Thinking About Power Only Loads? Here’s What You Need to Know

Starting out as an owner-operator? You might find power only loads are a great option to get on the road fast. Power only trucking is pretty straightforward: you don’t need your own trailer—just your tractor. Here’s a quick look at how it works and why it might be a great option to kick off your trucking career or even mix things up a bit.

What exactly are power only loads?

In power only trucking, shippers post loads where only a tractor is required to move pre-loaded trailers. These loads can involve various trailer types, like:

• Shipping containers
• Dry vans
• Open deck trailers
• Flatbeds
• Refrigerated trailers

Some carriers operate as power only carriers, running fleets of tractors and picking up trailers as needed. As an owner-operator, you can also book these loads if you have your authority, making it a versatile option if you’re just starting out or looking to expand your services.

How does power only trucking work?

Power only trucking functions like standard trucking, but with less hassle over equipment. Instead of bringing a trailer to the pick-up point, you just need your tractor. You attach to the trailer at the pick-up location, deliver the load, and either return home empty or pick up another load nearby.

Shippers often prefer power only for situations where trailers are loaded and waiting, quick turnarounds are needed, or freight supply is irregular.

Who’s a good fit for power only loads?

Power only trucking works for many types of drivers, especially those in these situations:

• New owner-operators without a trailer: Just starting out? Many new owner-operators choose to purchase a tractor first, saving for a trailer down the road. Power only loads let you start hauling right away.
• Experienced drivers looking to mix things up: Some owner-operators with trailers still take power only loads to diversify. It offers variety in the work and often faster turnarounds.
• Power only carriers: Some carriers specialize in power only trucking, focusing on transporting pre-loaded trailers for various shippers.

What are the benefits of power only trucking?

Power only trucking offers several advantages that make it appealing to drivers:

• Flexibility: Haul various trailer types without worrying about what will fit or specific storage requirements. Just hook up and go.
• Lower costs: No trailer ownership means avoiding the expenses of maintenance, storage, and registration. All you need is a tractor unit.
• Fast turnaround: With drop-and-hook options, you can quickly secure another load, often at the same location, maximizing your time on the road.
• High earning potential: Many power only drivers find they can complete more loads in less time, increasing their earnings. Rates vary, but urban routes often pay more than rural ones.
• Independence: As your own boss, you set your schedule, taking loads on your terms.
• Job variety: Power only jobs open up a wide range of hauling opportunities beyond conventional semi-truck loads, ideal if you prefer variety over routine.

Can you book power only loads with your own authority?

Yes! If you’re an owner-operator with authority, you can book power only loads. As long as you have a tractor, you can book loads directly from shippers and brokers.

However, remember that operating across multiple states may require extra paperwork. Check if you need an International Registration Plan (IRP) and an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) account. For full details, consult the FMCSA website.

Where can you find power only jobs?

If you’re an owner-operator looking for power only jobs, trucking load boards, like Truckstop, are your best resource. Load boards are filled with options for power-only drivers. You can post your availability and connect with companies needing just a tractor for their loads.

Book more power-only Loads with Truckstop

The Truckstop load board offers thousands of available loads updated in real-time, so you can quickly find jobs that fit your schedule. Plus, our platform lets you compare rates, negotiate based on current data, and even use heat maps for efficient route planning.

All Truckstop brokers are rated and verified, ensuring that your loads come from trusted sources. Try Truckstop today to find power only jobs.