Industry & Market News Sep 18, 2026

Roehl Transport Announces Second Driver Pay Increase of 2026

Roehl Transport is raising driver pay for the second time this year, with new compensation rates taking effect October 4, 2026. The Wisconsin-based carrier says the combined increases represent one of the largest driver compensation investments in its history.

Roehl Transport announces second truck driver pay increase of 2026

ROEHL'S SECOND DRIVER PAY INCREASE THIS YEAR

Roehl Transport has announced another pay increase for its company truck drivers, continuing its efforts to improve compensation and attract experienced professionals in a competitive freight transportation market.

The Marshfield, Wisconsin-based trucking company says the latest increase will help position its highest-earning drivers among the best-paid professionals in the industry. According to the company, many drivers will be able to earn more than $100,000 annually while returning home weekly and, in some cases, daily.

The new compensation changes reflect Roehl's broader strategy of investing in its driving workforce while maintaining a focus on customer service, driver retention, and operational performance.

The latest pay adjustment is scheduled to take effect on October 4, 2026, and will apply to most company drivers working in several of Roehl Transport's major operating divisions.

Major Operating Divisions Included:

  • Refrigerated transportation
  • Flatbed operations
  • Van transportation
  • Curtainside freight
  • Dedicated trucking

The company has not provided a single universal pay rate for all drivers in these divisions. Compensation may vary depending on the type of operation, experience, tenure, and other applicable factors.

Roehl described the combined pay increases announced during 2026 as one of the largest compensation investments in its history. The move comes as trucking companies continue working to recruit and retain qualified drivers amid competition for experienced CDL professionals.

Effective Oct 4, 2026

Multi-Division Implementation

Applies across refrigerated, flatbed, van, curtainside, and dedicated operating fleets.

Historic Investment

Two Increases in 2026

Combined adjustments represent one of the largest driver compensation commitments in company history.

EARNING POTENTIAL & PREVIOUS COMPENSATION

Company Says Top Drivers Can Earn More Than $100,000

One of the most significant points in Roehl's announcement is its emphasis on annual earning potential. The carrier said many drivers will be earning well over $100,000 annually while maintaining home-time schedules that allow them to return home every week or, in some cases, every day.

This earning potential is particularly relevant to professional drivers who are evaluating employment opportunities based on both compensation and lifestyle.

"Many drivers will be able to earn more than $100,000 annually while returning home weekly and, in some cases, daily."

However, annual earnings depend on the driver's specific position, freight operation, qualifications, and applicable compensation structure. The company's general announcement does not establish that every Roehl driver will earn more than $100,000.

For drivers considering a new position, it is important to review the specific pay program, expected miles or workload, home-time arrangements, and eligibility requirements with the carrier.

Roehl Previously Increased Driver Compensation

The October pay increase follows another compensation adjustment announced earlier in 2026. Earlier this year, Roehl Transport increased driver pay to recognize longevity and tenure. The changes included drivers who began their careers through the company's on-the-job CDL training program.

The carrier also increased compensation for certified driver trainers and introduced retention bonuses. These initiatives reflect a broader approach to driver compensation that extends beyond standard mileage or performance pay.

By recognizing tenure and training responsibilities, Roehl is also addressing different stages of a driver's career, from entry-level development to experienced professional operations.

OWNER-OPERATORS & HOME TIME OFFERINGS

Additional Compensation for Owner-Operators and Lease Operators

Roehl Transport also announced a significant compensation increase for owner-operators and lease operators working with the company. This portion of the announcement is separate from the pay changes affecting most company drivers.

Owner-operators and lease operators typically operate under different financial arrangements than company employees. Their earnings and expenses can depend on factors such as equipment costs, fuel, maintenance, operating agreements, and freight revenue.

Roehl's announcement indicates that the company is expanding its compensation investment across multiple driver categories, rather than limiting the changes to company-employed drivers. Drivers interested in these opportunities should review the specific terms and financial requirements of the applicable program.

Home Time Remains an Important Part of Roehl's Driver Offering

In addition to compensation, Roehl Transport highlights home time as part of its employment offering. The company reports that more than half of its drivers are home at least every week. It also says that some drivers can return home daily, depending on their specific operating position.

Home-time availability varies by division, route structure, freight requirements, and driver assignment. For commercial drivers seeking predictable daily shifts and regular family time, exploring local CDL-A truck driving jobs USA offers an effective way to balance solid earnings with sleeping in their own bed every night.

For CDL-A drivers, the ability to combine competitive earnings with regular home time can be an important consideration when comparing dedicated freight lanes with regional CDL-A truck driving jobs and other trucking positions.

Prospective drivers should confirm the expected schedule and home-time policy for the specific job they are considering.

DRIVER RETENTION & SAFETY RECOGNITION

Roehl Continues to Focus on Driver Retention

The trucking industry relies heavily on experienced drivers who can consistently meet customer delivery requirements and operate safely. Roehl's compensation changes are part of the company's stated efforts to invest in the people responsible for transporting freight.

CEO Rick Roehl emphasized the company's appreciation for its drivers and their commitment to customer service.

“We believe Roehl drivers should earn more,” Roehl said.

He also highlighted the importance of drivers following the company's operating principles, meeting delivery expectations, and supporting customer satisfaction.

Rick Roehl continues to maintain his CDL and haul loads, according to the company, allowing him to remain connected to the work performed by Roehl drivers.

Roehl Transport Highlights Its Safety Record

Roehl Transport is a five-time recipient of the American Trucking Associations' President's Award. The award recognizes trucking companies for safety performance and is described by the company as the industry's highest safety honor.

Roehl also plans to celebrate 65 years in business in 2027. The company's history and safety recognition form part of its broader corporate identity as it continues recruiting and retaining professional drivers.

Safety performance, compensation, training, and operational support are all factors that can influence a driver's decision when evaluating a carrier.

CAREER PATHS & WHAT IT MEANS FOR DRIVERS

What the Pay Increase Means for CDL-A Drivers

The new pay increase provides another compensation-related development for drivers looking at employment opportunities with Roehl Transport. The October 4 effective date gives current and prospective drivers a specific timeline for the changes.

However, the announcement does not specify the exact increase amount for every division or driver position. Therefore, drivers should not assume that the same adjustment will apply to all roles.

Before accepting a position, drivers may want to clarify:

  • The exact pay structure for the selected division.
  • How experience and tenure affect compensation.
  • Available home-time options.
  • Eligibility for bonuses and additional compensation.
  • Whether the position is company driving, owner-operator, or lease operation.
  • Training and driver development opportunities.

These details can help drivers evaluate how a specific position aligns with their professional and financial goals.

Roehl Offers Multiple Trucking Career Paths

Roehl Transport operates several freight divisions, giving drivers the opportunity to explore different types of trucking work. Its refrigerated, flatbed, van, curtainside, and dedicated operations serve different freight and operational requirements, whether drivers prefer regional dedicated services or long-distance hauling through OTR CDL-A jobs across the USA.

The company also offers a lease purchase program for drivers interested in owning their own trucking business. Lease purchase arrangements differ from traditional company-driver employment and may involve financial commitments and operating costs. Drivers should carefully review the terms before entering such an agreement.

The availability of specific positions, pay rates, and home-time schedules should be confirmed directly with Roehl Transport.

Roehl's Compensation Investment Comes as Carriers Compete for Drivers

Roehl's latest announcement illustrates how compensation remains a key area of focus for trucking companies seeking to attract and retain professional drivers. The company says its combined 2026 increases represent a substantial investment in driver compensation. The changes cover multiple driver groups, including company drivers, certified trainers, owner-operators, and lease operators.

For CDL-A professionals, compensation is only one part of evaluating a trucking job. Home time, training, freight type, operating region, and employment structure can also influence the suitability of a position.

Roehl's October 4 pay increase will provide an updated compensation arrangement for eligible drivers across its participating divisions. Drivers interested in Roehl Transport should contact the company directly to confirm current openings, pay details, and applicable employment requirements.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A quick summary of the major developments announced by Roehl Transport:

  • Roehl Transport announced its second driver pay increase of 2026.
  • The new changes take effect October 4, 2026.
  • Most company drivers in refrigerated, flatbed, van, curtainside, and dedicated divisions are included.
  • The company says many drivers will earn well over $100,000 annually.
  • Earlier 2026 changes included tenure-related pay increases, trainer compensation, and retention bonuses.
  • Owner-operators and lease operators will also receive a significant compensation increase.
  • More than half of Roehl drivers are reportedly home at least weekly.

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