Explore New Mexico from a Truck! Experience Enchantment

The crystal-clear skies of the U.S.’s fifth-largest state oversee 150,216 land miles and some of the most diverse sights in the US.5 Known for its mountains, deserts, white sand dunes, turquoise, caves, indigenous culture, wildlife, and outdoor adventures, New Mexico earned its nickname, the Land of Enchantment.

The state’s rich cultural history makes it ideal for truckers who enjoy learning about new places and old things while driving locally, regionally or over-the-road.

But beware! If you stop your truck to take in the rich historical culture and decide to dance, don’t do it while wearing your sombrero. That could get you tossed in jail.

Advocacy

The New Mexico Trucking Association (NMTA) has advocated for the Trucking Industry and CMV’s for over 30 years.

The association works collaboratively to ensure an efficient, profitable, and safe industry for its members.

Some member perks include:

• Representation & Support
• Legislative & Regulatory Control
• Discounts
• Events, Awards, & Driving Championships

Salary

BLS reports 2020 national pay estimates for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers at $47,130 per year ($22.66/hr.)

As of April 2021, Salary.com shows the average Truck Driver salary in Albuquerque, NM as $39,016. However, the site clarifies that salary ranges can vary widely depending on factors, such as education, certifications, skills, and years of experience.

Trucking Economy

The economy relies on truckers to move freight and keep supply chains moving. New Mexico is bordered by four states, and also Mexico. Drivers may transport goods like perlite or potash interstate or cross the borders.

New Mexico is an important trade corridor in the southwest, and busy roadways pass through the state. About half of the state’s income comes from oil and natural gas production. 9 And, the agricultural industry heavily impacts trucking in summer months when New Mexico freight shipping is most affordable for outbound loads.

Safety & Compliance

NMTA promotes safety and compliance. The NMDOT also provides a New Mexico Truckers Guide for the Trucking industry and others interested in NM’s Motor Carrier Operators and Safety Regulations.

Share the Road

The Traffic Safety Division of NMDOT campaigns for drivers to share the road. The campaign educates drivers on how to safely share the roads with truck traffic that comes in from oil fields in southeast New Mexico. The familiar tagline, “lives depend on it,” grabs drivers’ attention by adding varying precursory language, like “Don’t speed.”