One decision you will have to make when entering the trucking industry is if you want to work solo or with a driving partner. A solo truck driver is solely responsible for transporting their freight, while team trucking involves a pair of drivers taking shifts in the same semi-truck. Both driving styles have pros and cons, and we have laid a few of them out to help you decide which type suits you best.
Pros of Team Trucking
The Road is Less Lonely
One of the hardships of a career in trucking is all the time spent alone. While some truck drivers love alone time, others crave moments at truck stops where they can socialize with other drivers. If you are the second type of trucker, then a driving team may be well suited for you. Being away from your family while you’re on the road can be difficult, but sharing the experience with another trucker can make the trips less lonely. It is also comforting to know someone has your back while you’re on the road.
You Can Drive With Your Spouse
Another perk of team trucking is the opportunity to partner with your spouse. Some of the most successful trucking teams are husband-and-wife teams. Not only do you have the opportunity to earn more money, but it also allows you to spend more time together. Depending on your schedule, you can sightsee or try new activities during your downtime.
Team Drivers Typically Make More Money
In many cases, team drivers earn more money than solo drivers because they can log more miles. A truck driver can only drive for 11 hours during one shift. With team trucking, however, truckers take turns behind the wheel, meaning their rig is on the road at all times. Although teams split their total pay, they can cover far more distance than a trucker driving on their own, making more money in the process. Trucking teams are also given more high-priority loads, which typically pay more.
Cons of Team Trucking
You May Frequently Be Away From Home
Team truck drivers often see their families less than solo drivers because they transport high-priority loads. Depending on the trucking company you work for, you and your partner could be away from home for weeks or even months at a time. If you want to be home most nights of the week, solo driving may be a better career choice for you. However, this depends on the company, so be sure to ask about the home time policy for the specific motor carrier you are interested in working for.
Sleeping Arrangements May Be Difficult
Another possible downside of team trucking is the sleeping arrangements. To maximize your hours, one driver will have to sleep in the truck while the other drives. You may also have to adjust to sleeping during the day. It may be difficult to make this switch, especially with the rhythm of the road and sound from the cab. Some drivers find this more challenging than others.
Drive Your Future Forward
If you’re eager to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) to get started on your new team or solo truck driving career, consider Yuma Truck Driving School. We offer several options for aspiring truck drivers, including classes with flexible schedules, training for military personnel, and financial assistance for qualifying students. We can get you on the road in as little as four weeks.
