Introduction
Are you looking for a way to boost your income in the trucking industry? High-paying team truck driving jobs offer one of the best ways to earn top dollar while sharing the road with a partner. By working as a team, drivers can cover more miles, complete deliveries faster, and qualify for lucrative bonuses. In this article, we’ll explore the highest-paying team truck driving jobs, their benefits, and how to land one.
Why Choose Team Truck Driving?
💰 Higher Earnings
One of the biggest advantages of team truck driving is the ability to earn more. Many companies offer pay-per-mile compensation, meaning the more miles you cover, the higher your paycheck. Since teams drive almost non-stop, they often cover 5,000–6,000 miles per week, significantly increasing their income.
⏩ Faster Deliveries = Bigger Bonuses
Many carriers prioritize teams for urgent or long-haul shipments, offering performance-based bonuses and incentives for quick and safe deliveries.
👥 Shared Workload & Support
With a partner, driving becomes more manageable. Drivers can take turns resting, reducing fatigue and improving safety.
🏆 Job Security & High Demand
Companies need reliable team drivers for cross-country hauls and time-sensitive shipments, ensuring steady employment and premium pay.
Top High-Paying Team Truck Driving Jobs
1. Expedited Freight Team Driving
🚛 Why It Pays Well:
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Handles urgent, time-sensitive shipments like medical supplies, military equipment, and high-value goods.
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High demand for reliability, speed, and safety.
💵 Average Salary:
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$100,000 – $160,000+ per driver per year
📍 Best Companies Hiring:
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FedEx Custom Critical
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Panther Premium Logistics
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XPO Logistics
2. Long-Haul (OTR) Team Trucking
🚛 Why It Pays Well:
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Covers coast-to-coast or international routes, maximizing miles driven.
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Often includes per diem, mileage bonuses, and fuel incentives.
💵 Average Salary:
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$90,000 – $150,000+ per driver per year
📍 Best Companies Hiring:
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CRST International
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Covenant Transport
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Schneider National
3. Hazmat & Tanker Team Driving
🚛 Why It Pays Well:
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Requires Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements, making it a specialized, high-demand job.
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Involves transporting hazardous materials, which comes with higher risk pay.
💵 Average Salary:
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$100,000 – $180,000+ per driver per year
📍 Best Companies Hiring:
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Trimac Transportation
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Schneider Bulk
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KAG (Kenan Advantage Group)
4. Private Fleet Team Driving
🚛 Why It Pays Well:
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Works for private companies instead of freight carriers, ensuring higher wages, better benefits, and steady schedules.
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Includes deliveries for Walmart, Amazon, and grocery chains.
💵 Average Salary:
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$110,000 – $200,000+ per driver per year
📍 Best Companies Hiring:
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Walmart Private Fleet
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Sysco
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PepsiCo
How to Qualify for High-Paying Team Truck Driving Jobs
1. Get Your CDL & Endorsements
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A Class A CDL is required for most high-paying trucking jobs.
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Consider getting specialized endorsements (Hazmat, Tanker, Doubles/Triples) to qualify for premium routes.
2. Gain Experience (If Needed)
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While some companies hire new drivers, the highest-paying jobs often require 1–2 years of experience.
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If you’re a beginner, start with a company offering team driver training programs (e.g., CRST or Schneider).
3. Find the Right Team Partner
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Trust & compatibility are crucial for long-term success.
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Some companies offer matching programs to pair compatible team drivers.
4. Research & Apply to Top Companies
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Look for carriers that offer high team driver salaries, sign-on bonuses, and benefits.
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Apply directly on company websites or through job boards like Indeed, TruckingTruth, and CDL Life.
Tips for Success as a Team Truck Driver
✅ Plan Efficiently – Coordinate driving schedules and rest breaks to maximize mileage.
✅ Respect Your Partner – Communication and mutual respect help avoid conflicts.
✅ Stay Safe – Follow FMCSA rules and take breaks as needed.
✅ Track Bonuses & Incentives – Choose routes that offer the highest pay potential.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a high-paying truck driving job, team driving is one of the best options. With the right carrier, endorsements, and partner, you can earn well over $100,000 per year while covering long distances efficiently.
