A UPS Feeder Driver is a specialized, highly compensated professional responsible for operating the company’s tractor-trailers, transporting large volumes of freight between major UPS facilities. This role focuses on the line-haul movement of packages from one sorting hub or terminal to another. Feeder Drivers ensure the seamless flow of goods across vast distances, connecting the regional and national infrastructure. The role is distinct from the typical last-mile delivery driver, dealing exclusively with high-capacity freight movement within the UPS system.
The Core Responsibilities of the Role
The day-to-day duties of a Feeder Driver center on the long-distance transportation of bulk freight using tractor-trailers. This line-haul trucking involves moving loaded trailers between large sorting centers and smaller delivery hubs, a process known as “feeding” the network. Drivers operate large vehicles, sometimes pulling double or triple trailers, depending on the route and regional regulations.
A significant portion of the job involves strict adherence to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including managing hours-of-service logs. Drivers must conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle and trailers before and after each run. Their primary function is to move freight efficiently and safely, managing the coupling and uncoupling of trailers at the facility docks.
Key Differences from Package Car Drivers
The Feeder Driver role is fundamentally different from that of a Package Car Driver, who operates the familiar brown delivery vans. Package Car Drivers focus on last-mile delivery, taking individual packages directly to customers on local routes. This involves frequent stops, extensive walking, and considerable customer interaction throughout the day.
In contrast, Feeder Drivers operate Class A commercial vehicles, primarily semi-trucks, and their work is hub-to-hub. Their routes are long-haul, focused on highway driving, and they rarely interact with customers, generally remaining within the confines of UPS facilities during stops.
Essential Requirements and Qualifications
To qualify for a Feeder Driver position, a candidate must possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A, mandatory for operating tractor-trailers. Specific endorsements are often required depending on the region and equipment, most commonly the Doubles/Triples endorsement (T endorsement). A clean driving record is also a prerequisite.
All candidates must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination to meet federal health standards. The minimum age requirement for the role is 21 years old. Candidates must meet these requirements and pass a specialized UPS road test, though UPS sometimes trains internal employees to obtain their CDL.
Understanding the Pay and Benefits Structure
The compensation for UPS Feeder Drivers is among the highest in the trucking industry, largely due to strong contracts negotiated by the Teamsters union. Top-rate Feeder Drivers can average $162,000 per year in total compensation, which includes hourly wages and the value of benefits. The hourly pay rate reaches the top rate after a defined progression period, with the wage increasing significantly over the life of the union contract.
The benefits package is comprehensive and typically includes low- or no-cost healthcare premiums for medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company contributes to a defined-benefit pension plan, providing retirement security, and also offers a 401(k) plan. This structure distinguishes the UPS driver role from many other positions in the logistics sector.
The Typical Work Schedule and Seniority
Feeder Drivers often work irregular and demanding schedules, with a prevalence of overnight or early morning shifts. Since freight moves when businesses are closed, many line-haul routes operate during non-traditional hours. Long hours and mandatory overtime are common, requiring adherence to the DOT’s strict hours-of-service limits.
Seniority plays a dominant role in determining a driver’s work schedule and quality of life. New drivers typically start on the least desirable routes, which may include “sleeper teams” or unpredictable “spare board” shifts. As a driver accrues seniority, they gain the ability to bid on more favorable, fixed-schedule routes, such as daytime or dedicated runs.
Steps to Becoming a Feeder Driver
The most common path to becoming a Feeder Driver is through internal promotion within UPS. Many successful candidates begin their careers as part-time employees, such as package handlers or sorters, or as full-time Package Car Drivers. This internal route allows employees to establish company seniority, a significant factor in bidding for the Feeder positions.
Once an internal candidate meets the CDL Class A and endorsement requirements, they can formally bid on open Feeder roles. The application process involves interviews, a road test to demonstrate proficiency with the large equipment, and necessary background checks. Competition for these positions is intense due to the high pay and benefits. Internal experience and established seniority are therefore a considerable advantage.