Driver abroad, truck

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

A foreign truck driver is responsible for transporting goods between Sweden and other countries in Europe. Tasks include route planning, loading and unloading goods, and ensuring that transports comply with applicable laws and regulations for international traffic. The job often involves long working days and periods away from home, as driving can span several days or weeks. The work environment is characterized by extensive time on the roads, varying weather conditions, and demands for punctuality and safe handling of both cargo and vehicles. Good communication skills and the ability to handle unexpected situations while on the move are central qualities for success in the role of a foreign driver.

Salary development over time

The salary for foreign truck drivers has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 33 600 SEK, representing an increase of just over 7.7 percent over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified drivers in international transports and a greater focus on working conditions in the industry. Despite the positive trend, the salary level remains close to the industry average, with small differences between men and women. The market has been affected by both a shortage of experienced drivers and a need to meet increased transport volumes within Europe.

Foreign driver, truck salary – complete 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, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 202 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 32 900 SEK/month, men earn 33 700 SEK/month (women 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, but current figures show small regional differences

Education and qualifications

To work as a foreign truck driver, a high school education with a focus on transport, along with a professional driver’s license and valid heavy vehicle license (C/CE), is usually required. In addition to formal education, good knowledge of international traffic regulations and experience with long-distance driving are important. Employers may also require special certificates for hazardous goods or specialized transports.

• High school: Transport program, approximately 3 years
• Driver's license: C and CE endorsements required
• Professional competence certificate (YKB): Mandatory for freight transport
• ADR certificate: For transporting hazardous goods
• Practical training: Often completed during education
• Prerequisites: Category B driver’s license and approved grades in Swedish and mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Foreign truck drivers often receive per diems for overnight stays abroad, travel allowances, and sometimes bonuses related to driving style and fuel consumption. Other common benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, and the possibility of flexible leave between longer driving periods. For some employment types, accommodation and meal costs may also be partially covered by the employer during international runs.

Competition and challenges

The job market for foreign truck drivers is characterized by high demand and some competition, especially within larger transport companies and international freight forwarders. A challenge in the profession is long periods away from home and the need to quickly adapt to different countries' traffic regulations and working conditions. At the same time, many employers experience difficulty recruiting experienced and reliable drivers. Technological developments also impose increased demands for digital skills, such as managing modern tachographs and logistics systems. Over time, the industry has become more regulated, requiring higher compliance with documentation and occupational health and safety laws.

Tips for aspiring foreign truck drivers

To succeed as a foreign truck driver, it is good to combine careful planning with flexibility, as the job requires efficient route planning and the ability to handle unexpected situations. Good physical endurance is important to cope with long driving shifts and heavy lifting during loading and unloading. Being communicative facilitates customer contacts and collaboration with colleagues in different countries. Independence is an advantage, as the work is often done alone and decisions need to be made quickly. Finally, stress resistance is crucial, especially when schedules are tight due to traffic or weather issues, and good judgment helps prioritize safety at all times.

Key facts about foreign truck drivers

• Salary range: 28,900–35,500 SEK/month
• Education level: High school with additional certificates
• Work environment: Mobile, international, often long periods away from home
• Demand: 412 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 98% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a foreign truck driver, career development can lead to specialist roles such as hazardous goods or specialized transports. There are also opportunities to advance to transport manager, instructor, or trainer within professional traffic. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities are expected to remain good, with stable demand over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties persist, favoring drivers with broad experience and additional certificates. The industry also offers further training options and transitions to logistics or forwarding services for those wishing to broaden their skills.

Frequently asked questions about foreign truck drivers

• What does a foreign truck driver earn?
  - The average salary is 33 600 SEK/month, with a range between 28,900 and 35,500 SEK/month depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a foreign truck driver?
  - High school transport program, C/CE driving license, professional competence certificate, and sometimes ADR certification for hazardous goods are required.
• What is the job market like for foreign truck drivers?
  - Demand is high and there are currently 412 job openings within the profession according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What benefits are common for foreign truck drivers?
  - Per diems, travel allowances, bonuses, occupational pension, and wellness contributions are common benefits.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Independence, stress resistance, communication skills, and good physical endurance are key qualities.