The profession of a truck driver is one of the most sought-after transport jobs in Europe. In 2025, there is record-high demand for experienced drivers, which translates into attractive salaries – although the differences between countries are significant. Let’s take a closer look at earnings in Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom. And let’s answer the question: how much does a truck driver earn abroad?
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What primarily influences a truck driver’s salary?
- Professional experience and vehicle type play a major role. Drivers operating articulated trucks with trailers, refrigerated trucks, or tankers can expect higher rates than those driving standard cargo vehicles.
- Type of route – domestic routes are usually paid less than international ones.
- Work system – popular rotation models such as 2/1, 3/1, or 4/1 differ in the length of trips and breaks. It directly affects the level of pay.
- Form of employment – drivers working under an employment contract have guaranteed salary and benefits. But often take home less than those operating as self-employed.
- Per diems, overnight allowances, and bonuses for punctuality, damage-free driving, or night driving also significantly impact total income.
Truck Driver Salaries in Germany
In 2025, a truck driver working in Germany can expect an attractive salary ranging on average from €2,600 to €3,300 gross per month. Depending on location, seniority, and type of transport.
The minimum hourly wage for truck drivers in Germany in 2025 is €12.82, which gives at least €2,222 gross monthly for full-time work – not including any additional bonuses.
Truck Driver Salaries in Norway
In Norway, truck drivers’ salaries do not significantly exceed the national average, which is approximately 59,370 NOK gross per month (about €5,100).
However, thanks to numerous allowances, favorable social conditions, and relatively low job-related daily expenses, the actual take-home pay can reach €3,000–€3,500 net per month.
This makes Norway one of the most attractive destinations for truck drivers in Northern Europe. Both financially and in terms of quality of life.
Truck Driver Salaries in France
In France, truck drivers can expect an average annual salary of around €38,519 gross. It translates to a monthly salary of about €3,210 gross.
Bonuses for overnight stays, waiting times, and night work are often added to the base pay, increasing overall income.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living in France, especially in large metropolitan areas like Paris or Lyon, is among the highest in Europe.
Nevertheless, with a well-organized route and work schedule, being a truck driver in France remains financially worthwhile.
Truck Driver Salaries in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, a truck driver can expect to earn around €2,550 net per month, including standard benefits and non-wage perks such as per diems, accommodation, or bonuses.
In the case of heavy transport, annual earnings can reach up to €49,077 gross, which equals about €4,090 gross per month.
These rates place the Netherlands at the top of the European market in terms of transport job profitability.
Especially when considering the well-developed system of social benefits and moderate living costs compared to neighboring countries, the Netherlands is a stable, predictable, and financially attractive destination for many truck drivers.
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Truck Driver Salaries in the UK
In the United Kingdom, the average truck driver earns between £16 and £18 per hour, which translates into a monthly gross salary of £2,800–£3,100.
These rates can be significantly higher for drivers operating HGV Class 1 vehicles – the largest truck combinations.
Such specialists can earn between £40,000 and £55,000 annually, equivalent to approximately €45,000–€62,000.
Earnings depend on the type of cargo, international routes, and work system.
Despite challenges related to Brexit, the UK transport market still offers very competitive financial conditions for skilled drivers.
Truck Driver Abroad – Comparison Table
| Country | Monthly Gross | Additional Factors |
| Germany | €2,600–€3,300 | Overtime, per diems, international routes |
| Norway | ~€5,100 | High net despite taxes |
| Netherlands | €2,550 net | Accommodation, per diems |
| France | €3,210 | Overnight bonuses |
| UK | £2,800–£3,100 | HGV routes, bonuses |
Summary
A truck driver abroad can earn from €2,600 gross in Germany up to €5,000 gross in Norway, with HGV specialists in the UK not far behind.
The Netherlands and France offer solid wages along with benefits and accommodation, making these countries highly competitive.
The best destination depends on personal preferences regarding lifestyle, language proficiency, and willingness to work on demanding routes.
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