Lucrative Fuel Hauling: How Much Can You Earn?

how much can you make hauling fuel

Hauling fuel can be a lucrative career, with some drivers claiming to make $15000-20000 a month gross. However, income can vary depending on load volume and location. For example, fuel haulers in California and Washington state report hourly wages of $24-31, while a company in Texas claims their drivers average $800-1000 a week gross. Additionally, fuel haulers often require a significant amount of driving experience, with some companies requiring a minimum of 2 years of fuel hauling experience and 5 years of driving experience total.

Characteristics Values
Income $15,000–$20,000 per month
Hourly rate $24–$31
Overtime Starts at 40 hours
Bonus $6,000–$8,000 yearly
Number of loads per day 3–5
Workdays per week 4–5
Work hours per week 40–60
Gross income per week $1,500–$2,300
Annual income $85,000

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Income varies by location

Location can also influence the demand for fuel hauling services, affecting income potential. For instance, fuel haulers in Austin or San Antonio may find that working at night is more lucrative due to less competition during those hours.

Additionally, the local market conditions can impact income. For example, fuel haulers in Washington State may command higher rates compared to other regions. Similarly, in certain parts of California, fuel haulers can earn $24 to $27 per hour, reflecting the local market rates.

The size and nature of the company can also play a role in income variation across locations. For instance, a family-run carrier with around 50 trucks may offer competitive pay and benefits, resulting in higher overall income for their fuel haulers. Conversely, larger companies or those with a strong presence in a specific region may be able to offer higher rates due to their scale and market position.

Furthermore, the income for fuel haulers can vary based on their experience and qualifications. Companies often require a minimum of two years of fuel hauling experience or a combination of commercial driving experience and fuel hauling expertise. Income can increase with more experience, with long-term fuel haulers earning $30 to $31 per hour in some cases.

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Experience impacts pay

In terms of pay, a company driver can make around $1500 per week, which is approximately $6000 per month. This can vary depending on the company, the driver's experience, and the number of hours worked. For example, a driver in California reported making $24-27 per hour, while another in Texas claimed to be grossing $20,000 per month. Additionally, some companies offer overtime pay after 10 or 40 hours, and bonuses for safe driving records, which can increase annual earnings.

The type of truck used can also impact earnings. For instance, a driver with a day cab may make less than someone with a sleeper truck, as they can save on accommodation costs by sleeping in their truck.

Location also plays a role in determining pay. A driver in Washington State, for example, may earn more than someone in Wisconsin due to market differences. Similarly, a driver in a large city may earn more than someone in a rural area due to higher demand and cost of living differences.

Overall, while experience is a factor in determining pay, other considerations such as location, market demand, and company policies also influence the earnings of fuel haulers.

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Pay by load

The pay for hauling fuel depends on a variety of factors, including location, load volume, and experience. In the United States, the hourly rate for fuel haulers ranges from $24 to $31 per hour, with long-term drivers earning more. Some companies also offer overtime pay after 40 hours per week and annual bonuses for safe driving records.

One fuel hauler in California reported making $25 per hour when they started, with more experienced drivers earning $30 to $31 per hour. They also received a $6,000 to $8,000 yearly bonus if they avoided major accidents. In Texas, a fuel hauler claimed to be grossing $20,000 per month, while another driver in Corpus Christi, Texas, estimated their monthly income at $15,000 to $20,000 gross.

Some fuel haulers are paid by load, with drivers averaging $800 to $1,000 per week. However, some experienced drivers have stated that this rate is too low for the industry, especially considering the dangers involved in hauling fuel. One driver in California reported making more than $800 to $1,000 per week when they were paid by the load in 2005-2007.

The number of loads per day also impacts income. One driver reported that they needed to do at least five loads per day to make good money. Another driver who works for a small carrier hauls fuel for around 45 to 60 hours per week and grosses $1,700 to $2,300. They made $85,000 the previous year, working 5 days a week for 10 to 11 hours per day.

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Hourly rates

The hourly rate for hauling fuel depends on a variety of factors, including experience, location, and the company. In the United States, the hourly wage for fuel haulers generally ranges from $24 to $31 per hour. Starting salaries for fuel haulers with less experience are typically closer to $24-$25 per hour, while those with more experience can earn over $30 per hour.

For example, in California, fuel haulers report earning between $24 and $27 per hour, with some companies offering overtime after 10 or 40 hours. In Texas, a fuel hauler claimed to gross $20,000 per month, while in Wisconsin, the pay may differ.

Additionally, some companies structure pay based on load volume. Some drivers who work with tank farms may earn a percentage of their loads, with the potential to average $100,000 from three loads per day. However, some companies offer an average weekly gross pay of $800 to $1,000, which is considered low by industry standards.

It is worth noting that fuel haulers often work long hours, with some reporting workweeks of 40 to 60 hours. Overtime pay typically starts after 40 hours, and safety bonuses can also add to the total compensation.

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Bonuses and overtime

The salary of a fuel hauler varies depending on location, experience, and the company. As of June 2025, the average hourly pay for a fuel hauler in the United States is $29.76, with the highest-paid workers earning $48.08 per hour and the lowest-paid earning $14.66 per hour. The majority of fuel haulers' wages range from $24.76 (25th percentile) to $33.65 (75th percentile).

Entry-level fuel haulers with less than a year of experience can expect an average total compensation of $20.10 per hour, while those with 1-4 years of experience can expect around $22.71 per hour. The hourly rate increases with experience, with some fuel haulers reporting wages of $24-27 per hour in California, and others reporting rates of $25 per hour in Little Rock, Arkansas. In some parts of California and the Pacific Northwest, rates can be as high as $40 per hour.

Overtime is a significant factor in the total compensation of fuel haulers. Many companies consider any hours worked beyond 40 hours per week as overtime, and some workers report working up to 70 hours per week. The opportunity for overtime allows fuel haulers to increase their earnings significantly.

Additionally, bonuses are a common component of fuel haulers' compensation packages. Some companies offer safety bonuses for accident-free records, which can amount to $6,000-$8,000 per year on top of hourly pay.

With overtime and bonuses, fuel haulers can expect to earn annual salaries ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 or more. Those who work for smaller family-run carriers or own their trucks report earning six-figure incomes, with monthly gross incomes of $15,000-$20,000.

It's important to note that the income potential in fuel hauling varies greatly based on location, with some areas offering higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement. For example, Night Tanker Owner Operators earn significantly more than the average fuel hauler, with salaries reaching $196,866.

Frequently asked questions

The income from hauling fuel depends on load volume, location, and experience. Some drivers report grossing $15-20k per month, while others claim to make $24-27 per hour.

Some drivers report making an average of $800-1000 per week, while others claim to make $1500 per week or more.

Yes, experience can impact pay rates for fuel haulers. One company reportedly starts drivers with one year of commercial driving experience at $27 per hour.

Income can vary significantly depending on the location. For example, fuel haulers in Texas may earn differently from those in Wisconsin.

Yes, one benefit of fuel hauling is that it is often a local job, allowing drivers to be home every day. Some companies may also offer night shifts or flexible schedules.

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