Salary of a Truck Driver: Average Salary of a Van Driver

Truck driving is a highly sought-after profession in the Czech Republic. Truck drivers not only ensure the transportation of goods across Europe but must also meet strict qualification and health requirements. The salary of a truck driver can vary significantly depending on the region, experience, and other factors. This article focuses on factors affecting truck driver wages, average wages by region, ways to increase salary, and job search tips.

Last year, it was clear that the demand for truck drivers exceeded the supply, with a shortage of 15,000 to 20,000 drivers, creating significant pressure to recruit new workers. The number of job offers for truck drivers reached high numbers, reflecting the lack of qualified workers in the field (Deník Referendum) .

Regarding salary, the average monthly wage of a truck driver in the Czech Republic was around CZK 41,000. The hourly wage was about CZK 200, but it can vary significantly depending on the specific company, region, and the driver’s experience (Jooble)​.

Factors Affecting Truck Driver Salaries

1. Work Experience and Qualifications
   Work experience and qualifications are among the most important factors affecting a truck driver’s salary. Drivers with several years of experience and special qualifications, such as the ADR certificate for transporting hazardous materials, can expect higher wages than novice drivers. These experienced professionals often possess skills and knowledge that allow them to perform their duties more efficiently and safely, increasing their value in the labor market.

Obtaining a professional driver’s license is another key factor that can increase salary. The professional driver’s license confirms that the driver meets all required standards and possesses the necessary skills to operate commercial vehicles. Regular training, such as road safety, first aid, or vehicle maintenance courses, not only enhances a driver’s competence but also ensures they remain compliant with current regulations and standards.

2. Type of Cargo and Transportation Distance
   The type of cargo being transported and the distance covered play a significant role in determining a driver’s salary. Transporting hazardous materials or goods that require special handling is usually better paid. Long international routes also often mean higher compensation compared to local or short-distance routes.
3. Location
   The location where the driver works has a major impact on their salary. Larger cities like Prague, Brno, or Ostrava offer higher wages due to higher demand for drivers and higher living costs. Conversely, in smaller towns and rural areas, the average salary may be lower, even though living costs are also lower.
4. Type of Employer
   The type of employer, whether it is a state organization, a large international company, or a small local business, can influence the driver’s salary. Larger companies often offer better pay and benefits than smaller firms. Employees in the public sector may enjoy more stable wages but often earn less than those in private companies.

Average Truck Driver Income by Region

Prague and Central Bohemia
In Prague and Central Bohemia, truck driver salaries are typically the highest. The average salary for a van driver in this area ranges from CZK 40,000 to CZK 45,000 per month. High demand for cargo transportation and the higher cost of living contribute to the higher wages in this region.

South Moravian and Moravian-Silesian Regions
In these regions, the average truck driver salary ranges from CZK 35,000 to CZK 40,000 per month. Brno and Ostrava are significant logistics centers, which contributes to higher wages in these areas.

Other Regions
In smaller towns and rural areas, the average salary for a truck driver ranges from CZK 30,000 to CZK 35,000 per month. Lower living costs in these regions partially offset the lower wages. These drivers often have fewer long-distance jobs and their work may involve more frequent returns home, which can be an advantage for those who prefer more time with family. While wages in these areas are not as high as in major cities, the working conditions and duties may be less stressful.

Ways to Increase Truck Driver Salary

• Further Education and Certifications
  Drivers who invest in further education and gain additional certifications, such as ADR or training for transporting specific types of cargo, can expect higher salaries. Completing regular training and maintaining current licenses is crucial for increasing one’s value in the job market.
• Working on Long Routes
  Drivers who are willing to work on long international routes often receive higher compensation. These routes require greater responsibility and often involve longer working hours, which is reflected in the higher wages.
• Specialization in Certain Types of Transport
  Specializing in certain types of transportation, such as the transport of oversized or hazardous cargo, can also lead to higher salaries. These types of transport require special skills and knowledge that employers highly value.
• Salary Negotiation
  The ability to negotiate salary effectively is an important skill that can lead to higher income. Drivers should be prepared to discuss their experience, qualifications, and the value they can bring to an employer to secure the best possible terms.

Finding a Job for Truck Drivers: Key Resources and Tips

Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies specializing in transportation and logistics can significantly help drivers in finding suitable employment. These agencies often collaborate directly with transport and logistics companies, giving them access to job offers that are not published on regular job portals. By registering with a specialized agency, drivers can gain access to exclusive job opportunities. Recruitment agencies also provide additional services that can benefit drivers, such as career counseling, resume creation and optimization, interview preparation, and sometimes even training or certifications required for specific types of transportation. These agencies often offer temporary or seasonal employment, which can be ideal for drivers seeking flexibility or experience in different types of transport.

Job Platforms
Platforms like Wecan.cz are excellent sources for finding job offers for truck drivers. This website offers a wide range of job opportunities in various regions and for different types of transport, allowing drivers to find positions that best match their skills and preferences.

Employment Offices
Employment offices provide up-to-date lists of available job positions, which are regularly updated and include a wide range of positions in transportation and logistics. These lists often include detailed information about working conditions, qualification requirements, and employer contact details, making it easier for drivers to quickly and efficiently search for suitable jobs. In addition to publishing job offers, employment offices also offer a variety of services aimed at supporting employment. One of the key services is retraining courses and training programs, which can help drivers improve their qualifications and increase their chances in the job market. These courses can include learning new skills, such as operating specific types of vehicles, road safety training, or improving language skills for international transport.

Professional Networks and Recommendations
Building a professional network and gaining recommendations from colleagues and previous employers can be very helpful when searching for a new job. Drivers should actively look for opportunities to build new connections in the industry.

Social Networks
Social media, especially Facebook, can be useful for finding job offers and connecting with potential employers. Facebook offers various groups and pages that specialize in job opportunities across different sectors, including transportation and logistics. Additionally, Facebook Marketplace is often used by employers to advertise job openings. Regular participation in professional groups can also help build a network of contacts, which may lead to informal job offers and recommendations.