Top CDL Jobs in Savannah, GA: High-Paying Opportunities & How to Land Them

If you’re searching for CDL jobs in Savannah, GA, you’re in the right place. The Port City isn’t just known for its historic charm and southern hospitality—it’s also a booming hub for trucking and logistics careers. With major highways like I-95 and I-16 intersecting here, plus the bustling Port of Savannah, CDL drivers have endless opportunities to earn top dollar.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best CDL jobs in Savannah, GA, what makes this city a trucker’s paradise, and how you can secure a high-paying position. We’ll also dive into the fascinating history of trucking in Georgia, answer your most pressing questions, and provide insider tips to help you stand out in this competitive field.

Why Savannah, GA is a Hotspot for CDL Jobs

Savannah’s strategic location has made it a critical player in America’s freight industry for over a century. The city sits at the crossroads of major interstates, connecting the Southeast to the rest of the country. But what really sets Savannah apart is its port—the Port of Savannah, officially known as the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), is the fourth-busiest container port in the U.S.

A Brief History of Trucking in Georgia

To understand why CDL jobs in Savannah, GA are so lucrative, we need to look back at Georgia’s role in transportation history.

In the early 20th century, Georgia was primarily an agricultural state, relying on railroads to transport goods like cotton, tobacco, and peaches. However, with the rise of the automobile industry and the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 (which created the Interstate Highway System), trucking became the dominant mode of freight transport.

By the 1970s, Georgia had become a central logistics hub, thanks to Interstate 75 (I-75) and Interstate 85 (I-85), which connected the Midwest to Florida. Savannah’s port grew rapidly, and trucking companies began setting up distribution centers nearby to handle imports and exports.

Today, Savannah is home to some of the biggest names in trucking, including:

• J.B. Hunt

• Schneider National

• Swift Transportation

• CR England

These companies—along with countless regional carriers—are always hiring CDL drivers in Savannah, GA, offering competitive pay, sign-on bonuses, and excellent benefits.

Types of CDL Jobs Available in Savannah, GA

Not all trucking jobs are the same. Depending on your experience, license class, and preferences, you can choose from several high-paying opportunities:

1. Over-the-Road (OTR) Trucking

OTR drivers haul freight across state lines, often spending weeks on the road. Savannah’s proximity to major highways makes it an ideal home base for long-haul truckers.

Average Pay: $60,000 – $90,000/year
Top Companies Hiring: Swift, CR England, Schneider

2. Local Delivery Drivers

If you prefer being home daily, local delivery jobs are a great option. These roles involve transporting goods within a 100-mile radius, often for retailers or food distributors.

Average Pay: $45,000 – $65,000/year
Top Companies Hiring: Sysco, Coca-Cola, UPS Freight

3. Port & Intermodal Trucking

With the Port of Savannah handling millions of containers yearly, port trucking is in high demand. Drivers move shipping containers between the port, rail yards, and warehouses.

Average Pay: $50,000 – $80,000/year
Top Companies Hiring: XPO Logistics, Hub Group

4. Tanker & Hazmat Hauling

For those with Hazmat endorsements, transporting fuel, chemicals, or other hazardous materials pays exceptionally well.

Average Pay: $70,000 – $100,000/year
Top Companies Hiring: Kenan Advantage Group, Trimac Transportation

How to Get a CDL in Savannah, GA

If you’re new to trucking, here’s a quick breakdown of how to get started:

1. Obtain a Georgia Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) – Pass a written test at the DMV.

2. Enroll in a CDL Training Program – Schools like Savannah Technical College offer hands-on training.

3. Pass the CDL Skills Test – Includes pre-trip inspection, backing maneuvers, and road test.

4. Apply for Jobs – Many companies offer tuition reimbursement for new drivers.

FAQs About CDL Jobs in Savannah, GA

1. What is the highest-paying CDL job in Savannah?

Hazmat and tanker jobs typically pay the most, with some drivers earning over $100,000 annually.

2. Do Savannah trucking companies offer sign-on bonuses?

Yes! Many companies offer bonuses ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for experienced drivers.

3. How much do local CDL drivers make in Savannah?

Local drivers usually earn between $45,000 and $65,000 per year, depending on the employer.

4. Is the Port of Savannah hiring CDL drivers?

Absolutely! The port is always in need of intermodal and container truck drivers.

5. What’s the best CDL school in Savannah?

Savannah Technical College and Roadmaster Drivers School are two of the top-rated options.

Final Thoughts: Why Savannah is the Best Place for CDL Drivers

With its booming port, major highways, and endless freight movement, Savannah, GA is a goldmine for CDL drivers. Whether you’re looking for OTR, local, or specialized trucking jobs, this city has it all—plus competitive pay, benefits, and job security.

If you’re ready to kickstart your career, start applying today and take advantage of the high demand for CDL jobs in Savannah, GA!