In the transportation industry, you’re either a company driver or an owner operator. Along with a bit of information on both, here are a few reasons why you may choose to be a company driver.
Paid benefits
Since company drivers are employed by a trucking company, unlike owner operators, they are usually provided with some sort of employee benefits ranging from PTO to health insurance. Other common benefits include dental, vision, and life insurance. Some companies even offer referral bonuses or retirement plans. And because owner operators essentially work for themselves, any insurance costs come out of their own pocket.
Oakley Transport offers our drivers a competitive benefits package including a full health benefits package, dental & vision insurance, paid life insurance, 401k with company matching, vacation pay and more.
More stability
Owner operators may be able to drive part-time and take time off as they please, but that also means less stability. Company drivers don’t need to research and network with other trucking companies or wonder where their next paycheck is coming from. They can have the luxury of a more set schedule and knowledge of future assignments. It also can be difficult to leave one job for another as an owner operator because of contracts and holds on payment.
With OTR that covers all 48 states and into Mexico and Canada, regional positions in TX, FL, the Midwest, the Northeast and the South, dedicated customers in Florida, Ohio, Iowa, North Carolina, and South Carolina, and seasonal hauling in Florida, Oakley has something for every type of driver.
Lower risk and stress
Not only do owner operators have to take on the responsibilities of a business owner, but they also must cover the maintenance costs of their truck. This can include diesel, regular maintenance, down payments, and equipment costs. Company drivers aren’t tasked with expensive startup or maintenance costs. They simply do their jobs and are able to do what they please with the rest of their time.
Our fleet tractors are all predominantly 2019 and newer Volvo VNL tractors, direct from the Volvo factory and customized for the unique tasks of each division. In Lake Wales, Florida, we operate a full-service tractor and trailer repair facility to keep our fleet in top shape. We take pride in our early preventative maintenance program, scheduling PMs well before they are needed we can assure that the equipment is operating at peak performance. Afterall, keeping the wheels rolling is what keeps drivers paid.
Paycheck freedom
Paycheck freedom comes also along with company drivers not having to cover the cost of maintenance. Owner operators are often paid more than company drivers, but owner operator pay quickly erodes with the costs of maintaining your own truck. Individual truck owners pay more for parts and have more expensive repair costs versus a fleet that has negotiated better pricing and has service centers across the United States. Higher pay is necessary for owner operators in order to be able to sustain such high costs and pay themselves at the same time. But company drivers are not responsible for these costs. This makes complete paycheck freedom a possibility for company drivers, allowing them to spend their income at their own discretion. More often than not, once you asses for all the costs, not to mention the hassle of setting up all of your own maintenance, an Oakley company driver will make more than most owner operators.
High demand
Lastly, the American trucking industry is in need of drivers. The current shortage has created a high demand for truckers and plenty of available jobs. And if one company isn’t the best fit for you, then it likely won’t be too long before you’re able to find work elsewhere.
Family-owned and operated since 1986, Oakley Transport offers a family-centric company culture in addition to excellent pay, bonuses, and flexibility. Oakley’s core values directly impact our recruiting philosophy. We are hiring for growth and longevity, not to simply fill a vacancy.
If you are an experienced driver with a safe record and interested in joining the Oakley Transport Family as one of our valued company drivers, then be sure to call 1-888-813-1799 to get in touch with a recruiter now.