That opportunity attracts many CDL drivers, but the job is different from simply adding another person to the truck. Before accepting a team position, it helps to look at how the work, schedule and lifestyle compare with running solo.

Freight Opportunities Look Different

Many carriers reserve expedited freight, high-value cargo and coast-to-coast loads for team operations because the truck can continue moving while one driver rests. That added flexibility helps carriers meet tighter delivery schedules without exceeding Hours of Service limits.

Solo drivers, on the other hand, often have a wider selection of regional, dedicated, and local freight. While those routes may cover fewer miles in a week, they can also offer more predictable schedules and home time depending on the carrier.

Pay Depends on More Than Mileage

Higher weekly mileage is one of the biggest advantages of team driving, but it doesn’t automatically guarantee higher annual income.

Pay packages vary widely between carriers. Some companies offer higher cents-per-mile rates, dedicated freight or bonuses for established teams, while others simply divide the available miles between two drivers. Looking only at the advertised mileage rate can make two jobs appear similar even when annual earnings are very different.

When comparing offers, ask about average weekly miles, detention pay, layover pay, home time, and the type of freight the team typically hauls. Those details usually have a bigger impact on annual income than the mileage rate alone.

Sharing a Truck Takes More Than Good Driving Skills

A successful team depends on communication as much as experience behind the wheel.

Both drivers share the sleeper, storage space and daily routines, so disagreements over cleanliness, driving schedules, meals or cab organization can become stressful during multi-day trips. Drivers who already know each other often adjust more easily because they have established expectations before getting on the road together.

When carriers assign teammates, taking time to discuss driving schedules, personal habits and responsibilities before the first trip can help avoid unnecessary conflict later.

Sleep Can Be the Biggest Adjustment

Many first-time team drivers expect sharing the truck to be the hardest part of the job. Instead, the biggest adjustment is often learning to sleep while the truck is moving.

Road vibration, traffic, weather, and frequent speed changes affect every driver differently. Some become comfortable after a few weeks, while others continue to struggle with interrupted sleep throughout their time in a team operation.

FMCSA guidance recognizes that team drivers can rotate driving and qualifying rest periods while remaining compliant with Hours of Service regulations, allowing the truck to stay productive throughout the trip.

Independence Changes Behind the Wheel

Solo drivers make every decision about the trip, including fuel stops, meal breaks, parking locations and daily routines.

Team driving requires those decisions to be shared because each driver’s schedule directly affects the other. Some drivers enjoy having another person to split responsibilities with, while others discover they miss the flexibility that comes with operating alone.

Neither approach is right or wrong, but understanding your own work style can make choosing between them much easier.

Questions Worth Asking Before You Sign On

Recruiters often highlight earning potential, but there are other questions that deserve equal attention.

Ask whether you can choose your own teammate, how long existing teams stay together, what the average weekly mileage is, how home time is scheduled, and what happens if one driver leaves the company. Those answers often provide a clearer picture of the job than the recruiting advertisement itself.

Deciding Which Option Fits You

Drivers who enjoy long-haul freight, want to maximize weekly mileage and don’t mind sharing a truck often build successful careers in team operations. Drivers who value privacy, consistent routines and complete control over their schedule frequently decide that solo driving better matches the way they want to work.

Neither path is automatically better because the right choice depends on the type of career and lifestyle you want to build.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do team drivers usually earn more than solo drivers?

They often have the opportunity to because team trucks can cover more miles and haul expedited freight, although actual earnings depend on the carrier’s pay package and freight network.

Can I bring my own teammate?

Many carriers allow established teams to apply together, while others pair drivers based on hiring needs.

Do team drivers follow different Hours of Service rules?

No. Each driver must still comply with the same federal Hours of Service regulations that apply to solo drivers.

Is team driving good for new CDL drivers?

Some new drivers begin their careers on a team, particularly when paired with an experienced driver, but the lifestyle is not the right fit for everyone.

What is the biggest challenge of team driving?

Many experienced team drivers say adjusting to sleeping in a moving truck and sharing a small living space are the biggest changes compared with running solo.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 2, 2026

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The Solo Drivers

For many truckers, driving solo is the only way to go. The freedom, control, and ability to set their own pace make it the clear choice.

Jeff Miller summed it up bluntly after a brief stint with a co-driver: “Let’s just say it’s something that I would definitely try my best to never have to do again! I do not like having someone else with me at all.”

Jon Miles echoed that sentiment: “Solo. That’s one reason I became a trucker. I enjoy my alone time.”

For some, trust is a major issue when considering a co-driver. Jesse Neuman said, “Solo…could never sleep with someone else driving.” Similarly, Doug Schnabl agreed: “I couldn’t go to sleep with someone else driving. Solo for me.”

Michael Mercier, who retired after 35 years behind the wheel, was grateful to have driven solo throughout his career: “Thank gawd. Although I met many good drivers on the road that I’ve stayed in touch with over the years.”

Other drivers, like Jack Brescia, enjoy a different kind of company: “With my dog, that’s it.”

The Team Drivers

For some truckers, the team life has been a rewarding experience, particularly when they share the cab with a trusted partner.

Pamela Young has been team driving with her husband for 32 years and wouldn’t have it any other way: “Co-driver, my husband. Wouldn’t have it any other way!”

Similarly, Mark Ferryman appreciates the efficiency of running team with his wife: “We can go coast to coast in a day and a half.”

Doug Skubal highlighted the main advantage of team driving: “You can virtually run nonstop as a team versus a slower pace for a solo driver.”

The “It Depends” Drivers

Some truckers have done both and believe the experience heavily depends on who the co-driver is.

Paula Hanson put it simply: “I’ve done both. Depends who your co-driver is.”

Tom Bonura agreed, noting that it can be great with the right partner but difficult with the wrong one: “Great with the right partner. Tough with the wrong one. Made good money with the best partner and hazmat.”

Misty Hammonds-McDaniel shared her flexibility: “I’ve done both during my 25-year career, so I can deal with it either way. It doesn’t bother me. If I could go back to driving, it wouldn’t matter if it was solo or team—as long as I could pick my co-driver. And my wife would be my first and only choice.”

The Bottom Line

Solo and team driving each come with their own set of pros and cons. Solo drivers enjoy independence and full control, while team drivers can benefit from efficiency and companionship. But as many truckers pointed out, the key factor is who you’re sharing the cab with. The right partner can make team driving a great experience, while the wrong one can turn it into a challenge.

So, if you’re considering teaming up, choose wisely—because life on the road is too long to spend it with the wrong co-driver!

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Melissa’s journey began in 2003 as a school bus driver. Over 14 years, she worked as a driver, dispatcher, and safety officer. During this period, she met and married her husband in 2008. After moving to Tennessee, she spent three years as a motorcoach operator, touring the United States and Canada. Although she enjoyed her job, the pandemic led to a layoff, prompting her to pursue her dream of earning a CDL-A.

Jokingly, Melissa and her husband had discussed her obtaining a CDL-A, but the pandemic made it a reality. Tennessee offered grants for unemployed workers, which she utilized for truck driver training. Excelling in her studies, she graduated and started job hunting. Her husband, concerned about her safety on the road alone, became her trainer at Boyle Transportation. They are both extremely pleased with the company. “They are a fantastic company to drive for,” Melissa says. “They treat us well, pay well, and we enjoy what they do.”

The couple has traveled to all 48 contiguous states and several Canadian provinces. Melissa is now planning future vacation spots. In their leisure time, they enjoy riding their Harleys, camping, hiking, attending races, antiquing, and, of course, traveling.

Melissa encourages women to consider trucking: “go for it!” She advises those seeking change or more fulfillment to “follow your heart. If you love to travel, stare out the window, and get paid for it, then do it! Women, especially as they become empty nesters, sometimes need a change. We do not all want to be homebodies anymore. If you get to a stage in your life when it is possible to make a change, take the bull by the horns and do it! Being out there on the road is so satisfying and fulfilling.”

Passionate about mentoring, Melissa and her husband mentor new teams at Boyle, finding it both fulfilling and rewarding. She enjoys the blend of learning and teaching that mentoring offers.

Melissa believes the transportation industry is an excellent career choice for women, with increasing leadership roles. The WIT Index shows that 34.5% of leadership positions are now held by women. She emphasizes that the industry offers various careers beyond driving. Visible female representation in roles such as recruiters, operations, safety, and leadership can inspire more women to join the industry.

As a new WIT Image Team member, Melissa is eager to promote trucking. “All women can be truck drivers if they want it,” she asserts. “Nothing should keep you from it if you want to drive and be a part of the trucking industry.”

In their driving partnership, Melissa drives during the day while her husband takes the night shift. She proudly responds to surprised shippers with, “Yes, I drive this truck!” Melissa plans to stay with Boyle Transportation until retirement. “I do not see myself anywhere else. Boyle is a great company and traveling with my husband is very entertaining.”

Source: Women in Trucking

Image: Women in Trucking

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Pros:

1. Increased Efficiency: One of the primary benefits of team driving is the ability to keep the wheels turning around the clock. With two drivers alternating shifts, you can cover more miles in less time, leading to faster deliveries and improved productivity. This enhanced efficiency is especially valuable for time-sensitive loads and long-haul routes.
2. Shared Responsibilities: Team driving allows you to divide and conquer the tasks associated with life on the road. From navigating routes and managing paperwork to conducting vehicle inspections and handling customer interactions, having a partner by your side means you can share the workload and support each other along the way.
3. Improved Safety: Two heads are better than one, especially when it comes to staying safe on the road. With a co-driver to share the driving duties, you can minimize fatigue and reduce the risk of accidents caused by drowsy driving. Additionally, having a partner onboard provides an extra set of eyes and ears, enhancing overall awareness and vigilance.
4. Social Interaction: Truck driving can be a solitary profession, but team driving offers the opportunity for social interaction and companionship on the road. This is especially true if you team up with a spouse, family member, or friend. Whether you’re swapping stories during rest breaks, sharing meals together, or simply enjoying each other’s company during long stretches of driving, having a teammate can make the journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Cons:

1. Limited Personal Space: Sharing a confined space with a co-driver for extended periods can be challenging, especially if you have different habits or preferences or if you don’t have a close relationship with them. From sleeping arrangements to cabin temperature settings, maintaining harmony and respecting each other’s boundaries requires effective communication and compromise.
2. Scheduling Conflicts: Coordinating schedules and managing rest breaks can be tricky when you’re team driving. Differences in sleep patterns, meal times, and personal routines may lead to conflicts or disagreements, even if you know them well. Establishing clear expectations and establishing a good rhythm for both people is essential for a successful partnership on the road.
3. Compatibility Issues: Not all driving partnerships are created equal, and finding the right co-driver can be a hit-or-miss endeavor. Differences in driving styles, communication styles, and personality traits can create tension and friction within the team if not properly managed. Building mutual trust, respect, and understanding is crucial for fostering a positive and productive working relationship.
4. Financial Considerations: While team driving can increase earning potential through faster deliveries and higher mileage, it also entails sharing profits with your co-driver. Dividing expenses such as fuel, meals, and lodging may impact your overall income, so it’s essential to carefully weigh the financial implications of team driving before committing to a partnership.

Team driving offers a mix of benefits and challenges that can significantly influence your experience on the road. Whether you thrive in a collaborative environment or prefer the solitude of solo driving, it’s important to consider your personal preferences, communication skills, and compatibility with potential co-drivers when deciding whether team driving is the right choice for you!

The post Navigating the Road Together: The Pros and Cons of Team Driving appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Pros of Team Trucking with Your Spouse

1. Speedier Deliveries
   The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict limits on daily driving hours, capping them at 11 hours. Exceeding this limit results in penalties and safety score setbacks. Typically, truckers maintain an average speed of 55-60 miles per hour, equating to just over 600 miles a day within the allotted time frame. When you team drive with your spouse, however, you can cover more ground. While one partner takes the wheel for their 11-hour shift, the other can rest and recharge. This tag-team approach leads to more miles covered each day and quicker deliveries.
2. Combatting Loneliness
   The isolation of solo trucking often leads to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, which are unfortunately widespread among truckers. Team driving with your spouse acts as a remedy to this loneliness. Having your partner as your road companion provides built-in companionship, a confidant to chat with, and a partner to share daily experiences, making your time on the road a far less lonely journey.
3. Enhanced Earnings
   Solo truckers tend to earn less per mile compared to their counterparts in team driving setups. The reason is straightforward: with two drivers, you can cover more miles each day, reaching your destination faster and maximizing your income potential.

The Cons of Team Trucking with Your Spouse

1. Navigating Relationship Dynamics
   The saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” rings true, but spending extended periods in the confines of a truck cab with your spouse can be a test of patience. You might find yourself craving some personal space to indulge in hobbies and interests. When you opt for team driving, be prepared to relinquish the possibility of solitude within the truck.
2. Sleep Challenges
   Effective team driving requires one spouse to rest while the other takes the wheel. Catching quality sleep in a truck cab, especially if you’re a light sleeper, can be a significant challenge. As a truck driver, obtaining adequate rest is not only crucial for your overall well-being but also for staying alert and vigilant on the road.
3. Insurance Complexities
   If you decide that team driving is your ideal route, you might encounter hurdles in securing commercial truck insurance. The continuous operation of the truck elevates its risk for accidents and raises the likelihood of maintenance issues, which can translate into violations.

Embracing team trucking with your spouse comes with a unique blend of benefits and drawbacks. It’s essential to weigh these pros and cons meticulously to determine if this career path aligns with both your and your spouse’s aspirations and adaptability. While trucking alongside your life partner can foster cherished shared experiences and adventures, it also necessitates careful contemplation to make it a harmonious journey.

The post Team Trucking with Your Spouse: Is It Your Perfect Road Trip? appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Krueger Wholesale Florist is committed to quality and freshness, maintaining a private fleet of trucks that take regular nonstop routes across the country – guaranteeing their flowers and plants stay as vibrant and fragrant on delivery day as they did when harvested.

Krueger Wholesale’s transportation arm, KW Transit, works like a well-oiled machine to ensure timely shipments. With a fleet of 18 drivers, they make 6-9 cross-country runs a week from Wisconsin to Miami and back and an additional 2 weekly runs to California and back.

In order to ensure their flowers and potted plants remain fresh in transit, the company has turned to the power of team runs to keep their cold chains tight.

By pairing a predictable route and five days of time off for each driver, this Wisconsin-based company has found success in providing both continuous product movement as well as abundant home time. Thanks to these rewards, they have been able to attract and retain top drivers.

In the current industry environment, where qualified drivers are in high demand, the company recognizes that team versus solo runs add an additional barrier to hiring. With this in mind, the company leans on its reliable business model, new equipment, and a thoughtful hiring process.

“Teams are harder to come by now than they used to be,” KW Transit Logistics Manager Sherry Klemm said. “Normally the drivers I hire come in solo and I marry them up based on their personalities.”

Klemm went on to say that after their drivers have made it into a routine and seen KW’s operations first hand, they rarely want to go back to solo driving. The key, she says, is earning drivers’ trust and letting them know you can take care of them.

“This affords them a life where you can stay on the road, but have time at home,” she says. “Many have said they don’t even feel like they need to take their paid time off because they have enough time already. It’s wonderful. Their life is so much better. They have actual rest when they get home.”

Asking drivers to pair up with someone else can be a big ask but thanks to Klemm’s innate ability to pair drivers together, KW Transit has found success in doing so. After 20 years’ experience at Krueger Wholesale, she’s adopted a long interview process that gives her a feel for driver preferences (such as day or night driving), personality, and ability. While she uses what she learns in interviews combined with her decades of experience, she still humbly claims she doesn’t actually know what her secret to successful pairings is.

For the team of drivers at KW Transit, comfort is key. The business puts an emphasis on keeping new, spec’d-out trucks out on the road to ensure peak performance and maximum driver satisfaction – even investing in quality mattresses. This year alone they exchanged their twelve Volvo Trucks VNL 860 sleepers for brand-new ones once reaching 500k miles; a move celebrated by every employee behind the wheel.

KW Transit’s drivers have been busily running dedicated routes since the 1960s, when Krueger Wholesale was established. This wholesaler has maintained intricate connections with reliable importers and vendors over the past five decades, ensuring their trips are never wasted on empty vehicles.

“We have vendors where we can come loaded and can be turned within an hour,” she says. “We’ve been very fortunate that there’s been no downtime when that team leaves our yard with that tractor and that tractor never gets shut off.”

Kreuger Wholesale is driven by a state-of-the art 150,000 sq. ft corporate headquarters and distribution center in Rothschild, Wisconsin – plus ancillary satellite operations at their KW Transit facility with its own service bay for maintenance.

Source: truckinginfo

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