Heartland Express
$55,000 - $80,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated
Moderate Demand
Over-the-Road (OTR) Jobs in Iowa
Browse otr trucking positions across Iowa with top carriers hiring now.
Average Pay
$54,000 - $84,000
Demand Level
Moderate
Top Carriers
5+ Hiring
Key Cities
5+ Markets
OTR Trucking in Iowa
Iowa is positioned in the heart of America's freight network where major interstates intersect. OTR drivers based here can reach 80% of the U.S. population within a single driving shift, making it a prime location for long-haul carriers. Demand for OTR drivers in Iowa is moderate, with carriers actively recruiting experienced drivers and offering competitive sign-on bonuses. The state's strategic location keeps freight volumes consistent year-round.
Top Companies Hiring OTR Drivers in IA
View Company
CRST International
$48,000 - $80,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Team, Flatbed
KLLM Transport
$55,000 - $85,000OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Refrigerated
Prime Inc.
$50,000 - $80,000+OTR, Regional, Refrigerated, Tanker, Flatbed
Forward Air
$60,000 - $90,000OTR, Regional, LTL, Expedited, Owner-Operator
Top Cities for OTR Jobs in Iowa
Sioux City
Iowa
Waterloo
Iowa
Cedar Rapids
Iowa
Davenport
Iowa
Des Moines
Iowa
Key Freight Routes in Iowa
1
I-80 (east-west through Des Moines)
2
I-35 (north-south through Des Moines)
3
I-380 (Cedar Rapids corridor)
Requirements for OTR Driving in IA
- Valid CDL-A license
- Minimum 6 months verifiable OTR experience (some carriers accept new graduates)
- Clean MVR with no major violations in the past 3 years
- DOT physical card (medical examiner's certificate)
- Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening
- Must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving
Start Your OTR Driving Career in Iowa
Submit your application and get matched with companies hiring otr drivers in IA.
OTR Trucking Jobs in Iowa — FAQs
How much do otr truck drivers make in Iowa?
OTR truck drivers in Iowa earn $54,000 - $84,000 annually, depending on experience, endorsements, and carrier. Iowa's central location and freight density help drivers maintain consistent miles, which translates to strong annual earnings. Sign-on bonuses of $3,000 to $15,000 are common at major carriers actively hiring in IA.
What are the best OTR trucking routes through Iowa?
Iowa's interstate system connects drivers to major freight lanes across the region. Outbound loads from Iowa typically move to distribution hubs in neighboring states, while inbound freight includes consumer goods, raw materials, and manufacturing inputs. Carriers based in or running through IA offer consistent miles with multiple routing options.
Are trucking companies in Iowa hiring otr drivers in 2026?
Yes — otr driver demand in Iowa is moderate heading into 2026. The otr segment in Iowa is expanding, with carriers adding routes and increasing hiring as freight volumes grow. Check individual carrier listings for current openings and application requirements in IA.