State Overview
There are over 30,300 trucking companies in Michigan and the industry employs 51,340 drivers. The highest paid truck drivers earn $49,020 ($23.57 hourly). The highest paying areas are Battle Creek with a Median Annual Salary of $44,070, Detroit-Livonia-Dearborn ($42,730), and South Bend-Mishawaka ($42,680).
Pros and Cons of Truck Driving in Michigan
GOOD:
- A lot of freight coming out of Michigan, especially automotive
BAD:
- The speed limit for trucks is only 60 mph
Truck Driving Tips for Michigan
- A lot of speed traps and seat belt sting operations. Mind the signs and the laws
- If you’re new and still not sure of your speed stay out of the left lane
- Learn how to brake when driving on ice or snow
- Understand the fatigue that comes with night driving
- Many accidents can be prevented by communicating road conditions ahead of you
Fellow Truck Drivers in Michigan Say:
“On ice and snow the brake is not your friend”
Eugene K. – 14 years on the road
GOOD
Not too many big hills, flat roads for the most part. Because of the flat roads if you encounter a back up there’s almost always a way around. Also, because of the many auto related businesses there’s always freight.
BAD
Ice, snow and cold temperatures.
TIP TO NEW DRIVERS
Just remember on ice and snow the brake is not your friend. Lots of speed traps, also seat belt sting operations. Mind the signs and the laws.
“Be afraid of your truck”
James D. – 15 years of experience
GOOD
There is a lot of good freight coming out of Michigan
BAD
The speed limit for trucks is only 60 mph
TIP TO NEW DRIVERS
Be courteous to your fellow drivers. If you’re new and still not sure of your speed stay, out of the left lane. Always be afraid of your truck, once you feel like you mastered it is when it will show.