PlusPower: Revolutionizing Freight Transportation for Owner-Operators

Introduction: A New Era in Trucking Partnership

In the ever-evolving landscape of freight transportation, owner-operators face numerous challenges in maintaining steady work, managing costs, and growing their businesses. DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management, has introduced an innovative solution to address these pain points – the PlusPower program. This comprehensive partnership initiative is designed to empower owner-operators with a steady stream of freight, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled support.

As we delve into the details of the PlusPower program, we’ll explore how it’s reshaping the trucking industry and offering a win-win solution for both DB Schenker and independent trucking professionals. From steady freight access to personalized planning, this program is setting new standards in the world of freight transportation.

The Core of PlusPower: Year-Round Freight and 24/7 Support

At the heart of the PlusPower program lies its commitment to providing year-round freight opportunities. This addresses one of the most significant challenges faced by owner-operators – the inconsistency of available loads. With PlusPower, truckers gain access to a steady freight base, working with DB Schenker’s top customers at some of the highest industry rates.

But the benefits don’t stop there. The program offers 24/7 dispatch and trailer maintenance support, ensuring that drivers can focus on what they do best – driving. This round-the-clock assistance is a game-changer, providing peace of mind and minimizing downtime for owner-operators.

Key Features of the PlusPower Program

Let’s break down the key features that make PlusPower stand out in the crowded field of trucking programs:

1. Steady Freight Access

PlusPower participants gain access to a consistent flow of freight from DB Schenker’s top customers. This steady work eliminates the uncertainty often associated with independent trucking and provides a stable foundation for business growth.

2. Competitive Pay and Financial Benefits

The program offers a percentage pay plan, ensuring that drivers are compensated fairly for their work. Additionally, PlusPower provides free 10-day pay terms, with options for direct deposit and quick pay that can see payments processed in as little as 24-48 hours.

3. Advance Payment Option

Understanding the financial pressures of running a trucking business, PlusPower allows drivers to advance up to 40% of the load pay after the loaded call. This feature can be crucial for managing cash flow and covering immediate expenses.

4. High Percentage of Drop and Hook Freight

Time is money in the trucking industry, and PlusPower recognizes this by offering a high percentage of drop and hook freight. This efficient loading and unloading process saves valuable time and increases overall productivity.

5. Rewards Program

PlusPower incentivizes growth with a rewards program. As drivers expand their fleets with DB Schenker, they become eligible for additional benefits, creating a pathway for long-term business expansion.

The Four Pillars of PlusPower

DB Schenker has built the PlusPower program on four fundamental pillars, each designed to enhance the owner-operator experience:

1. Partnership

PlusPower is more than just a program; it’s a true partnership between DB Schenker and owner-operators. This collaborative approach ensures that both parties are working towards mutual success.

2. Pride

By associating with a global leader like DB Schenker, owner-operators can take pride in being part of a world-class logistics network. This association can open doors to new opportunities and enhance professional credibility.

3. Pay

Fair and competitive compensation is a cornerstone of the PlusPower program. With percentage pay plans and quick payment options, drivers can enjoy financial stability and growth.

4. People

At its core, PlusPower is about people. The program is designed to support and empower owner-operators, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in a challenging industry.

Personalized Planning: Your Key to Success

One of the standout features of PlusPower is the assignment of a Personal Planner to each participant. This dedicated professional works to maximize revenue per truck per day while optimizing utilization. By taking on the task of finding and booking loads, the Personal Planner allows owner-operators to focus on what they do best – driving and managing their business.

The benefits of this personalized approach include:

• Preplanned loads 1-3 days in advance
• Optimized routes for maximum efficiency
• Reduced downtime between loads
• Strategic planning to balance short and long-haul trips

Flexibility and Choice: Pick Your Own Load Option

Recognizing that flexibility is crucial for many owner-operators, PlusPower also offers a load board option. This feature allows drivers to pick their own load plans, providing an additional layer of control and customization to their work schedule.

The load board option is ideal for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to their route planning or have specific preferences for their runs. It’s yet another way that PlusPower adapts to the diverse needs of its participants.

Additional Benefits: Fueling Your Success

PlusPower goes beyond just providing freight and planning. The program offers a range of additional benefits designed to support owner-operators in every aspect of their business:

Fuel Savings

Through a partnership with Comdata, PlusPower participants can access significant fuel discounts:

• 25 cents off per gallon at Love’s, Pilot, and Flying J
• 15 cents off per gallon at TA and Petro

These savings can add up to substantial amounts over time, directly impacting the bottom line.

Maintenance Discounts

Keep your equipment in top shape with maintenance discounts at Love’s and Southern Tire Mart. This benefit helps reduce overall operating costs and ensures that trucks are always ready for the road.

Access to DB Schenker’s Trailer Fleet

PlusPower participants gain access to DB Schenker’s entire fleet of trailers. This benefit provides flexibility and can help owner-operators take on a wider variety of loads without the need for significant capital investment in additional equipment.

Joining PlusPower: Requirements and Next Steps

To become part of the PlusPower program, owner-operators need to meet certain requirements, primarily focused on insurance coverage and safety standards:

Insurance Requirements

Participants must provide a Certificate of Insurance listing USA Truck, LLC as the certificate holder and including the following coverages:

• General Liability of at least $1,000,000
• Auto Liability of at least $1,000,000
• Cargo Coverage of at least $100,000
• Trailer Interchange of at least $25,000

Safety Standard

A DOT safety score of “satisfactory” or “none” is required to participate in the program.

For those interested in joining PlusPower, the next step is to reach out to a recruiter at 479-471-2661 or email dl.lit.plusp@dbschenker.com. The team at DB Schenker is ready to provide more details and guide potential participants through the application process.

Real-World Success: Testimonials from PlusPower Partners

The true measure of any program’s success lies in the experiences of its participants. Let’s hear from some owner-operators who have partnered with PlusPower:

“We enjoy the fair rates, dependable load planning, and flexible home time.” – Nick & Star Cooper, Super Cooper Trucking

This testimonial highlights the balance that PlusPower strikes between profitability, reliability, and work-life balance – key factors for many owner-operators.

“What I like about working with [PlusP] is that I can get so much more work done by not having to focus on dispatching and load acquisition. We get plenty of freight at a fair rate and they keep our power units rolling.” – Stephen Gaddis, Lightning Logistics and Transport, Inc.

Stephen’s experience underscores the value of the program’s load planning and acquisition services, allowing owner-operators to focus on driving and business management.

“I chose Power Program because it provided a flexible format with steady work throughout the country. The Power Program is a great and innovative way for new business partners to learn from an industry leader to expand their portfolio for future endeavors.” – Dion Franklin, Bottom Up LLC

Dion’s testimonial speaks to the program’s value not just for established operators, but also for those looking to grow and learn in the industry.

“Signing on with Power Only Program was a game changer for my company! They have great staff, great loads, and great pay!” – LTR Transportation

This succinct testimonial encapsulates the core benefits of PlusPower – quality support, consistent work, and competitive compensation.

Conclusion: Powering the Future of Owner-Operator Success

The PlusPower program represents a significant step forward in the relationship between large logistics companies and independent owner-operators. By addressing the key challenges faced by truckers – from load consistency to financial stability – DB Schenker has created a program that truly puts the power in the hands of its partners.

Through steady freight access, personalized planning, competitive pay, and a host of additional benefits, PlusPower is setting a new standard in the industry. It’s not just about moving freight; it’s about empowering individuals to build successful, sustainable businesses in the trucking industry.

As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, programs like PlusPower are likely to play an increasingly important role. They offer a blueprint for how large companies and independent operators can work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to create mutual benefits.

For owner-operators looking to take their business to the next level, or for those just starting out in the industry, PlusPower offers a compelling proposition. It combines the resources and reach of a global logistics leader with the flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit of independent trucking.

In an industry that’s all about movement, PlusPower is moving things in the right direction – towards a future where owner-operators have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. As DB Schenker continues to innovate and expand this program, it’s clear that the future of freight transportation is bright, powered by partnerships that truly put the “plus” in trucking.