Every truck driver must decide whether to work for a big or small motor carrier in the trucking industry. Driving for both can be a great way to make a living, but truckers must first consider the differences between the two. Here’s what you need to know about the pros and cons of big vs small motor carriers to decide which one is right for you.
Big Motor Carriers
Driving for big motor carriers can be a great way to make a living, but it also has some drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of driving for big motor carriers.
Pro – Better Benefits
The most obvious pro of driving for a big motor carrier is they often provide better benefits than smaller carriers. The larger companies are more likely to offer health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits. These benefits are advantageous for drivers who want to ensure their long-term financial security.
Pro – Better Equipment and Resources
Additionally, big motor carriers typically have access to better routes and have more resources available to their drivers. These carriers tend to provide their drivers with newer, more reliable, and better-maintained commercial vehicles than smaller carriers, resulting in more efficient and reliable deliveries. This is especially true for the larger motor carriers specializing in long-haul trucking.
Con – Less Flexibility
On the other hand, there are some potential downsides to driving for big motor carriers. One of the most common complaints is the lack of flexibility. Large carriers are less likely to be willing to accommodate personal requests.
Con – Less Personal
At a big motor carrier, it’s unlikely you’ll know as many individuals in your fleet or higher up in management. This can make the atmosphere feel more impersonal.
Small Motor Carriers
Driving for small motor carriers offers advantages and disadvantages as well. While many of the same benefits of working for larger companies still apply, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind.
Pro – Personal Relationships
Smaller motor carriers typically have closer relationships with their drivers, who often become part of the company’s community. These personal relationships can lead to more opportunities for advancement and better working conditions.
Pro – More Control
In addition, drivers for small motor carriers may have more control over the routes they take and the freight they haul. This flexibility often means the ability to take on jobs that larger carriers may not be able to accommodate.
Con – Limited Resources
Driving for a small motor carrier has some disadvantages as well. One con is that drivers may not have access to the same financial resources or support systems as larger companies. These limited resources can lead to delays in payment or difficulty obtaining necessary repairs or maintenance.
Con – Uncertainty
Another disadvantage is smaller motor carriers are often less stable than larger companies, which may lead to financial uncertainty. Drivers may find themselves without a job if the company goes out of business or fails to secure enough freight to stay afloat.
Drive With the Best at DSW
When you drive with DSW, you won’t have to weigh the pros and cons of big vs small motor carriers. We offer a small company atmosphere with big carrier freight, giving our drivers the best of both worlds. You can drive your future forward with our trusted trucking company.
