When it comes to life on the road, one of the biggest questions a truck driver faces is whether to roll solo or drive as a team. Some prefer the independence of driving alone, while others enjoy the companionship and efficiency of having a co-driver. We asked our community of truck drivers what they prefer, and their responses covered the full spectrum of experiences.
The Solo Drivers
For many truckers, driving solo is the only way to go. The freedom, control, and ability to set their own pace make it the clear choice.
Jeff Miller summed it up bluntly after a brief stint with a co-driver: “Let’s just say it’s something that I would definitely try my best to never have to do again! I do not like having someone else with me at all.”
Jon Miles echoed that sentiment: “Solo. That’s one reason I became a trucker. I enjoy my alone time.”
For some, trust is a major issue when considering a co-driver. Jesse Neuman said, “Solo…could never sleep with someone else driving.” Similarly, Doug Schnabl agreed: “I couldn’t go to sleep with someone else driving. Solo for me.”
Michael Mercier, who retired after 35 years behind the wheel, was grateful to have driven solo throughout his career: “Thank gawd. Although I met many good drivers on the road that I’ve stayed in touch with over the years.”
Other drivers, like Jack Brescia, enjoy a different kind of company: “With my dog, that’s it.”
The Team Drivers
For some truckers, the team life has been a rewarding experience, particularly when they share the cab with a trusted partner.
Pamela Young has been team driving with her husband for 32 years and wouldn’t have it any other way: “Co-driver, my husband. Wouldn’t have it any other way!”
Similarly, Mark Ferryman appreciates the efficiency of running team with his wife: “We can go coast to coast in a day and a half.”
Doug Skubal highlighted the main advantage of team driving: “You can virtually run nonstop as a team versus a slower pace for a solo driver.”
The “It Depends” Drivers
Some truckers have done both and believe the experience heavily depends on who the co-driver is.
Paula Hanson put it simply: “I’ve done both. Depends who your co-driver is.”
Tom Bonura agreed, noting that it can be great with the right partner but difficult with the wrong one: “Great with the right partner. Tough with the wrong one. Made good money with the best partner and hazmat.”
Misty Hammonds-McDaniel shared her flexibility: “I’ve done both during my 25-year career, so I can deal with it either way. It doesn’t bother me. If I could go back to driving, it wouldn’t matter if it was solo or team—as long as I could pick my co-driver. And my wife would be my first and only choice.”
The Bottom Line
Solo and team driving each come with their own set of pros and cons. Solo drivers enjoy independence and full control, while team drivers can benefit from efficiency and companionship. But as many truckers pointed out, the key factor is who you’re sharing the cab with. The right partner can make team driving a great experience, while the wrong one can turn it into a challenge.
So, if you’re considering teaming up, choose wisely—because life on the road is too long to spend it with the wrong co-driver!
