Top Freight Opportunities for Non-CDL Drivers
2025 has been a confusing year for many drivers. CDL rule changes, Longer wait times for credentialing, and unstable long-haul lanes have thousands seeking better ways to stay working. The good news is that non-CDL freight has become, under the radar, one of the most reliable corners of the industry.
This shift is reflected in these numbers. The local freight trucking market passed $99 billion in 2025 based on steady growth as the local vans, sprinters, and box trucks help shippers to move freight faster – and with less delay.
On a broader level, the general freight market is expected to double by 2032, nearly, indicating sustained demand for flexible, fast-moving capacity.
For drivers, that means more options for getting them on the road – with or without a CDL.
Expedited Cargo Van Freight
Cargo vans are highly sought after by shippers in the automotive, medical, tech and manufacturing industries, that need smaller loads shipped quickly. These shipments don’t always require loading docks, terminals, and waiting in long hours – that’s why vans are becoming a reliable option for drivers who don’t want to sit.
Much of the growth in local and short-distance freight – now a $ 99 billion+ segment – is a result of this type of urgent, light delivery.
For drivers, one of the simplest ways to get started and begin earning in non-CDL trucking is to.
Benefits for Drivers
- Minimal Waiting: Unlike semi-truck deliveries, cargo vans do not need to travel through the lengthy docks and terminal queues.
- Quick Start-Up: Driver as Entrepreneur – Drivers can start a high-revenue freight business simply by having a reliable van with basic insurance and access to freight through a dispatching service.
- Consistent Work: High demands for shipping urgent orders mean that,, mean that freight is often available daily.
Earnings Potential
- Drivers report weekly earnings of $1,000-$1,500 for moderate mileage, and experienced drivers or those driving multiple vans can earn significantly more.
Tips to Get Started
- Make sure that your van is in good working order and that it is insured.
- Join freight dispatch networks and or local load boards.
- Focus on being reliable and on time – these are very important traits for shippers.
Sprinter Van Long-Distance Runs
Sprinter vans have become a vital component of expedited freight transportation across the nation. They can also transport time-critical shipments for automotive, aerospace, and medical industry companies that require quicker delivery than traditional trucking methods can provide.
This segment of the business directly benefits from the long-term growth of general freight, which is projected to increase from $1.18 trillion to $2.33 trillion by 2032.
Drivers who wish to travel longer distances and follow constant nationwide routes often opt for triangle work with sprinters.
Growth and Market Size
With the general freight market projected to reach $2.33 trillion by 2032, up from $1.18 trillion, Sprinter vans are becoming an increasingly important link between the local and long-haul freight markets.
Advantages for Drivers
- Access to longer routes and repeat lanes, which have the potential to deliver higher per-mile earnings
- Ability to cover regional or national shipments without being limited by a CDL
- Opportunity for triangle or loop runs, reducing deadhead miles
Challenges
- A longer time spent on the road could affect the balance of home life
- Maintenance and fuel costs of the vehicle are high compared to local deliveries
- Scheduling needs to be precise to meet tight delivery windows
Non-CDL Box Truck Freight
More mid-sized freight is being moved out of semi-trailers into box trucks with lengths of 16 to 26 feet. Shippers prefer box trucks for situations where they require faster scheduling, shorter dwell times, or direct pickup and delivery. Retail, medical supply, furniture, and equipment freight rely on this vehicle class on a daily basis.
Research indicates that the box-truck segment is on track for continued growth, from $12.9 billion in 2025 to more than $24 billion by 2034, one of the most steadily growing segments in the industry.
For drivers, box trucks are a good way to achieve a balance of miles, types of freight, and consistency from one week to the next.
Market Growth
The segment of box trucks is expected to show double-digit growth, from $12.9 billion in 2025 to over $24 billion by 2034, making this one of the most stable forms of non-CDL freight.
Benefits for Drivers
- Balanced flow of work: Lengthy mileage & set routes
- A variety of freight makes work interesting
- High repeat business opportunity with local clients
Tips
- Use dispatch services or load boards to find consistent routes
- Keep good communication with shippers to achieve repeat business
- Invest in insurance, and get loading equipment for valuable cargo
Local & Regional Final-Mile Freight
Final-mile delivery continues to grow as businesses accommodate demands for increasingly faster turnaround times in both consumer and B2B supply chains. Auto parts stores, medical labs, pharmacies, and retail stores utilize vans and box trucks to ensure everything is in order.
This growth is one of the reasons why the local freight sector is growing at a rate of over 6% per year.
Drivers seeking predictable schedules, routes, and options that involve daily pickups from home may find final-mile delivery to be the most reliable of all non-CDL routes.
Market Growth
Local freight is also still growing at a rate of more than 6% a year, fuelled by urban demand and consumer expectations.
Benefits for Drivers
- Predictable (schedules and routes)
- Pickups and drop-offs are daily at home
- Opportunities for part-time or full-time work
Tips
- Pare routes of delivery for fuel efficiency
- Maintain Excellent Customer Service in Repeat Contracts
- Use of route planning software to improve efficiency
High-Priority Small Freight
Many industries require the rapid and safe delivery of lightweight, delicate products, such as laboratory samples, diagnostic equipment, engineered parts, electronics, and repair parts. These types of urgent shipments frequently travel best in sprinters and cargo vans because they do not have to wait for delays and can travel directly.
This segment is expected to increase in line with the broader freight trucking market, which is projected to rise from $2.74 trillion to $3.70 trillion by 2032.
For drivers, these loads tend to be light, time-sensitive, and always available.
Market Growth
The segment is expected to rise as much as the rest of the freight market, from $2.74 trillion to $3.70 trillion by 2032, with constant demand for time-sensitive deliveries.
Benefits for Drivers
- Light loads are easier to deal with without special equipment.
- Consistent, high-demand work
- Increased pay per mile based on the urgency and handling requirements
Tips
- Numbers, Reliability, and Secure Handling
- As a powered vehicle, utilize tracking technology to provide clients with real-time updates.
- Associate with specialized dispatch services or brokers for work on a steady basis
Getting Started as a Non-CDL Driver
Vehicle Requirements
- Cargo van (No more than one window in front), Sprinter, or box truck (No more than 26,001 lbs.GVW)
- Such as reliable maintenance and insurance coverage
Permits and Compliance
- Basic commercial insurance is required for non-CDL freight.
- Some local or state permits may be required depending on the type of freight.
Finding Freight
- Load boards available online, apps & broker networks
- Dispatch services that focus on non-COPs.
- Direct contracts with local businesses
Maximizing Earnings
- Choose high-demand routes
- Punctuality and professionalism
- Scale vehicle fleet/pick up multiple clients
What This Means for Drivers
If you’re feeling unsure of the rules of CDL trucks or even the direction in which long-haul trucking is going, then you’re in the right place. Many drivers prefer to take on non-CDL routes because of their stability, lower downtime, and the predictability of the work. The data indicate a real and growing demand.
Choosing something like a van, Sprinter, or box truck isn’t stepping down.
It’s walking into a segment of the industry whose foundation is based on rapidity, liquidity, and a constant demand.
What You Need to Get Started
The majority of drivers start with a decent car, basic insurance, and access to freight. From there, it’s finding support that keeps you moving – and not waiting around for the next load. Many non-CDL drivers are hauling in a week.
Ready for Your Next Load?
👉 Apply now – CDL or non-CDL, we’ll help you stay on the road with steady freight, weekly pay, and real human support.
Conclusion
The freight industry is changing fast, and the opportunities for non-CDL drivers to stake their claim in the freight industry are better than ever before to make a profit. From last-mile delivery to specialty courier services, all five of the fastest-growing sectors during 2025 provide flexibility, high pay, and growth opportunities. By becoming aware of market trends, paying close attention to technology and credibility, CDL-less motorists can have a sustainable career while contributing to industry expansion. Staying ahead of the changing needs of the freight industry and responding to these needs quickly will prove to be a determining factor in the long-term success of this industry.