Grow Your Business as an Owner-Operator

Grow your independent trucking business with ATS. Get reliable freight and a support team committed to helping your business thrive, whether you're hauling in the Midwest or nationwide.
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You've Built Your Business. Now You Need the Freight to Keep it Moving.

You've worked hard to build your business as an independent contractor. You deserve steady freight, reliable pay, and a carrier that respects your independence and keeps you moving.

For over 70 years, Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) has helped drivers like you reach their full potential and achieve their version of success. Independence comes with risk, but we believe it should also come with opportunity.

When you lease on with ATS, you'll get the freedom to choose your loads and the support of a family-owned carrier that knows what it takes to build a business on the road.

Start thriving as an owner-operator in flatbed and dry van.

Earn What You're Worth and Haul Freight You Can Be Proud Of

Running your own business doesn't mean running alone. When you lease on with ATS, you'll have access to reliable freight, responsive support, and financial tools designed to support how you choose to run your business.

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Quick Highlights

  70% of linehaul and accessorial pay
  Mileage progression pay structure
  Guaranteed pay on collected fuel surcharge
 You're in control: choose your own freight
 Permits paid by ATS
  Pull company trailers for a small fee
 Daily settlements and direct deposit
 Fleet insurance rates and fuel discounts
 Mobile communications installed free

Expenses

  • Escrow account: $75
  • License plate charge: $50
  • Trailer fee: $50
  • Toll & scale transponder: $15/month
  • Communication device rental: $110/month
  • Legal plan (optional): $2.98

Benefits

  • Fuel card and fuel/mileage tax reporting
  • Passenger and pet programs
  • Medical, dental, and life insurance available
  • Consistent communication and 24/7 support

Bring a Truck That's Ready to Perform

To lease on as an owner-operator with ATS, your tractor must meet the following requirements:

  • Truck less than 10 years old
  • Sleeper required for over-the-road (OTR) work
  • Fifth wheel:
    • Van OTR: 46-47 inches
    • Flatbed OTR: 48-50 inches
  • Back of cab clearance: 68 inches or more
  • Tare weight: ≤ 20,000 lbs.
  • Tractor length: ≤ 30 feet
  • Wheelbase: ≤ 270 inches

Stop Chasing Your Next Load. Start Choosing Your Next Opportunity.

Lease on with ATS and gain the freight opportunities, long-term stability, and professional respect that helps your business thrive.

Owner-Operator FAQ

Do you have questions about being an owner-operator? We've got answers. Being an owner-operator comes with a great deal of risk, but it can also lead to large rewards personally and financially. To help you make the right decision, here are some commonly asked questions about what it's like as an owner-operator.

Is becoming an owner-operator worth it?

You get out of it what you put into it. Being an owner-operator can be very rewarding, offering greater earning potential and independence than company driving. However, it also comes with financial risk and operational responsibility. Success often depends on managing expenses and maintaining steady freight.

What are the biggest expenses for owner-operators?

Fuel, maintenance, and insurance are the largest costs, with fuel alone accounting for around 25-35% of total expenses. Successful owner-operators manage these costs through fuel discount programs, preventative maintenance, and efficient route planning.

What are the risks of being an owner-operator?

As an owner-operator, you're responsible for running your own business, which means you need to be adaptable. Fluctuating fuel prices, inconsistent freight, unexpected repairs, and regulatory requirements are all risks you'll have to be able to tackle in the day-to-day.

Interested in learning more? Check out our Driver Learning Center, or contact us today!