
Owner Operator Only Trucking Companies can be a great way to own and operate your own trucking business.
You'll need to meet the qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to obtain a CDL and become an owner operator.
The FMCSA requires a minimum of 20 hours of training in a CDL program, which can cost between $3,000 to $5,000.
As an owner operator, you'll be responsible for maintaining your own truck, which can be a significant financial burden.
The average cost of a new semi-truck can range from $100,000 to $200,000.
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Qualifications and Requirements
To succeed as an owner operator in the trucking business, you'll want to make sure you meet the basic qualifications. Choose between OTR and REGIONAL runs to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
To start, you'll need to own a semi-truck that's at least a 2008 model. This ensures your truck is reliable and meets modern safety standards.

You'll also need 2 years of verifiable tractor-trailer experience under your belt. This hands-on experience will serve you well as you hit the road.
Here are the key qualifications summarized in a concise list:
- Choose between OTR and REGIONAL runs
- Own a semi-truck that's year 2008 or newer
- Have 2 years of verifiable tractor-trailer experience
Qualifications
To succeed as an independent driver with Status Transportation, you'll need to meet certain qualifications.
You'll have the option to choose between OTR (over-the-road) and regional runs, depending on your preference.
To qualify, you'll need at least two years of verifiable tractor-trailer experience.
Your truck must be a semi-truck, and it must be no older than a 2008 model.
Trailers must be relatively new, with no more than 10 years old.
If you plan to use a reefer trailer, it must be no more than 7 years old.
Here's a summary of the key qualifications:
- OTR or regional runs
- Semi-truck, year 2008 or newer
- 2 years of verifiable tractor-trailer experience
- Trailers no older than 10 years old
- Reefer trailer no more than 7 years old
Qualifications and Requirements
To be a successful owner-operator with Landstar, you'll need to be your own boss and have the freedom to choose what you want to haul and when. This means you'll be responsible for running your own business, making your own decisions, and being accountable for your own success.
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Landstar has opportunities for owner-operators who want to haul a variety of freight, and you can choose what and when you want to haul. This flexibility is a major draw for many owner-operators who value their independence.
To be eligible to operate with Landstar, you'll need to meet certain requirements, such as having a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and a reliable vehicle. You'll also need to be able to pass a background check and meet other safety and regulatory requirements.
Landstar provides support to its owner-operators through the Landstar Network, which offers a range of resources and tools to help you succeed. This includes access to a network of independent agents and owner-operators who can provide support and guidance.
As an owner-operator with Landstar, you'll have the freedom to run your business your way, which means you can choose the loads you want to haul and the routes you want to take. This flexibility is a major benefit of operating with Landstar, and it's one of the reasons why so many owner-operators choose to work with the company.
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Benefits and Incentives

As an owner operator, you're likely looking for ways to save money and increase your earning potential. One of the benefits of working with certain trucking companies is the opportunity to earn a $1000 Sign-On Bonus.
You'll also appreciate the fact that E-logs are available at no cost, making it easier to stay organized and compliant on the road. The company also offers a PrePass program for just $18.00 per month.
Here are some of the benefits and incentives you can expect:
The company also offers a range of insurance options, including Physical Damage and Non-Trucking Liability Insurance, which can be purchased on a weekly program.
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Production Incentives
You'll love the production incentives offered by this company. They're designed to help you get started and stay on the road.
You can earn a $500 Paid Orientation to help you get familiar with the system. This is a great way to learn the ropes and get comfortable with the equipment.

If you're new to the company, you can also get a $1000 Sign-On Bonus. This is a nice chunk of change to help you get settled in.
E-logs are a must-have for any trucker, and you'll be happy to know that they're available at no cost. This is a big money-saver, as you won't have to pay for this essential tool.
Here's a breakdown of the costs associated with some of the incentives:
You'll also be eligible for a Referral Bonus of $500.00 after 30 days if you invite your friends to join the company. This is a great way to earn some extra cash and share the opportunity with others.
ATS Benefits
As a truck driver, you're likely looking for a carrier that offers a range of benefits to make your life easier and more profitable. With ATS, you'll enjoy 100% of your paid fuel surcharge collected.
One of the biggest advantages of driving for ATS is the freedom to choose your own loads. This means you can select the routes and deliveries that work best for you, giving you more control over your schedule and your business.
ATS takes care of the administrative tasks, paying for your plates and permits, and even providing you with company trailers to use at no charge. This can help reduce your expenses and make it easier to manage your finances.
Daily settlements are another perk of driving for ATS, with no expense to you. This means you can get paid quickly and easily, without having to worry about administrative tasks.
ATS also offers a range of benefits to help you with your daily expenses, including a fuel card and direct deposit. You can even use the company's passenger program to bring your family along on the road.
Here are some of the benefits you can expect when driving for ATS:
- Paid fuel surcharge (100%)
- Choose your own loads
- Plates and permits paid for by ATS
- Pull company trailers at no charge to you
- Daily settlements at NO expense to you
- Direct deposit
- Fuel card
- Passenger program
- Fuel/mileage tax reporting
- Fleet rates on insurance
- Mobile communications installed free
- Medical, dental and life insurance available
Company Overview
Owner operator only trucking companies are a unique breed, and understanding their business model is crucial for those considering a career in the industry.
These companies operate on a 100% owner-operator model, meaning that every driver is an independent contractor who owns and operates their own truck.
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As a result, owner-operator trucking companies often have fewer overhead costs and can pass the savings on to their drivers in the form of higher pay.
Owner-operator companies typically require a significant upfront investment from drivers, including the purchase of a truck and the cost of equipment and maintenance.
This investment can range from $100,000 to over $200,000, making it a significant financial risk for drivers.
Despite the risks, many owner-operator trucking companies offer attractive pay packages and flexible scheduling, making them a popular choice for drivers who value independence and autonomy.
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Career Opportunities
As an owner-operator, you'll have the freedom to choose your own routes and schedules, but it's essential to find a company that provides consistent freight to ensure a stable income.
Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) is a reliable option, with thousands of customers that trust them to move their freight every day.
With ATS, you'll have access to consistent freight that pays you what you deserve.
This means you can focus on running your business without worrying about finding high-paying freight to pay your bills.
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Support and Network

Independent owner-operators have found success with Landstar, a company that offers a supportive network for those who value independence.
Landstar's network is designed to give owner-operators the freedom to operate on their own terms, with the ability to go home when they want and load out when they're ready.
The Landstar network is made up of independent agents and owner-operators who have found success with the company, providing a community of like-minded individuals who understand the challenges and rewards of independent trucking.
Dispatcher Department
Our dispatchers are the backbone of our operations, and they take the time to know each driver individually, learning their preferences and habits to provide the best service.
They spend countless hours in front of a screen and on the phone, communicating with shippers, receivers, comparing rates, and routes, all in an effort to get the highest paying loads.
By staying on top of market cycles and regional rates, our dispatchers are able to provide drivers with great rates and consistent pay.
They regularly collaborate with each other to find the best loads not only for individual drivers but also for teams, which means drivers can expect a steady stream of opportunities.
This hands-on approach has allowed us to stay ahead of the curve and provide our drivers with the best possible experience.
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Network
Landstar offers a network that supports independent owner-operators, allowing them to operate their businesses on their own terms.
Independent owner-operators choose to operate through the Landstar network, as it provides them with the freedom to go home when they want and load out when they're ready.
The Landstar network is designed to support independent agents and owner-operators, who have found success with the company.
Leasing to Landstar today can give you the flexibility to define success on your own terms and make the drive to go home when you want.
How It Works
As an owner operator, you have the freedom to choose your own loads and schedules. Business capacity owners, or BCOs, at Landstar have access to their load board 24/7.
You don't have to worry about being forced to haul a specific load or at a specific time, because Landstar is 100% non-forced dispatch. This means you get to decide what and when to haul.
Landstar supports you every step of the way with business and safety classes to help you succeed. They also have an exclusive cost-savings program, the Landstar Contractors' Advantage Purchasing Program (LCAPP), which offers discounts on tires, fuel, equipment, business services, and more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest paying owner-operator job?
The highest paying owner-operator job is the Box Truck Owner Operator, with a salary range of $50,000-$52,000 per year. This lucrative opportunity offers a significant advantage for those considering a career in owner-operator truck driving.
What is the best truck for an owner-operator?
For an owner-operator, consider trucks from companies with a large dealership network, such as Kenworth or Peterbilt, known for their smooth ride and handling in various weather conditions.
How to find truck loads for owner-operators?
To find truck loads as an owner-operator, consider using owner-operator load boards, working with a freight broker, or registering as a government contractor, among other options. These strategies can help you access a steady stream of available loads and grow your business.
Sources
- https://statustrucks.com/jobs/
- https://www.thetruckersreport.com/truckingindustryforum/threads/companies-that-only-have-owner-operators.2506894/
- https://www.powersourcetrans.com/drivers-wanted/owner-operators/
- https://www.drive4ats.com/owner-operator
- https://www.landstar.com/the-landstar-network/owner-operators/
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