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How much do backhaul driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for backhaul driver in the United States is $31.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.97 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backhaul Driver position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backhaul Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving skills, and experience in freight or logistics operations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation, and basic truck maintenance is typically required, along with adherence to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Strong time management, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help ensure timely deliveries and efficient coordination with dispatch and warehouse teams. These capabilities are crucial for meeting delivery schedules, maintaining safety standards, and supporting smooth logistical operations across various routes.

What are some typical challenges faced by Backhaul Drivers, and how can they be managed?

Backhaul Drivers often face challenges such as tight delivery schedules, heavy traffic, changing weather conditions, and the need to coordinate pick-ups from multiple locations. Managing these demands requires effective route planning, strong communication with dispatchers, and a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance to avoid delays. Drivers may also need to adapt quickly to last-minute schedule changes or unexpected issues at loading docks. Employers usually provide training and support tools to help drivers handle these situations efficiently. Being prepared for these challenges not only keeps operations running smoothly but also helps drivers maintain a good work-life balance.

What is a Backhaul Driver job?

A Backhaul Driver is a truck driver responsible for transporting goods on return trips after delivering a load. Rather than driving an empty truck back to the starting location, they pick up freight from suppliers or distribution centers along the way. This helps maximize efficiency and reduce transportation costs. Backhaul Drivers often coordinate with dispatchers to find available loads that fit their route. Their role is essential in supply chain logistics, ensuring fewer empty miles and better resource utilization.

More about Backhaul Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Backhaul Driver jobs? Cities with the most Backhaul Driver job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhaul Driver jobs? The most popular types of Backhaul Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Backhaul Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Backhaul Driver jobs include:
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Backhaul Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhaul Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,790 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Driver, Dedicated Backhaul

Driver, Dedicated Backhaul

Performance Foodservice

Westby, WI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Performance Food Group rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 48 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Job Description:

Must have excellent attendance and driving record; no disciplinary action in past 12 months
We Deliver the Goods:
  • Competitive pay and benefits, including Day 1 Health & Wellness Benefits, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, 401K Employer Matching, Education Assistance, Paid Time Off, and much more
  • Growth opportunities performing essential work to support America’s food distribution system
  • Safe and inclusive working environment, including culture of rewards, recognition, and respect
Position Purpose:
Food and food service delivery Drivers fulfill a critical role in the country’s food supply chain. Our delivery drivers not only make sure the customers’ products arrive at their destination at the arranged times and in good condition, but they are the face of our company – building lasting relationships with our customers!
The Driver, Dedicated Backhaul is responsible for driving a tractor-trailer (day cab/sleeper), tandem trailer and/or straight trucks on intrastate and/or interstate routes to pick up logistics' loads and/or other related food and non-food product loads in a safe and timely manner and in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. The Driver, Dedicated Backhaul is responsible for driving a tractor trailer or straight truck on intrastate and interstate local, over-the-road (OTR), shuttle, and overnight and drive and drop routes for the purpose of delivering and/or unloading food and food related products to customers in a safe and timely manner and in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Communicates and interacts with customers, vendors and co-workers professionally ensuring questions are answered accurately and in a timely manner. Functions as a team member within the department and organization, as required, and perform any duty assigned to best serve the company.
Responsibilities may include, but not limited to:
  • Drive to assigned supplier/vendor and/or PFG warehouse locations according to a predetermined route and delivery schedule. The schedule and route types may be local and/or over-the-road, i.e., layovers. Over-the-road schedule length will vary based on the location's business needs.
  • Delivers assigned loads back to PFG warehouse locations for receiving into inventory. Ensures timely pick-ups and the right product is received and loaded.
  • Performs appropriate load and paperwork inspections including but not limited to product counts, invoices of products that have been loaded, quality checks and other related items as required.
  • Check and complete in an accurate and legible fashion all the required paperwork associated with backhaul operations.
  • Routinely check in with direct supervisor to confirm route, load, and schedule. Advise direct supervisor of load drop-off/pick-up issues, schedule changes and other related information. At the end of the shift secure all equipment and complete all necessary paperwork.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma/GED or Equivalent
1+ years commercial driving experience
Valid CDL-A
Must be 21+ years of age
Meet all State licensing and/or certification requirements (where applicable)
Clean Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) for past 3 years
Pass post offer drug test and criminal background check
Pass road test
Attains or has valid current DOT Health Card and/or able to secure new DOT Health Card
Able to hand-lift and utilize two-wheeler, lift gate and/or other equipment to move and/or stack product cases/freight of varying size and weight throughout shift; product generally ranges from between 10-35 pounds and up to between approximately 60 and 90 pounds, depending on the location

Company description


Performance Foodservice, PFG’s broadline distributor, maintains a unique relationship with a variety of local customers, including independent restaurants and hotels, healthcare facilities, schools, and quick-service eateries. A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with customers — providing advice on improving operations, menu development, product selection, and operational strategies. The Performance team delivers delicious food but also goes above and beyond to help independent restaurant owners achieve their dreams.

Awards and Accolades

Performance Food Group and/or its subsidiaries (individually or collectively, the "Company") provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all applicants and employees, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. Please click on the following links to review: (1) our EEO Policy; (2) the "EEO is the Law" poster and supplement; and (3) the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.

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