Werner Enterprises vs Heartland Express
Werner is a diversified mega carrier accepting new CDL graduates. Heartland focuses on short-haul with better home time but prefers experienced drivers.
Werner Enterprises
- Pay
- $52,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 8,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.8/5
Heartland Express
- Pay
- $55,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 5,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.6/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Werner Enterprises
Werner pays $52K-$80K with dedicated at the higher end.
Heartland Express
Heartland pays $55K-$80K on shorter haul lanes.
Home Time
Werner Enterprises
OTR 2-3 weeks; dedicated and regional weekly.
Heartland Express
Short-haul model gets many drivers home weekly or more.
Benefits
Werner Enterprises
Health, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, rider/pet.
Heartland Express
Health, 401(k) match, paid orientation, late-model trucks.
Training/Support
Werner Enterprises
Accepts CDL graduates with mentoring.
Heartland Express
Prefers 1 year experience.
Equipment/Technology
Werner Enterprises
Modern fleet averaging 2-3 years.
Heartland Express
Late-model Freightliners.
Our Verdict
New drivers should choose Werner. Experienced drivers wanting maximum home time should choose Heartland. Both are solid mid-tier carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for new drivers?
Werner. Heartland prefers 1 year experience.
Which gets you home more?
Heartland, with shorter haul routes.
Are both financially stable?
Yes. Werner is publicly traded. Heartland is also publicly traded and profitable.