It's a Team's Life
Why Team Trucking Pays Off
Why Team Trucking Pays Off
Team trucking, where two drivers operate a single truck to keep it moving nearly continuously, offers significant benefits for both drivers and companies. Below is a breakdown of why team trucking pays off, based on industry insights and operational advantages.
Team drivers can cover more miles than solo drivers since the truck is rarely idle. More miles translate to higher pay, especially for long-haul routes. Many companies offer team drivers premium pay rates or mileage bonuses due to the demanding nature of the job.
Drivers alternate between driving and resting, reducing fatigue and making long hauls more manageable. One driver operates the truck while the other uses the sleeper berth, ensuring compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations without long stops.
This setup allows drivers to stay on the road longer, completing trips faster than solo drivers.
Companies prioritize team drivers for high-value, time-sensitive loads, which can lead to more consistent work and better job stability.
Teams are often in demand for expedited freight, such as medical supplies or perishable goods, ensuring steady assignments.
Having a partner reduces the isolation of long-haul driving and provides a sense of security, especially during night shifts or in unfamiliar areas.
Teams can assist each other with tasks like navigation, load checks, or handling emergencies, improving efficiency and safety.
Because teams complete routes faster (e.g., cross-country in 2–3 days vs. 4–5 for solo drivers), drivers may get more frequent home time or shorter turnaround times between loads.
Team trucking maximizes truck uptime, enabling near-continuous operation (up to 22 hours daily, accounting for mandatory breaks). This is ideal for time-sensitive freight, such as e-commerce or just-in-time inventory.
Trucks are expensive assets. Team operations keep them moving, reducing downtime and increasing revenue per vehicle. This is especially valuable for high-cost equipment like refrigerated trailers or specialized freight trucks.
Companies offering team trucking can attract clients needing expedited services, such as Amazon, Walmart, or pharmaceutical distributors. This strengthens customer relationships and opens premium freight contracts.
Teams help companies stay compliant with HOS rules while maintaining tight schedules. With two drivers, companies avoid delays caused by mandatory rest periods for solo drivers.
Continuous operation means fewer stops and starts, which can reduce fuel consumption and mechanical stress on the truck compared to frequent parking and idling.
Team trucking requires compatibility between drivers, as they share a confined space for extended periods. Mismatched personalities or work styles can create tension.
Higher pay rates and benefits for team drivers increase labor costs, though these are often offset by faster deliveries and higher revenue.
Team trucking pays off by boosting earnings, efficiency, and job satisfaction for drivers while enabling companies to meet demanding delivery schedules, optimize equipment use, and capture high-value freight contracts. It’s a win-win model for long-haul operations, provided drivers and companies manage the unique challenges of teamwork and coordination.
Here’s to millions of safe, profitable and TEAM miles.
Kelly Plumb