Missouri-based Artur Express Inc. recently rolled out a new company driver pay plan and what it calls a Profit Leasing Program for owner-operators.
According to the company, the Truckers’ Company Driver Pay Plan is based on seven areas of performance: experience, safety, on-time performance, driver habits, technology, miles, and longevity. Each driver is awarded points for their performance in each area. Their total score determines their placement in one of three different pay categories: basic, professional, and expert.
A statement from the company explains:
On day one, drivers start at the “professional” level. Their scores are updated at the start of every quarter. However, if a driver is consistently trending in the expert area before the quarter is over, they may have the opportunity to be promoted sooner. Drivers are given updates on their scores every week so they can watch their trends. Depending on how many miles someone drives per week, it will show whether or not they’re on pace to hit the maximum points allowed for that area.
“It’s important to be a professional driver and always look for ways to improve your performance,” said Artur Express Inc.’s Director of Fleet Relations Steve Green. “Our ultimate goal is to pay every driver at the ‘expert’ level. The more drivers we have at expert level, the better the impact on the company as well.”
Artur Express Inc. offers what it says is “a truly unique” Walk Away Lease Program for eligible contractors. One of the main aspects of this program is that Artur Express Inc. pays the driver per mile and all deductions are per mile as well. The driver only pays when they are rolling.
“If the truck doesn’t move for a week because you’re on vacation, your deductions stop; all deductions are based on loaded miles,” said Green. “Right now, after deductions with a 2018 Freightliner Cascadia, you should net nearly $100,000 annually depending on the miles you drive and lanes you choose.”
Other notable aspects of the Profit Leasing program include no down payment or fixed lease payment. Through its leasing partnership, there are over 850 service locations nationwide including on-site at Artur Express Inc.’s headquarters in St. Louis.
“You will keep moving 24/7 under our leasing policy,” Green said.
Other perks in the owner-operator program include:
- No negative settlement guarantee
- Bumper to bumper warranty for the entire lease term
- Preventive maintenance that includes oil changes, tires, brakes, and sub-rentals
- 70 to 90 percent drop and hook
- Fuel cards, cash advances available, monthly fuel rebates
- 1099 contractor status
- Your choice between regional or OTR dry van, OTR reefer or Expedited (team) freight
- No forced dispatch – contractors choose what loads are best for them via Artur’s online load board
To be qualified for the Profit Leasing program, contractors must have at least two years of driving experience and a clean driving record.
