Owner-Operator Vs. Company Driver: The Recent CDL Graduate's Guide

If you are looking to enter the trucking industry and have looked at job advertisements, you have probably noticed the words “company driver” and “owner-operator.” Although both types of drivers help move our nation along, there is a distinct difference between the owner-operator and the company driver.

Owner-Operator

The job of an owner-operator is essentially that of a small business owner. You own the truck and pay some of the fees associated with running the vehicle. Many trucking companies offer a owner-operator program that allows you to purchase one of the company vehicles through a dealership. While you get more pay from typical owner-operator trucking jobs, you have to compensate for fees such as licensing and minor maintenance.

However, the greatest benefit of owner-operator trucking jobs is freedom. If you choose to leave your source of employment, the truck stays with you as long as you can pay the lease or purchase payment. In addition, owner operator trucking jobs allow you to modify your vehicle to your specifications. In fact, many of the custom trucks featured in magazines and at truck shows are the property of owner operators.

In a short synopsis, here are the pros and cons of owner operator trucking jobs.

Pros:

• Increased Pay
• Sense of Ownership
• Ability to Start an Independent Fleet
• Customization of Vehicle

Cons:

•  Fees
• Vehicle Payments

Company Driver

For many truck drivers, being an owner-operator is out of reach. Financial concerns and unneeded hassles prevent these drivers from filling owner operator trucking jobs. For these drivers, working as a company driver is just as beneficial as working as an owner operator. Company driver trucking jobs provide many benefits also.

If you are employed with a good company that maintains its fleet, takes care of its workers, and pays a decent rate, you can experience similar success to owner operators. Being an owner operator is not always a benefit, and for many drivers, company driving work provides a sufficient flow of income and a stable source of employment.

Some of the benefits of company driver trucking jobs include:

Pros:

• Few Hassles
• Good Pay
• Frequently Replaced Vehicles

Cons:

• Less Freedom
• Loss of Job Equals Loss of Vehicle
• Inability to Branch Out from Employer

Whether you drive as an owner-operator or a company driver, trucking can be a successful career if you are diligent, drive cautiously, and obey the laws of the road. Happy travels to you as you embark on your new career.