Team vs Solo Truck Driving: What You Need to Know

Starting a career as a truck driver comes with many decisions, and one of the biggest is whether to drive solo or as part of a team.

Team drivers can cover more miles and often earn more, but they also have to share space and schedules. Solo drivers have more independence but may face longer hours on the road alone. Understanding the key differences between solo and team truck driving will help you choose the best path for your career. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option so you can decide which one suits you best.

What Is Team Truck Driving?

Team truck driving involves two drivers sharing a truck and alternating shifts to keep it moving longer, allowing for faster deliveries and increased mileage. Also known as co-driving, CDL team driving, team loads, or team hauling, this setup is commonly used for long-haul routes where minimizing downtime is crucial.

One driver operates the truck while the other rests in the sleeper berth, following Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for driving hours and rest periods. This continuous movement helps companies meet tight delivery deadlines and maximize efficiency.

While team driving often leads to higher earnings due to more miles covered, it requires strong communication, trust, and compatibility between drivers.

What Is Solo Truck Driving?

Solo truck driving means operating a commercial truck alone, handling all driving responsibilities, scheduling, and decision-making independently.

Unlike team driving, where shifts are alternated between two drivers, solo truckers must plan their routes and rest breaks within Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including required driving hours and rest periods.

Pros and Cons of Team Truck Driving

Pros of Team Driving	Cons of Team Driving
Higher earning potential	Less control over your schedule
Faster deliveries	Less privacy and personal space
Less physical and mental fatigue	Potential conflict
More job opportunities	Disrupted sleep schedule
Spending time with a trusted partner	Splitting pay

 

Team truck driving offers several advantages, but it also comes with challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the key pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Pros of Team Truck Driving

Team truck driving offers several advantages, starting with higher earning potential. Since team drivers cover more miles, they often make more money, even when splitting the pay, and some companies provide additional bonuses for team drivers.

Faster deliveries are another key benefit, as one driver can rest while the other drives, keeping the truck moving longer and reducing delivery times.

Additionally, sharing the workload means minimized physical and mental fatigue, allowing drivers to take regular breaks instead of handling long shifts alone.

Many carriers also prioritize team drivers for high-priority loads, leading to more job opportunities and consistent work.

Finally, teaming up with a trusted partner—such as a spouse, friend, or preferred co-driver—can make long trips more enjoyable and reduce time spent away from loved ones.

Cons of Team Truck Driving

Despite its advantages, team truck driving also has its challenges. One major drawback is the lack of control over your schedule, as you must coordinate driving shifts and breaks with your partner, which may not always align with your personal preferences.

Limited privacy and personal space can also be an issue, as sharing a small truck cab for extended periods can be difficult, especially if you and your co-driver have different habits or lifestyles.

Personality conflicts may arise due to differences in driving styles, cleanliness, noise levels, or work ethic, leading to potential tension on the road.

Additionally, adjusting to a disrupted sleep schedule can be tough, as sleeping in a moving truck while your partner drives can be uncomfortable, especially on rough roads.

Lastly, while team drivers cover more miles, the pay is split between two people, meaning the financial benefits may not always be significantly higher than those of a solo driver.

Is a Driving Team the Right Choice for You?

Choosing between solo and team truck driving depends on your work style, personality, and career goals. While team driving offers higher mileage and faster deliveries, it also requires compromise and coordination. Ask yourself the following questions to determine if team driving is a good fit for you:

• Do you work well with others? Team driving requires constant communication, shared decision-making, and patience. If you prefer working alone and having full control over your schedule, solo driving jobs may be a better choice.
• Are you comfortable sharing a small space? Living and working in a truck cab with another person for extended periods can be challenging. Consider your tolerance for limited privacy and differing habits.
• Can you adjust to a non-traditional sleep schedule? Sleeping in a moving truck can be difficult, and team drivers often have to rest at irregular hours. If you need a structured sleep routine, solo driving may be a better fit.
• Is maximizing earnings your top priority? Team drivers typically make more money due to higher mileage, but pay is split between two people. Weigh the financial benefits against the trade-offs in personal space and schedule flexibility.
• Do you want to drive with a spouse or trusted partner? Team driving can be a great way for couples or close friends to stay together on the road while earning a steady income.

If you value independence, control, and flexibility, solo driving may be the better option. But if you’re willing to share the road and work as a team, co-driving can be a lucrative and efficient way to build a successful trucking career.

How to Find the Right Co-Driver for Your Driving Team

Your ability to find a compatible co-driver may make or break your decision to become a team driver.

Here are some tips to find the right co-driver for your truck driving team:

1. Check with Your Employer
   Many trucking companies offer team-matching programs to pair drivers based on experience and preferences.
2. Partner with a Friend or Spouse
   Teaming up with someone you trust can make the experience more enjoyable and reduce conflicts.
3. Use Online Forums and Social Media
   Platforms like TruckersReport and Facebook trucking groups can help you connect with potential co-drivers.
4. Network in CDL Training Schools
   Many drivers meet potential co-drivers in training programs or company-sponsored CDL schools.
5. Join a Trucking Company’s Training Program
   Some companies pair new drivers with experienced team partners as part of their onboarding process.
6. Discuss Preferences Before Committing
   Talk about sleep schedules, smoking habits, cleanliness, and driving styles before finalizing a partnership.

Team Truck Driving FAQs

Do team loads pay more?

Yes, team loads typically pay more because the truck stays on the road longer, allowing for faster deliveries and higher mileage. Many companies also offer bonuses or incentives for team drivers due to the increased efficiency.

Do team truck drivers split pay?

Yes, team drivers split the total earnings, but because they cover more miles, their individual paychecks are often higher than solo drivers. Some companies pay each driver a set rate per mile, while others divide the total earnings equally.

How do I get into team truck driving?

You can start by seeking out team trucking companies or by partnering with a trusted friend, spouse, or fellow CDL holder. Many trucking companies offer team-matching programs to help drivers find a suitable partner.

How do hours of service work for team drivers?

Each driver must follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which allow a maximum of 11 driving hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.1 While one driver is behind the wheel, the other rests in the sleeper berth to ensure compliance and minimize downtime.

Upgrade Your Comfort with Suburban Seating & Safety

Whether you choose the independence of solo truck driving or the efficiency of team driving, one thing remains the same—comfort and safety on the road are essential.

Long hours behind the wheel can take a toll on your body, making it crucial to invest in high-quality, ergonomic seating and safety accessories. At Suburban Seating & Safety, we offer a wide selection of aftermarket truck seats, cushions, and accessories designed to keep you comfortable, focused, and supported mile after mile.

Browse our catalog today to find the perfect upgrades for your truck and make every journey a smoother ride!

Source:

1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Summary of Hours of Service Regulations.