USA Truck creates new compensation plan for owner-operators

Updated Jun 13, 2022
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USA Truck today announced compensation enhancements for its owner-operators that will increase their earning power and put bonus money in their hands faster, according to a statement from the company.

One of the big changes USA Truck has made in the program is a fast payout in its sign-on bonus. For owner-operators who join the company now, they will receive a $10,000 sign-on bonus paid in two installments of $5,000 at first dispatch and another $5,000 at 90 days on the job. The company also announced the institution of 100% pass-through of the fuel surcharge.

In addition to the sign-on bonus payout and 100% fuel surcharge, highlights of USA Truck's owner-operator program include revenue potential of up to $225,000 or more per year with earnings of $4,500 per week or higher, according to a statement from the company. The company also has increased its monthly safety performance bonus by 2% and offers a $4,000 referral bonus.

"This is the best offering I have seen in my 35-year career," said Blair Ewell, USA Truck's senior vice president of Truckload. "USA Truck has one of the best programs available to the independent contractor. We allow them to operate as a true owner-operator within our load board ecosystem. I am excited to see these independent business people participate and succeed with us.

"We also have 100% pass through on fuel surcharge on every load plus we have increased our fuel discount by 60% to meet the demand of record high fuel prices. Through our self-dispatch platform, our owner-operators pick where they want to run and how they want to run. They are professional drivers who run their own business; they know how to work!"

Ewell said the company's program offers the freedom to choose between spot-quoted freight and contracted loads when the market fluctuates. 

"These features ensure they have the independence and professional balance they're looking for," he said.


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