What a dedicated job is
On a dedicated account, you haul for one customer, such as a retailer, a manufacturer or a food distributor, usually on the same lanes and schedule. The carrier assigns trucks and drivers to that customer full time.
Why drivers like it
Predictability. You learn the routes, the docks and the people, and your schedule and home time tend to be steady. Many dedicated accounts get you home weekly or more often.
What to ask
- What does a typical week look like on this account: miles, stops, hours?
- Is there touch freight (unloading by hand)?
- How long has the carrier had the account? Accounts sometimes move, and drivers get reassigned.
Pay
Dedicated pay varies by account: per mile, per stop, weekly salary or a mix. Ask for a settlement from a driver on that account.
Questions drivers ask
What does dedicated mean in trucking?
You drive for one customer's freight on a regular set of lanes, through your carrier. It usually means a more predictable schedule than general OTR freight.
Is dedicated better than OTR?
It depends on the account. Dedicated is often steadier with better home time, while OTR may offer more miles. Compare real weekly pay and nights at home.