Truck Driver Salaries 2026
Long-Haul & International Routes: DE, NL, BE & AT
This guide provides a detailed overview of current salary benchmarks for professional CE truck drivers engaged in long-haul and international freight operations. Note: This analysis focuses exclusively on cross-border logistics involving sleeper cab usage; local regional transport with daily home return is not included.
Salary Overview by Country
| Country | Monthly Gross (CE) | Key Benefit Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Germany (DE) | €2,500 – €3,500 | Overnight premiums & Route bonuses |
| Netherlands (NL) | €2,800 – €3,600 | Structured CLA scales & Fuel allowances |
| Belgium (BE) | €2,400 – €3,400 | Strict CLA compliance & Per diems |
| Austria (AT) | €2,500 – €3,500 | Cross-border allowances (IT/DE/East) |
Market Analysis
Germany & The Netherlands
Germany remains the most competitive market for long-distance drivers. Compensation often includes structured premiums for multi-country logistics assignments. Meanwhile, Dutch logistics companies emphasize highly structured wage scales and strict compliance with driving-time regulations, often resulting in the highest base salaries in the cluster.
Belgium & Austria
Belgium utilizes Collective Labor Agreements (CLAs) to ensure standardized compensation excluding per diems. In Austria, international assignments—specifically routes into Italy or Eastern Europe—frequently trigger additional daily allowances and clear documentation of overtime rates.
Factors Influencing Earnings
- Vehicle class (CE license) and ADR certifications.
- International vs. strictly national long-haul routes.
- Night shift premiums and weekend work bonuses.
- Compliance with CPC / Code 95 training.
- Employer-specific overnight stay allowances.