COMPANY DRIVERS & OWNER OPERATORS

Where would commerce be today without the trucking industry? The market size of truckloads in the United States alone exceeds $200 billion this year. But, did you know that figure will increase by 5.8% for the next year? So, there’s never been a better time for getting into the industry.

Transporters are looking for company drivers to move their trucks. Yet, there’s a shortage of owner-operators to move loads as well. Are you interested in becoming one of those independent drivers but don’t know where to start? Not sure what the difference is between the two? Well, keep reading for a complete guide to becoming an owner-operator.solutions, exceptional customer service and uncompromising integrity.

Company truck drivers use vehicles owned by the employer. They drive the company truck assigned to them. The company looks after all the expenses that go to keeping that truck on the road. Employees hired to drive for the company generally get paid by the hour for local routes. However, when driving intercity routes, the driver gets paid a flat rate. Driving routes for drivers get decided on by the company, so the driver shows up and drives.As the term implies, owner-operators drive their own trucks. But, of course, with ownership, there are also the responsibilities of expenses and maintenance. Yet, truck owner-operators are free to accept which job they choose. In this group, the owner operators are either leasing their trucks or buying them outright. 

Independent drivers appreciate that everything they put into their trucks is for them. That’s because they own the equipment, which means they decide what routes to drive. Think of owner-operating as being a small business. As a self-employed business owner, you decide where and when to drive. You also accept the business you want and who to work with. 

If you don’t want a regular route, that’s up to you. Or, if you are looking for a route, you are free to try different ones out before deciding on the best for your needs. Another advantage right now to independent drivers is a shortage of available people. The trucking industry is in a boom period with a high demand for flexible drivers. As a result, finding the right fit with an agency has never been more accessible. 

And of course, the biggest advantage to being an owner-operator is the earnings. Self-employed drivers make more per mile than employees. Of course, added expenses come with ownership, but you can grow your business to meet your needs. 

For a new driver, having a company backing your first steps on the road is beneficial. There’s no cost at first except licensing, and with a busy trucking company, you’re on the road right away. Indeed, companies looking for drivers are even offering signing incentives. But, with a company, you drive their truck on their route when they want. In many cases, you have a set route, and time off comes with scheduled vacations. The real difference is you won’t have extra expenses to worry about. 

Yet, as an owner-operator, freedom is the real draw. Not only can you choose your own loads, but also what you will drive. You choose the truck that suits your driving needs. After all, you will be putting on a lot of miles. You want to be comfortable with your ride. Company trucks might be newer with expenses covered. But what if the truck you’re assigned doesn’t match your needs? 

Buying and maintaining a truck is a huge investment. But making it yours is what makes the difference. If you’re prepared to treat your job as your business, owning a truck gives you that option. And independent truckers have many more options. 

Choose the work you like. But, you can also make lease agreements with trucking companies for your services. Work options are for your business to decide. On the subject of business, there are also tax advantages to being an owner-operator. In addition, there are also options for individual benefits coverage. If the investment in your own equipment doesn’t scare you, you can create the trucking life you want. Travel where you want to take freight, and take a companion if you wish. It’s your truck, after all. All that stands in your way is a willingness to tap into your entrepreneurial spirit.  

Once you decide to become an independent truck driver, you will want to choose companies to work with. You’re no longer an employee, but you still want business partners that align with your needs.

GD Transports is an established immobilizer of intermodal freight the mid-Atlantic region. 

 If it’s your time to step away from being one of the company drivers, you now have the facts you need. So, if you want to begin a positive working relationship for your business and move ahead with GD Transports give us a call and fill your truck.