Heartland Express vs Knight-Swift Transportation
Heartland's short-haul model vs Knight-Swift's massive nationwide operation. Heartland for home time; Knight-Swift for training and job variety.
Heartland Express
- Pay
- $55,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 5,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.6/5
Knight-Swift Transportation
- Pay
- $50,000 - $85,000
- Fleet
- 18,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Heartland Express
Heartland pays $55K-$80K on shorter routes.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift pays $50K-$85K across divisions.
Home Time
Heartland Express
Short-haul model, home weekly or more.
Knight-Swift Transportation
OTR 2-3 weeks; dedicated improving.
Benefits
Heartland Express
Health, 401(k), paid orientation.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Health, 401(k), stock purchase, CDL training.
Training/Support
Heartland Express
Prefers 1 year experience.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Swift Academy trains from scratch.
Equipment/Technology
Heartland Express
Late-model Freightliners.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Varies; Knight newer than Swift.
Our Verdict
Knight-Swift for new drivers (CDL training, more options). Heartland for experienced drivers wanting home time. Clear choice based on your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a new CDL holder go to Heartland?
Heartland prefers 1 year. Knight-Swift through Swift Academy is the better new-driver option.
Is Heartland's home time real?
Yes, their short-haul business model genuinely gets drivers home more.
Which is larger?
Knight-Swift, by far -- 18,000+ trucks vs Heartland's 5,000+.