Long-haul trucking in Europe remains one of the most stable sectors in the transportation industry. European logistics relies on regular freight transport between warehouses, ports, manufacturing facilities, retail chains, and distribution centers. As a result, drivers with a CE license are constantly in demand across various EU countries.
For Ukrainian drivers, this can be a good option if they have experience in freight transport, are ready for long-haul trips, and have all the necessary documents. Job openings for long-haul truck drivers vary in terms of routes, schedules, pay, and requirements, so it’s important to carefully review what the employer is offering before applying.
There is demand for truck drivers throughout most of Europe, but particularly many opportunities are available in countries with a strong logistics sector. These include Germany, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
In Germany, drivers are often sought for domestic and international routes. Poland is a convenient starting point for Ukrainians because it has a large number of transport companies and is geographically close. Belgium and the Netherlands are actively involved in port logistics, container transport, and short routes between terminals and warehouses.
In France, there is plenty of work on domestic routes and routes to neighboring countries. Austria may be of interest to experienced drivers who are ready to work on more challenging roads and mountainous routes. In the Scandinavian countries, rates are often higher, but the requirements can also be more demanding due to the climate, distances, and conditions of the trips.
A long-haul driver is responsible not only for operating the vehicle but also for cargo safety, adhering to the route, work schedules, and transportation regulations. Therefore, employers carefully review a candidate’s documents and experience.
Most often, the following are required for the job:
ADR certification is not always mandatory, but it can be an advantage if the position involves the transport of dangerous goods. Basic knowledge of English, German, Polish, or the language of the country where the transport company is located is also helpful. This simplifies communication with dispatchers, warehouses, service providers, and regulatory authorities.
Working conditions for long-haul truck drivers in Europe depend on the country, route, schedule, and type of transport. Some drivers work on domestic routes and return to base more frequently. Others drive international routes, where a trip can last several days or weeks.
Schedules vary: 2/1, 3/1, 4/1, 6/2, or other formats. It all depends on the company and the transport routes. It is important that the job posting clearly states how much time the driver spends on the road, when they have time off, how overtime is paid, and whether there is compensation for working on weekends.
A long-haul truck driver’s salary in Europe can range from approximately 2,000 to 3,500 euros per month. Income is influenced by experience, country, type of cargo, route length, night shifts, international routes, ADR certification, and additional responsibilities. In Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, pay is often higher, but the requirements for candidates may also be stricter.
Employers may provide modern trucks, navigation systems, insurance, paid vacation, reimbursement of travel expenses, or housing near the base. Before applying, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included in the terms: housing, per diems, vehicle maintenance, return schedule, and payroll procedures.
It’s also important to clarify whether ADR certification is required, which countries are on the route, how often the driver returns to base, whether per diems are provided, how tachograph monitoring works, and who is responsible for vehicle maintenance. The more specific the job description is, the easier it is to determine whether it matches your experience and expectations.
Working as a long-haul truck driver in Europe can be stable and well-paid, but it requires patience and a willingness to live on the road.