Owner Operator Pay and Terms
At Paragon Freight, we believe owner operators deserve to know exactly what
they are signing up for before they sign anything. That is why we lay out our pay structure
and terms upfront, with no surprises buried in the fine print. Transparency is not a
buzzword here. It is how we do business.
Owner operators partnered with Paragon earn a competitive percentage-based pay
on every load. Fuel surcharges are passed through to you in full. We do not skim off the
top. Trailer usage terms are straightforward and spelled out clearly in your agreement. If
you use our trailers, you will know the cost. If you run your own, that works too.
Settlements are processed weekly via direct deposit. You will have access to a
clear settlement breakdown so you can see exactly where every dollar goes. And here is
something that matters: there is no forced dispatch at Paragon. You choose the loads that
work for your schedule and your business. We provide the freight and you make the call. If
you want to understand more about how we operate, visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions.
What Paragon Provides
Running as an owner operator does not mean you are on your own. Paragon
Freight backs our partners with the tools and support needed to run efficiently and
profitably.
First and foremost, we provide consistent freight. You will not be sitting
around waiting for your next load. Our dispatch team works directly with you to keep your
truck moving. You will have a real person on the other end of the phone, not a queue or a
chatbot. Dispatch support at Paragon means 24/7 availability and a team that understands
your lanes, your preferences, and your business goals.
We also offer fuel card programs to help you manage fuel costs on the road. ELD
compliance is covered. We can provide an ELD device, or you can bring your own if you
prefer. For operators who need it, we can assist with plates and permits under our
authority. Every detail is handled transparently so you can focus on driving and earning.
Learn more about the full scope of our services to see how Paragon supports
your operation.
Freight and Lanes
Paragon Freight specializes in dry van freight. Our operation is built around
consistent, customer-based loads, not random spot market freight that dries up when the
market shifts. That means you get steady miles and reliable revenue week after week.
Our hub is in the Midwest, but our lanes run nationwide. Whether you are
running regional routes or long-haul coast-to-coast loads, we have freight that fits. Most
of our owner operators average between 2,500 and 3,000 miles per week depending on the lanes
they run. Drop and hook loads are available on many of our lanes, which means less time
waiting at docks and more time on the road earning.
We match freight to operators based on home time preferences, lane familiarity,
and equipment. If a lane is not working for you, talk to dispatch. We will find one that
does. That is the Paragon difference. We treat owner operators like partners, not numbers
on a board.
Owner Operator Requirements
Paragon Freight works with experienced, professional owner operators who take
pride in their equipment and their work. Here is what you need to get started.
You must hold a valid CDL-A license with a clean driving record. Your truck
must be a 2020 model year or newer and meet current DOT safety standards. You will need to
carry your own occupational accident insurance and liability coverage, or we can walk you
through options if you need guidance on getting set up. You can operate under Paragon
authority or bring your own. Either way, we will make sure the paperwork is squared away
before your first load.
We require a minimum of two years of verifiable tractor-trailer experience and
drivers must be at least 23 years of age. If you meet these requirements and you are looking
for a carrier that values transparency, honest communication, and consistent freight, apply now and someone
from our team will be in touch within one business day.
Not sure if owner operator is the right path? We also hire Drivers
with competitive pay and full benefits. Either way, Paragon Freight has a seat for qualified
drivers who want to work with a carrier that does things the right way.
