucial for keeping your mouth fresh. 

• Mouthwash: A quick and easy way to freshen up, especially when you don’t have access to a sink. Be sure to get an alcohol-free variety. 

• Deodorant: A must-have for long days on the road during your training. 

• Soap or body wash: Look for travel-size options or multi-use products that can serve as shampoo and body wash. 

• Shower essentials: You’ll be stopping for showers typically every 24 hours, so don’t forget a towel and any personal hygiene items you may need. 

3. Electronics: Stay connected                                                                                                              You’ll need a few essential electronics to stay connected, entertained, and safe on the road. 

• Phone charger: This might seem obvious, but having a charger or power bank could save you from a dead phone while you’re on breaks. 

• Bluetooth headset: A Bluetooth headset is essential for hands-free communication, whether you’re talking with your supervisor or receiving calls from a customer.  

4. Bedding: Sleep like a pro                                                                                                                              You’ll be spending a lot of time on the truck during training, so getting proper rest is important. Ensure you’re comfortable when settling in for the night. 

• Sheets and blankets: U.S. Xpress provides full-sized mattresses in their trucks, so bring sheets that fit accordingly. Don’t forget a blanket or sleeping bag to stay warm and cozy during your off time.  

• Pillow: Bring a pillow to ensure a good night’s sleep. You’ll be grateful for the added comfort. 

5. Medication and prescriptions: Stay healthy on the road                                                                    It’s essential to have any necessary medications with you during orientation and on the road during student training. 

• Medication: Bring any prescription or over-the-counter medications that you take regularly. It’s also a good idea to have a few days’ worth of any emergency medications on hand, like allergy meds, aspirin or Tylenol, and a first aid kit. 

• Prescription lenses: If your CDL specifies that you need to wear corrective lenses, be sure to pack them, as they are required while driving. Always have an extra pair in case you lose or break them. Same if you wear contact lenses. Bring extras as well as contact solution. 

6. Miscellaneous essentials                                                                                                                            There are a few other things that can make your orientation and student driver training time more comfortable and smooth. 

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun while driving. A good pair of sunglasses can help reduce glare and improve visibility, making for safer driving conditions. 

• Duffel bag: Packing in a duffel bag, rather than multiple suitcases or bags, is a practical choice. It keeps your gear organized and easy to transport. 

When it comes to freight solutions, U.S. Xpress isn’t just keeping pace with the industry—it’s redefining how shippers think about capacity, flexibility, and service.

At the center of this customer-first approach is Paul Bowman, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales and a 13-year veteran of U.S. Xpress. 

Originally from South Carolina and a proud Georgia Tech graduate, Paul describes himself as a ‘reluctant salesman.’ “I never set out to work in sales. But once I realized it’s really about solving problems, not just selling something, I was hooked,” Bowman says. 

Today, he leads a dynamic sales organization that supports a nationwide network, helping to create freight solutions with confidence and efficiency. 

One Simple Skill 

Paul’s path into the industry wasn’t linear. What started as an unexpected opportunity became a lifelong career built on understanding customer needs and building value-driven partnerships.  

Over the years, Paul has learned that the most meaningful customer relationships start with one simple skill: listening. 

“My mentor told me, ‘If you’re not listening, you’re not selling.’ That stuck with me,” Paul reflects. “This industry rewards those who understand what customers truly need—and then deliver on it.” 

His approach has shaped a team culture that prioritizes relationships over transactions and solutions over quick wins. 

A Strategic, Customer-Centric Approach 

A typical day for Paul involves close collaboration with operations, account management, and other teams. That’s by design. U.S. Xpress sales isn’t a silo—it’s the front door to a larger ecosystem built to make shippers’ lives easier. 

“Great sales,” Paul says, “isn’t about having the cheapest lane. It’s about listening, solving problems, and aligning resources so our customers can focus on their business.” 

What Sets U.S. Xpress Apart 

At the core of the U.S. Xpress value is its people. The 26-year industry leader emphasizes that “our people are our biggest competitive advantage.” But scale and technology make that advantage even stronger.  

Our nationwide coverage means we go where you need us the most. We make it happen with a team of over 5,600 experienced drivers, moving more than 1.3 million loads each year.  

With decades of industry experience and by implementing the latest technology, we are able to find freight solutions that truly work for you. U.S. Xpress offers customers more.   

Looking Ahead: A Smarter Network 

Paul is energized by what’s next for U.S. Xpress. “We’ve got a hungry, competitive group focused on growing smarter, not just bigger,” he shared. His team is refining its network to prioritize strategic fits that maximize value for customers by: 

• Expanding Dedicated operations in key markets 

• Leveraging capabilities across our family of brands 

• Investing in network optimization for smarter, more efficient freight solutions 

Partner With U.S. Xpress 

At U.S. Xpress, freight solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re built around your business, with the scale, flexibility, and people to deliver real results. 

If you’re ready to build a smarter freight strategy, contact our team to start the conversation today.