Pay & Compensation
- Weekly pay: $1,500–$2,500
- Owner-operator potential: Yes
- Paid detention at pier/customer sites
- Performance incentives for overweight, oversize, flatbed/step-deck loads
- Weekly settlement of pay for owner-operators
Location & Routes
- Newark, NJ
- Port Newark to rail yards, warehouses, distribution centers, and nearby customer sites (~350 miles)
- Freight: containers, chassis, short OTR hauls, overweight/oversize freight
- Flexible schedule; frequent returns depending on assignment
Job Description
- Safely operate Class A tractors with chassis and flatbed/step-deck trailers for port drayage and short OTR runs
- Perform pickups and deliveries of shipping containers from Port Newark to customer warehouses, distribution centers, or rail yards
- Manage freight efficiently, ensuring containers are loaded/unloaded properly and secured for transit
- Track delivery schedules and communicate with dispatch regarding pier congestion, detention, or delays
- Handle overweight/oversize or priority loads according to customer and DOT requirements
- Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of tractors, trailers, and chassis for safety compliance
Requirements
CDL Class A
Valid Class A CDL with owner-operator experience preferred
Experience
Minimum 2 years in port drayage, OTR, or container logistics
Age Requirement
Must meet DOT age requirements for CDL-A drivers
MVR & Risk
Clean DOT driving record and ability to pass pre-employment screening
Physical Ability
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as securing containers and handling tie-downs
Communication
Professional communication and problem-solving skills for managing high-priority loads
Equipment & Fleet
- Chassis, flatbed, step-deck trailers; some runs may require specialized freight handling
- Modern, well-maintained trucks and equipment
- Primarily drop-and-hook deliveries with occasional live load/unload
Home Time
- Flexible scheduling with frequent returns home depending on lane assignments and freight volume
- Assignments include daily port runs or short regional OTR trips for work-life balance
Hiring Process
- Apply online via the button below
- Pass background and DOT screenings
- Orientation and training provided
- Meet dispatch and operations team
- Start your driving career
Benefits
- Medical insurance available
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Life insurance options
- Additional benefits: performance incentives, detention pay
- Discounts on truck supplies and equipment
FAQ
What type of freight will I haul?
Containers, chassis, and short regional OTR loads, including overweight and oversize freight.
Do I need prior port experience?
Yes, minimum 2 years of port drayage or OTR experience is preferred.
Is owner-operator allowed?
Yes, owner-operators are welcome and have earning potential.
What is the home time schedule?
Flexible, frequent returns home depending on assignment and freight volume.
Are there safety requirements?
Yes, drivers must follow DOT regulations, perform inspections, and use proper PPE.
How is pay structured?
Weekly pay $1,500–$2,500 with additional performance incentives for overweight/oversize loads and detention.
Real Routes Our Drivers Take
- Port Newark → Local rail yards → Customer warehouses
- Port Newark → Regional distribution centers (~350 miles)
- Short OTR runs between ports and nearby customer sites
Career Opportunities
CDL-A drivers in Newark can expand into dedicated container logistics, regional OTR, and specialized heavy freight routes. Advancement opportunities include owner-operator status, lead driver positions, and logistics coordination roles. High-demand port freight ensures competitive pay, consistent miles, and a variety of assignments that allow drivers to grow their careers while maintaining flexible schedules.
Port Drayage & Short OTR CDL-A Jobs Newark, NJ
This Newark Port Drayage & Short OTR CDL-A opportunity specializes in container and chassis freight handling, offering drivers competitive weekly pay, flexible home time, and modern equipment. Drivers perform drop-and-hook deliveries, manage overweight or oversize loads, and operate across regional routes from Port Newark to rail yards and distribution centers. Learn more about CDL-A careers, news, and other opportunities through CDL-A Jobs, CDL News, OTR CDL-A Jobs, Regional CDL-A Jobs, Local CDL-A Jobs, and Owner Operator CDL-A Jobs.
