Canada's transport industry plays an important role in the economy, generating constant employment opportunities for drivers across the country. It is a generic profession in which attractive pay, high demand, and growth opportunities attract many people. The average truck driver salary in Canada is $55000 annually, or around $27.39 per hour.

Salaries differ based on the amount of experience and the type of driving, such as long-haul and local driving. Long-haul drivers usually get paid much more because they travel longer distances than a regional driver who has a more regular schedule.

Benefits of Being a Truck Driver in Canada

Truck driving is a rewarding profession that provides quite a good number of advantages, which eventually makes it an attractive career choice for many. Some of the key benefits of becoming a truck driver in Canada are:

  • High earning potential

  • Strong Demand and Security for Jobs

  • Immigrants Everywhere

  • Flexible Work Hours Schedule

  • Health and Insurance Coverage

  • Performance Bonuses

  • Paid Vacation/Leave Benefits

  • Retirement and Pension Plans

Average Salary of Truck Drivers in Canada

Truck driving is one of the most well-paying and in-demand jobs in Canada. The salary of truck drivers in Canada varies based on experience level and job type. Below is an overview of salary ranges

CATEGORY

ANNUAL SALARY (CAD)

Entry-Level Truck Drivers

CAD 45,000 – CAD 55,000

Experienced Truck Drivers

CAD 60,000 – CAD 80,000

Long-Haul Truck Drivers

CAD 70,000 – CAD 100,000

Owner-Operator Truck Drivers

CAD 100,000+

Among the different job varieties existing in Canada, truck driving is reputed for its security due to job maintenance and advancement and also due to its stability concerning recruiting. The average salary of a truck driver in Canada ranges from CAD 55,000 to 70,000 at the entry level but increases for those with more experience.

The highest truck driver salary in Canada can exceed CAD 150,000 per year, especially for experienced owner-operators and specialized long-haul drivers.

Career Progression and Salary Growth for Truck Drivers in Canada

Truck driving in Canada offers excellent career progression, as salaries increase as drivers gain experience and certifications and take on specialized roles. Here’s a look at how truck drivers can grow in their careers and earnings.


CAREER STAGE

EXPERIENCE LEVEL

ANNUAL AVERAGE SALARY

POTENTIAL GROWTH

Entry-Level Truck Driver

0-2 years

$40,000 - $55,000

Gain experience, improve skills, and qualify for better-paying opportunities.

Mid-Level Truck Driver

2-5 years

$55,000 - $70,000

Eligible for higher-paying jobs, overtime, or night shifts.

Specialized driver

3-7 years

$70,000 - $85,000

Certification-based growth, access to top industries.

Owner

5+ years

$80,000 - $150,000

Business growth potential and higher profits, but greater responsibility.

Long-Haul Driver

5+ years

$65,000 - $90,000

Opportunities for additional bonuses and long-distance allowances.

Senior or Mentor Driver

10+ years

$85,000 - $100,000

Potential for managerial or instructor roles.

Factors Affecting Truck Driver Salaries in Canada

Truck driver salaries in Canada can be affected due to several reasons, including experience and the type of cargo transported. Some factors are:

  1. Experience

Salaries increase with experience, as thorough drivers know what to do with more efficiency, know their routes, and prove reliable. Entry-level drivers earn lower salaries due to lesser exposure to long-haul operations.

  1. Location and Demand

Urban areas where logistics and transportation services are in demand have higher pay, while rural areas don't. Cities with operationally active industrial hubs have slightly higher pay.

  1. Route and Miles

Long-distance drivers operating from one province to another or even international borders earn relatively more than short-distance deliverers. Longer hauls generate allowances and incentives, leading to high overall earnings.

  1. Size of Employer and Sectors

Large trucking companies or even established logistics firms tend to offer compensation packages and incentives above industry standards. On the other hand, small companies may offer lower salaries and fewer incentives.

Canada Truck Driver Salary in Indian Rupees

Depending upon various factors such as location, experience, type of cargo transported, and the type of driver (long-haul and local drivers), the average salary of a truck driver in Canada ranges between $47,049 and $60,771 per year. This converts to approximately ₹28,22,940 to ₹36,46,260 annually, assuming an exchange rate of 1 CAD = ₹59.80

Salary Overview:

  • Entry-Level Truck Drivers

  • Annual Salary: INR 2,700,000 to INR 3,300,000

  • Hourly Rate: INR 1,320 to INR 1,560

  • Experienced Truck Drivers

  • Annual Salary: INR 3,600,000 to INR 4,800,000

  • Hourly Rate: INR 1,800 to INR 2,400

  • Specialized Truck Drivers

  • Annual Salary: INR 4,200,000 to INR 5,400,000

  • Hourly Rate: Varies based on specialization and risk

With competitive salaries and additional benefits, truck driving in Canada presents a promising career option for Indian drivers looking for better earnings and job stability.