Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Saia Inc
Saia Inc accepts applications online. The process is straightforward and moves quickly for qualified candidates.
- Search Saia driver and terminal positions: Visit saia.com/careers and search by location and position type. Saia hires CDL-A drivers, dock workers, and management and operations staff at terminals across its national network.
- Complete the online application: Apply online with your CDL information, MVR history, and work experience. Dock and operations roles require completion of the standard employment application.
- Phone screening with a Saia recruiter: A Saia recruiter contacts qualifying candidates to review driving history, terminal availability, and pay and home time expectations.
- Terminal visit and road test: CDL-A driver candidates complete a road test at the terminal. Dock associate candidates complete an in-person interview and orientation overview.
- Complete onboarding: New hires complete DOT drug testing, background verification, and Saia new hire orientation before beginning their route or dock assignment.
Saia Inc Positions & Pay Rates
Saia Inc offers roles across service, operations, and management functions. Common roles and pay ranges are listed below.
| Position | Pay Range | Type |
|---|---|---|
| CDL-A LTL City Driver | $70,000–$100,000/yr | Full-time |
| CDL-A Over-the-Road Driver | $72,000–$105,000/yr | Full-time |
| Dock / Freight Handler | $20–$28/hr | Full-time |
| Terminal Operations Supervisor | $55,000–$80,000/yr | Full-time |
| Terminal Manager | $80,000–$115,000/yr | Full-time |
Saia Inc Application Requirements
CDL-A is required for driver roles with a clean MVR and satisfactory background. City driver positions require a DOT medical certificate and experience with LTL freight operations. Dock workers do not need a CDL but must be able to operate forklifts and handle freight physically. A drug screen and background check are required for all positions.
Saia Inc Interview Process
Saia driver and dock hiring is efficient. After the online application, a recruiter contacts qualifying candidates for a phone screening. Driver candidates complete a road test at the terminal, while dock candidates attend an in-person meeting. Saia is known for competitive pay and strong benefits, making it one of the more desirable LTL carriers for CDL drivers.
Saia Inc Benefits
Saia offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and safety bonuses for drivers with clean records. Dock workers and terminal employees receive equivalent benefits. Saia is frequently recognized as a top employer in the trucking industry for its compensation, culture, and advancement opportunities.
Saia Inc Career Development
Saia careers progress from city driver, dock associate, or OTR driver to dispatcher, dock supervisor, terminal manager, and regional director. Saia’s growth across new terminal markets creates consistent openings for operations leadership. Dock associates who earn their CDL-A while employed are frequently offered driver positions, making Saia a popular employer for people building a commercial driving career.
Candidates who demonstrate genuine alignment with the mission and work environment, prepare thoroughly for each selection step, and consistently follow through on commitments are those most likely to succeed in the hiring process and build long careers at this organization.
Employees and contractors who maintain excellent completion records, gather strong customer ratings, and demonstrate a reliable professional commitment are consistently chosen for premium routes, expanded opportunities, and advancement within the organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LTL freight and what does a Saia city driver do?
LTL (less-than-truckload) carriers like Saia pick up multiple smaller freight shipments from different customers on the same truck, delivering them to a terminal for sortation and re-dispatch. City drivers operate within a metro area, picking up and delivering business freight daily and returning their truck to the terminal each evening. City driver positions offer consistent home-daily schedules.
How does Saia pay compare to other LTL carriers?
Saia is consistently ranked among the top-paying LTL carriers for city drivers and OTR drivers. The company has invested heavily in driver pay increases, safety bonuses, and benefits improvements. City driver earnings of $70,000 to $100,000 per year are achievable at Saia with a full route and consistent performance.
Does Saia hire new CDL-A holders?
Saia prefers candidates with LTL experience but does consider new CDL-A holders at select terminals depending on hiring needs. Candidates with limited experience may be offered a dock-to-driver pathway where they begin on the dock to learn freight operations while gaining experience hours toward driver qualification.
Explore more guides in the Logistics & Delivery hub, including pages for J.B. Hunt, Schneider, and Swift Transportation.