If you’re a CDL driver based in the Southeast, or looking to run more consistent routes without going full OTR, regional jobs might be the sweet spot. Southeast regional trucking offers steady miles, predictable home time, and solid pay for company drivers and owner-operators alike.
In this guide, we break down:
- The most popular Southeast regional routes
- The best carriers hiring in the region
- What to watch for before signing on
Let’s get into it.
What’s Really Going On with Southeast Regional Jobs?
The Southeast is one of the busiest freight regions in the U.S., driven by key logistics hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Jacksonville. With ports, warehouses, and major interstates (I-10, I-75, I-95, and I-20), freight demand stays high, especially in retail, food, and auto parts.
This means:
- Year-round freight (less downtime)
- Shorter regional hauls (usually 5–8 states)
- Frequent home time (often weekly)
Whether you’re running dry van, reefer, or flatbed, regional routes in the Southeast offer a chance to keep moving without running coast-to-coast.
Pros, Cons & What to Watch Out For
Pros
- More Home Time – Most Southeast regional drivers are home weekly
- Consistent Lanes – Get familiar with your route and shippers
- High Freight Volume – Especially around Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas
- Lower Fuel Costs – Compared to other regions, especially for owner-operators
Cons
- Hot Weather + Humidity – Can be tough during summer months
- Traffic in Key Cities – Expect bottlenecks around ATL and I-95 corridor
- Some Weekend Work – Depending on the carrier
Watch For
- Route Creep – Some “regional” jobs turn into national hauls over time
- Unrealistic Home Time Promises – Confirm what’s actually guaranteed
Top Carriers Hiring for Southeast Regional Runs
Here are some carriers known for Southeast-focused regional routes in 2025:
- SRT (Southern Refrigerated Transport) – Strong presence in AR, TN, GA, and Carolinas
- US Xpress – Offers dedicated and regional runs across Southeast hubs
- Millis Transfer – Regional dry van routes, home weekends
- Averitt Express – Known for home time and solid Southeast operations
- Heartland Express – Southeast division with regular lanes and competitive pay
Note: These are just examples. The best carrier for you depends on your lifestyle, location, and equipment preferences.
What It Means for Your Job (or Career Path)
Regional jobs in the Southeast can be a great fit if you’re:
- Looking to stay closer to home
- Want predictable schedules without going local
- Tired of the unpredictability of OTR
They also work well as a bridge between local and long-haul jobs, ideal for drivers with a few years under their belt, or those returning to the road.
Sick of Searching and Still Not Sure?
That’s exactly why Drivers 1st exists. We’re not here to push you, we’re here to help you make a move when you’re ready. Our True-Fit™ Lifestyle Selector helps match you with jobs that actually fit what you’re looking for, no B.S., no bait-and-switch.
How to Take Action or Apply
Before jumping into a Southeast regional job, here are a few smart steps:
- Clarify Your Home Time Needs – Weekly, biweekly, weekends?
- Ask About Route Radius – Make sure it’s truly “regional”
- Compare Carriers – Look beyond CPM. Consider equipment, benefits, and support
- Use a Job Advocate – Let someone help you spot red flags
→ Search Southeast Regional Jobs
→ Talk to a Driver Advocate (No Pressure)
Conclusion
Southeast regional jobs are some of the most in-demand routes in trucking, thanks to strong freight, better schedules, and home time that works for your life.
Your license is your business, make it work for you.
Whether you’re ready to switch gears or just want to see what’s out there, Drivers 1st is here when you are. No pressure. Just better options.
For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!