Paperwork Plating Truck specs DOT inspection Orientation Support Home time There are two kinds of owner-operators: Owner-operators who sign on with a carrier (or lease onto a carrier) and receive access to their freight. True owner-operators who search the open market for loads and schedule their own freight.

You’ve put in the miles researching trucking companies for CDL drivers and have narrowed your list to a few top contenders. Now comes the part that can make or break your next move: asking the right trucking recruiter questions before you sign on. Too many drivers skip this step or only ask about pay and home time. That’s a fast way to end up in the wrong seat — and back on the job hunt sooner than you’d like.