Charlotte, NC — Cardinal Logistics is actively pushing to fill a variety of driving positions across its network of 175 nationwide locations as of September 10, 2026. The company is currently seeking to bolster its ranks by offering a mix of OTR, regional, and local routes designed to cater to different home-time preferences and compensation goals for professional drivers.
Finding a consistent carrier remains a priority for many in the industry, and Cardinal is positioning its fleet by offering late-model equipment outfitted with modern safety and comfort features. The company’s recruitment drive includes a benefits package that triggers after 30 days of employment, alongside paid orientation and training. These initiatives are part of a broader push by trucking companies hiring to stabilize staffing levels amidst fluctuating freight demands across the lower 48 states.
The compensation tiers vary significantly based on the assigned route. OTR company drivers can earn over $85,000 annually, with a daily pay structure of $300 plus a $50 per diem, provided they are willing to touch freight. Those opting for regional flatbed work see annual earnings around $75,000, while local positions focusing on dry van or flatbed work offer annual pay exceeding $55,000. Each role requires a valid Class A CDL and at least nine months of tractor-trailer experience earned within the last three years.
What This Means for Drivers
CDL-A driver candidates will find that the flexibility of these roles depends heavily on the specific account assigned. OTR drivers must prepare for three-week stints on the road, while those seeking a better work-life balance can target home-weekly positions that offer an average income of $71,000. The inclusion of a $1,500 sign-on bonus for certain weekly-home roles serves as a direct incentive for experienced operators looking to transition into more predictable schedules.
Industry Reaction
The current landscape of the freight market continues to favor carriers that can offer clear, predictable compensation structures. By providing specific dollar figures for daily and weekly earnings, Cardinal is addressing the transparency concerns often voiced by drivers navigating the job market. This approach reflects a wider industry trend where carriers attempt to differentiate themselves through defined home-time guarantees and clear expectations regarding freight handling, such as the difference between no-touch dry van work and the manual labor required for PODS container strapping.
Key Points
- OTR drivers can earn over $85,000 annually with a $1,500 weekly minimum when not on home time.
- Regional flatbed drivers handle no-touch freight involving PODS containers and earn $75,000 per year.
- Local driving roles provide daily home time and annual earnings exceeding $55,000.
- Applicants must hold a Class A CDL and have at least nine months of recent tractor-trailer experience.
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