Team vs. Solo Driving: Which is Best for You?
Choosing a career in trucking is a big decision, and one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to drive as part of a team or to go solo. At Tri-State Motor Transit, we know this choice can shape your experience on the road and affect your earnings, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction.
In this blog, we break down the differences between team and solo truck driving. Use this guide to explore which option might help you earn more, and look at the pros and cons of each. Tri-State Motor Transit can help you find the right fit for your goals.
What Is Team Truck Driving?
Team truck driving is when two drivers share one truck and take turns behind the wheel. While one driver is driving, the other is resting or sleeping in the sleeper berth. This setup allows the truck to keep moving almost around the clock, except for fuel stops and quick breaks. Team driving is common for long-haul and expedited freight because shipments can reach their destination faster than if just one person were driving.
At Tri-State Motor Transit, many of our team drivers are friends, spouses, or partners who like spending time together and want to maximize their miles on the road. Team truck drivers often work out a schedule so each person gets regular rest. This is a great way to get more experience, especially if you’re new to trucking or want to learn from a seasoned partner. With two people sharing responsibilities, team drivers can handle long routes that might be too tough for one person alone.
Team Driving for Tri-State Hazmat
Team drivers at Tri-State Motor Transit have different expectations than most other trucking companies. While other companies employ team drivers to run more freight and cover more miles, we hire team drivers to help manage the unique nature of the freight we haul. Certain shipments must have a driver with the truck at all times, and team drivers help us meet that expectation.
Tri-State Hazmat is not a high-mileage company. We put our drivers first, which includes an appropriate work-life balance. We offer the highest salary, best benefits, and best equipment. And we’re hiring now.
Tri-State Hazmat is Hiring Team Drivers. Apply Now →
What Is Solo Truck Driving?
Solo truck driving means you are the only person responsible for your truck and load. You set your own pace, plan your stops, and have full control over your schedule. Many drivers choose solo trucking because they value independence and enjoy the quiet time on the road. You won’t have to compromise with anyone about music, temperature, or break times.
Solo drivers at Tri-State Motor Transit get the support they need to succeed and enjoy a variety of routes, from local and regional hauls to cross-country trips. Because you’re on your own, you’ll need to manage your time carefully, stay alert, and handle all the decisions that come up while on the road. Some people find this rewarding and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from handling everything solo.
Tri-State Hazmat is Hiring. Apply Now→
Which Trucking Career Earns More Money?
One of the biggest questions for any truck driver is, “How much can I make?” At Tri-State Motor Transit, both team and solo drivers earn higher than the industry average, and we’re proud to be the highest paying trucking employer out there. That means you’re already ahead, no matter which path you choose.
Team Hazmat Driver Pay
For team drivers, pay is usually based on cents per mile, just like solo drivers, but the key difference is the number of miles you can cover. Because your truck is moving almost 24 hours a day, teams can log thousands more miles per week. The total earnings for the run are usually split between both drivers, but because there are more miles, the take-home pay for each driver can be higher than most solo positions. Team drivers may also qualify for bonuses on expedited loads and can often pick up high-value freight that pays more.
Solo Hazmat Driver Pay
Solo drivers at Tri-State Motor Transit also make excellent pay, with excellent benefits. We offer opportunities to earn bonuses for safe driving, on-time deliveries, and taking on specialized or hazmat loads. Since you keep 100% of your earnings, you don’t have to share with anyone. The only limitation is the number of hours you can legally drive in a day. Regardless, our solo drivers still make more than most drivers in the industry.
Pros and Cons of Team vs. Solo Truck Driving
Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of both team and solo truck driving. Each style of driving offers something different, and what works for one person might not be the best fit for another.
| Team vs. Solo Driving Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Aspect | Team Driving | Solo Driving |
| Earnings | More miles per week, split pay | Full pay, slightly fewer miles |
| Lifestyle | Less privacy, shared cab | Independence, personal schedule |
| Fatigue | More rest breaks | Responsible for all driving |
| Social | Constant company | Quiet, alone time |
| Opportunities | Expedited/high-value loads | Specialized/custom runs |
Team Driving: Is It Right for You?
Team driving is best for people who don’t mind sharing space and spending long hours with a partner. If you like teamwork, want to maximize your miles, and are interested in faster deliveries and higher earnings, team driving can be a great choice. It’s also helpful if you are new to the industry and want to learn from someone more experienced. The ability to rest while your co-driver takes the wheel can also make the job less tiring overall.
Solo Driving: Is It Right for You?
Solo driving is perfect for independent people who enjoy making their own decisions and being responsible for their own schedule. If you like peace and quiet or need time to think and reflect while you drive, solo trucking offers the solitude many drivers enjoy. You’ll never have to compromise with a co-driver, and you get the satisfaction of knowing every delivery and decision is your own.
Why Drive With Tri-State Motor Transit?
No matter which path you take, Tri-State Motor Transit pays higher than industry averages for both team and solo drivers. We offer modern equipment, excellent benefits, and a supportive team that helps you succeed. We’re currently hiring and looking for both experienced drivers and newcomers to join our team. Whether you prefer the excitement of team trucking or the independence of solo driving, you’ll find great opportunities with us.
At Tri-State Motor Transit, you don’t have to settle for less. Apply today and start earning more, whether you drive with a partner or on your own.