Dry Van Jobs in California

CDL-A dry van driver positions in California (CA). Average pay: $61,500 - $92,500.

CDL-A$61,500 - $92,500

California Dry Van Pay

$61,500 - $92,500

CDL Required

CDL-A

National Demand

Very High

Dry Van Market in California

Dry van freight on the West Coast is dominated by imported consumer goods moving from the Ports of LA/Long Beach and the Port of Seattle-Tacoma into distribution centers. The Inland Empire's 1.5+ billion square feet of warehouse space — the largest concentration in the nation — is ground zero for dry van operations. Transloading containers into 53-foot dry vans for domestic distribution is a massive industry. I-10, I-15, and I-40 carry these loads eastbound to the rest of the country.

About California Trucking

California handles roughly 40% of all U.S. containerized imports through the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The state's massive agricultural sector in the Central Valley and strict emissions regulations shape one of the country's most demanding and highest-paying trucking markets.

Key Industries in California

  • Port drayage & container hauling
  • Agriculture (produce, dairy, wine)
  • Technology & e-commerce fulfillment
  • Entertainment & film equipment
  • Construction materials

Top Dry Van Corridors in California

1

Inland Empire to nationwide (I-10/I-15/I-40)

2

LA port transload to domestic distribution

3

Bay Area tech and consumer to I-80 east

4

Central Valley packaged food distribution

Companies Hiring Dry Van Drivers in California

Knight-Swift

#1

Werner Enterprises

#2

Schneider National

#3

J.B. Hunt

#4

NFI Industries

#5

Other Equipment Types in California

Refrigerated (Reefer)TankerHazmatCar Hauler / Auto TransportIntermodal / DrayageBox Truck

Dry Van Jobs in Other States

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Dry Van Trucking FAQ for California

How much do dry van drivers earn in California?

Dry van driver salaries in California (CA) vary based on experience, endorsements, and the specific freight market. The west coast region's demand for port drayage, technology freight, and agricultural exports directly influences pay rates. Top employers include Knight-Swift, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, and J.B. Hunt. Drivers with 3+ years of experience and a clean record typically earn toward the top of the pay range.

What qualifications do I need for dry van jobs in California?

To work as a dry van driver in California, you'll need a CDL-A for full-size trailers — dry van is considered the entry-level equipment type, making it ideal for new CDL holders building their experience. California follows federal CDL testing standards administered through the state's DMV or licensing authority. Most dry van carriers in the west coast region also run background checks and require a current DOT medical card.

What is the job outlook for dry van drivers in California?

The demand for dry van drivers in California remains strong due to the state's role in port drayage, technology freight, and agricultural exports. Key freight lanes include Inland Empire to nationwide (I-10/I-15/I-40) and LA port transload to domestic distribution. The nationwide CDL driver shortage — estimated at over 80,000 unfilled positions — means qualified dry van drivers in California have significant leverage when negotiating pay and home time.