A St. Cloud, Minnesota carrier is the latest trucking company to increase driver pay.
Anderson Trucking Service earlier this week announced it is increasing pay for company flatbed drivers, raising the base mileage rate from $0.60 to $0.70 per mile.
The $0.10-per-mile increase applies across all classes and tenure levels and covers both loaded and empty miles, giving drivers more earning power for the work they already do, according to a statement from the company.
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The new rate took effect Sept. 21, for all 327 current ATS company flatbed drivers. This year, the top 50% of company flatbed drivers have averaged $1,600 per week, while the top 20% have averaged $2,100 per week, according to the company.
Drivers also have another way to maximize their earnings through ATS's Upside Pay program. On loads of 1,200 miles or less, drivers can earn 26% of load revenue in lieu of mileage. ATS calculates both mileage pay and Upside Pay on eligible loads, and drivers receive whichever amount is higher.
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“Our drivers are the foundation of everything we do. This investment reflects the skill, professionalism, and commitment that flatbed specialized drivers bring to the job every day," said Lori McNaughton · Senior Director of Operations At ATS. "We regularly review driver compensation to ensure it recognizes the value our drivers create while remaining competitive in a changing market. By increasing mileage pay across all lanes and tenure levels, we're providing a stronger earnings foundation on every mile and continuing our long-standing commitment to investing in the people who keep our customers and company moving forward."
Flatbed driving requires a combination of skill, experience, and attention to detail that extends beyond time behind the wheel, the company said. From securing freight to adapting to a wide range of loads and job sites, flatbed drivers take on responsibilities that are essential to serving ATS customers reliably.
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The increase is part of ATS's continued focus on providing competitive earning opportunities for company drivers. As freight conditions and driver needs change, ATS will continue evaluating driver pay to make sure its compensation reflects the work drivers do every day, the company said in its statement.
