15 Best Side Hustles for Truck Drivers To Make Extra Money

Looking to make some extra cash while you’re out on the road? These trucking side hustles are an easy way to make more money.

1. On-the-Go Mechanic

As an On-the-Go Mechanic, you could offer quick fixes for common vehicle issues that you’re already skilled at handling. Whether it’s changing a tire, doing an oil change, or troubleshooting engine problems, you can use your breaks or downtime to assist other truckers or even everyday drivers who need help. You already have the tools and the know-how; all you need is to spread the word and maybe keep some spare parts on hand.

2. On-the-Road Fitness Coach

Offer workout plans or coaching sessions to other truck drivers looking to maintain their health despite the sedentary nature of the job. You can demonstrate simple exercises that can be done in or near their truck, share meal plans that are easy to follow on the road, or even hold virtual coaching sessions during rest stops.

3. Mobile Thrift Store

The idea is simple: source second-hand clothes, vintage items, or even small furniture and sell them out of your truck during stops. You could set up shop at rest areas, truck stops, or parking lots, given that you have the necessary permissions.

4. Meal Prepping Service

You can prepare home-cooked meals and sell them to fellow drivers during stops or layovers. Given that many truckers have limited options for healthy meals on the road, there’s likely to be a good demand for home-cooked food. With some basic cooking skills and safe food storage containers, you can start offering a variety of meal options

5. Handmade Crafts

Whether it’s woodworking, knitting, or creating small trinkets, you can use the solitude and free time on the road to focus on your craft. Once completed, these items can be sold online on platforms like Etsy, at local craft fairs, or even to other truckers and rest stop visitors.

6. Blogging

Ever want to share your epic road stories? Turn those turns, road bumps and truck stop experiences into fascinating blog posts. Not only does it quench your creative thirst, but it’s also a great way to earn extra cash. 

Companies often need people to write about their products or services. Being a truck driver, you have firsthand knowledge of the trucking industry. Write about your experiences, reviews, and insights.

You can set up your own blog on WordPress easily. After setting up, approach trucking companies or related product businesses for sponsored content opportunities.

A blog focused on trucking can cover a wide range of topics. These could include trucking news, reviews of gadgets and gear, advice for new truck drivers, trucking law updates, health tips while on the road, etc.

7. Delivery Services

As a truck driver, you’re good at navigating roads, managing time, and transporting goods. Consider starting your own after-hours delivery service. 

Businesses and individuals often need small or large items moved at odd hours. These jobs are in plenty. Your familiarity with road maps, city routes, and safe driving keeps you in good stead. 

Getting started isn’t rocket science. Reach out to local businesses, put up flyers, or use existing platforms to advertise.

8. Mobile Repair Services

Offering mobile repair services not only puts your mechanical skills to play but also provides an additional income stream. This job requires physical work, hustle, and the ability to diagnose a range of mechanical issues. 

Depending on your skillset, you could offer a wide range of services – from basic maintenance tasks like oil changes and tire rotations to more complex tasks like diagnosing check engine lights and replacing parts. 

9. Truck Wash Business

Starting a truck wash business is a seriously smart move. Think about it. Your fellow truckers are out there, clocking miles and collecting dirt. Chances are, they’d rather spend their time off relaxing than scrubbing down their big rigs.

This is where you step in. With a few cleaning supplies and your established know-how and contacts, you’re ready to serve.

10. Truck Photography

With your truck journey taking you to new places every day, you’ve got a treasure trove of scenic beauty to snap and sell. 

Photography websites happily pay for high-quality snaps. You just have to upload your photos, name your price, and let the cash roll in. Isn’t it cool that you can earn money while doing what you love?

And it’s not just about the landscapes. As a truck driver, you have a special view of the trucking world. So make full use of it. May it be snaps of truck stops, stylish truck gear, or the tough-looking, rumbled trucks themselves – there’s an eager audience ready to pay for it all.

11. Trucker Vlogger

Turning your adventures into video content is an excellent pass time that can also add some cash to your wallet. We’re talking about becoming a Trucker Vlogger. 

While you’re on the road, you witness some truly unique things. From beautiful sunrises to stunning landscapes, from quirky roadside attractions to unbelievable traffic incidents. That’s pure gold for viewers on social platforms like YouTube. Not to mention all the funky stuff that’s going on in your cab! 

Start by getting some basic equipment – a good camera, and maybe a drone for those scenic shots. Don’t worry about scripting your content too much. More than anything, viewers love authenticity! 

You might be thinking now, “But I have no idea about video editing!”. Well, there are plenty of user-friendly video editing tools out there. And if you’re still not feeling it, hiring a part-time video editor could be an option too. 

12. Review New Trucking Gear

Companies often need real, honest feedback on their products from people who’ll be using them, like you. So why not make a few extra bucks doing it? 

Product testing includes everything from trying out new truck technology, tools, accessories, and even clothing. You’ll get these products before anyone else and will share your thoughts on how they work. It’s pretty cool to see a product grow and improve because of your input. 

Here’s a tip for you: once you have scored a couple of product testing gigs, start a blog or YouTube channel to share your reviews. This not only gives you another layer of income but also increases your credibility, which could lead to more testing opportunities.

13. Moving and Hauling Service

People are always on the move, always needing some heavy stuff hauled from point A to point B. And that’s where you come in. With your truck and some extra muscle, you can certainly make a profitable business out of people’s constant need to move stuff.

Start small, focus on local gigs, and build your reputation. Before you know it, you might just be making as much from this little side gig as from your trucking job!

14. Truck Rental Service

Believe it or not, but not everyone who needs a truck, owns one. That’s where you come in. As a truck owner, you possess an asset that’s in demand. Consider renting out your truck during your off-duty hours for those who need to transport heavy goods or move house. 

There are online platforms where you can list your truck for rent. Just set up an account, list your vehicle, indicate when it’s available, and voila! You’re in business.

Every time someone rents your truck, you earn some income. The more frequent it’s rented, the more you earn.

15. Auto Parts Reselling

Look around you. You probably know your way around trucks better than anyone. As an auto parts reseller, you purchase vehicle parts at lower prices and then sell them for a profit. It sounds pretty straightforward, right? 

Suppliers or scrapyards are always getting rid of old parts, and you could be the one to pick up those gems. Once you’ve got the parts, you then list them on online platforms. And that’s it, you’ve set up your side hustle.

Final Thoughts

You now have a toolbox full of side job ideas fit for truck drivers. Jobs that will fit into your lifestyle and current job. Are you ready to turn miles into cash and handshakes into more amazing business opportunities? The first step is always the hardest but each step after that gets easier. 

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