Contracting CDL-A Owner Operators
- PAY THAT ADDS UP - Solo Owner Operators earn up to $1.31 per loaded mile*
- LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. - 99% no-touch, drop & hook freight
- TOP PAY. TOP MILES. - Top Teams earn up to $650,000 gross per year*
Why Drive for Forward Air?
At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers - they're business partners. Forward is built around helping Owner Operators run a stronger, more profitable operation, with programs designed to offset rising industry costs and keep more revenue where it belongs - in your pocket. Running through Forward's closed terminal network, Owner Operators get access to steady freight, strong pay, and the kind of support that helps a business, not just a truck, succeed.
If you're looking for a partner that treats your business like it matters, Forward Air is ready to move you forward - solo or as a team.
CDL-A Solo Owner Operator Overview
- Pay built for owner operators. Solo Owner Operators earn up to $250,000 per year, with base CPM of $1.31 loaded, $1.18 empty + FSC. Solo Owner Operators gross on average $4,100 - $5,200 / week - drivers can also earn additional compensation on all miles based on load destination.*
- Freight that's easy on your truck. Run 99% no-touch, drop & hook freight averaging just 26,000 pounds - lightweight loads that mean less wear and tear on your equipment and more of your revenue staying put.
- Best-in-class weekly miles. Solo Owner Operators average 2,500 miles per week running Forward's closed terminal network of 100+ nationwide locations, keeping you moving and earning consistently. Drivers are typically out 3-4 weeks at a time.
- Support built around your success. A dedicated Driver Support Team is available to help with any concerns that come up, giving Owner Operators the backing they need to run a successful business.
CDL-A Team Owner Operator Overview
- Your business, better compensated. Top Team Owner Operators earn up to $650,000 per year, with loaded compensation at $1.55CPM + FSC and empty compensation at $1.28CPM + FSC - Team Owner Operators gross on average $12,500 - $13,500 / week with a substantial fuel surcharge program that helps offset rising fuel costs.*
- Freight built to protect your equipment. As a Team, you'll run 99% no-touch, drop & hook loads averaging just 26,000 pounds, so your truck sees less strain and your maintenance budget goes further mile after mile.
- Two drivers, twice the momentum. Running as a team unlocks Forward's best weekly mile potential - an average of 5,500 miles per week across a closed network of 100+ terminals, turning your partnership into consistent, compounding revenue. Drivers are typically out 3-4 weeks at a time.
- Real backup for real teams. Whether you're splitting the wheel or splitting the workload, Forward's Driver Support Team is always on hand to help your team stay on the road and running smoothly.
Owner Operator Perks & Support
- Programs designed to save you money. Forward offers an assortment of cost-saving programs - including a substantial fuel surcharge program - built to help Owner Operators offset rising industry expenses and keep more of what they earn.
- A network built to keep you earning. Routes run exclusively between Forward's nationwide terminal locations, supporting some of the strongest average annual revenue in the industry for Owner Operators who partner with Forward.
All pay and bonus amounts may vary by job type, location, experience level, and performance and are subject to change based on company discretion. Talk with a recruiter to confirm specific details.
There is no deadline to apply. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Driver Requirements
- Valid Class A CDL
- 12+ months verifiable driving experience
- Must be 23 years of age
- Equipment must be newer than 10 years old
