overtheroad

Over the road (OTR) trucking refers to long-haul freight transport by commercial trucks over large intercity or cross-country distances. It contrasts with local or regional trucking, where trips stay within a city or a few hundred miles. OTR usually involves tractor-trailer units and sleeper cabs to support multi-day trips.

Drivers cover hundreds to thousands of miles weekly. Common routes connect manufacturing hubs, distribution centers, and retail markets across North America. Freight includes consumer goods, machinery, building materials, and perishables in refrigerated trailers. OTR operations require complex scheduling, multi-stop runs, and coordination with shippers and brokers. Home time varies, with many drivers spending nights away from home, though some teams maximize stability.

Regulation and licensing: In the United States, drivers must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL). OTR drivers follow federal hours-of-service rules, limiting driving to 11 hours after 10 hours off, with a 14-hour on-duty window and a 60/70-hour weekly limit. Electronic logging devices (ELDs) record hours and duty status.

Employment and economics: OTR work is offered to company drivers and owner-operators. Pay is often per mile or a percentage of revenue. The field faces driver shortages, long hours, and safety and compliance pressures. New entrants complete CDL training or apprenticeships and may advance to owner-operator or fleet roles.

History and context: The expansion of nationwide highways and logistics networks in the mid-20th century established long-haul trucking as a core freight mode. Today, OTR remains essential for connecting production and consumption over large regions, with ongoing developments in automation, telematics, and regulation shaping practice.