Is Team Truck Driving Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Real Driver Insights
Is team truck driving worth it? It’s one of the most common questions drivers ask when looking to increase pay, maximize miles, or improve efficiency on the road.
The short answer: it depends on your goals, your personality, and who you’re driving with.
To give you a clearer picture, we’re going beyond general advice and incorporating real feedback from Barr-Nunn team drivers so you can see what the experience is actually like from people doing the job every day.
What Is Team Truck Driving?
Team truck driving is when two drivers share one truck and take turns driving, allowing the truck to stay moving nearly 24/7.
While one driver is behind the wheel, the other rests. This setup is designed to:
- Cover more miles in less time
- Increase earning potential
- Improve delivery speed
If you’re new to trucking or exploring different job types, you can learn more about available opportunities on the Barr-Nunn driving jobs page.
What Barr-Nunn Drivers Say About Team Driving
To better understand the real experience, Barr-Nunn surveyed team drivers about their day-to-day work, preferences, and challenges.
Here’s a breakdown of what they shared:
Team Driving Survey Results from Barr-Nunn Drivers
| Survey Question | Driver Responses |
|---|---|
| Why did you decide to become a team truck driver? | • Higher income and financial stability • Driving with a spouse or partner • Opportunity to earn more together • Desire to travel more • Preference for working as a team |
| What is your favorite aspect of being a team driver? | • Increased earning potential • Supporting family financially • Driving with a spouse or partner • Companionship on the road • Working toward shared goals |
| What do you like about Barr-Nunn compared to other trucking companies? | • Strong and consistent pay • Reliable home time • Supportive communication • Friendly, helpful staff • Well-maintained equipment • Company follows through on promises |
| What tips would you give to new team drivers? | • Communicate clearly and often • Be respectful and professional • Support your partner, don’t criticize • Work as a team, not individuals • Stay consistent and reliable |
One thing becomes clear from these responses: while pay is a major driver, the partnership itself plays an equally important role in the experience.
The Biggest Advantage: More Miles, More Pay
One of the biggest reasons drivers consider team driving is simple, earning potential.
Because the truck is moving almost constantly, team drivers can:
- Log significantly more miles per week
- Complete longer hauls faster
- Access higher-paying loads
For drivers focused on maximizing income, this is often the biggest deciding factor.
Barr-Nunn is recognized as a Top Pay Certified Carrier, and you can explore how pay and benefits compare on the Barr-Nunn pay and benefits page.
Team Driving vs Solo Driving: Key Differences
When comparing team driving vs solo driving, the differences come down to lifestyle and priorities.
Team driving is ideal if you:
- Want to maximize earnings
- Don’t mind sharing space
- Are comfortable working closely with a partner
Solo driving may be a better fit if you:
- Value independence
- Prefer full control over your schedule
- Enjoy time alone on the road
The Importance of the Right Driving Partner
Ask any experienced team driver and reinforced by Barr-Nunn’s survey—your partner can make or break the experience.
Successful teams often share:
- Similar driving styles
- Compatible sleep schedules
- Clear communication
Many drivers choose to team up with someone they already know, such as a spouse or friend, which can make a significant difference in long-term success.
Common Challenges of Team Truck Driving
Even for drivers who enjoy the setup, there are challenges to consider.
Some of the most common include:
- Limited personal space
- Sleeping while the truck is moving
- Adjusting to another driver’s habits
- Less time alone
The survey responses confirmed that while these challenges exist, drivers who prioritize communication and teamwork are more likely to succeed.
Benefits of Team Truck Driving Beyond Pay
While pay is a major factor, it’s not the only benefit.
Drivers also highlighted:
- Less downtime between loads
- Faster trip completion
- Built-in support on the road
- Shared responsibilities
For many, the combination of efficiency and partnership creates a more productive experience overall.
So, Is Team Truck Driving Worth It?
Based on both industry insights and feedback from Barr-Nunn drivers, the answer is:
Yes, for the right type of driver.
Team truck driving is worth it if:
- Your primary goal is higher earnings
- You’re comfortable sharing space
- You have a reliable, compatible partner
It may not be the best fit if:
- You strongly value independence
- You prefer full control over your schedule
Frequently Asked Questions About Team Truck Driving
Is team truck driving worth it?
Team truck driving is worth it for drivers who want to maximize earnings and miles. By keeping the truck moving almost continuously, team drivers can earn more than solo drivers, but it requires sharing space and working closely with a partner.
Do team truck drivers make more money?
Yes, team truck drivers typically make more money because they can cover more miles in less time. This allows them to take on longer hauls and maintain more consistent weekly pay.
What are the pros and cons of team truck driving?
The main pros include higher earning potential, increased efficiency, and shared responsibilities. The main cons include limited personal space, sleep disruptions, and the need to coordinate closely with another driver.
Is team driving better than solo driving?
Team driving is better for drivers focused on maximizing income and efficiency, while solo driving is better for those who value independence and control over their schedule.
Can you choose your team driving partner?
In many cases, yes. Many drivers choose to team up with a spouse, friend, or someone they are compatible with, which can significantly improve the experience.
Team Driving Final Thoughts
Team truck driving offers a unique opportunity to increase income and efficiency—but it requires the right mindset and the right partner.
What makes this clear is hearing directly from drivers themselves.
The takeaway from Barr-Nunn’s survey is simple:
- The earning potential is real
- The lifestyle requires adjustment
- The partnership determines success
If your goals align with what team driving offers, it can be one of the most rewarding paths in trucking.
If you’re ready to take the next step, explore current opportunities on the Barr-Nunn Team Drivers Job page and see if team driving is the right fit for you.