Truck driver

What does a truck driver do? – Tasks and work environment

A truck driver is responsible for transporting goods and materials by road, often over both short and long distances. Tasks include loading and unloading the vehicle, route planning, and ensuring deliveries are made on time and according to safety regulations. Working hours can vary greatly and often include early mornings, late evenings, or overnight stays in other locations. The work environment is characterized by solitude on the roads, but also contact with customers and recipients upon delivery. Precision, responsibility, and the ability to handle stressful situations are central qualities in the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, truck drivers' salaries have shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and reached 33 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 7.7% over the period, corresponding to approximately 4% annual salary growth. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for transportation and logistics services, as well as the industry’s need to attract and retain skilled drivers. At the same time, salary development is influenced by economic conditions and collective bargaining negotiations. Regional differences exist, with salaries in metropolitan areas often slightly higher than in smaller towns due to higher living costs and competition for labor.

Truck driver salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (male, various sectors)
• Hourly wage: 202 SEK/hour (average, hourly-paid)
• Gender differences: Men 33 700 SEK, women 32 900 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels tend to be higher in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a truck driver, a license with category C or CE is required, obtained through specialized training. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, often via high school transport programs or adult education. Additionally, a professional competence certificate (YKB) is mandatory for commercial traffic. Practical experience and good knowledge of traffic regulations and safety procedures are crucial.

• High school transport education: 3 years (most commonly via the transport program)
• License C/CE: Required for heavy vehicles (including theory and driving test)
• YKB (professional competence certificate): Mandatory course, 140–280 hours depending on age and experience
• Prerequisites: B driver's license and approved health check
• Internship and supervision: Often included in the training, especially for young drivers

Common benefits and compensations

Truck drivers often have access to per diem allowances for overnight stays, extra pay for night work, and overtime compensation. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses related to efficiency or safe driving. Pension schemes and insurance through collective agreements are also common in the profession.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a truck driver is characterized by a paradoxical labor market where there are both recruitment difficulties and relatively high unemployment in certain segments. Despite many available jobs, employers demand high experience, punctuality, and availability. Long working days, monotonous routes, and physical strains can contribute to high staff turnover. At the same time, the industry is affected by changes in regulations, digitization, and increased demands for environmentally friendly transportation. The demand for skilled drivers is expected to remain stable over the next five years.

Tips for those who want to become a truck driver

To succeed as a truck driver, it is important to have a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to work independently even under time pressure. Precision is critical, especially during loading, unloading, and documentation of goods. Good communication skills facilitate contact with customers and colleagues, while stress resistance helps in handling unforeseen delays or problems on the road. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as working hours and routes can vary greatly. Staying updated on regulations and safety procedures is also essential to avoid fines and accidents. Finally, initiative is appreciated, for example when finding efficient routes or managing unexpected situations on the road.

Key facts about truck drivers

• Salary range: 28,900–35,500 SEK/month
• Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (hourly-paid): 202 SEK
• Education level: High school or adult education + YKB
• Number of available jobs: 412 (May 2024, nationwide)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a truck driver can advance to more specialized roles, such as transportation manager, instructor in YKB training, or driver of specialized transports. Some choose to start their own trucking company or become entrepreneurs in the logistics industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are expected to be plentiful in related professions, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. Despite some unemployment within the profession, there is a clear shortage of experienced and flexible drivers, especially in metropolitan areas and for long-distance transport. Those who continuously upgrade their skills and stay informed about new regulations have good chances to develop and secure their position in the job market.

Common questions about truck drivers

• What is the average salary of a truck driver?
  - A truck driver has an average salary of 33 600 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for a truck driver?
  - The highest salary is 35,500 SEK per month and belongs to a man with post-secondary education shorter than three years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 33 700 SEK and women 32 900 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a truck driver?
  - High school transport education or adult education, along with a C/CE license and YKB, are required.
• What is the job market like for truck drivers?
  - The job market is good with 412 available jobs nationwide, and demand is expected to be stable over the next five years.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include per diem allowances, night work supplements, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and collective pension schemes.
• How much does an hourly-paid truck driver earn?
  - An hourly-paid driver earns an average of 202 SEK per hour.