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Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary in the United States

How much does a Light Cargo Truck Driver III make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver III in the United States is $55,290 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.

However, a Light Cargo Truck Driver III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $66,753
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $47,390 to $61,290
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $40,197
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Key Factors That Influence Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salaries

A Light Cargo Truck Driver III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Light Cargo Truck Driver IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $61,190.
  • California: $60,990.
  • Massachusetts: $60,090.

Top Paying Cities for Light Cargo Truck Driver IIIs

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $69,690
  • San Francisco: $68,890
  • Oakland: $67,490

Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Light Cargo Truck Driver III salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $61,789. While startup companies pay approximate $52,267.

Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $52,267
Growth Stage 51~500 $55,278
Established 501~5000 $59,665
Enterprise 5000+ $61,789

Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Light Cargo Truck Driver III roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 43% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Chemicals and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Light Cargo Truck Driver positions in Transportation or Energy & Utilities typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Light Cargo Truck Driver III as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Light Cargo Truck Driver III

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Chemicals$66,348$32.020%
Financial Services$63,583$31.015%
Insurance$61,925$30.012%
Aerospace & Defense$60,819$29.010%
Media$59,713$29.08%

Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Light Cargo Truck Driver III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$47,390
Average $55,290/year
$61,290
$3,949
Average $4,608/month
$5,108
$911
Average $1,063/week
$1,179
$23
Average $27/hour
$29
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $61,290 $5,108 $1,179 $29
Average $55,290 $4,608 $1,063 $27
25th Percentile $47,390 $3,949 $911 $23

Light Cargo Truck Driver III Salary Growth & Career Path

Light Cargo Truck Driver III

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Light Cargo Truck Driver III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Truck Driver IV (CDL-A) $66,400 20%
Truck Dispatch Operations Supervisor $62,140 12%

Most common benefits for Light Cargo Truck Driver III

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Light Cargo Truck Driver III

Here are companies hiring for Light Cargo Truck Driver III and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Light Cargo Truck Driver III

1. What industry pays the highest salary for Light Cargo Truck Driver III?

The Chemicals industry offers the highest average compensation for Light Cargo Truck Driver III roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

2. Do truck drivers really make 100k?

While some truck drivers can earn over $100,000 annually, the average salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver ranges from $44,890 to $58,990, with a mid-salary of $51,590. Achieving a six-figure income typically requires experience, such as becoming a trainer or transitioning to an owner-operator role.

3. What driver pays the most?

The highest paying driving jobs in 2024 include tanker drivers, tractor-trailer truck drivers, and owner-operator drivers. Among these, Light Cargo Truck Drivers earn a salary range from $44,890 to $58,990, with a mid-salary of $51,590, making it a competitive option in the driving industry.

4. Can a truck driver drive 1000 miles a day?

While there isn't a specific limit on the miles a truck driver can cover in a day, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Hours of Service (HOS) regulations dictate driving hours. Light Cargo Truck Drivers earn between $44,890 and $58,990 annually, with a median salary of $51,590, reflecting the demands and responsibilities of the job.

5. Can truck drivers make 200k a year?

While some truck drivers can earn high salaries, the average salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver ranges from $44,890 to $58,990 annually. To reach $200,000, a driver would need to consistently haul high-paying loads, which is not typical for most drivers.

6. Can a truck driver be a millionaire?

While the average salary for a light cargo truck driver ranges from $44,890 to $58,990, opportunities for wealth exist, especially for owner-operators. With strategic planning and side ventures, some drivers can achieve millionaire status in the trucking industry. Success often depends on business acumen and market conditions.

7. How much do cargo truck drivers make in the US?

Cargo truck drivers in the US earn between $44,890 and $58,990 annually. The average salary is approximately $51,590. This translates to an hourly wage of about $24.00 to $28.30, depending on experience and location.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

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