Can driving be more dynamic as a duo?
Many of life’s most gratifying moments, both personally and professionally, are shared with others. Truck driving is no exception. Building a professional driving career can be a fulfilling path, but hitting the road as a team can elevate the experience to a whole new level.
Wondering if team driving is right for you? Let’s explore some potential opportunities and challenges to consider.
Green lights
Here are a few reasons why team driving is growing in popularity:
Sharing the load on the road
Having a partner enables you to divide and conquer day-to-day responsibilities. A well-coordinated team can handle the demands of the road more efficiently — everything from performing pre- and post-trip inspections and splitting driving shifts to safely navigating tricky parking situations and interacting with customers.
High demand and steady miles
With top carriers across the country actively seeking skilled teams to meet tight delivery schedules, you won’t have to worry about staying busy. In fact, many teams find they can take on more miles than solo drivers, allowing them to maximize their time on the road.
Greater earning potential
Teams can alternate driving shifts, allowing you to stay moving. With this tactical advantage, you and your partner can run between 4,500 and 5,000 miles per week! And because teams can deliver faster, it means more opportunities for hauling priority loads that involve high-value and time-sensitive freight, as well as those that require security clearance.
Increased safety and security
Two sets of eyes and ears are helpful, especially when driving at night or in unfamiliar areas. With a team transporting a high-value, time-sensitive load, it’s easy to ensure the truck and the freight are never left alone (by alternating shower times and meals, etc.). Also, your co-driver is there to help in case of a mechanical problem, injury or illness.
Time flies with a partner nearby
Even people who enjoy solitude need regular human interaction for their health and well-being. Pairing up with a spouse, another family member or a close friend can help ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. Plus, you’ll both feel a sense of professional accomplishment as you grow together, build camaraderie and thrive as a driving team.
Detour signs
Even the best jobs have their drawbacks, team driving included. Things to be aware of include:
Limited privacy
Living and working in close quarters with another person — even your spouse or someone you’re friends with — can be challenging. Regularly allowing each other some personal space can help you both stay energized and focused on the road.
Potential for conflict
While solo drivers only manage their own schedules, driving as a team requires consideration, compromise and flexibility. This includes respecting personal boundaries, deciding driving shifts and coordinating time off, among other things.
Long stretches away from home
Many drivers gravitate to the profession because they want to enjoy the freedom of the open road. The downside of that, however, is just how much time you could spend out there.
Depending on the company, driving teams could be out for 2-3 weeks at a time. Some teams choose to stay out even longer to earn more. Figure out how important home time is to you before embarking on a team driving path.
Enjoy the drive with ArcBest on your side
Team driving with ArcBest’s Panther Premium fleet offers a path to more profitability, greater efficiency, thousands of unique shipment opportunities daily and around-the-clock support. These prospects aren’t limited to just CDL-A holders — team drivers with a CDL-B are highly sought-after, especially in the expedite space.
Looking to level up your driving career? Find your fit with us and we’ll help your team thrive!
Check out these team driving success stories to learn more.
