Whether you’re just starting your career as a truck driver, looking for your first home daily trucking job, or if you’re simply looking to make a change, you have a decision to make. You can choose to be a solo driver or embrace team driving, allowing you to travel with a companion. 

Both solo and team driving come with benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll want to check out both to see which option is the best fit. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some points to consider. 

The Pros and Cons of Team Driving

Team driving does come with some clear benefits. First, you get to travel with a companion. Whether it’s a spouse, another family member, or a friend, this gives you someone to connect with during the journey. It allows you to remain social with greater ease, which could be good for your mental health. 

Another benefit is that your vehicle can stay on the road longer. Typically, a pair of drivers each do a shift, allowing you to cover twice as much road time during the day. While any earnings are divided in half, you could potentially earn more this way since you’re also making deliveries in half the time. 

When it comes to drawbacks, the biggest is potential disagreements with the other driver. Since you’re both spending most of your time in the cab, there’s no simple way to separate if you need to cool off before continuing a discussion. While using sound conflict resolution techniques can mitigate this issue, it’s critical to know it can happen. 

Otherwise, there can be scheduling challenges. Since both drivers are taking a shift, you may have to drive during times you typically wouldn’t. Ensuring break stops work for you and the other driver could also create challenges, particularly when it comes to timing meals or other longer breaks. 

The Pros and Cons of Solo Driving

Solo driving leaves you a bit more in control. You’ll have the full cab to yourself, can choose when breaks occur, and potentially get more control over when you’re on the road. That means less coordinating with another party. 

If you enjoy the solitude of the road, solo driving gives you that. It can be ideal for anyone who doesn’t need the social stimulation that comes with a team driving arrangement, giving you more privacy and quiet while you work. 

When it comes to downsides, your earnings potential might dip. It’ll take longer to complete routes, which can be a hindrance even when you’re not splitting the pay with another driver. 

While some drivers may appreciate the quiet, others may find the lack of a companion isolating. Additionally, since it takes more days to complete longer routes, you’ll spend more time away from family and friends, which can be stressful or upsetting. 

Deciding Between Team and Solo Driving

Ultimately, whether team or solo driving is better for you depends on your preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each arrangement, then choose the one that offers more of what you need to feel satisfied with the job. 

If you’d like to find out more or are interested in learning about home daily trucking jobs available in the area, the team at PTS® wants to hear from you. Contact us today.