Class A Owner - Operator OTR Driver

Overview

IMPORTANT UPDATE: 08/12/24. For a limited time only. We are offering the first 10 owners a one-time deal: 92% linehaul (92/8) with only $200 deduction for cargo and liability insurance. The rate will be locked in for the duration of your time under our authority. This is first come, first served and we need 10 ASAP candidates. We carry A+ rated AM Best insurance and will run you under our DOT with a great safety score with scale bypasses. We are also offering a 30 cent discount off cash price on fuel (usually an extra 5 to 10 cents), roughly 35 to 40 cents discount depending. We want this to be the last place you want to work. Everyone is tired of job hopping since 2018.

DSL Express is NOW HIRING OWNER OPERATORS who want to make good money with a great company. Very high percentage take home with load volume even in the worst market conditions – we keep it moving after almost 20 years in business!

Responsibilities

• Solo Owner Operator Gross Pay (strong potential): Expect OTR average gross 5K to 8K+ per week during this post-COVID market. We book shorter runs and conserve fuel, typically 2000 to 3000 miles per week.
• Team drivers may earn more, with historical averages around 13K per week, though the market currently favors shorter runs (300–600 miles). Hiring of teams may be considered.
• Operate under the company’s authority with safety and compliance standards; maintain a professional, on-time, and safe driving record.

Qualifications

• Must have Class A CDL. Additional endorsements are a bonus.
• Must have 2+ years of CDL experience.
• Must have a clean MVR and reasonable PSP report.
• Must have a reliable tractor; trailer rental available if needed.

Regions & Routes

• Lower 48 with a primary focus on Midwest, East, Southeast, South, Southwest, and West regions. Optional high-paying Canadian loads offered to qualified applicants. Some routes have changed as of 08/12/24; ask about current routes.

Compensation & Benefits

• Gross earnings normally 260,000 to 364,000 per year (before expenses).
• High percentage payouts: 82% of line haul with 18% company share; we cover cargo and liability insurance.
• Option to take 88% of line haul with a $250 weekly deduction for cargo and liability insurance.
• Trailer tags and rentals covered by us. Optional to use our insurance broker rates for bobtail insurance.
• Hazard and Occupational Insurance available as an optional deduction; weekly deduction programs for insurance and some expenses if needed.
• Fuel: 30 cent discount off cash price on fuel cards provided; no hidden fees.
• Bonuses: performance-based Owner-Operator of the Month; bonuses for passing DOT inspections.
• Weekly direct deposit and bank transfers; no waiting for checks.
• We pay above-market rates; dispatch and support focused on maximizing top dollar year-round.

Perks & Work Environment

• No forced dispatch; home time 100% negotiable – you set your schedule.
• 24/7 dispatch support with dedicated dispatchers; on-call dispatch available 24/7.
• Professional dispatch teams fighting for top rates; dedicated dispatcher assigned to you.
• Built-in mechanic shop at Chicago depot; 150,000 square foot warehouse for load transfers.
• Non-mega-carrier culture; strong driver relationships and local/offices across the US.
• Rider policy available with waiver; no-touch freight preferred; some lanes offer unlimited miles within ELD compliance.

Important Work Ethic & Apply

We seek “A” stringers and Division 1-like performance. We require drivers who are motivated, honest, hard-working, and safe. We do not want unsafe drivers or those who miss stops or are lazy at truck stops. This job is demanding and requires a professional approach; earnings depend on performance and drive time. If you are interested, APPLY NOW. The link below provides the application.

• Apply here and get approved today:
• Still interested after reading that?

Company Differentiators

• Not a mega-carrier; focused on driver success with 20 years in business.
• Multiple US offices, 24-hour dispatch, in-house maintenance, and a large warehouse facility.
• Dedicated freight with Chicago area companies; strong driver support, no forced dispatch.

Summary of Other Incentives

• Hometime is 100% negotiable; unlimited miles within ELD compliance.
• We do Dry Vans and Refer; no flatbeds or dangerous tankers; no touch freight preferred.
• Drop & Hook and Live Load/Unload; some notes updated as of 08/12/24.
• Rented trailers available for those who need one; dedicated dispatcher; 24/7 support.

Driver Requirements (Summary)

• Healthy, capable, and willing to work; at least 23 years old.
• Minimum 2 years of driving experience; valid CDL Class A without suspensions.
• Ability to work with modern ELD systems; pass a drug test; valid medical card.
• Stable work history with good references; no major safety or legal issues in recent years.
• No more than 3 moving violations/accidents in last 3 years; no DWI/DUI/BAC issues in last 4 years.
• No reckless driving in last 3 years; no license suspensions for points or unpaid tickets in last 3 years.
• Provide at least 3 years of work history, with verification of previous employers and references.

Gross Earnings Explained

The “Normal” Solo Driver Gross Earnings estimate is based on $5,000 to $8,000+ per week, reflecting market conditions from Q4 2023 through Q4 2024. Earnings depend on miles driven, load availability, and market demand. Rates vary by freight demand, season, location, and other factors; some Owners may earn more with higher drive time and consistent miles. Our dispatch team aims to maximize top earnings year-round; earnings are closely tied to driver performance and commitment.