How Much Do UPS Drivers Make A Year
Last week, UPS made headlines after announcing that its drivers will average $170,000 in pay and benefits at the end of a five-year contract agreement with the Teamsters Union. The tentative deal, which was reached on July 25, would raise part-time workers’ wages to at least $21 per hour, and end mandatory overtime, while full-time workers will average $49 an hour, CNBC reports. The tentative agreement covers all UPS delivery drivers in the U.S. They are in the middle of a ratification vote that ends Aug. 22. Interest in working for the shipping giant has skyrocketed as a result: In the week following the deal’s announcement, Indeed saw a more than 50% increase in job searches with “UPS” or “United Parcel Service” in the title, Bloomberg News reports, mostly for delivery driver roles. But that isn’t the only job at UPS that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree and pays six figures: Tractor-trailer drivers earn $162,000 on average ($112,000 plus $50,000 in benefits) Long haul drivers earn $172,000 on average ($122,000 plus $50,000 in benefits) UPS’ strategy to attract and retain talent is two-pronged: boost the pay for its delivery drivers, and hire and promote from within whenever possible. Danelle McCusker Rees, president of human resources and operational training at UPS, started at the shipping giant in 2002 as a part-time driver helper. “Every UPS job – even one that is part-time – is an opportunity for a career,” she tells CNBC Make It. “I’m an example of that.” Between 2018 and 2022, 38,000 part-time UPS employees were promoted to full-time positions, the company reports. If you’re interested in working at UPS, “a customer-focused mindset is critical,” McCusker Rees stresses. “Agility is important as well … as a company, we have the ability to quickly adjust to changing market conditions, and our employees have to be flexible too.” But the most important trait the company hires for, especially in driving roles, is “dedication to the job and being punctual,” she says. “We expect our people to be on time so we can be on time for our customers, but we are dedicated to teaching you the rest!”
Career Growth and Opportunities
We offer more than just a job. Working at UPS can be a transformative experience that offers long-term career prospects. We open doors to advancement opportunities because at UPS, success is within reach for everyone.
34% of company leaders in the U.S. started on the front line. 38,000 number of part-time employees who advanced to full-time positions (from Aug. 2018 to Dec. 2022).
Training and Development
At UPS, we prioritize the growth and well-being of our employees. We provide the necessary resources, support, and training to help them reach their full potential. With a variety of programs, benefits and on-the-job training, we are committed to helping our employees succeed.
$670 million amount invested in tuition assistance for employees. 6.7M hours of safety training completed by U.S. operations employees in 2022. $370 million amount invested annually in safety training in the U.S.
Community Impact
To UPS, giving means more than writing a check. It means combining employees’ skills, passion and time with the company’s logistics expertise, transportation assets, and charitable donations to make a measurable difference in society.
26M volunteer hours to date from UPSers globally. $3.3 million committed in grants and sponsorships to advance programs supporting women.
Inclusion & Belonging
We foster an inclusive culture where equity, authenticity and belonging are the norm. This commitment enables our people to promote the same values with customers, suppliers, and community partners.
200+ active Business Resource Group (BRG) chapters. 33% percentage of UPS’s C-Suite who are women; 22% are ethnically diverse. 42% percentage of the UPS Board of Directors who are women; 33% are ethnically diverse.
Pay and Benefits
We have the best employees in the industry, and we’re proud to provide them with the rewards they deserve. For example, our 400,000+ hard-working employees in the U.S. receive strong salaries and benefits, including robust healthcare coverage, retirement contributions, annual raises, PTO including holidays, and access to assistance programs.
$44/hour pay rate for delivery drivers in the U.S. currently at top pay. $21/hour starting pay for package handlers in the U.S.
What Do UPS Drivers Do?
UPS drivers deliver packages from the UPS sorting facility to customers’ doors. They ensure safe and timely delivery without damaging the products. Additionally, they offer supplies, track inventory, and are responsible for loading and unloading packages onto trucks and planes.
UPS Driver Requirements
As a package delivery truck driver, you will deliver packages to residential and business addresses throughout the day. You’ll learn how to navigate the UPS routing system, including routes that take you along significant thoroughfares and residential neighborhoods. You’ll also learn to use all the tools necessary to complete your delivery tasks safely. In addition, UPS will train you on driving techniques such as backing up vehicles and proper shifting. To be considered for employment, you must meet specific requirements:
- Applying age for any individual must be 21 or above
- You must have a valid driver’s license—no CDL (commercial driver’s license) required
- DOT (Department of Transportation) physicals are required
- In addition to excellent customer service skills, you must be a good truck driver
- As a minimum, you must be capable of lifting 70 pounds
- U.S. workers must be legally entitled to work there
How Much Does a UPS Driver Make in the USA?
According to UPS, full-time small package delivery drivers receive an average total compensation package of $145,000 per year while long-haul team drivers receive an average total compensation of $172,000 per year. UPS pays $0.95 per mile after four years. The average hourly wage for full-time package delivery drivers after four years on the job is $42 per hour as per UPS.
Benefits of a UPS Driver
Apart from a competitive UPS driver salary, freight drivers get many more benefits. By moving the world forward by delivering what matters, UPS believes that people are the driving force behind the company’s success. The company rewards hard work and dedication by providing employees with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and achieve personal goals. That’s why UPS offers comprehensive benefits to help you achieve your goals personally and professionally. Here are a few reasons why working at United Parcel Service is so great:
- You can make money while doing something you love.
- You’ll have access to healthcare, including medical, dental & vision benefits.
- You’ll learn new skills and grow as an employee.
- You’ll access career growth opportunities within UPS or across our global network of companies. If you’re ready for more responsibility or need help getting started on your career path, they’ll help you find it!
- If you’re looking for some extra cash each week, UPS offers competitive pay rates and paid time off so that you can balance work and life outside of work without worrying about sacrificing either one.
- They also offer employee discounts with top retailers.
- You’ll be eligible for various insurance like dental, disability, health, vision insurance, AD&D insurance, and life insurance.
Downsides of Being a UPS Driver
UPS drivers are an essential part of the US economy and a great choice if you’re looking for a solid career. But here are some challenges to consider before you sign up:
- It’s physically demanding: You’ll be on your feet for long periods and often need to lift heavy items. You’ll also have to do repetitive movements like loading and unloading packages from trucks and trunks.
- You’ll spend a lot of time alone: You won’t have much interaction with other people working on your own route so it can be lonely at times.
- It’s hard work: The work schedule is unpredictable, with extended hours and no guarantee that you’ll make more than minimum wage. This is true even for part-time employees.
- The job is dangerous: You’re at risk of being injured by other local drivers or pedestrians who are not paying attention when they cross paths with your package cars or vehicles on the road. There’s also a chance of theft if your truck is parked unattended overnight.
FAQs
1. What is the average salary of a UPS driver?
The average total compensation package of a full-time small package delivery driver is $145,000 per year, while long-haul team drivers receive an average total compensation of $172,000 per year.
2. What are the requirements to become a UPS driver?
To be considered for employment as a UPS driver, you must be 21 or above, have a valid driver’s license, pass DOT physicals, and be legally entitled to work in the U.S.
3. What are the benefits of working as a UPS driver?
UPS drivers receive comprehensive benefits including healthcare, career growth opportunities, competitive pay rates, paid time off, employee discounts, and various insurance options.
4. What are the downsides of being a UPS driver?
Being a UPS driver can be physically demanding, lonely, and involve unpredictable work schedules and potential safety risks.
5. How does UPS support the growth and well-being of its employees?
UPS invests in tuition assistance, safety training, and fosters an inclusive culture to support the growth and well-being of its employees.
6. What is the starting pay for package handlers at UPS?
The starting pay for package handlers at UPS is $21 per hour.
Conclusion
Working as a UPS driver can be a rewarding career choice with competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. However, it also comes with physical demands, potential safety risks, and unpredictable work schedules. Understanding the requirements, benefits, and downsides of the role is essential for individuals considering a career as a UPS driver.