Prime Inc. vs Covenant Transport
Both accept drivers with no experience and provide CDL training. Prime has more division variety (reefer, tanker, flatbed). Covenant excels in team driving and expedited freight.
Prime Inc.
- Pay
- $50,000 - $80,000+
- Fleet
- 7,000+ trucks (company + independent)
- Rating
- 3.6/5
Covenant Transport
- Pay
- $50,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 3,500+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Prime Inc.
Prime pays $50K-$80K+ with reefer and tanker at higher end.
Covenant Transport
Covenant pays $50K-$80K with team driving incentives.
Home Time
Prime Inc.
Prime is primarily OTR. Most new drivers start over the road.
Covenant Transport
Covenant has dedicated divisions with weekly home time options.
Benefits
Prime Inc.
CDL training, health, 401(k), lease purchase.
Covenant Transport
Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid orientation, team bonuses.
Training/Support
Prime Inc.
Prime's CDL program is one of the largest, producing thousands annually.
Covenant Transport
Covenant offers training with paid orientation and mentoring.
Equipment/Technology
Prime Inc.
Mix of company and contractor trucks; quality varies.
Covenant Transport
Modern fleet suited for OTR and expedited operations.
Our Verdict
Prime is better for drivers wanting specialty options and CDL training. Covenant is stronger for team drivers and those wanting dedicated accounts sooner. Both are legitimate starting points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for new drivers?
Prime for CDL training and division diversity. Covenant if you plan to team drive.
Which pays more for teams?
Covenant has stronger team incentives and expedited freight. Combined team earnings are similar at both.
Can I become an owner-operator?
Prime has a much more established lease purchase program.