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Why Power Only Trucking is Growing in Popularity

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  • GLI Dispatch Services
  • July 17, 2025

Why Power Only Trucking is Growing in Popularity

Power only trucking is seeing a surge in adoption for several key reasons:

1. Trailer Pools and Drop-and-Hook Flexibility

Many shippers are now using trailer pools—preloaded trailers staged at facilities ready for pickup. With power only services, carriers can execute drop-and-hook operations that dramatically reduce dwell time and keep trucks moving.

This reduces driver detention and improves productivity, especially for time-sensitive or high-volume freight environments.

2. Lower Barrier to Entry for Carriers

For owner-operators and small fleets, the biggest startup cost is often trailer ownership and maintenance. Power only eliminates this burden, allowing carriers to operate with just the tractor and the right credentials.

This model opens doors for new entrants and makes it possible to scale faster without heavy capital investments.

3. Support During Surge Seasons

Shippers often face volume spikes during peak seasons. Power only capacity allows them to scale quickly by relying on available tractor units, rather than scrambling to find complete trucks with trailers.

This elastic capacity model is particularly beneficial during holidays, produce season, or unexpected surges in demand.

4. Maintenance and Insurance Savings

Without a trailer to maintain, repair, or insure, power only carriers can reduce operational costs. The shipper or broker typically assumes responsibility for trailer maintenance, registration, and cargo insurance—simplifying overhead for the carrier.

How Power Only Trucking Works: Step-by-Step

Power only trucking is structured around the simplicity of connection. Here’s how the process generally unfolds:

1. Trailer Availability

A shipper, 3PL, or broker has one or more trailers ready for movement. These could be dry vans, flatbeds, refrigerated trailers, or specialized containers.

2. Carrier Booking

The shipper books a power only carrier or posts the load on a freight board like Truckstop or DAT. The carrier accepts the load with tractor and driver ready.

3. Hook & Go

The driver arrives at the facility, performs a pre-trip inspection on the trailer (even though it’s not theirs), hooks the trailer, and hauls it to the destination.

4. Drop & Repeat

Once delivered, the carrier drops the trailer and may either return empty, pick up another trailer, or reposition as needed.

This drop-and-hook model increases asset utilization and minimizes wait times compared to live loading and unloading.

Types of Trailers in Power Only Trucking

Even though carriers don’t own the trailer, they must be able to connect and safely operate different types. Some of the most common trailers in power only setups include:

  • Dry Vans – Most commonly used for general freight.
  • Refrigerated Trailers (Reefers) – For perishable goods requiring temperature control.
  • Flatbeds – For oversized or irregular freight.
  • Tanker Trailers – For liquids or bulk material (special endorsements may be required).
  • Intermodal Chassis – Often used for container drayage operations.

To ensure compatibility, carriers must have the correct fifth-wheel height, air lines, electrical connections, and sometimes sliding tandem axles.

Pros and Cons of Power Only Trucking

✅ Pros:

  1. Lower Upfront Costs:
    New carriers can start with a tractor only—saving tens of thousands of dollars on trailers.
  2. Reduced Downtime:
    With trailer pools and drop-and-hook setups, drivers avoid long loading waits.
  3. Simplified Maintenance:
    No need to maintain trailers means fewer repair headaches and lower expenses.
  4. Easier Scalability:
    Fleets can grow by adding tractors without worrying about matching trailers.
  5. Flexibility in Operations:
    Power only work can be regional, local, or long-haul—giving carriers multiple lane options.

❌ Cons:

  1. Trailer Compatibility Issues:
    Not all tractors fit all trailer types. Misalignment can delay operations.
  2. Trailer Quality Concerns:
    The carrier is still responsible for ensuring the trailer is roadworthy—even if it’s not theirs.
  3. Limited Control:
    Carriers must rely on brokers or shippers for trailer availability and timing.
  4. Lower Load Rates (Sometimes):
    Because the shipper provides equipment, rates may be slightly lower than full-service hauls.

Who Uses Power Only Trucking?

Power only solutions are ideal for many shippers and brokers, including:

  • Retailers and Big Box Stores – They often maintain trailer pools at distribution centers.
  • Manufacturers – Need consistent outbound and inbound flow of materials.
  • Ports and Intermodal Terminals – Frequently use power only tractors for drayage.
  • Event Logistics Providers – Transporting staging equipment, mobile offices, or concert gear.

Power only trucking also supports government contracts, oilfield services, construction projects, and emergency response operations.

Key Considerations for New Carriers

If you’re a new entrant looking to get into power only trucking, keep these important factors in mind:

1. Insurance Coverage

While the shipper provides the trailer, you’ll still need:

  • Auto liability coverage
  • Bobtail insurance
  • Physical damage insurance (for your tractor)
  • Cargo insurance (depending on contract terms)

Make sure to clearly understand whose policy covers the cargo and trailer.

2. Trailer Inspection Protocol

You’re legally responsible for the safe operation of the trailer—even if you don’t own it. Always perform:

  • Brake system checks
  • Light and electrical inspections
  • Tire pressure and tread reviews
  • Securement checks (doors, locks, seals, straps if applicable)

Failure to inspect properly can lead to FMCSA violations or roadside delays.

3. Contract Review

Always read your broker-carrier agreement carefully. Make sure it defines:

  • Detention pay
  • Liability for trailer damage
  • Who handles trailer washouts or clean-outs
  • Who provides fuel surcharge and accessorial fees

Clear agreements prevent disputes down the road.

4. Fifth-Wheel and Hitch Configuration

Your tractor must be capable of connecting with different trailer setups. Invest in:

  • Adjustable fifth wheels
  • Proper trailer brake connections
  • Adequate clearance for intermodal chassis or double-drop trailers

Having a versatile setup ensures you don’t miss out on load opportunities.

Power Only Freight Rates and Demand

Power only freight rates vary depending on:

  • Region (e.g., high in port-heavy states like Texas and California)
  • Season (higher in peak seasons like Q4)
  • Trailer type and distance

While power only loads may offer slightly lower base pay compared to full truckload rates, the volume and ease of turnaround can offset that gap through better daily utilization.

Load boards like Truckstop, DAT, and RXO Connect often post dedicated power only lanes, offering steady work for carriers who build relationships with brokers and 3PLs.

How to Find Power Only Loads

New carriers can start booking power only freight through the following methods:

  • Load Boards: Filter specifically for “power only” in the category.
  • Broker Partnerships: Build relationships with brokers offering regular power only contracts.
  • Dispatch Services: Use a dedicated dispatcher such as GLI to find consistent power only work.
  • 3PL Contracts: Some large logistics firms hire power only carriers for regional drop-and-hook networks.

Be proactive, keep your tractor well-maintained, and maintain flexibility to access the best opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Power only trucking is a powerful way for new carriers to enter the freight industry with less overhead, faster turnarounds, and strong demand from major shippers. Whether you’re a single owner-operator or a growing fleet, offering power only services can open up consistent and scalable opportunities in today’s logistics landscape.

By understanding trailer requirements, ensuring proper inspections, maintaining clear contracts, and building solid broker relationships, carriers can thrive in this high-demand niche.

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