Are you considering becoming an international truck driver and wondering how much money you can pocket each month? Or do you want to compare your current salary with the market rate? While what you actually earn as an international truck driver naturally depends on many factors, we’re happy to give you a guideline. Make the most of it and don’t hesitate to ask for a raise—if you don’t ask, you don’t get!
International truck driver salary in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, an international truck driver earns an average of €2.500 to €3.500 per month, with an exact average gross salary of €3.035 per month, according to Werkzoeken.nl (July 2024). Of course, there may be higher or lower outliers:
- €2.580 (low)
- €3.035 (average)
- €3.495 (high)
Jobbird also agrees, giving a range of €2.350 to €3.200 gross per month. Job site Indeed states that the average base salary for an international truck driver is €3.258 (July 2024).
Additional allowances for international truck drivers
We mentioned the word base salary above. Allowances are not uncommon for international truck drivers, as the work involves irregular hours. Do you often drive at night, or do you stick to daytime driving? You may also receive extra allowances for food and accommodation while on the road. Applying for a job? Don’t forget to ask about these terms and conditions so you can get a clear picture of what you’ll take home. The Transport and Logistics collective labour agreement also sets out a number of basic arrangements.
International truck driver salary after tax
The net salary of an international truck driver is harder to determine, as it depends on allowances, the number of hours worked per week, any bonuses, and so on. Moreover, the higher your salary, the more likely it is that part of it will fall into a higher tax bracket. It also depends on your tax deductions. Here is a general guide to gross-to-net pay:
- €2.500 gross is approximately €2.200 net
- €3.000 gross is approximately €2.500 net
- €3.500 gross is approximately €2.760 net
International truck driver salary depending on education
Although international truck driving is essentially a practical profession, drivers with a higher level of education do seem to earn more. For example, the average monthly salary for an international truck driver in the Netherlands is €400 higher for someone with a university degree (wo) than for someone with an mbo qualification. There is little difference between hbo and wo. Someone with an lbo or vmbo qualification often earns the minimum wage or slightly more, in accordance with the collective labor agreement.
Big companies, big cities, big salaries?!
Large companies seem more willing to offer high salaries, judging by a comparison of various job sites and salary ranges. Salaries in large cities are also considerably higher than in villages, with Rotterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven in the top 3.
If we look at the salaries of international drivers in other countries, you’re better off in Scandinavia or Germany. You can earn around €200 more per month on average in neighboring countries. Salaries are lower in Eastern Europe. Do you transport hazardous materials? Then you can almost always expect a substantial hazardous materials allowance.
Get your licence to become an international truck driver?
Ultimately, an international driver's final net salary depends heavily on many factors. And if you choose this profession, it is of course just as important that you enjoy being behind the wheel and travelling across borders. Does this appeal to you, and don't have a truck driving licence yet? Pass your theory test in just one day with NuVrachtwagen. View the course options!
