Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul Truck Driving: What’s Best for You?

  • Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul Truck Driving: What’s Best for You?

    Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul Truck Driving: What’s Best for You?

    It’s one of the bigger decisions you will make as a truck driver. And while it’s not a permanent decision that has to last your entire trucking career, it is one that can have a big impact on your life. That decision, of course, is whether long-haul or short-haul driving is best for you.

    While definitions vary regarding what exactly counts as long-haul and short-haul driving, generally routes that involve a 200-mile radius or less should be considered short-haul, whereas anything over 250 miles is considered long-haul driving. America Truck Driving School knows that this can be a challenge to choose between the two, so we’ve put together a few considerations to keep in mind below.

    Family and Home Life
    Barring accidents or other unforeseen mishaps, short-haul drivers return home after each shift. Long-haul drivers, on the other hand, have to spend more time away from home. Depending on the job, this might involve only coming home on the weekends, or it might involve spending weeks away at times. Ultimately, each driver’s unique family and home situations must be taken into consideration when deciding what’s best for the driver’s life.

    Sitting vs. Unloading
    Long-haul drivers sit for longer periods of time but unload freight less often than short-haul drivers. Short-haul drivers make more frequent stops, which means they sit for shorter periods but unload freight more often—typically multiple times a day. Only you can decide which lifestyle best suits your current health and fitness levels and goals.

    Choosing whether you will drive long-haul or short-haul is a big decision, and we hope the above tips help you make it. But remember, the decision isn’t permanent. You might try one and find it’s not a great fit for you. Or, circumstances in your life might change and what had previously been the best choice for your life will no longer work. Whatever you choose, America Truck Driving School can help you be prepared for your new career in truck driving. Contact us today to sign up for one of our programs!

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