J.B. Hunt Transport Services vs Knight-Swift Transportation
J.B. Hunt and Knight-Swift are the two largest trucking companies in North America by revenue. J.B. Hunt pioneered intermodal and is known for its DCS division, while Knight-Swift is the largest truckload carrier with the widest range of opportunities.
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
- Pay
- $55,000 - $95,000
- Fleet
- 12,000+ trucks (company + independent)
- Rating
- 4.1/5
Knight-Swift Transportation
- Pay
- $50,000 - $85,000
- Fleet
- 18,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt pays $55K-$95K with some of the highest dedicated and intermodal rates in the industry.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift pays $50K-$85K with steady mileage pay and quarterly bonuses.
Home Time
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt intermodal and dedicated divisions offer daily or weekly home time.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift OTR drivers may be out 2-3 weeks; dedicated routes are improving.
Benefits
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt offers comprehensive benefits from day one, 401(k) match, and strong PTO.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift provides health insurance, 401(k), stock purchase plan, and weekly direct deposit.
Training/Support
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt prefers 6 months experience but accepts some recent graduates.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Swift Academy is one of the largest CDL training programs in the country.
Equipment/Technology
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt runs late-model equipment and the industry-leading 360 platform.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight trucks tend to be newer than Swift trucks; equipment quality varies across the fleet.
Our Verdict
J.B. Hunt is the stronger choice for experienced drivers seeking higher pay and home time, especially in intermodal or dedicated. Knight-Swift is better for new drivers who need CDL training through Swift Academy. If you can get hired at J.B. Hunt, the compensation is generally superior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does J.B. Hunt or Knight-Swift pay more?
J.B. Hunt generally pays more, especially in intermodal and DCS divisions.
Which is easier to get hired at?
Knight-Swift, particularly Swift, is easier for new CDL holders. J.B. Hunt prefers 6+ months experience.
Is J.B. Hunt intermodal really that good?
For many drivers, yes. Home daily, competitive pay, and predictable schedules make it one of the most sought-after positions in trucking.
Learn More About These Companies
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
Lowell, AR · 12,000+ trucks (company + independent)