While many drivers enjoy having a person in the cab for conversation and company, some may choose to travel across the country alone.
Building a successful trucking career with team driving is highly recommended. Let's explore what this truck-driving career path has to offer.
What is team truck driving?
The idea of team driving is simple: two people split all the duties equally, especially driving the vehicle.
The first driver is referred to as the lead driver. The second driver is the swing or backup driver. Together they travel more than their solo opponents. Typically, the only duty of a second driver when a lead driver is behind the wheel is to be available in case something happens to him.
Team drivers will divide their shifts so that one can sleep while the other drives the truck. This is a fantastic approach to fulfilling delivery responsibilities without putting the freight, vehicle, or drivers at increased risk. A continuously rotating schedule guarantees that everyone adheres to the DOT regulations regarding how long someone can be driving.
What is the salary of team drivers?
Is it beneficial? That will vary based on your company, the types of loads, the distance, and other factors. Team drivers should anticipate making between $0.50 and $0.75 per mile driven, with bonuses for going beyond some distance limits. Most teams drive between 4,500 and 5,500 miles every week, which comes to about six figures per driver a year. Because they can travel nearly twice as many miles, team truck drivers can make more money than dedicated or OTR drivers.
What is it like to be a team driver?
You must take care of your health and well-being because team drivers may be on the road for weeks at a time. You should make sure you are getting quality sleep and eating healthy foods.
Team driving may be a great experience and a lot of fun! As you travel the United States with your co-driver, you get to build a close relationship. There will be downtime between loads and for rest, look like an opportunity to explore. That is a massive benefit over other jobs that entail being confined to a cubicle for endless repetitions of the same mundane task.
Why should you become a team driver?
Higher Salary
Because their salary is based on the number of miles they drive, team drivers can make more money than solo drivers. It is simpler when the necessary mileage is managed by two persons. Truck drivers can work as a team in a variety of productive ways.
More Important Loads
The customer has designated a high-priority load as critical. The driver and trucking business will thus receive higher pay for these loads.Compared to solo truck drivers, teams of drivers offer more reliable delivery times. These teams will be more constantly sought after by customers, which will increase profitability and improve stability.
Companionship
It's not always about the money. Due to the opportunity to make friendships and meet new people while driving, many drivers take pleasure in their work. Team truck drivers regularly work together with friends or family. Couples and close friends like driving as a team.
There are numerous examples of husband-and-wife teams or intimate partners as CDL team drivers. Many couples are motivated to do team truck driving as a more reliable alternative to financial independence given the current state of the jobs and economic markets. Not to mention, you get a person that enjoys being around you.
Better Security & Safety
Because team drivers have a teammate to assist them and keep each other safe, team drivers are typically more aware of their surroundings. Team drivers find it simpler to maintain their focus because they know their partner is nearby and available to help if anything goes wrong.
Team driving has many benefits, including high salaries and the ability to enjoy your time on the road without being worried about being lonely or stressed out.
Grow your experience
New drivers are usually paired with experienced drivers. It enables then to continue with their training while traveling. The chance to gain more professional experience to advance your future career through team driving is fantastic.
What requirements are necessary to join a team as a driver?
You must fulfill a few requirements to work as a team truck driver:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- Pass a drug test
- Clean Driving Record
- Any load-specific qualifications (hazardous materials, liquids, etc.)
- A high school diploma or GED equivalency
- Pass a background check and physical exam, which includes a vision test. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them!
You also need to be at least 18 to 21 years old and physically fit to drive for extended periods.
How do you start with team driving?
Consider working as a team truck driver if you want a profession that allows you to be independent and flexible. It is a fantastic method to make new friends from various backgrounds. Being a team member ensures you have someone to turn to for support.
Ready to join the team as a driver? At New Sound Trucking School, we're honored to work with a number of the biggest carriers in the country! Lacking a partner? They will pair you up with a fantastic co-driver, so there is no need to worry! There has never been a higher demand for team drivers to maintain our supply chain.