“Back in 1980, American truckers earned about $110,000 per year on average. Today, that number is half of that. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earned, on average, $50,340 in 2021.”
When I returned to the US after my first stint in Asia, I needed a job right away and started working as a Christmas time helper. The ad clearly stated this was not a union job, it would not lead to a job at UPS and would only last 2 weeks. I was paired up with a driver and basically rushed to deliver packages while he drove his route and prepped the next item to deliver. This was a 10 hours a day, formula 1 pit stop pace of work, insane. Also, this was Oakland, CA from the middle class hills to the wtf is a white dude doing in our hood flat lands. What I learned? Being a UPS delivery person opens all the doors, you're suddenly family. Walked in the scariest projects of thugs and hookers with dozens of eyes staring at me as I dropped off Christmas boxes into apartments. I rang the bell of an open door, with only the screen to separate me from a massive and angry pitbull that didn't give 2 shits about my package delivery. I had stepped away from the door, down a few steps, my face level with the ground when the screen opened and that freaking dog lunged at me. I was saved only by this little lady who grabbed the collar as it lunged forward and yanked the dog back in, like it was nothing. She literally saved my life, all for a stupid package. I soon discovered that dogs are the number 1 threat to delivery drivers. Ring the bell and step away from the door if you hear a dog barking. In 2 weeks I was threatened by crazy dogs at least half a dozen times. I also walked into homes only lit by the television, all windows shut. Old people with no money slowly waiting to die on their recliners, unable/too tired to get up, asking me to take their package to a kitchen or a room. Christmas came and went. Soon I would move on the a 6 figure income and a different life. But the misery I saw while delivering packages for UPS stayed with me.
Imagine being a UPS driver and a Jehovah’s Witness! The UPS driver who deliver’s to my park is both. If he’s wearing the brown uniform I am happy to see him. A book bag and suit, get the hose