Forward Air vs FedEx Freight
Forward Air specializes in airport-to-airport deferred air freight and expedited LTL. FedEx Freight is a traditional full-service LTL carrier. Different market segments with different driver experiences.
Forward Air
- Pay
- $60,000 - $90,000
- Fleet
- 2,500+ tractors (company + owner-operator)
- Rating
- 3.7/5
FedEx Freight
- Pay
- $60,000 - $95,000
- Fleet
- 15,000+ tractors
- Rating
- 4.1/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Forward Air
Forward Air pays $60K-$90K with mileage-based pay and owner-operator options.
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight pays $60K-$95K with structured hourly rates and FedEx pay scale.
Home Time
Forward Air
Forward Air linehaul can involve overnight and weekend work.
FedEx Freight
FedEx city drivers home daily; road drivers have predictable home time.
Benefits
Forward Air
Forward Air offers health, 401(k), PTO, and owner-operator programs.
FedEx Freight
FedEx provides pension, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, and full corporate benefits.
Training/Support
Forward Air
Forward Air requires 1 year experience; company and owner-operator roles available.
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight requires 1 year experience with ongoing training programs.
Equipment/Technology
Forward Air
Forward Air's fleet handles specialized freight maintained to expedited standards.
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight operates one of the largest, most standardized LTL fleets.
Our Verdict
FedEx Freight is the better choice for most drivers. Forward Air is worth considering if you're interested in expedited freight, airport operations, or owner-operator opportunities in a niche market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Forward Air's deferred air freight?
Moves freight between airports that could fly but tolerates slightly longer transit. Time-sensitive but not urgent enough for air.
Does Forward Air have owner-operator opportunities?
Yes, their linehaul network is partially operated by independent contractors.
Is FedEx Freight worth waiting for?
The pension and benefits make it worth pursuing. But Forward Air is solid -- don't turn down a good position just to hold out.
Learn More About These Companies
Forward Air
Greeneville, TN · 2,500+ tractors (company + owner-operator)