Team driving is a unique and rewarding experience where two drivers share the responsibilities of one truck, allowing for continuous operation and faster delivery times. While team driving comes with its own set of challenges, it also offers several advantages, including higher pay, shared responsibilities, and the opportunity to travel with a partner. If you’re considering team driving, here are some of the best trucking jobs available for team drivers.
1. Expedited Freight
Overview:
Expedited freight involves transporting time-sensitive goods that need to reach their destination as quickly as possible. Team drivers are ideal for these jobs because they can keep the truck moving around the clock, ensuring faster delivery.
Why It’s Great for Team Drivers:
- High Pay: Expedited freight often comes with higher pay rates due to the urgency of the deliveries.
- Steady Work: The demand for expedited freight is constant, providing team drivers with a steady stream of work.
- Time-Sensitive Deliveries: Expedited freight jobs are ideal for team drivers who thrive in high-pressure environments and enjoy the challenge of meeting tight deadlines.
Example Jobs:
- Expedited Dry Van Team Driver: Transport urgent dry goods across long distances, with the benefit of continuous operation.
- Expedited Reefer Team Driver: Haul perishable goods that require temperature control, ensuring they arrive on time and in good condition.
2. Long-Haul OTR Team Driving
Overview:
Long-haul Over-the-Road (OTR) driving involves transporting goods across multiple states, often covering thousands of miles in a single trip. Team drivers are well-suited for these jobs because they can maximize driving hours and cover more ground in less time.
Why It’s Great for Team Drivers:
- Increased Miles: Team drivers can cover more miles than solo drivers, leading to higher earnings.
- Variety of Routes: Long-haul OTR jobs offer the opportunity to see different parts of the country, making the job more exciting and adventurous.
- Shared Responsibility: The ability to share driving duties allows team drivers to rest while their partner drives, reducing fatigue and improving safety.
Example Jobs:
- Long-Haul Dry Van Team Driver: Haul general freight across the country, with the benefit of covering more miles and earning more money.
- Long-Haul Flatbed Team Driver: Transport oversized or heavy loads over long distances, with the added challenge of securing and managing specialized freight.
3. Dedicated Team Routes
Overview:
Dedicated routes involve driving for a specific customer or set of customers, often with a predictable schedule and regular home time. Team drivers on dedicated routes can enjoy the benefits of consistent work and a stable routine.
Why It’s Great for Team Drivers:
- Predictable Schedule: Dedicated routes offer a consistent schedule, making it easier for team drivers to plan their personal lives around work.
- Regular Home Time: Many dedicated team routes are designed to have drivers home on weekends, offering a good work-life balance.
- Strong Relationships: Driving for the same customers regularly allows team drivers to build strong relationships, which can lead to job satisfaction and security.
Example Jobs:
- Dedicated Dry Van Team Driver: Haul goods for a specific customer, with the benefit of regular routes and consistent home time.
- Dedicated Reefer Team Driver: Transport perishable goods on a dedicated route, ensuring they arrive in optimal condition and on time.
4. High-Value Cargo Team Driving
Overview:
High-value cargo includes goods that are expensive, sensitive, or require special handling. Team drivers are often preferred for these jobs because they can provide continuous monitoring and ensure the security of the cargo.
Why It’s Great for Team Drivers:
- Higher Pay: High-value cargo often comes with higher pay rates due to the increased responsibility and risk.
- Specialized Training: Driving high-value cargo can involve specialized training, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced team drivers.
- Security Focused: Team drivers can provide added security by keeping the truck moving and reducing the time the cargo is stationary.
Example Jobs:
- High-Value Dry Van Team Driver: Transport expensive electronics, pharmaceuticals, or other high-value goods, ensuring they arrive safely and securely.
- High-Value Reefer Team Driver: Haul temperature-sensitive goods that are also high in value, such as medical supplies or gourmet foods.
5. Military and Government Freight
Overview:
Military and government freight involves transporting goods for the armed forces or government agencies. These jobs often require security clearances and specialized training, making them ideal for experienced team drivers.
Why It’s Great for Team Drivers:
- Exclusive Contracts: Military and government contracts often provide steady work and job security for team drivers.
- Specialized Training: These jobs may require additional training, offering team drivers the opportunity to expand their skills and expertise.
- Patriotic Purpose: Transporting goods for the military or government can be a rewarding experience, knowing that your work supports national security and public service.
Example Jobs:
- Military Freight Team Driver: Transport goods for the armed forces, including equipment, supplies, and vehicles, with the added responsibility of handling sensitive cargo.
- Government Freight Team Driver: Haul goods for government agencies, often involving secure and time-sensitive deliveries.
Conclusion
Team driving offers unique opportunities for drivers who enjoy working together and want to maximize their earnings by covering more miles. Whether you’re interested in expedited freight, long-haul OTR, dedicated routes, high-value cargo, or military and government freight, there’s a team driving job that fits your skills and preferences. By choosing the right team driving job, you can enjoy a rewarding and successful career on the road.