Being an owner-operator allows you to run your own trucking company, choose your own routes, and set your own schedule. As a result, these professionals have more options than ever before to find high-paying work that also allows them to keep their schedules open. The knowledge you gain about these groups will aid you in your search for a trucking company that fits your professional aspirations.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best owner-operator businesses.
Owner-operator business: What is it?
To the beginner, an owner-operator is a self-employed truck driver who also owns and operates their own truck. Owner-operators have the freedom to work whenever they like as independent contractors. The vast majority of owner-operators get their start as company drivers for trucking firms. They then take the plunge into entrepreneurship. Owner-operators can choose the loads they want to haul, or they can sign a contract with a single client or commodity. There are many owner-operator businesses; check out their Routes for sale – Bizroutes.
J.B. Hunt
J.B. Hunt, which has been around since 1961, is a major U.S. and North American logistics and transportation provider. Customers can count on this business for reliable, individualized transportation services. Intermodal, Dedicated Contract Services, Truck, and Integrated Capacity Solutions are just some of the company’s many divisions. Numerous Fortune 500 companies are among J.B. Hunt’s clientele.
XPO Logistics
Established in 2011, XPO Logistics is a frontrunner in the truck brokerage and less-than-truckload (LTL) sectors of the freight transportation industry. The business makes use of cutting-edge technology, including an automated freight marketplace and streamlined distribution channels. Over 42,000 people are employed by the company to provide services to the 50,000 shippers the company supports across 756 locations.
USA Truck
USA Truck, established in 1983, is a truckload carrier that services all of North America. The business caters to a wide variety of customers using its fleet of over 2,400 tractors and 6,700 trailers. Their drivers transport a wide variety of goods, including consumer goods, industrial machinery, and even rubber, plastic, and paper. Besides long-distance shipping, the company also provides regional and medium-distance shipping.
Quality Carriers
Quality Carriers, founded in 1913, operates over 2,500 trucks and 6,400 trailers, making it the largest fleet of bulk tank trucks in North America. Many Fortune 500 companies and major chemical manufacturers rely on the company’s offerings. Drivers who own their own businesses can find consistent work in the regional, local, non-hazardous, road, and dedicated markets thanks to the reload system’s breadth.
Prime Inc.
Prime Inc., which has been in business since 1970, is a trucking company that focuses on several different types of transportation. This firm has been in business for decades and has branches all over the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the transportation and freight trucking industry, Prime Inc. is a major player that employs eco-friendly practices. Critical, time-sensitive, temperature-sensitive, and perishable materials may be transported via truckload.
Marten Transport
In business since 1946, Marten Transport is known for its expertise in transporting perishable and time-sensitive goods. Distribution services are provided to clients in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Intermodal, brokerage services, hazmat transport, long-distance transportation, short-distance transportation, regional transport, and drayage are just some of the logistics options provided by this business. Having drop trailers, specialized machinery, and extra drivers on hand during peak seasons are just a few of the ways in which Marten Transport meets and exceeds service expectations.
Landstar
Landstar, which was established in 1988, is a truckload freight carrier that uses an asset-light business system and model. Greater than 13,000 dry vans, reefer trucks, and flatbeds are part of the company’s fleet. Owner/operators, contractors, and marketing/sales representatives make up the bulk of this firm’s workforce. It moves a wide variety of commodities and public goods, including construction tools, industrial machinery, auto parts, and chemicals.
Mercer Transportation
Founded in 1977, Mercer Transportation is a North American provider of freight transportation services, operating a fleet of over 2200 trucks. It allows for shipments as small as one load to be as large as necessary. The company offers a variety of shipping options, including truckload, LTL, and OD deliveries. Mercer Transportation offers its services to both external and internal clients throughout the region.
The tasks of owner-operators
Due to their dual roles as drivers and fleet managers, owner-operators are expected to handle matters such as vehicle insurance, ELD compliance, and load scheduling independently. Since larger fleets typically have a central dispatch office, this can make income less stable.
There are some large fleets that will work with independent drivers. Owner-operators in a fleet are essentially independent contractors working for a larger fleet, not unlike a franchise. The fleet arranges for loads to be hauled and provides insurance, but the driver keeps the bulk of the gross pay per load.
Why should you choose an owner-operator business?
Besides being a great side business An important decision to make when entering the trucking industry is whether to drive for a company or for yourself as an independent contractor or owner-operator. Truck drivers who are employed by a company typically operate a fleet of company vehicles.
They deliver packages wherever and whenever the company tells them to. The drivers are not given much say in when they are scheduled to work. Drivers who operate as owner-operators often own not only the cab but also the trailer. These motorists are small business owners who accept contracts to transport cargo. Independent truck drivers can pick and choose their own hours and the kinds of freight they transport
Naturally, business owners have to pay some money upfront to get going. Having a truck of their own or renting one is required. It is common practice for new drivers to first gain experience in the field as an employee of a larger company before venturing out on their own. However, being an owner-operator has many benefits.
Owner-operators have more freedom over their schedules than company drivers, who are typically assigned jobs. Having more say over one’s schedule allows for the possibility of spending more time with loved ones when it’s most needed.
Owner-operators have more leeway in how they outfit their rigs, while company drivers often have to make do with what’s provided. To attract leased owner-operators, many businesses now offer rider and pet policies.
Conclusion
Independent truck drivers typically earn more money than their company-employed counterparts. Because they are willing to take on more risk, they are rewarded financially. Each load they transport typically generates a larger share of the total revenue for the company. Owner-operators can increase their earnings potential by minimizing their fuel expenses. When they sign contracts with firms that cover fuel surcharges and supply fuel discounts, they can make even more money check out more transportation ideas here.
