Knight-Swift Transportation vs Prime Inc.
The largest publicly traded TL carrier vs one of the largest privately held. Both offer CDL training but differ in fleet composition and specialty divisions.
Knight-Swift Transportation
- Pay
- $50,000 - $85,000
- Fleet
- 18,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Prime Inc.
- Pay
- $50,000 - $80,000+
- Fleet
- 7,000+ trucks (company + independent)
- Rating
- 3.6/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift pays $50K-$85K varying by division.
Prime Inc.
Prime pays $50K-$80K+ with reefer and tanker premiums.
Home Time
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift OTR means 2-3 weeks out; dedicated is improving.
Prime Inc.
Prime OTR is typically 2-3 weeks with limited regional options.
Benefits
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift provides health, 401(k), stock purchase, CDL training.
Prime Inc.
Prime offers CDL training, health, 401(k), and lease purchase programs.
Training/Support
Knight-Swift Transportation
Swift Academy is one of the largest CDL schools nationwide.
Prime Inc.
Prime trains thousands annually across reefer, tanker, and flatbed.
Equipment/Technology
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight trucks are newer; Swift equipment varies. Large fleet has inconsistent quality.
Prime Inc.
Prime's fleet includes company and contractor trucks; Cascadias are standard.
Our Verdict
Very similar for new drivers. Knight-Swift offers more geographic diversity and job openings. Prime offers more specialty options (reefer, tanker, flatbed). If you know you want reefer or tanker, choose Prime. For widest range of positions, choose Knight-Swift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CDL training is larger?
Swift Academy in terms of locations and graduates. Both produce thousands annually.
Can I drive flatbed at Knight-Swift?
Some operations, but not their focus. Prime has a dedicated flatbed division.
Which has more trucks?
Knight-Swift, with 18,000+ company trucks.