Team Driving vs. Solo Driving What is Better

Long-distance driving has two options: team driving for faster delivery but requires teamwork, and solo driving for independence but requires sole responsibility for the trip. The choice depends on individual preferences, driving experience, and trip requirements..

What is Team Driving? 

Team driving involves two drivers operating a single truck on long-haul trips, ensuring safety by alternating driving duties and staying alert. It is also more efficient than solo driving, allowing longer distances without rest breaks. Despite being demanding, team driving is crucial for the trucking industry and keeping goods moving.

How Does Team Driving Work?

• Team driving is typical in the transportation industry for long-distance driving.
• It involves two or more drivers operating a single truck, one driving while the other rests in a sleeper berth.
• The two drivers alternate driving and sleeping until they reach their destination.
• Team driving allows trucking companies to cover more ground in less time, as the trucks can operate around the clock with minimal downtime.
• This approach helps drivers avoid the physical and mental exhaustion of long distances alone.
• Team driving can be demanding and challenging, but it can also be rewarding for those who enjoy the open road and working closely with a partner.

Solo vs Team Truck Driving.

Figure 01. The differences between Solo & Team Truck Driving

Solo and team truck driving are two different ways of operating a truck on the road: 

• Solo truck drivers: are responsible for driving and managing their vehicles alone. Solo truck driving can offer more flexibility and independence, allowing drivers to schedule and make decisions.
• Team truck drivers: work in pairs, alternating driving shifts to ensure their truck runs continuously. Team truck driving can offer companionship and less workload per individual, leading to less exhaustion.

Both have their pros and cons. Ultimately, the choice between solo and team truck driving depends on personal preferences, job requirements, and lifestyle needs.

Is Team Driving Worth It?

Is team driving worth it? It depends on personal preferences and circumstances. Team driving offers the benefits of sharing driving responsibilities, enhancing safety, and providing opportunities to run more miles and share driving time. In addition, some drivers value companionship and camaraderie with their partners. However, team driving can also present challenges, such as the need for effective communication and coordination and potential personality conflicts with their partner. 

Solo driving provides independence and flexibility, allowing drivers to set schedules and make decisions. However, it can also be more exhausting as drivers have to handle all aspects of the job. Ultimately, choosing between a team and solo driving will depend on individual preferences and circumstances.

Team Driving Jobs

• Team driving jobs involve two drivers transporting goods across long distances.
• One driver rests while the other drives, allowing for continuous travel and quicker delivery times.
• Team driving can be a good option for those looking to cover more miles and make more money than solo driving.
• Team driving offers the opportunity to work closely with a partner, providing companionship and camaraderie during long trips.
• Communication and coordination between partners are critical for successful team driving.
• Finding a compatible partner with similar driving styles, personalities, and work ethics is essential.

Example team driving jobs:

• Long-haul truck drivers who work in teams to transport goods across the country.
• Delivery drivers work together to make time-sensitive deliveries to different locations.
• Moving truck drivers who team up to transport household belongings and furniture during a move.

Best Team-driving Companies

Figure 02. Best Team-Driving Companies

Top team-driving companies prioritise drivers' needs with competitive pay, benefits, and a supportive work environment. Examples include FedEx Freight, Schneider National, JB Hunt, and Swift Transportation, which offer training, flexible schedules, and health and work-life balance programs. Choosing the best company depends on individual preferences, job requirements, lifestyle needs, and location.

FedEx Freight

For instance, provides a salary range of $50,000 to $80,000 per year for team drivers, with the potential to earn bonuses and incentives for outstanding performance. They also provide health, dental, vision, and life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and employee discounts on various products and services.

Schneider National

Provides team drivers with a salary range of $70,000 to $100,000 per year, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a company match, and paid time off. They also offer flexible scheduling options, including dedicated and regional routes and opportunities for career advancement through specialised training programs.

JB Hunt

Offers a competitive salary package for team drivers, including a sign-on bonus, annual performance bonuses, and competitive per-mile rates. They also provide comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and a paid orientation and training program for new hires.

Swift Transportation

Offers a salary range of $70,000 to $100,000 per year for team drivers and a sign-on bonus, weekly pay, and competitive per-mile rates. They also provide health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a company match, and paid time off. Additionally, they offer various career advancement opportunities, including leadership positions and specialised training programs.

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