Job Snapshot
Weekly Pay Target $1,500–$1,700
Mileage Rate $0.60–$0.66 CPM
Weekly Miles 2,200–2,500 Miles
Home Frequency 1-3 nights out
Freight Touch Level 40% live unload
Run Territory IL, IN, WI
Equipment 2020–2024 Freightliner/Volvo/Kenworth
Trailer 53' Reefers
Position Overview
We're looking for experienced CDL-A drivers to run dedicated grocery distribution out of our Joliet terminal. This regional account moves temperature-controlled freight for wholesalers and supermarket distribution centers across northern Illinois, Indiana, and southern Wisconsin.
Most loads originate from logistics parks around Joliet, Elwood, and Romeoville. Drivers typically see 60% drop-and-hook with the rest live unload at warehouse facilities. Routes stay within a 1-3 night regional pattern with regular returns through the Joliet area.
Primary lanes run along I-80, I-55, I-65, I-94, and I-39 servicing grocery DCs in Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Rockford, and South Bend.
Typical Day
Most shifts start between 4:30–7:00 AM at the Joliet terminal or a nearby distribution center. You'll begin with a pre-trip on your assigned tractor, check the reefer unit temperature and seals, then pull your pre-staged trailer.
Runs usually involve one or two deliveries per day. Live unloads at grocery warehouses take 45–120 minutes. Dispatch sends next load info before you finish the current stop whenever possible. Traffic around the Chicago metro is common on I-55 and I-80, but schedules build in buffer time.
At the end of the day most drivers return through Joliet for trailer swaps, inspections, or to stage for the next run. Evening dispatches happen for some overnight replenishment loads.
Route Coverage & Operations
Active Driving Territory: Northern IL, IN, Southern WI
Average Trip Distance: 300–550 Miles
Route Type: Regional Dedicated Reefer
Primary Corridors & Highways: I-80, I-55, I-65, I-94, I-39, I-294
Core Delivery Cities: Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Rockford, South Bend, Peoria
Freight Specifications
You'll haul a mix of packaged grocery items, frozen foods, refrigerated dairy, fresh produce, beverages, bakery goods, and deli/meat products. Most loads come out of major grocery distribution centers and refrigerated warehouses.
Primary Commodities: Grocery & Refrigerated Food Products
Cargo Securing System: 53' Reefers with Carrier/Thermo King units
Load Profile: Palletized, temperature-controlled
Reload Frequency: High backhaul availability
Hiring Area
We are hiring drivers living within reasonable driving distance of the Joliet terminal. Priority given to candidates in the greater Chicagoland area, Will County, and nearby northwest Indiana.
Primary Hiring Cities: Joliet, Plainfield, Romeoville, Bolingbrook, Aurora, Elwood, and surrounding communities
Hiring Radius Limit: 50 miles from Joliet terminal
Tractor Features & Fleet Specifications
Tractor Fleet: 2020–2024 Freightliner Cascadia, Volvo VNL 760, Kenworth T680
Average Equipment Age: 1–4 years
Transmission Setup: 12-speed automated
Safety Technology: Forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise on newer units
ELD System: Samsara platform
Assigned Trucks: Yes, when available
Home Time Frequency
This regional grocery account is built for drivers who want consistent time at home. Most weeks you'll be out 1–3 nights with multiple returns through the Joliet terminal.
Home Reset Frequency: Several nights per week
Schedules / Reset Pattern: Weekly resets at home when freight allows
Compensation & Base Earnings
Mileage Rate: $0.60–$0.66 CPM
Average Weekly Earnings: $1,500–$1,700
Weekly Miles: 2,200–2,500
Payroll Schedule: Weekly direct deposit
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often will I be home? A: Most drivers are out 1–3 nights per week with regular returns to Joliet
Q: What kind of freight will I haul? A: Packaged grocery, frozen foods, dairy, produce, and refrigerated products
Q: What is the target weekly pay for this position? A: $1,500–$1,700 depending on miles and stops
Q: Are trucks assigned? A: Yes, whenever operationally possible
Q: How much touch freight is involved? A: About 40% live unload, mostly at grocery distribution centers
Local Driver Market & Regional Economy
Joliet sits at a major Midwest freight crossroads with excellent access to I-80, I-55, and surrounding interstates. The area supports strong grocery distribution networks serving Chicago metro, northern Indiana, and southern Wisconsin. Food freight provides steady year-round volume compared to more seasonal retail lanes.
Drivers based here benefit from consistent work moving essential grocery products between major distribution centers and warehouses. The proximity to multiple logistics parks means shorter deadhead distances and reliable backhaul opportunities.
