In the modern world, the rising costs of everyday living mean many people are looking for side hustles to support their lifestyles. Even more so, many are looking to improve their work-life balance by retiring early and embracing a more laid-back lifestyle. Below, we look at how transport driving can fit into early retirement plans as a side hustle while allowing you to travel.
Living in a Gig Economy
Many services are now operated by contractors rather than employees, which makes it easier for workers to choose their own hours. The gig economy creates numerous potential roles for those who want to work hard, on their own terms. The flexibility of these roles make them perfect for those nearing retirement. Gig workers are independent contractors responsible for paying their own taxes and maintaining their own vehicles. A study by Roadie in 2024, shows that the availability of driving gigs and choosing where they could drive were two of the biggest factors when selecting a side hustle.
Benefits of a Side Hustle
Having a side hustle in addition to your pension or other income offers a variety of benefits.
Easier Application Process
When applying for a role as an independent contractor, you will need to meet the company’s requirements. However, these roles typically do not require special skills or education requirements like typical job roles. Furthermore, you are not competing against others for the role, you either meet the requirements or you don’t.
Start Earning Quickly
For those looking for quick payment, transport driving roles are great as you get paid 50% of the rate up front, and the final balance once the item is delivered. This means that once you complete the orientation and screening requirements, you can start earning almost immediately.
Choose Your Own Schedule
This is perhaps the greatest benefit of having a side hustle in the gig economy. Most companies hiring independent contractors have a bidding system set up, where drivers can claim job contracts as they wish. This allows you to choose your own schedule and work as little or as much as you want to.
Choose Your Own Routes
Drivers working with Classic Transport get to select their own hours, while also choosing where they wish to drive. Some routes are repeated, whereas others may be one-offs. Occasionally, contracts may also offer backhaul opportunities, allowing you to earn more if you are returning back to the depot.
Working with Classic Transport
Classic Transport offers a great opportunity for those who love to drive and want to see more of North America. They offer competitive compensation and incentives to qualified individuals in their three driving divisions.
Requirements for Individuals
To work with Classic Transport, all drivers must meet basic requirements for safety. These requirements include being at least 23 years old with 18 months of driving experience. Furthermore, you must not have more than two accidents within the past 36 months, regardless of fault, have no driving suspensions for the same period, and have no major violations within the past seven years. Successful applicants must also pass a DOT physical and a drug screening. Finally, once accepted, you must attend an orientation before getting your first contract.
Vehicle Requirements
Some of the specifications for your vehicle include having a 3/4 or 1-ton truck that is no more than ten years old. Any accessories on the vehicle must meet the correct weight, tolerance, and safety standards. Trucks must also have a solid shank for two ball sizes, both 5/16 inch and 2 inch, mudflaps, an annual DOT inspection, no front window tint, trailer brake, and proper registration.
For a full list of driver and vehicle requirements, visit the Classic Transport website.
Working as a transport driver can be a very fulfilling and worthwhile side hustle, especially for those in early retirement. Classic Transport truly cares about its drivers and offers plenty of incentives and benefits, including discounts on hotels and rental vehicles. Apply today to start your driving side hustle with Classic Transport so you can earn a little or a lot within your schedule while traveling around North America.