If you have been used to being gone all week, there won't be much difference in driving over the road if you can find a carrier who will get you home weekly. It seems that most carriers will get you home about every 2 weeks for about 1-2 days, after your training period. There will be a training period where you will likely be assigned a trainer once you get with a carrier. The training period varies according to the carrier and your abilities. Some training companies keep trainee's out as long as 6 weeks. Once you get your own truck, your earnings should improve. Pay from most carriers during the training period is usually low. With your own truck, you will earn based primarily on your ability and performance. Most companies pay mileage. The more miles you run the bigger the paycheck. Some carriers will pay extra for loading/unloading and doing multiple stops with the same load.

You can earn an above average income provided you stay out of the truck stops and keep the drivers door shut. In other words, you need to be consistent in the way you work. This is a slow time of year, but you should average between 2,200-3,000 miles per week year around. If you are doing your planning I would use 2,500 miles per week for my calculations. That should be close to actual average miles with most carriers.

There is a learning curve. We all experience it, starting out. You will need to learn how to manage your time and pace yourself. Your body will need to adjust to a schedule which may not always be consistent. Your earnings will be lower initially and will improve as you hone your skills. I call this time paying your dues. I would plan on staying with a carrier for at least a year. The longer you stay at a carrier the better your opportunities will be. Contrary to what some believe, there are more opportunities for those who don't move around from carrier to carrier too much. The better carriers are looking for stability. Some carriers will not hire anyone with more than 3 jobs in 2 years. Good luck.

goodluck
 

goodluck