If you’re an independent truck driver looking to become an owner-operator, choosing the right company to work with can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are many excellent owner-operator companies available in 2021, each offering unique benefits and advantages. Whether you’re looking for competitive pay rates, flexible schedules, or excellent benefits packages, these top-rated companies have you covered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best owner-operator companies of 2021, helping you make an informed decision as you begin your journey as an independent truck driver.
1. FedEx Custom Critical
FedEx Custom Critical has been one of the leading owner operator companies for years. They offer excellent benefits and pay, making it a popular choice for independent owner operators. Their fleet of over 1,500 vehicles includes cargo vans, straight trucks, and tractor-trailers. The biggest perk of working with FedEx Custom Critical is their dedicated support team who provides 24/7 assistance to their drivers.
2. Schneider National Inc.
Schneider National Inc. is a well-known name in the trucking industry and has been operating for over 80 years. They have a fleet of over 13,000 trucks and offer several opportunities for owner operators. Schneider is known for their fair pay and good benefits, and they also have an extensive support system in place for their drivers.
3. Landstar System Inc.
Landstar System Inc. has been in operation for over 30 years and offers an extensive network of owner operators. Their fleet of over 10,000 trucks covers all aspects of the transportation industry including van, flatbed, and specialized equipment. Landstar is popular because they offer drivers the freedom to choose their own loads and schedules, with no forced dispatch.
4. Mercer Transportation Co.
Mercer Transportation Co. has been in operation for over 40 years and has a fleet of over 2,000 trucks. They offer excellent rates and benefits for owner operators and have a strong safety rating. What sets Mercer apart is their focus on flatbed trailers, making them an excellent choice for those with experience in hauling oversized loads.
5. Panther Premium Logistics
Panther Premium Logistics has been in operation for over 25 years and has a fleet of over 3,500 trucks. They primarily focus on expedited shipping and have a strong presence in the automotive industry. Panther offers excellent pay and benefits for their drivers, and their team of logistics experts helps to ensure a steady stream of high-paying loads for owner operators.
6. Trimac Transportation Inc.
Trimac Transportation Inc. has been in operation for over 70 years and has a fleet of over 1,500 trucks. They are primarily focused on the chemical and energy industries and are known for their excellent safety record. Trimac offers good pay and benefits for their drivers, and they also have a strong emphasis on training and development to ensure their drivers are safe and successful on the road.
7. Mercer Transportation Co.
Mercer Transportation Co. has been in operation for over 40 years and has a fleet of over 2,000 trucks. They offer excellent rates and benefits for owner operators and have a strong safety rating. What sets Mercer apart is their focus on flatbed trailers, making them an excellent choice for those with experience in hauling oversized loads.
8. Panther Premium Logistics
Panther Premium Logistics has been in operation for over 25 years and has a fleet of over 3,500 trucks. They primarily focus on expedited shipping and have a strong presence in the automotive industry. Panther offers excellent pay and benefits for their drivers, and their team of logistics experts helps to ensure a steady stream of high-paying loads for owner operators.
9. Trimac Transportation Inc.
Trimac Transportation Inc. has been in operation for over 70 years and has a fleet of over 1,500 trucks. They are primarily focused on the chemical and energy industries and are known for their excellent safety record. Trimac offers good pay and benefits for their drivers, and they also have a strong emphasis on training and development to ensure their drivers are safe and successful on the road.
10. National Retail Transportation, Inc.
National Retail Transportation, Inc. has been in operation for over 60 years and has a fleet of over 1,000 trucks. They specialize in the retail industry and offer excellent pay and benefits for their drivers. National Retail Transportation, Inc. also has an extensive safety program in place, ensuring both their drivers and the public are safe on the road.
Top Owner Operator Companies in 2021
Being an owner-operator in the trucking business is a challenging yet rewarding experience. However, success in this field heavily relies on working with the right trucking company. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of the top owner-operator companies for 2021 based on their reputation, working conditions, pay rates, and equipment.
1. Landstar
Landstar distinguishes itself in the market by providing unparalleled customer service and advanced technology solutions to its owner-operators. The company has a vast network of customers that ensures continuous freight opportunities and eliminates the chances of deadheading. Beyond that, Landstar offers consistent payment cycles to its independent contractors while keeping the competition at bay with higher compensation rates.
2. Schneider
Schneider is another trucking company that prioritizes its owner-operators’ success by providing top-notch equipment, safety-oriented culture, and flexible lease arrangements. The company offers dedicated routes, access to quality fuel, and driver support services that help its independent contractors navigate through challenges and deliver loads efficiently. Schneider also offers business support services like insurance, permits, and licensing, which makes it a convenient choice for many owner-operators.
3. FedEx
FedEx has been in the freight business for over 40 years, making it a reliable partner for owner-operators. The company’s custom-tailored cargo solutions and state-of-the-art technology simplify the transportation process and enhance the profitability of its contractors. FedEx also offers numerous bonuses, discounts, and fuel rebates that significantly boost its owner-operators’ income.
4. Prime Inc.
Prime Inc. is a reputable trucking company that provides excellent opportunities for independent contractors to become successful owner-operators. They offer programs like the Lease Purchase and Contractor Rollover that enable truckers to own the vehicle they operate and transition to an independent operation smoothly. Prime Inc. also provides healthcare benefits, fuel discounts, and safety performance bonuses to support the success of its individual contractors.
5. Landtran Express
Landtran Express is a dependable transportation partner for owner-operators who value quality service and personal growth. The company’s commitment to a safe and efficient operation attracts dedicated and skilled professionals that help maintain its high standards. For owner-operators, Landtran Express provides competitive pay rates, flexible dispatch options, fuel discounts, and access to work with established customers.
6. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation is a family-owned company that has been in the logistics business for over four decades. The company’s focus on delivering personalized solutions to each of its customers has given its contractors peace of mind and reliable ways to grow their business. Mercer Transportation also has a stringent safety policy and provides its independent contractors with quality equipment and support to ensure the best possible outcomes.
7. ATS
ATS is another trucking company that has gained a reputation for providing top-quality service with a robust support system for its contractors. The company’s flexible lease options and ample mileage opportunities provide satisfying pay while allowing contractors to be their boss. ATS also has a comprehensive training program that aims to help independent contractors improve their business acumen and further their career in the trucking industry.
8. CRST Malone
CRST Malone trucking company offers unparalleled support for owner-operators that includes discounted fuel, quality equipment, and business support tools. The company boasts over 90 years of logistics experience, making it a credible partner for contractors that wish to grow their business. CRST Malone provides consistent freight opportunities with excellent pay rates that give its independent contractors more significant returns for their hard work.
9. Panther Premium Logistics
Panther Premium Logistics is a company that is dedicated to owner-operator success by providing them with technological advantages and business support tools. The company has an expansive customer network that guarantees efficient freight opportunities for its contractors. Panther Premium Logistics also provides its independent contractors with comprehensive insurance packages, safety equipment, and fuel cards that ensure they can focus on delivering loads without unnecessary worries.
10. Anderson Trucking Service
Anderson Trucking Service is a long-standing trucking company that has built its reputation by providing its contractors with state-of-the-art technology and a culture of safety. The company’s commitment to working with its contractors in a collaborative manner has made it one of the most viable options for owner-operators. Anderson Trucking Service provides customizable lease programs, fuel discounts, and consistent freight opportunities that give its contractors a competitive edge in the industry.
In conclusion, the trucking companies on this list represent some of the best options available to owner-operators in 2021. Each of these companies offers different advantages and support for independent contractors, making it crucial for truckers to understand their needs and preferences before making a choice. Nevertheless, these companies have a proven track record of delivering quality service and are sure to support any aspiring or seasoned owner-operator in their quest for success.
Top 5 Best Owner Operator Companies of 2021
As an owner-operator, choosing the right company to partner with is crucial to the success of your business. Here are the top 5 owner-operator companies you should consider in 2021.
1. Landstar
Landstar is one of the largest and most reputable owner-operator companies in the United States. What sets Landstar apart from other companies is its commitment to providing support for its owner-operators. Landstar provides its truckers with a wide variety of resources, including load boards, maintenance services, and insurance programs.
Furthermore, Landstar’s revenue sharing program is generous and allows for high profits for owner-operators. The program offers 65% of the gross revenue for single trailer operations, and 70% for those running tandem trailers.
2. FedEx Custom Critical
For owner-operators who specialize in expedited freight, FedEx Custom Critical is a great option. They provide owner-operators with a wide range of opportunities to haul special loads, such as medical, and hazardous materials, which can lead to higher profits.
FedEx also provides robust support to its drivers, including 24/7 maintenance and repair services and a safety program that prioritizes the well-being of its drivers.
3. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation is one of the leading flatbed owner-operator companies and has been in business for over 40 years. They have an excellent reputation for paying their drivers well and on time, which is important for any small business owner.
Mercer Transportation also offers a variety of owner-operator services, including 24/7 support, a fuel discount program, and load board access. Their compensation package includes 75% of the freight bill with no trailer rental fees.
4. Panther Premium Logistics
Panther Premium Logistics is a freight transportation and logistics company that offers owner-operators the ability to transport a wide variety of loads, ranging from general freight to temperature-controlled goods.
In addition to that, Panther offers its drivers access to a network of over 40,000 carriers, giving them access to more business opportunities. They also offer assistance with compliance and regulatory issues, saving small business owners time and money.
5. Prime Inc.
Prime Inc. is one of the largest trucking companies in the United States and has a reputation for being a reliable and stable company for owner-operators.
One of the significant benefits of working with Prime Inc. is their lease-purchase program, which allows drivers to become owner-operators by buying their truck. In addition to that, Prime Inc. offers its drivers 24/7 maintenance and repair services, a fuel program, and a safety program that prioritizes driver safety.
| Owner-Operator Company | Revenue Sharing Plan |
|---|---|
| Landstar | 65% of gross revenue for single trailer operations, 70% for tandem trailers |
| Mercer Transportation | 75% of the freight bill with no trailer rental fees |
In conclusion, partnering with a reputable owner-operator company in 2021 is essential for the success of your business. Consider evaluating the type of loads you want to haul, the level of support, and the revenue sharing plans when deciding which company to work with.
Here are some relevant links for “best owner operator companies 2021”:
– For an extensive list of top-performing owner operator companies around the US, check out this carriers directory.
– If you’re wondering what sets the best owner operator companies apart from the rest, this article details the “best secrets” of high-performing owner operators and their carriers.
– To find out which owner operator companies are currently hiring and what they offer, browse this job openings page on Indeed.
Wrap Up
That’s all for our take on the best owner operator companies of 2021. We hope that you found this article informative and helpful in your quest to find the perfect owner operator company to partner with. We understand the importance of making an informed decision, and that’s why we took the time to assess the strengths of each of these companies. Don’t forget to check back in later for more exciting updates and informative articles, and thanks for reading!