The freight industry has become one of the most sought-after businesses in the world over the last few years. With more people shifting to online shopping than ever before, there has been a massive uptick in demand for delivery haulers and drivers. While trucking jobs are widely spoken about, their safer counterparts— cargo van drivers and owner-operators— have received less limelight despite playing a crucial role throughout the delivery process.

Training requirements for a cargo van driver
When signing up to be a cargo van driver for a company, one generally needs to have a state driver’s license and be over 21. Any training needed is usually provided at the beginning of the job.

There are other  types of jobs available for cargo van drivers.   One can also  choose to  become a cargo van owner-operator, essentially a self-employed role that involves transporting goods for customers.  Depending on one’s preference and job availability, this could be a freelance gig or a contract with a certain company.

When hiring a cargo van owner-operator, companies may have a few requirements, such as:

• Commercial Driver’s Licence (CDL)
  This is a special license required to operate large vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and trailers. To get a CDL permit, one must pass a special exam, choose a license type, and take a knowledge test. Then, one  needs to  take a special exam to earn a commercial driver’s license.
• Cargo van condition
  The cargo van should be in good condition to haul materials.  Any van that’s too dirty or damaged will automatically raise alarm bells in the  minds of the hiring crew .
• Age requirement
  Most companies have a minimum age requirement of 21 years for hiring a cargo van owner-operator.
• Years of experience
  Some companies may also require a year or more of recent commercial driving experience.
• Safe driving record
  A clean driving record is of utmost importance, as anyone with a history of accidents or complaints is likely to pose a major risk to the company.
• Insurance
  A driving or commercial auto and cargo insurance is required to cover  any  potential damages or loss.

In addition to these requirements, cargo van owner-operators must be willing to sign a contract for a certain period.  They must carry a tax ID, maintain an accounting system, and procure all equipment required for safe handling.  They  may also need to exhibit positive qualities like reliability, a good attitude toward work, punctuality, and self-motivation  to secure the job .

Cargo vans are expected to haul different types of loads, including parcels, e-commerce goods, medical supplies, furniture, electronics, auto parts, office supplies, food, beverages, construction materials, textiles, pet supplies, art and antiques, flowers, musical instruments, legal documents, etc.  Since each  of these  has specific handling requirements, some jobs may  require drivers to also  meet other regulations.

How much salary can cargo van drivers expect to earn?
Cargo van driver and owner-operator salaries can vary significantly depending on their experience, location, the type of load carried, and even the amount of time they spend on the road. On average, cargo van owner-operators can expect to make between $1 and $2 per mile, totaling an annual average salary of $77,088.

Cargo van drivers hired by the company can expect to be paid a regular monthly salary, depending on  the hours they work .  Owner-operators,  on the other hand, can choose to be paid in one of two different ways – by the percentage of the load they  carry,  or the number of miles they drive on any given day.

What are the expenses incurred as a cargo van owner-operator?
Those planning to get into the cargo van business must also be prepared to incur certain expenses, such as:

• Own a van
  It’s impossible to become a van owner-operator without owning a van. This choice will dictate the roads one can drive on  as well as  the loads one can haul. A basic new van will cost anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000, with higher-end models and brands costing more.
• Regular maintenance
  Since the van will be subject to heavy use, regular maintenance will be required to keep it functioning smoothly. Common tasks include oil and fluid changes, compressor maintenance, tire and wheel replacements, and more. The van’s owner will also need to account for these costs.
• Fuel costs
  Since the van runs on fuel, these costs  will also need to  be accounted for.
• Insurance
  Vehicle insurance  will have to  be borne out-of-pocket for the cargo van owner-operator.
• Taxes and paperwork
  As a business owner, the cargo-van operator is also responsible for handling their taxes and paperwork.

Where does one look for vacancies for cargo van driver jobs?
Listings for cargo van driver jobs can be found online across job sites. These requirements are also posted regularly by individual companies who are looking to hire new drivers. A simple browser search can take one closer to finding the right cargo van job for them. Alternatively, one can also speak to other drivers in the field about any job vacancies in their company. While searching for a job, it is also important for one to carefully review the company, its work ethics, and the job environment to prevent any disappointments when on board.