From owner-operator to company driver: How Averitt makes the change worthwhile

Post Date - May 4, 2023

Running your own truck driving business as an owner operator can be very rewarding and profitable but most would agree, it’s not easy. This makes it even more important for carriers to provide the resources and support needed for owner operators to thrive. Former owner operator Rodney Hicks has found that working as a company driver with us offers many advantages while lowering the risks associated with being on his own.

“Freedom is one of the perks associated with being an owner operator but it also adds a lot of pressure,” says Rodney. “[Being an] owner operator is not what it used to be. Rates are horrible, repairs are very costly and fuel is extremely high now.”

With those challenges in place, Rodney decided to join our fleet. “I really like having Averitt take care of overhead costs such as repairs, maintenance, insurance, etc.,” he said.

While owner operators are responsible for start-up costs, finding loads, and managing expenses, our company drivers can be confident of stability in an uncertain market as we have an excellent customer base with steady loads. This standard of reliability extends to all our positions. We’re committed to getting you the best pay packages, top equipment and facilities, consistent home time and comprehensive benefits all while being a carrier who holds safety as one of our top priorities. If you’d prefer to be out of the driver’s seat, we also offer a variety of non-driving positions that offer similar advantages. Whatever you’re looking for, the greatest careers start here!

Another selling point for Rodney is our culture, which rewards longevity. Nearly 15% of our associates have been with us for more than 20 years, and our practice of promoting from within helps associates take their careers in a variety of directions.

“My advice to other owner-operators, besides making sure to always put your family first, is to find a good company like Averitt to fit your [career] needs,” Rodney said.

We offer many outstanding extras and bonuses for drivers like Rodney who enjoy having a say in their truck driving career, but also appreciate the advantages and stability we offer. When drivers join the Averitt team, they get exclusive access to our top-notch facilities, which include over 2,100 safe and secure parking spots throughout our network, as well as service centers fully outfitted with showers, laundry machines, fitness equipment, free Wi-Fi and more – all to make your time off the road the best it can be. And when it’s time to get the wheels rolling again, you’ll never feel alone with our driver support specialist team, established to take stress off your shoulders.

Another big advantage for company drivers over owner-operators is health benefits. Our waiting period for benefits is just 30 days and includes fantastic low-cost medical, prescription, dental, vision, and hearing coverage. We also offer FSA/HSA, 401(k), company provided life insurance, and holiday pay.

For owner-operators, time off means time not earning. However, all our full-time associates, including our company drivers, can enjoy paid time off after just 90 days on our team.

Owner-operators who share Rodney’s concerns about stability, risk, and expenses are encouraged to take a closer look at all our driving and non-driving opportunities. In addition to professional growth, we offer many advantages that can help drivers enjoy a long, rewarding career. Learn more and connect with us today!