Find Out Here How Many Miles Can a Truck Driver Drive in a Day
New in the trucking industry? Wondering how many miles can a truck driver drive in a day? In this blog, you’ll learn exactly what this number is. Not only that, but you’ll also find out which are the main things that influence this measurement as well.
Main Factors that Impact a Trucker’s Speed Limit and Mileage
Knowing the mileage you’re going to travel is a must if you’re a trucker. After all, the more miles you travel, the better you’ll get paid, right?
Well, it isn’t simply like that.
You see, there are many things to keep in mind when finding out the number of miles you can travel. That’s why we’ll go over each of these factors.
These are the main things that influence truckers’ speed, time, and mile limits:
- Your state’s and DOT’s regulations
- The road’s and weather conditions
- A driver’s type of shift
Which Is the Weekly Limit for Truckers?
When it comes to weekly limits, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA for short, states that truckers must follow the 60/70-hour limit. This limit says that drivers must not go over 60 hours driving in a 7-day period or 70 hours driving in 8 days.
Moreover, after driving for 60 to 70 hours in a week, drivers must then take 34 consecutive hours (or more) off the wheel. Many truckers tend to do any unrelated driving jobs during this restart time, such as loading and unloading.
How Many Miles Can a Truck Driver Drive in a Day?
So, how many miles can a truck driver drive in a day? As we said before earlier, many factors impact this number. However, the average number of miles ranges from 605 to 650 miles. This translates into 55 to 60 miles per hour in an 11-hour shift.
Although this is the average range, keep in mind that not every day will be like that. Additionally, the maximum time limit for when it comes to working typically is 14 hours, and a 10-consecutive-hour time shift off work must follow it.
What Is the 11-Hour Driving Shift?
We first have the 11-hour driving shift.
This shift applies whenever a trucker has a turn that consists of 14 consecutive hours. Once you hit the 11-hour mark driving, you’ll need to stop driving your truck. Nonetheless, your job may be soon from over, since it’s very likely that you’ll spend these 3 hours on job-related tasks.
Moreover, in order to avoid stopping in the middle of nowhere after reaching their limit, truckers must strategically plan their trip.
Also, in this regulation, truckers must not have over 8 hours after their last off-duty. If they do, then it’s very likely that truck companies won’t allow you to drive.
What Is a 14-Hour Working Shift?
We then have 14-hour working shifts.
Just like there’s a driving time limit, there’s also a maximum working limit as well. As we stated before in this article, this 14-hour working shift must be after the driver has taken a 10-hour consecutive off-duty period. After this break time, the trucker is able to return to work.
Keep in mind that these working and driving shifts aren’t based on your typical 24-hour day period. With that being said, truckers don’t start working at the same time every day.
Can Truckers Take Breaks During Driving Shifts?
Along with taking ten consecutive hours off work, truck drivers must also take at least one 30-minute break. Most truckers tend to take it between three and eight hours on duty.
Moreover, if they haven’t taken the 30-minute break by the time they reach 8-consecutive hours driving, then they must take it at that time.
Usually, the best time to take this break is when reaching 6 hours of driving. That way, truckers can stop to refuel their truck’s tank and grab lunch. Taking your break at this time acts as the perfect middle-ground.
Are There Any Exceptions for Driving Over 11-Hours?
While not impossible, certain exceptions might allow you to be on the road over the 11-hour period. Most of these situations are due to external factors, such as bad weather conditions and setbacks.
First, you’re allowed to drive over-time in case you’ve experienced any heavy traffic that puts you behind schedule. All you need to do is report on the log the time you lost. That way, neither you nor the company you work with will be penalized.
The second scenario in which you’re able to work over the time limit is an accident that delays your journey. When finding yourself in this situation, you’ll need a professional repair service to get you back on the road. In more severe cases, there’s the chance that you might need to contact a towing company.
Lastly, in case you’re suffering a setback due to harsh weather conditions, then you’re allowed to drive longer than the 11-hour limit.
Does a Team Drive Cover More Miles in a Day?
As you may already know, team driving often covers more miles compared to solo driving. Therefore, this often translates to more money per trip.
In most instances, team drivers tend to make around 1000 miles per day. On a weekly basis, they can cover between 5000 and 6000 miles. However, keep in mind that not all weeks will end up with this mileage.
Roughly speaking, team driving makes 50 percent more miles than your standard solo driving. So, if you’re starting out in the trucking industry, going for team driving can be a better option for you.
How Should Truckers Distribute Their Time?
Trucking can many times sound overwhelming. However, by counting on the right time distribution and following some essential driving practices, you’ll become an expert truck driver in no time!
For this reason, here are some time management tips you should consider:
- Create a checklist for your inspection times.
- Use that inspection checklist before and after your trips.
- Take your break after driving for six hours.
- Plan your routes by considering rush hours and afternoon commutes.
- Get enough sleep.
- Stay on top of your oil change intervals.
Now that you know how many miles can a truck driver drive in a day, you can now start planning out your route! Remember to always stay on top of the road’s conditions as well as your state’s laws and regulations.