Power-only trucking is an efficient freight-moving method primarily employed by companies that frequently transport commodities. These companies own a tons of trailers but have limited or no trucks/drivers to haul them.

The seamless pick-up-and-go nature of most open-deck and dry van freight enables these commodities to remain fully loaded for an extended duration, awaiting a driver to transport them.

This method can be beneficial for companies that do not have their own fleet of trailers, as they can hire power only truckers to transport their goods instead.

The main advantages include cost savings due to no need for fuel surcharges and reduced labor costs associated with hiring extra drivers. 

Additionally, since there is no need for additional equipment such as trailers, power-only trucking offers more flexibility when scheduling routes and delivery times.

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What does power only mean in trucking?

When a transporting freight company provides a truck driver and a specific truck trailer called a power unit then it means power only trucking.

Here the company either own the fleet or lease the shipping power unit to ensure flexible freight service.

The best part is you will be getting the best driver and trailer to match with particular freight service you are looking for.

The driver comes to play the role based on his previous record that suits his job to the best.

For example, if you are looking for a heavy haul trucking then the company will bring the best heavy haul truck driver based on his expertise.

Who Uses Power-Only Trucking?

Companies that opt for power-only trucking usually do not have access to a semi-tractor and driver to relocate trailers within their yard or between docks, and hence, owning adequate space for stagnant trailers is a common feature.

It is essential to note that power-only trucking requires shippers to possess a fleet of trailers and sufficient space to leave them for prolonged periods without any movement. Therefore, power-only trucking may be challenging for shippers who do not possess these prerequisites.

However, it is vital to highlight that companies that transport perishable goods such as raw produce or refrigerated freight cannot take advantage of power-only trucking. This is because timing is of the essence in their shipments, and power-only trucking may not align with their requirements.

Lets describe the both situation how does it work:

1. Companies have a unit of fleet but no drivers to haul:

While freight shipments come with the right tractor for transporting perishable items but need multiples driver to haul it, they call upon drivers from broker.

2. Companies have available drivers but they have the shortage of specific tractor to haul:

All the tractors they have either owned or leased from third parties are now hauling on the way. So, for providing a service immediately they need a tractor in that case the 3PL process comes along with their shipping networks. Here is how the company can always come to ensure the power only trucking services at any time or at any condition.

Types of Power only trucking

Power only trucking is equipped with all types of transportation or shipment solution that comes with variable full-truckload capacity.

It differs from a single unit shipping service where a driver brings up his trailer just like hot shot trucking. Here, the driver is assigned by 3PL owner or shipper.

Power only trucking typically involves towing a trailer from one location to another signed with the trailer interchange agreement.

Therefore, one fleet company can interchange another with driver and trailers. Here is why, it is called power only unit capacity

Power only trucking business comes with a fleet of tractors or drivers to transport goods at any condition to any location. So, the unit depends on power only broker to look for either right driver or a carrier.

Here are the unit types below:

Flatbed & open deck trailers
Dry van shipping
Refrigerated trailers
Shipping containers
Power only drop and hook services

Advantages Power only trucking

Power-only trucking has become a crucial component of supply chains for shippers nationwide, and it’s not difficult to understand why. When something consistently proves to be effective, saves you money, and makes your life easier, it’s only prudent to take full advantage of it.

Shippers who utilize power-only trucking

First, it enhances efficiency in other aspects of their supply chain. By leveraging the services of a reliable transportation provider, shippers can concentrate on optimizing their production schedules and managing their bottom line instead of waiting for trailers to load.

Freight brokers and 3pls proactively coordinate pick-ups to align with each shipper’s unique requirements, allowing them to move their freight seamlessly. This ensures that shippers can meet their deadlines and maintain their commitment to their customers.

Power-only trucking saves shippers money upfront

Owning and operating a fleet of semi-trucks and employing drivers is a significant investment that many shippers prefer to avoid. Power-only trucking enables shippers to avoid this expense, putting that money into other areas of their business.

Furthermore, power-only loads are often more desirable for truckers than full-fledged truck and trailer pick-ups because they don’t require waiting around, which saves drivers valuable on-duty service hours. As a result, transportation service providers have an easier time selling power-only freight to carriers near shippers’ facilities, making it a more attractive option for them.

Power-only trucking provides much-needed flexibility

Shippers know how critical it is to have a level of flexibility in their industry. Finding capacity to meet timeframes can be challenging, particularly in today’s tight transportation market. Shippers with trailers on hand can store their freight until a trucking solution becomes available, allowing them to have a more relaxed pace when loading their cargo.

This is invaluable, as they aren’t paying for drop trailer services while still having trailers available to them as needed.

With trailers loaded and ready, shippers have the ability to source power-only capacity where they need it, when they need it. Urgently looking for last-minute solutions to move freight is no longer a challenge when shippers have the right planning in place.

What is Power Only Loads With Own Authority

Power only loads, also known as POLs, are shipments that require the driver to supply their own truck and authority when transporting goods. 

This is different from a traditional freight shipment where the carrier must provide both the truck and drivers with all necessary credentials for shipment. 

With power only loads, shippers enjoy greater flexibility in terms of delivery times and routes since they have more control over who transports their goods.

Furthermore, this type of load can help carriers maximize profits by allowing them to choose which trips to take depending on how much money they want to make per mile. 

Power only loads are a great option for experienced drivers looking to take advantage of higher-paying opportunities while still having control over their schedules.

Is Power Only Trucking Worth It?

If you’re an experienced driver who’s willing to invest in the necessary equipment and handle intermittent job availability then power only trucking could be worth considering as a way to increase your income potential.

Power only trucking is a great option for experienced drivers who are looking to maximize their earnings potential. 

It can be significantly more profitable than regular long-haul trucking, as power only drivers don’t have to pay for the additional costs associated with hauling freight. 

Additionally, power only jobs usually involve shorter trips and quicker turnaround times, meaning that drivers can complete more jobs in less time.

Who will need this service

Through this method, carriers are able to contract with a power unit owner-operator who supplies their own trailer for the shipment in exchange for payment – meaning no large capital investments or fuel costs involved. 

This type of shipping can be beneficial for both shippers and carriers by providing an affordable solution that allows them to keep up with changing market demands without breaking the bank.

There are some drawbacks to this type of work: 

Inconsistent earning:

Since it involves fewer loads per trip than normal long-haul routes, the income may not be consistent; 

Need sophisticated and expensive equipment:

It also requires specialized equipment which adds an extra cost burden

No regular deliveries available:

Power only truckers may sometimes find themselves without steady employment or regularly scheduled deliveries. 

Power only Rates Per Mile

Power Only Rates Per Mile is a concept used in the trucking industry. It refers to the rate that a freight company pays for a tractor and trailer, but not including any labor costs associated with loading or unloading the cargo.

This type of rate structure is often used when one company needs to move an entire load from point A to point B without needing additional drivers or helpers.

By using this method, companies can reduce their overhead by eliminating labor costs while still ensuring reliable and timely delivery of their goods.

Power Only Trucking Companies

Power Only trucking companies are an important part of the transportation industry. They provide services such as transporting trailers, containers and other large items that require special equipment or expertise. 

These specialized companies typically operate a fleet of trucks outfitted with power units to haul their loads safely and efficiently.

Power Only trucking companies offer customers valuable logistical solutions by providing timely deliveries at competitive rates while minimizing potential risks associated with long-haul freight shipments.

Power only trucking vs hotshot trucking

Power only trucking and hot shot trucking are two different types of trucking services with distinct differences. 

Power only trucking involves larger, heavy-duty trucks with specialized hotshot trailers designed for long-haul transportation of larger loads.

On the other hand, hot shot trucking involves smaller one-ton trucks with a flatbed or box trailer, designed for shorter regional transportation of smaller, urgent cargo. 

Power only trucking is generally more expensive, has a higher capacity, and can carry heavier loads than hotshot trucking.

Conclusion

Overall, Power Only Trucking is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and efficient way to transport their goods.

It offers more flexibility than traditional trucking services and can provide cost savings as well. With its extensive network of carriers and experienced staff, it can provide the highest quality standards in transportation solutions.

Power Only Trucking has revolutionized the industry by providing a safe and cost-effective solution to freight transportation needs.