Share:

Team truck driving is an increasingly popular option in the trucking industry that can provide numerous benefits for both drivers and carriers. Team driving involves two drivers sharing the responsibility of operating a single truck. This approach allows the truck to be on the road nearly continuously, maximizing delivery efficiency and reducing transit times. While a team driver job can lead to quicker delivery times and improved earnings, it requires a specific mindset and lifestyle that may not suit everyone.

The greatest advantage of team driving is traveling greater distances without violating federal Hours of Service regulations. According to the FMCSA, drivers can only drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty. The idea is simple: one driver catches up on sleep and off-duty rest, while the other takes over driving for the next period. This system allows continuous driving, reducing delivery times significantly compared to a single driver. For many trucking companies, team driving helps ensure that freight is delivered quickly and efficiently, making it a valuable strategy in today’s competitive logistics landscape. As a driver, partnering with another person can also mean sharing the demanding responsibilities of the job and increasing earning potential. Team drivers can select co-drivers they know personally or rely on the company’s team-matching system.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of team driving to help you determine if it's right for you.

Pros of Team Driving

Increased Earning Potential:

Teams often receive higher pay compared to solo drivers because they can handle expedited freight or longer routes that require quicker delivery times. Some companies even offer bonuses or premium pay for team drivers. However, keep in mind this is not always the case. Experience is important for team drivers just as solo drivers, and teams are still prone to costly rookie mistakes.

Faster Deliveries:

Carriers focused on expedited shipping rely on the quicker delivery of goods that team driving ensures. Since the truck can operate nearly 24/7, team driving is ideal for time-sensitive loads, which can result in more lucrative contracts, extra bonuses, and steady job opportunities.

Reduced Individual Workload:

In a profession that is notorious for causing burnout, mental health and physical wellness are extremely important. With two drivers sharing the workload, each person can enjoy longer rest periods. Job responsibilities like navigating, paperwork, trip planning, or fueling can be shared, reducing individual stress and fatigue.

Safety:

Having another person in the truck can provide an additional level of security during rest stops or in emergencies. Teammates can also help each other through challenging and unsafe situations such as poor weather and narrow roads. Not to mention, the alternating shifts reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents and health complications.

Companionship:

Many drivers enjoy the camaraderie that comes from having a partner on the road. It can make the long hours on the road more engaging and less isolating. Who you team up with is up to you, which creates the opportunity to have a friend, family member, or spouse be there to make your work more enjoyable. Some companies with team jobs also allow pets!

Cons to Consider

Reduced Privacy:

Sharing a confined space like a truck cabin can be challenging, especially for drivers who value personal space or alone time. The tight quarters will require some compromise and flexibility when it comes to personal habits and preferences.

Sleep Challenges:

Even though one driver rests while the other drives, sleeping in a moving truck can be difficult for some people. Road noise, vibrations, and frequent stops may interfere with getting quality rest.

Compatibility Issues:

Drivers need to get along and maintain good communication in team driving, but that is sometimes easier said than done. Whether you have signed up with someone you know, or you allow the company to find a co-driver for you, facing conflict in a tight space can be an uncomfortable experience. Differences in driving habits, work ethic, or preferences for driving times can lead to tension. Disagreements or incompatible personalities can make the job stressful and even compromise a team’s efficiency.

Less Home Time:

Home time options will drastically vary between solo and team jobs. Since team driving is most common for OTR routes, it means being on the road for longer periods- sometimes delivering freight from one side of the country to the other. Team drivers will not have as many options for local routes with the most home-time flexibility.

Shared Earnings:

Although team driving can result in higher overall pay, the pay structure and division depend on the company’s policy. Sometimes the income is split between two drivers regardless of experience, so individual earnings might not be significantly higher than solo driving in some cases.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• How do you feel about sharing personal space?
• Can you comfortably trust your co-driver?
• Can you sleep well in a moving vehicle?
• How long do you want to be on the road without home time?
• What are your company’s policies and pay structures for team driving?

Team driving isn’t for everyone. It requires excellent communication, adaptability, and a willingness to compromise. While it can offer increased earnings, better work-life balance, and shared responsibilities, it also necessitates trade-offs and sharing a small space with another person. If you’re considering team driving, weigh these pros and cons carefully to determine if it aligns with your driving preferences and lifestyle.