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Local Dry Van Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Local Dry Van information

See Merced, CA salary details

$15

$26

$40

How much do local dry van jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for local dry van in Merced, CA is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a local dry van driver?

Local dry van drivers are professional truck drivers who transport goods using dry van trailers within a specific local or regional area, rather than long-haul routes. A dry van is an enclosed, box-shaped trailer designed to protect cargo from weather and theft. Local drivers typically return home daily, handling deliveries for businesses, warehouses, or retail locations within a set geographic area. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading freight, ensuring timely deliveries, and following safety protocols. This role is ideal for those seeking regular hours and daily home time compared to over-the-road trucking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a local dry van driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Local Dry Van Truck Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of DOT regulations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation systems, and basic vehicle maintenance tools is typically required. Excellent time management, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top drivers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, compliance, on-time deliveries, and effective coordination with dispatchers and customers.

What are some common challenges faced by local dry van drivers, and how can they be managed?

Local dry van drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating urban traffic, meeting tight delivery schedules, and dealing with frequent loading and unloading. Effective time management and strong communication with dispatchers can help drivers stay on track and reduce stress. Additionally, building familiarity with local routes and maintaining good relationships with warehouse staff can make daily operations smoother and more efficient.

What is the difference between Local Dry Van vs Local Reefer?

AspectLocal Dry VanLocal Reefer
CredentialsCDL, DOT medical cardCDL, DOT medical card
Work EnvironmentEnclosed trailer, no temperature controlEnclosed trailer with temperature control
Industry UsageFreight shipping, general goodsPerishable goods, food, pharmaceuticals
Common Search IntentLocal freight, delivery jobsPerishable freight, refrigerated transport

Both Local Dry Van and Local Reefer drivers typically require CDL licenses and work in similar environments. The main difference is that Local Reefer drivers handle temperature-sensitive cargo, such as food and pharmaceuticals, requiring specialized equipment. Local Dry Van drivers transport general freight without temperature control. Your choice depends on the type of cargo you prefer to work with and your certification qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Local Dry Van jobs in Merced, CA?

For Local Dry Van jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Local Dry Van jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Local Dry Van jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Local Dry Van jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Local Dry Van job openings:

Infographic showing various Local Dry Van job openings in Merced, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,128 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

CDL Class A Western 7 Regional Driver

Beast Mode Truckin

Chowchilla, CA • On-site

$67K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Beast Mode Truckin is hiring CDL Class A drivers with at least 3 months experience for a Western regional account serving WA, OR, ID, CA, NV, UT, and AZ. This opportunity provides predictable regional lanes, reliable weekly pay, a paid orientation, and a full benefits package.

  • Route & duties
    • Western 7 regional lanes (WA, OR, ID, CA, NV, UT, AZ)
    • Mostly refrigerated freight; some dry van loads
    • 100% no touch freight with a mix of drop and hook and live load/unloads
    • Home every other week with two full days off
    • 3-day paid orientation at the nearest terminal
  • Compensation
    • Weekly pay: $1,300 – $1,600
    • Starting pay per mile: $0.61 – $0.66 (based on experience)
    • Paid weekly
    • Estimated annual range (based on weekly pay): $67,600 – $83,200
  • Benefits
    • Medical, HSA, and dental coverage
    • Life insurance and AD&D
    • Paid time off (PTO)
    • 401(k) plan and additional voluntary benefits
  • Minimum qualifications
    • Valid CDL Class A
    • Minimum age: 21 years
    • At least 3 months OTR, regional, or local driving experience within the last 12 months
    • Hazmat endorsement required (must obtain within 90 days if not already held)
    • No more than two moving violations in the past 3 years
    • No DOT‑recordable preventable accidents in the past 5 years
    • No major moving violations (e.g., reckless driving, excessive speeding, following too closely) in the past 12 months
    • Must never have failed or refused a DOT drug/alcohol test (No SAP drivers)
    • Current DOT medical certificate with at least 75 days remaining at orientation
    • Not terminated from the last two driving positions (Class A or B)
  • Why drive for Beast Mode Truckin
    • Predictable regional lanes and consistent home time
    • Competitive weekly pay and mileage rates
    • Paid orientation to get you started
    • Comprehensive benefits for health and retirement
  • Additional information
    • This opportunity is well suited to drivers seeking steady regional work with reliable scheduling and strong earning potential.
    • Schedule details, onboarding, and full benefits information will be provided during the hiring process.