Job Snapshot
Weekly Pay Target $1,450–$1,700
Mileage Rate $0.61–$0.67 CPM
Weekly Miles 2,100–2,500 Miles
Home Frequency 1-2 nights out
Freight Touch Level 60% Drop & Hook
Run Territory IL, IN, WI, IA
Equipment Late-Model Day Cabs & Sleepers
Trailer Type 53' Dry Vans
Position Overview
This dedicated regional shuttle position is available with a confidential Midwest carrier supporting automotive manufacturing and aftermarket parts distribution. Drivers based at the Joliet terminal run consistent lanes to supplier facilities and distribution centers across northern Illinois, Indiana, southern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa.
Freight consists of palletized automotive components, engines, drivetrain assemblies, stamped metal parts, and returnable racks. Most runs are one pickup to one delivery with occasional additional stops on the return. The operation runs on scheduled appointments tied to production needs, keeping miles steady without the unpredictability of OTR spot market work.
Primary lanes use I-55, I-80, I-90, I-94 and connecting routes out of the Joliet/Elwood area. Drivers average 2,100–2,500 miles per week with regular returns through the Joliet terminal.
Typical Day
Shifts usually start between 4:30 AM and 7:00 AM at the Joliet terminal. Drivers pick up a pre-assigned trailer or perform a quick drop-and-hook, verify the seal and BOL, then head out. Most loads are already staged.
Routes to Indianapolis, Lafayette, Milwaukee, or Rockford typically involve one main delivery with possible return freight. Live loads or unloads take 45 minutes to two hours. Dispatch sends updates through Samsara if production schedules shift. Drivers return to Joliet several times a week for reloads, fueling, or to end the shift.
Route Coverage & Operations
Active Driving Territory: Northern IL, IN, Southern WI, Eastern IA
Average Trip Distance: 150–450 Miles
Route Type: Dedicated Regional Shuttle
Primary Corridors & Highways: I-55, I-80, I-90, I-94, I-294, I-39, I-88
Core Delivery Cities: Indianapolis, Lafayette, Milwaukee, Rockford, Davenport
Freight Specifications
You'll haul palletized automotive parts and components including engines, drivetrain assemblies, stamped metal, suspension pieces, and service inventory. Return loads often include empty racks or containers. Freight is sensitive to production schedules but moves year-round.
Primary Commodities: Automotive components & parts
Load Profile: Palletized in 53' dry vans
Reload Frequency: High on most returns
Hiring Area
We are hiring drivers who live within reasonable driving distance of the Joliet terminal. Priority goes to candidates in the greater Chicago area, Will County, and nearby suburbs who can reliably reach the yard for dispatch.
Tractor Features & Fleet Specifications
Tractors: Freightliner Cascadia, Kenworth T680, Volvo VNL
Average Equipment Age: 2020–2024 models
Transmission Setup: Automatic
Safety Systems: Bendix Wingman, adaptive cruise, lane departure, stability control
ELD & Cameras: Samsara with forward-facing cameras
Policy: Assigned tractors when available
Compensation & Base Earnings
Mileage Rate: $0.61–$0.67 CPM
Average Weekly Earnings: $1,450–$1,700
Weekly Miles: 2,100–2,500
Pay Frequency: Weekly direct deposit
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the home time frequency on this account? A: 1-2 nights out most weeks with regular Joliet returns
Q: Do I need special endorsements to qualify? A: No special endorsements required
Q: What is the target weekly pay for this position? A: $1,450–$1,700 depending on miles and performance
Q: How much touch freight is involved? A: About 40% live load or unload, rest drop and hook
Q: Are tractors assigned? A: Yes, whenever scheduling allows
Joliet Area Freight Market
Joliet sits at a major Midwest logistics hub with strong automotive and manufacturing activity. The area benefits from excellent interstate access and proximity to Chicago distribution networks. Drivers in this market enjoy steady dedicated work supporting production schedules that continue year-round.
Automotive parts shuttle runs out of Joliet help keep supplier lines moving across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Iowa. The combination of consistent miles, modern equipment, and predictable regional lanes makes this a solid choice for experienced drivers who prefer home time over long-haul OTR.
