Over-the-Road (OTR) Jobs in North Carolina
Browse otr trucking positions across North Carolina with top carriers hiring now.
Average Pay
$52,000 - $81,000
Demand Level
Moderate
Top Carriers
5+ Hiring
Key Cities
5+ Markets
OTR Trucking in North Carolina
North Carolina benefits from a growing distribution network and year-round mild weather that keeps freight moving. OTR drivers based here haul consumer goods, automotive parts, and agricultural products throughout the eastern U.S. Demand for OTR drivers in North Carolina is moderate, with carriers actively recruiting experienced drivers and offering competitive sign-on bonuses. The state's strategic location keeps freight volumes consistent year-round.
Top Companies Hiring OTR Drivers in NC
Covenant Transport
Crete Carrier Corporation
CRST International
Forward Air
Driving jobs we are recruiting for in North Carolina
Each of these is a live posting with the pay, home time and requirements set out in full. Applying takes about a minute.
Dump Truck & Hotshot Flatbed Driver
Based on experience · Discussed on the call
OTR Dry Van Driver
$51,500 - $72,500/year · Out 2–3 weeks
OTR Reefer Driver
$56,000 - $79,000/year · Out 2–3 weeks
OTR Flatbed Driver
$57,500 - $81,500/year · Out 1–2 weeks
OTR Step Deck Driver
$58,500 - $82,500/year · Out 1–2 weeks
OTR Tanker Driver
$59,000 - $83,500/year · Out 1–2 weeks
OTR Hazmat Driver
$60,500 - $85,500/year · Out 1–2 weeks
OTR Car Hauler Driver
$61,500 - $87,000/year · Out 2–3 weeks
OTR Oversized Driver
$64,500 - $91,500/year · Out 2–3 weeks
Regional Intermodal Driver
$52,500 - $74,000/year · Home weekly
Local Box Truck Driver
$43,000 - $61,000/year · Home daily
Regional Dump Truck Driver
$49,000 - $69,000/year · Home most nights
Local Cement Mixer Driver
$49,500 - $69,500/year · Home daily
OTR Hotshot Driver
$53,500 - $75,500/year · Out 1–2 weeks
Regional Less Than Truckload Driver
$54,500 - $77,000/year · Home weekly
OTR Power Only Driver
$51,500 - $72,500/year · Out 2–3 weeks
Local Straight Truck Driver
$42,000 - $59,500/year · Home daily
Top Cities for OTR Jobs in North Carolina
Charlotte
North Carolina
Raleigh
North Carolina
Greensboro
North Carolina
Winston-Salem
North Carolina
Durham
North Carolina
Key Freight Routes in North Carolina
I-85 (Charlotte to Greensboro to Virginia)
I-40 (Raleigh to Winston-Salem to Asheville)
I-77 (Charlotte to Virginia)
Requirements for OTR Driving in NC
- Valid CDL-A license
- Minimum 6 months verifiable OTR experience (some carriers accept new graduates)
- Clean MVR with no major violations in the past 3 years
- DOT physical card (medical examiner's certificate)
- Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening
- Must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving
Start Your OTR Driving Career in North Carolina
Submit your application and get matched with companies hiring otr drivers in NC.
OTR Trucking Jobs in North Carolina — FAQs
How much do otr truck drivers make in North Carolina?
OTR truck drivers in North Carolina earn $52,000 - $81,000 annually, depending on experience, endorsements, and carrier. While base pay in North Carolina is near the national average, the lower cost of living means take-home pay stretches further than in coastal states. Sign-on bonuses are widely advertised in this market, but the amount, the qualifying period and the clawback terms differ by carrier — read the offer letter rather than the recruiting ad, and ask when the money actually lands.
What are the best OTR trucking routes through North Carolina?
North Carolina's interstate system connects drivers to major freight lanes across the region. Outbound loads from North Carolina typically move to distribution hubs in neighboring states, while inbound freight includes consumer goods, raw materials, and manufacturing inputs. Carriers based in or running through NC offer consistent miles with multiple routing options.
Are trucking companies in North Carolina hiring otr drivers in 2026?
Yes — otr driver demand in North Carolina is moderate heading into 2026. The otr segment in North Carolina is expanding, with carriers adding routes and increasing hiring as freight volumes grow. Check individual carrier listings for current openings and application requirements in NC.