Your own authority
You operate as the motor carrier and manage registration, insurance, compliance, customers or brokers, billing, collections, claims, and every back-office function.
Understand the model
Know the business model before choosing a carrier.
Owning a truck does not automatically mean you need your own operating authority. Each model changes who manages freight, insurance, compliance, billing, risk, and day-to-day decisions.
3operating models
Writtenlease required
Businessdecision
No hypeeducation first
4 BROS guide
Three ways to operate.
Lease onto a carrier
You own or control the equipment and operate under a carrier relationship governed by a written lease. Responsibilities and compensation depend on that agreement.
Company driver
You drive equipment for an employer under company policies and compensation. You do not carry the same equipment ownership and business responsibilities.
4 BROS guide
Leasing on may fit when…
- You want to own the equipment but not build every carrier back-office function
- You value established compliance, billing, and dispatch processes
- You are willing to operate under written carrier standards
- You understand that independence still includes contractual responsibilities
- You compare total net income—not only headline percentages
4 BROS guide
Five common myths.
“The highest percentage always pays the most.”
Not necessarily. Revenue definition, freight quality, deadhead, expenses, deductions, utilization, and payment reliability all affect the actual net.
“Leasing on means I am an employee.”
The relationship is generally structured as an independent contractor arrangement, but the written agreement and actual working relationship matter. Seek professional advice for your situation.
“The carrier handles every business expense.”
Owner-operators normally retain significant equipment and business costs. The agreement should state which party is responsible for each item.
“A fuel card makes fuel cheap.”
A card is only one tool. Route, speed, idle time, fuel economy, surcharge treatment, and settlement deductions determine the real result.
“If it was said on the phone, it is part of the deal.”
Important terms should appear in the written agreement or an authorized written addendum. Do not build a business plan on verbal promises.
Next step
Have a question? Talk to a person.
Current program details, equipment acceptance, and availability are confirmed directly by the 4 BROS team.