At Dot Transportation, Inc., we want our drivers to be as comfortable, as efficient, and as safe as possible at all times. And since no two drivers are alike, we make sure that each driver has flexibility when it comes to settling into a routine. For some, this routine is rooted in driving alone and enjoying the freedom of doing so. Others may choose to cover more ground and share the driving experience and responsibility with a trusted co-pilot.
With DTI, you can choose either.
We offer drivers the option to drive by themselves (i.e. solo driving) or with a drive partner (i.e. team driving). Both options have their advantages, and it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential downsides of each.
Solo Driving
When you’re a solo driver, you are in complete control of your truck at all times. The success of your journey rests squarely on your shoulders. Every mile on your trek belongs to you and you alone. You pick the places you’d like to eat, you dictate the bathroom stops, and you control the radio. Got a favorite podcast? Cue it up. You want to listen to Starship’s Greatest Hits on repeat for six hours? Nothing’s gonna stop you now. Solo driving is a very “on-your-own-terms” kind of lifestyle that many drivers wouldn’t trade for the world.
Solo drivers tend to prefer independence and don’t mind the idea of working alone for long hours or days on end. They thrive on being single-handedly responsible for arriving at their destinations on time and maintaining positive working relationships with those they meet on their routes. They enjoy having their cabs to themselves and holding the freedom to get the job done how they see fit.
(NOTE: After six months on the road, solo drivers are permitted to bring a non-driver immediate family member along for the ride if they so choose.)
Team Driving
Of course if the thought of being alone doesn’t strike you as appealing, perhaps team driving is more in line with your calling. Driving teams consist of two people who trade off driving throughout the day and night. When your partner is at the wheel, you’re free to take a break or catch some shuteye before your next leg. Apart from gas and food stops, the truck is essentially always in motion.
One major advantage to team driving is the pay. DTI has a higher team rate than our solo driver pay.
Naturally, in spending so much time in such close quarters with another driver, you had better be sure that you and chose a partner you can work with to plan your driving patterns, communication strategies to keep each other informed. While you are in the cab at the same time it is similar to shift workers in the same household, you do not see each other as often as you might think. Solo Dot drivers who want to try their hand at team driving will first complete a 30-day trial stretch with a partner just to make sure it is a good fit for both parties. Also, it’s not uncommon for a married couple to hit the road together as a driving team.
(NOTE: If you’re a recent graduate of driving school, Dot does require that you run as a solo driver for a minimum of 90 after graduating from the training program before you look into team driving.)
Questions to Ask Yourself
If you’re still unsure whether you want your driving career to be a solo endeavor or whether you want a co-pilot along for the ride, here are some things you might want to consider…
Can you sleep in a moving vehicle?
Since team drivers are pretty much expected to keep their trucks running around the clock, you’re going to have to catch most of your Z’s while your partner takes the wheel. If that’s a dealbreaker, you’re probably going to want to fly solo.
Can you share a vehicle with another person for days at a time?
We’re talking about a lot of miles and a lot of time spent in close quarters with another individual. That means coordinating rest stops, sharing the radio, and putting up with any habits (knuckle-cracking, gum-smacking, dashboard-drumming) that might become more annoying with each passing mile.
Does extended isolation bother you?
Sure, you’ll be in contact with the general public and personnel at your home DC throughout the day, but a good amount of your drive is going to be fairly private if you’re on the road by yourself. Some drivers love this environment and others, not so much.
Do you have to be behind the wheel at all times?
Any driver ought to be pretty comfortable in the captain’s seat of their truck. But if you’re not able to ride shotgun while another person takes the reins, then you’re better off sticking to a solo routine.
At the end of the day, it’s going to be in your best interest to go with the driving routine that is best for you. Whether that means hitting the open road alone (or with a non-driving companion) or splitting the duties between you and a peer, there are benefits (and drawbacks) to either lifestyle. At Dot Transportation, regardless of who is in the passenger seat, we want our drivers to be comfortable, safe, and thrive in their roles. We offer a buffet of driving options and schedules to ensure that you get the professional satisfaction and the personal hometime you deserve. Learn more about driving for DTI including benefits, pay scales, and scheduling at DriveForDot.com.
Ready for a new challenge?
Dot Transportation may be just what you’re looking for