Dry Van Jobs — Holiday Peak Season Freight
Fall / Winter (October — December). Dry Van positions with +15-25% over base rates.
Dry Van During Holiday Peak Season Freight
Holiday peak season is the Super Bowl of trucking, running from October through December as retailers stock up for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas. Dry van rates typically surge 15-25% as shippers compete for capacity to move consumer goods from distribution centers to stores and fulfillment centers. This period accounts for 25-30% of annual retail sales, and every package, pallet, and trailer matters.
Dry van is the backbone of American freight, hauling everything from retail goods to packaged foods inside fully enclosed 53-foot trailers. It accounts for roughly 70% of all truckload freight in the U.
Top States for Holiday Peak Season Freight
Companies Hiring
Tips
- 💡 Start talking to recruiters in August and September — the best holiday freight contracts and sign-on bonuses are offered before peak season begins.
- 💡 Keep your truck and trailer in top mechanical shape entering October — a breakdown during peak season means missing the highest-paying weeks of the year.
- 💡 Consider team driving during the holidays — shippers will pay premium rates for expedited coast-to-coast service when inventory is running low.
FAQ
Are dry van drivers needed during holiday peak season freight?
Yes, dry van drivers are in high demand during holiday peak season freight (October — December). Carriers offer +15-25% over base rates during peak periods.
How much extra can dry van drivers earn during holiday peak season freight?
Dry Van drivers can earn +15-25% over base rates during holiday peak season freight compared to normal rates. The premium applies to both company drivers and owner-operators.
Which companies hire dry van drivers for holiday peak season freight?
Top companies hiring dry van drivers during holiday peak season freight include Amazon Freight, Walmart Transportation, J.B. Hunt.