Considering a Career in Driveaway Trucking? Here’s What You Need to Know.
If you’re thinking about getting into driveaway trucking, you’re probably asking, “Is it worth it?” The answer depends on what you’re looking for in a trucking career. Unlike traditional freight hauling, driveaway trucking offers more flexibility, freedom, and financial potential—and for many drivers, it’s the perfect fit.
At Six Figure Trucker, we’ve interviewed some of the industry’s top-earning and most satisfied driveaway truckers. Many left traditional trucking jobs or entirely different careers to take advantage of what driveaway offers. Let’s break down the pros and cons of driveaway trucking and hear from real drivers who have made it their career.
What is Driveaway Trucking?
Driveaway trucking is basically Uber, but for commercial vehicles. Instead of hauling freight, you simply deliver vehicles—big rigs, buses, box trucks, and sometimes even dump trucks or 100-ton railroad cranes (yep, that’s a thing). In fact, imagine driving a 100-ton railroad crane for delivery in downtown Queens. One of our drivers, Frank Tomko, did that and he talks about it in SFT Episode 22.
Back to what is driveaway…you pick up a truck from Point A and drop it off at Point B without worrying about cargo, loading docks, or some warehouse supervisor demanding you back into an impossible space.
Not having to worry about freight makes driveaway a unique career path compared to traditional trucking. Drivers often travel cross-country, enjoy more variety in vehicles, and work as independent contractors, giving them greater control over their schedules and income.
The only catch? Once you drop off the vehicle, you don’t have a ride. More on that later.
Why Driveaway Trucking is a Great Career Choice
1. High Earning Potential
One of the biggest reasons drivers switch to driveaway trucking is the income potential. Unlike traditional truckers, driveaway drivers aren’t tied to fixed routes or miles-per-hour pay. Instead, they get paid per trip or per load, allowing for greater earnings with the right strategy.
In a live SFT Bonus Episode from the Mid-America Truck Show, we spoke with Jose Palma, a driveaway driver who has earned over a million dollars in his driveaway career. He breaks down how strategic planning and load selection helped him build a six-figure income in just a few years. Jose figured out how to work smarter, not harder, and now easily makes six-figures without touching a single pallet of freight.
2. Freedom & Flexibility
Unlike company drivers who have fixed schedules, driveaway drivers have control over when and where they work. If you like to travel, take time off when you want, or choose your own routes, driveaway offers that flexibility.
In SFT Episode 124, we caught up with Kevin Tutt, who was on vacation at Disney World while chatting with us. Driveaway allows him to work on his terms and enjoy time with his family while making great money.
3. No Freight, No Loading & Unloading
Traditional trucking means lugging heavy cargo, dealing with late-night dock appointments, and hearing “we’re short-staffed” every time you show up.
Driveaway? You just drive, drop off, and get paid.
In SFT Episode 92, Jarrieal Scott shared how switching to driveaway saved him from the frustration of loading docks. Now, he spends more time driving and less time waiting on forklifts to unload his trailer.
4. Travel Opportunities & Variety
If you’re tired of running the same 500-mile loop between cornfields, driveaway gives you the chance to see new places—without being stuck hauling the same freight week after week.
In SFT Episode 85, we talked to Ray McMillan who uses driveaway to fund his globetrotting lifestyle—he literally drives trucks AND works as a flight attendant. If there was ever a way to get paid while seeing the world, this is it.
Challenges of Driveaway Trucking (AKA The Fine Print)
Driveaway sounds great, but let’s be real—no job is perfect. Here are some things you need to be aware of:
Returning After a Drop-Off: Since you’re delivering a vehicle, you’ll need to plan for your return trip. Some drivers use tow-behind vehicles, while others rely on rental cars, flights, or ride-shares to get to their next job. At Norton Transport, our drivers have a dedicated dispatcher who helps make these arrangements.
Responsibility for the Vehicle(s): Although you don’t own the truck, you are still responsible for its safe delivery and inspection.
Income Depends on Hustle: Since most driveaway drivers are independent contractors, the harder you work, the moe you earn. Drivers who hustle, plan smart routes and manage expenses well can easily make big money.
Who is Driveaway Trucking Best For?
Experienced Truckers: If you’ve already spent time in traditional trucking but want more freedom and income potential, driveaway is an excellent transition.
Travel Enthusiasts: If you love the idea of getting paid to travel, this career allows you to see the country while earning money.
Semi-Retired or Part-Timers: Many driveaway drivers work seasonally or semi-retired, picking up loads only when they want.
Entrepreneurs: Since most driveaway jobs are 1099 contract positions, drivers can operate like businesses, choosing which loads to take and maximizing profitability.
Final Verdict: Is Driveaway Trucking a Good Career Choice?
✅ YES—if you want high earning potential, flexibility, and variety, driveaway trucking can be an amazing career path.
✅ YES—if you’re comfortable managing your own schedule, travel logistics, and expenses, you can maximize your profits.
❌ MAYBE NOT—if you prefer a fixed schedule and company benefits, a traditional trucking job might be a better fit.
Want to Learn More? Hear from Real Driveaway Drivers!
The Six Figure Trucker podcast has featured hundreds of driveaway professionals where we celebrate and elevate our incredible drivers. We publish a fresh episode every Thursday. Subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform.
Thinking About Becoming a Driveaway Driver? Join Norton Transport!
Norton Transport is a leader in driveaway trucking, offering top-paying opportunities for driveaway drivers. 🔗Apply now and start your journey