Have you ever wondered what it's like to be on the front lines of food distribution, ensuring restaurants and institutions have the ingredients they need to operate? Perhaps you've seen those distinctive Sysco trucks on the road and thought, "I wonder what it takes to be a driver for them, and more importantly, how much do Sysco local drivers make?" If so, you've come to the right place! We're about to embark on a detailed journey to uncover the realities of being a Sysco local delivery driver, focusing specifically on compensation.
Being a Sysco local driver isn't just about driving; it's a demanding role that involves physical labor, customer interaction, and a deep understanding of routes and logistics. It's a vital part of the food supply chain, and for many, it offers a stable and rewarding career. Let's break down the earning potential and what goes into it.
Step 1: Understanding the Sysco Local Driver Role
Before we dive into the numbers, it's crucial to understand what a "Sysco local driver" actually does. This isn't your typical long-haul trucking job. Sysco local drivers are typically responsible for:
Multi-stop deliveries: They deliver a wide variety of products, from fresh produce and meats to frozen goods and dry pantry items, to numerous customer locations like restaurants, schools, hospitals, and hotels, often within a specific geographical area.
"Touch freight": This is a key aspect. Unlike some trucking jobs where you only drive, Sysco drivers are actively involved in unloading the product at each stop. This often involves using hand trucks, dollies, and navigating ramps or stairs, frequently lifting and moving items weighing between 40-60 pounds, and sometimes up to 100 pounds. This is physically demanding work!
Customer interaction: Drivers are often the face of Sysco to their customers. A positive attitude and good communication skills are essential for building relationships and addressing any delivery-related concerns.
Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections: Adhering to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and company policies, drivers perform thorough inspections of their vehicles.
Route Efficiency: Planning and executing routes efficiently is important to meet designated delivery times and customer expectations.
It's important to note: Sysco local drivers are typically home daily, a significant perk compared to long-haul trucking which often involves being away for extended periods.
Step 2: Unpacking the Average Salary for Sysco Local Drivers
Now, let's get to the numbers! How much can you expect to make as a Sysco local driver? The compensation varies, but we can look at averages and ranges to get a clear picture.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Annual Average
As of mid-2025, the average annual pay for a Sysco CDL Driver in the United States is approximately $68,805 a year. This figure gives you a solid benchmark.
Sub-heading 2.2: Breaking It Down by Hourly, Weekly, and Monthly Pay
To give you an even clearer perspective, this annual average breaks down as follows:
Hourly: Approximately $33.08 per hour.
Weekly: Roughly $1,323 per week.
Monthly: About $5,733 per month.
Sub-heading 2.3: Understanding the Salary Range
It's crucial to remember that these are averages. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on several factors, which we'll explore in the next step. However, generally, Sysco CDL driver salaries can range between $48,000 to $113,000 per year. This wide range highlights the impact of experience, location, and performance.
Step 3: Factors Influencing Sysco Local Driver Earnings
So, what makes one Sysco driver earn more than another? Several key factors come into play:
Sub-heading 3.1: Experience Level
Entry-Level Drivers: If you're new to the industry or to Sysco, your starting pay will likely be on the lower end of the spectrum. You might start closer to the $48,000 to $55,000 annual range.
Experienced Drivers: With a few years under your belt, especially if you have a proven track record of safe driving, efficient deliveries, and excellent customer service, your earning potential increases significantly. Many experienced drivers can comfortably make over $70,000 annually, with top performers reaching over $100,000.
Sub-heading 3.2: Geographical Location
This is a major factor. The cost of living and the demand for drivers vary greatly across different states and cities in the U.S.
High-Paying Regions: For example, cities like Gillette, WY ($93,440 average annual salary), Washington, D.C. ($90,548), and Fargo, ND ($87,936) show significantly higher average salaries for Sysco CDL drivers.
Lower-Paying Regions: Conversely, areas with a lower cost of living or less demand for drivers might see lower average salaries. For instance, some general Sysco Delivery Driver salaries can be closer to $38,000 annually in certain regions, though this might refer to roles with less extensive CDL requirements.
Sub-heading 3.3: Performance and Incentives
Sysco often offers productivity incentives and bonuses.
Productivity Bonuses: Drivers who consistently deliver their routes efficiently, meet or exceed designated route times, and handle more product might be eligible for additional incentive pay. This can significantly boost a driver's overall earnings.
Safety Records: Maintaining a clean driving record and adhering to safety protocols can also contribute to potential bonuses or overall job security.
Sub-heading 3.4: Overtime and Hours Worked
Sysco local drivers often work long hours, and overtime is frequently available. Many drivers regularly work their full allowable DOT hours (up to 70 hours in 8 days). This can lead to substantial weekly gross pay, even on an hourly or overtime rate. Some drivers have reported grossing $2,000 per week, indicating the impact of consistent hours and overtime.
Sub-heading 3.5: Specific Sysco Operating Company
Sysco operates through various subsidiaries and distribution facilities. While the core role is similar, there might be slight variations in pay structures or benefits depending on the specific operating company.
Step 4: Beyond the Salary - The Benefits Package
It's not just about the take-home pay. Sysco typically offers a comprehensive benefits package that adds significant value to the overall compensation.
Sub-heading 4.1: Healthcare Benefits
Comprehensive Coverage: Sysco generally provides comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. New hires are often eligible for these benefits relatively quickly after their start date.
Sub-heading 4.2: Retirement Benefits
Generous Plans: The company often offers generous retirement benefits, which can include 401(k) plans with company match, and in some cases, even pension plans for long-tenured employees. These are crucial for long-term financial security.
Sub-heading 4.3: Paid Time Off
Vacation and Holidays: Sysco drivers typically receive paid vacation and holidays. Some experienced drivers have reported as much as six weeks of vacation.
Sub-heading 4.4: Employee Programs and Discounts
Employee Discount Programs: These can include discounts on Sysco products, which can be a nice perk for personal use.
Service Recognition and Rewards: Sysco often has programs to recognize and reward employees for their service and contributions.
Discounts on Sysco Stock (SYY): Opportunities to purchase company stock at a discount can be a significant long-term benefit.
Referral Programs: Drivers may be eligible for bonuses if they refer successful new hires.
Sub-heading 4.5: Training and Career Growth
Ongoing Development: Sysco is known for offering ongoing job skills and leadership development training, which can help drivers advance their careers.
Internal Promotions: The company often promotes from within, offering pathways to roles in fleet management, planning, or even leadership positions.
Step 5: Is a Sysco Local Driver Career Right for You?
Considering the compensation and benefits, a Sysco local driver role can be a very attractive career path for individuals who:
Possess a valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record. This is non-negotiable.
Are physically fit and capable of demanding manual labor. The "touch freight" aspect is a significant part of the job.
Enjoy being on the road and working independently.
Have strong customer service skills.
Are disciplined and safety-conscious.
Are comfortable with potentially long and sometimes irregular hours.
If you meet these criteria and are looking for a stable job with good earning potential and comprehensive benefits, then a Sysco local driver position might be an excellent fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sysco Local Driver Pay
Here are 10 common questions with quick answers to further clarify what Sysco local drivers make:
How to calculate the hourly wage of a Sysco local driver?
The average hourly wage is calculated by dividing the average annual salary by the typical number of working hours in a year (e.g., $68,805 / 2080 hours = approx. $33.08/hour).
How to increase my earnings as a Sysco local driver?
You can increase your earnings by focusing on efficiency to maximize productivity incentives, working available overtime hours, gaining experience, and potentially relocating to higher-paying regions.
How to understand the difference between Sysco CDL driver and Sysco delivery driver salaries?
"Sysco CDL Driver" generally refers to those operating Class A commercial vehicles, which typically command higher salaries due to the required licensure and heavier loads. "Sysco Delivery Driver" can sometimes be a broader term and might include roles with less stringent CDL requirements or lighter delivery duties, potentially leading to a lower average salary.
How to find Sysco driver job openings in high-paying areas?
Check Sysco's official careers website and major job boards (like ZipRecruiter, Indeed) and filter by location to find openings in cities known for higher driver salaries.
How to determine if Sysco offers performance bonuses for drivers?
Yes, Sysco typically offers productivity incentives and bonuses for drivers who meet or exceed performance targets, such as efficient route completion and high delivery volumes.
How to assess the total compensation package for a Sysco driver beyond just salary?
Look beyond the base salary to include the value of comprehensive healthcare benefits, generous retirement plans (401k, potentially pension), paid vacation and holidays, and employee discounts.
How to know if Sysco local drivers are home daily?
Yes, most Sysco local delivery drivers run daily routes and are typically home every night, which is a significant advantage for work-life balance compared to over-the-road trucking.
How to qualify for a Sysco local driver position?
You generally need to be at least 21 years old, possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record, and be able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
How to gauge the physical demands of a Sysco local driver job?
The job involves "touch freight," meaning you'll be manually loading and unloading products, often weighing 40-60 pounds and up to 100 pounds repeatedly, requiring significant physical stamina.
How to understand the impact of years of experience on Sysco driver pay?
More years of relevant experience typically lead to higher earning potential. Experienced drivers with a strong safety record and efficiency often command salaries in the higher tiers of the published ranges.
