Creating a dynamic duo as husband and wife truckers opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to spend quality time together while crisscrossing the United States and boosting your earnings. As with any career, however, this choice has its unique set of pros and cons. Dive into the details below to determine if team driving with your spouse is the right journey for you.
The Pros of Team Trucking with Your Spouse
- Speedier Deliveries
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict limits on daily driving hours, capping them at 11 hours. Exceeding this limit results in penalties and safety score setbacks. Typically, truckers maintain an average speed of 55-60 miles per hour, equating to just over 600 miles a day within the allotted time frame. When you team drive with your spouse, however, you can cover more ground. While one partner takes the wheel for their 11-hour shift, the other can rest and recharge. This tag-team approach leads to more miles covered each day and quicker deliveries. - Combatting Loneliness
The isolation of solo trucking often leads to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, which are unfortunately widespread among truckers. Team driving with your spouse acts as a remedy to this loneliness. Having your partner as your road companion provides built-in companionship, a confidant to chat with, and a partner to share daily experiences, making your time on the road a far less lonely journey. - Enhanced Earnings
Solo truckers tend to earn less per mile compared to their counterparts in team driving setups. The reason is straightforward: with two drivers, you can cover more miles each day, reaching your destination faster and maximizing your income potential.
The Cons of Team Trucking with Your Spouse
- Navigating Relationship Dynamics
The saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” rings true, but spending extended periods in the confines of a truck cab with your spouse can be a test of patience. You might find yourself craving some personal space to indulge in hobbies and interests. When you opt for team driving, be prepared to relinquish the possibility of solitude within the truck. - Sleep Challenges
Effective team driving requires one spouse to rest while the other takes the wheel. Catching quality sleep in a truck cab, especially if you’re a light sleeper, can be a significant challenge. As a truck driver, obtaining adequate rest is not only crucial for your overall well-being but also for staying alert and vigilant on the road. - Insurance Complexities
If you decide that team driving is your ideal route, you might encounter hurdles in securing commercial truck insurance. The continuous operation of the truck elevates its risk for accidents and raises the likelihood of maintenance issues, which can translate into violations.
Embracing team trucking with your spouse comes with a unique blend of benefits and drawbacks. It’s essential to weigh these pros and cons meticulously to determine if this career path aligns with both your and your spouse’s aspirations and adaptability. While trucking alongside your life partner can foster cherished shared experiences and adventures, it also necessitates careful contemplation to make it a harmonious journey.
