Why Des Moines for Trucking
I-80/I-35 Junction
Major east-west and north-south routes intersect in Des Moines.
Very Low Cost of Living
One of the most affordable metro areas. Your salary goes very far.
Agricultural Hub
Iowa is a major agricultural state. Grain and livestock hauling opportunities.
Insurance Industry
Des Moines is a major insurance center. Creates unique logistics needs.
Central Midwest Position
Within a day's drive of Chicago, Minneapolis, Kansas City, and Omaha.
Growing Distribution
Amazon and others have built distribution centers in the Des Moines area.
Top CDL Schools
Des Moines Truck Driving School
Private
DMACC CDL Program
Community College
Iowa Central CC CDL
Community College
Prime Inc - Des Moines
Company Sponsored
Job Market
Distribution
Amazon, Walmart, Hy-Vee
LTL Freight
FedEx Freight, ABF, Yellow
Agricultural
Grain elevators, livestock haulers
Regional Midwest
TMC, Heartland, Anderson
Tips
💡 Hy-Vee is Local
Hy-Vee grocery chain is headquartered in Des Moines. Good local distribution opportunities.
💡 Harvest Season Pays Premium
Iowa's grain harvest (August-November) creates surge demand with premium pay for drivers.
💡 DMACC is Excellent
Des Moines Area Community College offers quality training at very low cost.
💡 Iowa Has Lowest CDL Fees
Iowa's CDL permit and license fees are among the lowest in the nation ($8 each!).
FAQs
Is Des Moines good for trucking?
Yes! I-80/I-35 junction, ultra-low cost of living, and agricultural freight create good opportunities.
Des Moines vs Omaha?
Similar markets. Omaha has Werner HQ; Des Moines has Hy-Vee and slightly lower costs.
What's unique about Des Moines trucking?
Lowest CDL fees in nation, agricultural freight, and Hy-Vee grocery distribution.