Heavy Truck Driver in Sumter, SC

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Heavy Truck Drivers considering a move to Sumter, South Carolina.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Sumter Stands

As a local who’s watched the logistics industry grow here, I can tell you that Sumter offers a stable, if modest, earning potential for CDL-A holders. The numbers tell a clear story: the median salary for a Heavy Truck Driver in Sumter is $50,892 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.47. While this is slightly below the national average of $53,090, the cost of living in Sumter makes it work. For context, Metro Sumter has about 172 jobs in this field, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 4%—it’s not explosive growth, but it’s steady and reliable.

To give you a realistic picture of what you can expect as you build your career, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These are estimates based on local hiring trends and industry standards:

Experience Level	Years on the Road	Estimated Annual Salary (Sumter)	Typical Roles
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$42,000 - $48,000	Local/Regional Dry Van, Student Trainer
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$50,892 (Median)	Regional Reefer, Flatbed, Dedicated Routes
Senior Driver	8-15 years	$58,000 - $65,000	OTR, Specialty Hauls, Mentor
Expert/Owner-Op	15+ years	$70,000+	Oversized Loads, Hazardous Materials, Business Owner

How Sumter Compares to Other SC Cities

Sumter’s salary is in the middle of the pack for South Carolina. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Charleston/North Charleston Metro: Higher pay ($54,000+), but the cost of living is significantly higher, especially housing.
• Columbia Metro: Very close to Sumter’s pay, with more corporate and government driving jobs (state vehicles, school districts).
• Greenville-Spartanburg: A logistics powerhouse. Salaries can be higher ($52,000-$55,000), but competition is fierce due to major hubs for BMW, Michelin, and Amazon.
• Florence: Very similar to Sumter in both pay and cost of living. It’s a common alternative for drivers who want a similar lifestyle.

Insider Tip: Don’t just chase the highest salary number. A driver making $52,000 in Charleston might have a higher rent payment ($1,400+) that cancels out the gain. In Sumter, with an average 1BR rent of $933, your dollar stretches further.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. A median salary of $50,892 isn’t just a number—it’s what you have to live on after the government and your landlord take their share.

Here’s a typical monthly budget breakdown for a single driver in Sumter:

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$4,241	$50,892 / 12 months
Taxes (Est.)	-$850	Federal, State (SC), FICA (varies)
Net Pay	$3,391	Your take-home
Rent (1BR Average)	-$933	$933/month
Utilities	-$180	Electric, water, trash, basic internet
Groceries	-$350	For one person, cooking at home
Fuel (Personal Vehicle)	-$150	Assuming you drive a personal car on your 34hr reset
Insurance	-$220	Car + Renter’s Insurance
Phone Bill	-$75
Misc. / Savings	$1,483	Health, savings, entertainment, debt

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With $1,483 in discretionary income after a conservative budget, saving for a down payment is very feasible. The median home price in Sumter County is around $180,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000. By saving just $1,000 of that discretionary amount per month, you’d have your down payment in 3 years. The local real estate market is affordable, making homeownership a realistic goal for drivers here.

Where the Jobs Are: Sumter's Major Employers

Sumter’s job market is anchored by a mix of local distribution, regional carriers, and industrial manufacturing. Here are the key players you need to know:

1. B&H Wood Products / Sumter Plywood: A major local manufacturer. They hire company drivers for local and regional hauls of lumber and plywood. It’s a steady, union-supported job with consistent home time.
2. Sumter Transportation Co. (STC): A long-standing local carrier based in nearby Dalzell. They specialize in bulk hauling (grain, fertilizer) and are a go-to for drivers who want to stay off the interstate for long stretches.
3. Southeastern Freight Lines: While headquartered in nearby Columbia, their Sumter terminal is a key hub. They are consistently hiring Linehaul and City P&D (Pickup & Delivery) drivers. This is a great option for drivers who want to be home nightly.
4. Crown Maple / Local Food Distributors: Several food distribution centers in the area (serving local grocery chains) need reefer drivers for regional routes. Pay is competitive and the cargo is non-hazardous.
5. SC State Agencies (SCDOT, School Districts): The state of South Carolina and Sumter School District hire CDL drivers for school buses, dump trucks, and maintenance vehicles. These jobs offer state benefits, pensions, and regular hours—no over-the-road (OTR) life.
6. PepsiCo / Local Beverage Distributors: The local Pepsi distributor and other beverage companies in the region hire drivers for local route delivery. It’s physical work (loading/unloading) but you’re home every night.
7. Regional Carriers (Schneider, J.B. Hunt, etc.): These national companies have a presence in the Carolinas and frequently recruit out of Sumter for regional and OTR positions. They often offer sign-on bonuses and newer equipment.

Hiring Trend Insight: The biggest demand right now is for drivers who can handle a mix of local and regional work. Companies are looking for reliability above all else. The 4% job growth means openings will be filled, but you’ll need to be proactive. A clean MVR and a stable work history are your best assets.

Getting Licensed in SC

If you’re new to driving or moving from another state, here’s the local process. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) is your main stop.

1. CDL Requirements:

• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): You must pass a knowledge test and a vision test. You’ll need to hold the CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills test.
• CDL Skills Test: This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road test. You must provide a vehicle that matches the class you’re testing for (Class A for tractor-trailers).
• Federal Medical Card: You must have a valid DOT medical card from a certified examiner. Many clinics in Sumter offer this, including those near Palmetto Health Tuomey hospital.

2. Costs:

• CDL Application Fee: ~$25
• CLP Fee: ~$15
• Knowledge/Skills Test Fees: ~$75 total
• DOT Medical Exam: ~$75 - $150 (varies by clinic)
• Total Estimated Cost: $190 - $265 (if you study independently). If you attend a CDL school, costs range from $3,000 - $6,000.

3. Timeline:

• With Prior Experience: If you already have a valid CDL from another state, the transfer is straightforward. You can schedule an appointment with the SCDMV in Sumter (located at 135 S. Harvin St.) and complete the transfer in a few hours, provided your medical card is current.
• From Scratch: If you’re starting fresh, the fastest path is a 4-6 week CDL program. Schools like Tractor Trailer Training Inc. (in nearby West Columbia) are popular choices. From start to finish, allowing for study, practice, and testing, you can be on the road in about 2-3 months.

Insider Tip: Many local companies (like SEFL or B&H) will sponsor your CDL training if you commit to working for them for a year. This is the best route if you’re worried about the upfront cost.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Where you live in Sumter affects your daily life and commute. Here are the top picks for drivers, balancing access to major highways with a decent lifestyle.

1. Downtown Sumter: The historic heart of the city. It’s walkable, with great coffee shops, restaurants, and the Sumter Opera House. Commute to industrial parks is easy via Broad St. (US-76/US-378). Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a 1BR. Best for drivers who want a vibrant social scene and don’t mind a slightly longer commute (10-15 mins) to some truck stops.
2. South Sumter / Shaw AFB Area: This area is closer to I-95 (Exit 139) and the Sumter County Industrial Park. It’s more residential and quiet. Many military families live here, and the community is stable. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a 1BR. Ideal for drivers who prioritize a quick jump onto the interstate for regional routes.
3. Olympia / Millwood: These are established, middle-class neighborhoods with single-family homes and apartment complexes. They offer a great mix of affordability and comfort. Commutes are straightforward via US-76. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,150 for a 1BR. A solid all-around choice for settling down.
4. Dalzell (Just outside Sumter): If you want more space and a bit of rural feel without being too far from work, Dalzell is perfect. It’s where many local carriers like STC are based. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR. Commutes are short, often under 10 minutes to major employers.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in Sumter doesn’t mean staying in a box truck. The local market allows for significant advancement if you’re strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: Drivers who get endorsements see a pay bump. A Hazmat (H) or Tanker (N) endorsement can add $2,000 - $5,000 annually to your salary. Companies that haul fuel or chemicals (common in the industrial park) pay for these skills.
• Owner-Operator Path: With Sumter’s low cost of living, saving to buy your own truck is more achievable here than in major metro areas. Local owner-operators servicing the manufacturing and lumber sectors can clear $70,000+ after expenses, but this requires business acumen and a tolerance for risk.
• Dispatch or Management: Many drivers transition into dispatch, safety, or terminal management after 10+ years. Experience on the road is invaluable in these roles. Local companies prefer to promote from within.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% growth is conservatism. Sumter is part of the larger I-95 corridor, and projects like the ongoing expansion of the SC Inland Port in Dillon will trickle down to more freight in regions like Sumter. Drivers who adapt to technology (ELDs, logistics software) and maintain a clean record will be in demand.

The Verdict: Is Sumter Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes far.	Limited OTR Hub: You might need to commute to Columbia or Florence for some OTR carrier terminals.
Stable, Steady Job Market: 172 jobs and 4% growth is reliable.	Lower Median Salary: You won’t find the peak salaries of Charleston or Greenville.
Affordable Homeownership: You can buy a house on a driver’s salary.	Fewer "Big Name" Carriers: Fewer national mega-carriers have major terminals here.
Easy Commute: Minimal traffic compared to larger cities.	Social Scene is Modest: It’s a small city; nightlife and amenities are limited.
Strong Local Industry: Lumber, manufacturing, and distribution provide a base.	Summer Heat & Humidity: South Carolina summers are long and intense.
Good for Families: Safe, quiet neighborhoods with good schools.	Car-Dependent: You need a reliable personal vehicle for your off time.

Final Recommendation: Sumter is an excellent choice for mid-career drivers looking to settle down. It’s perfect for someone who values stability, affordability, and being home regularly. It’s also a great option for new drivers who can get sponsored by a local company and want to build experience without the pressure of a high-cost city. If you’re chasing the absolute highest salary or thrive in a bustling, 24/7 metro, look elsewhere. But if you want a balanced lifestyle where your hard work pays for a home and a future, Sumter is a smart bet.

FAQs

1. I’m an OTR driver. Can I find a job in Sumter that keeps me home every night?
Yes. Look for "City P&D" (Pickup & Delivery) or "Local Route" positions with companies like Southeastern Freight Lines, Pepsi, or local food distributors. These jobs keep you within a 100-mile radius, and you’re home for dinner.

2. How is the parking situation for big rigs in Sumter?
It’s manageable. There are truck stops at I-95 Exit 139 (Pilot/Flying J) and near I-20 Exit 88. Most industrial areas have ample parking for company trucks. For your personal 18-wheeler at home, you’ll need a lot with space; many apartment complexes don’t allow it. Dalzell and South Sumter neighborhoods are more accommodating for truck parking.

3. What’s the best CDL school near Sumter?
While there isn’t a major school directly in Sumter, Tractor Trailer Training Inc. in West Columbia (about 45 mins away) is a highly regarded, state-licensed school. Their programs are typically 4-6 weeks. Always check with local employers first—they may have preferred schools or sponsorship programs.

4. Are there union jobs for truck drivers in Sumter?
Yes, but they are specific. B&H Wood Products/Sumter Plywood has union representation (Teamsters or USW). State jobs (school buses, SCDOT) also have union protections. Most private carriers (like regional or OTR companies) are non-union.

5. How does the weather impact driving in Sumter?
Sumter has mild winters, which is a plus for driving. The main challenge is summer heat (highs in the 90s with high humidity), which can be tough on equipment. You’ll also need to be prepared for occasional heavy thunderstorms and, rarely, hurricane-related flooding from nearby coastal storms. Always check your route for weather advisories.