Three Reasons to Consider Team Driving Have you noticed some of the larger trucking companies in the States really pressing hard for team drivers? There is good reason for that. Team drivers keep trucks on the road for more hours per day, getting loads delivered faster and less expensively than solo drivers do. Trucking companies are willing to pay a bit more for teams because, in the end, they move more freight and make more money.
As a truck driver, you may already know that team driving is not for everyone. There are some definite downsides that need to be considered regarding this sort of work. However, there are plenty of upsides as well. Here are three reasons to consider team driving if you are new to the industry, or you are just looking to try something different: 1. More Money Teams typically make more per load because they can deliver faster. By keeping a rig moving almost constantly, delivery times are cut in half and volume increases. The one thing to consider here is the team itself. Spouses who drive together make out much better because all of the money they earn stays 'in the family.' Drivers who are not partners will otherwise split all the payments down the middle. Teams do have to be aware that federal regulations having to do with rest and drive time still apply. For example, the regulations only allow a driver to count two hours in the passenger seat as off time. The regs are written this way to force drivers to get the proper amount of sleep on the road. 2. Greater Efficiency There is a hidden benefit to team driving that some do not figure out until after they have hauled three or four loads together: greater efficiency. For example, the pre-trip inspection goes a lot more quickly when two drivers are working together. Team drivers enjoy greater efficiency in everything from load securement to backing. It just makes sense. Two sets of eyes, ears, and hands just make for faster, easier work.
3. Company on the Road Driving a truck over-the-road can be a very lonely existence for drivers who work alone. In fact, loneliness is one of the chief complaints of long-haul truckers. It does not have to be that way when working with a partner. Even having a team member in the seat next to you for just two hours is better than not having anyone there at all. And of course, teams can enjoy a meal together along with some good conversation. Obviously, team driving is not all sunshine and roses in this regard. The fact is that people disagree. Moreover, when they disagree, they tend to fight. There will be times when team members just do not get along for hours or days at a time. Nevertheless, learning to work out disputes quickly can make the difference. As we said earlier, team driving is not for everyone. However, for those drivers who can make it work, it is a very good way to make more money by sharing driving responsibilities. As an added bonus, companies looking for team drivers are willing to pair individuals who do not come with their own partners. You might want to consider team driving if you are looking to maximize your paycheck. If it doesn't work out, you can always return to going solo.