Benefits of Team Driving in Trucking

Driving as a team is a common practice in the trucking industry, especially for over-the-road (OTR) truckers. OTR truckers are responsible for transporting goods across long distances, often crossing state lines, and they spend most of their time on the road. Driving as a team can provide numerous benefits for OTR truckers, and in this article, we will explore some of those benefits.

What is Team Driving?

Team driving, a collaborative approach to long-haul trucking, entails two drivers sharing responsibilities for operating a single truck. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) stipulates that truck drivers can drive a maximum of 11 hours following a mandatory 10 consecutive hours off duty. This unique arrangement allows for a seamless rotation, enabling one team member to navigate the road for the specified duration while the other can utilize that time for essential rest and rejuvenation. The synchronized efforts of both drivers contribute to enhanced efficiency and continuous movement during extended journeys.

Benefits of Team Driving in Trucking

1. Increased Productivity

One of the biggest benefits of driving as a team is increased productivity. OTR truckers are often required to transport goods across long distances, and driving solo can take a toll on their physical and mental health. By driving as a team, they can split the driving duties and take turns behind the wheel, which can help them cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. This means they can deliver goods to their destination faster and more efficiently.

2. Enhanced Safety

Driving long distances can be tiring, and fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents on the road. When OTR truckers drive as a team, they can take turns behind the wheel, which helps to reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents. Additionally, having a second person in the cab can provide an extra set of eyes on the road, which can enhance safety and prevent accidents.

3. Improved Job Satisfaction

Driving solo for long periods can be lonely and isolating. By driving as a team, OTR truckers can enjoy the companionship of a co-driver and make their time on the road more enjoyable. Driving as a team can also provide opportunities for socialization, as well as the chance to build strong working

relationships with co-drivers.

4. Increased Earnings

Driving as a team can also result in increased earnings for OTR truckers. By splitting the driving duties, they can cover more ground in less time, which means they can deliver more loads and earn more money. Additionally, some trucking companies offer bonuses or incentives for drivers who choose to drive as a team, which can further increase their earnings.

5. Flexibility

Driving as a team can also provide greater flexibility for OTR truckers. By sharing driving duties, they can take breaks when they need to and ensure they get the rest they need. This can help to reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction.

Driving as a team can provide numerous benefits for OTR truckers. From increased productivity and enhanced safety to improved job satisfaction and increased earnings, driving as a team can make life on the road more enjoyable and rewarding. If you are an OTR trucker, consider team driving as an option to enhance your career and improve your quality of life.

One thing to remember, you will need to pick the right co-driver to run with otherwise you will be stuck. Imagine team driving in this truck, that is how having the wrong co-driver would be.

Bloom Services Offers Team Driving

Here at Bloom, we provide Freightliner Cascadias on our Rental and Lease-Purchase Program. They come equipped with powerful inverters, fridges, and an HVAC system that doesn’t require the truck to idle. The Freightliner is one of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the road. If you have a Class A CDL and two years of experience, Bloom Services is hiring OTR truckers. Our drivers take home $3,000 + a week after all expenses.