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Owner-Op Β· Chicago, IL

Owner Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Owner-Op trucking positions, local pay data, hiring companies, and freight routes in the Chicago, Illinois market.

Avg Owner-Op Pay

$150,000 - $300,000+ gross

Demand Level

Very High

Top Employer

Landstar

Owner-Op Trucking in Chicago, IL

Owner-operators based in Chicago, IL can access strong spot market rates on the I-90 corridor. With J.B. Hunt and other large shippers in the area, contract freight and dedicated lanes are available for established O/Os. Chicago's cost of living (above average) directly impacts take-home profit, making this market challenging but high-paying for independent truckers.

Key Owner-Op Freight Routes

These corridors carry the highest volume of owner-op freight through the Chicago area.

I-90 corridor through Chicago
I-94 freight lane
Midwest broker lanes and seasonal ag freight

Companies Hiring Owner-Op Drivers in Chicago

These carriers actively recruit owner-op drivers in the Chicago, IL market.

1
Landstar
2
Dart Transit
3
Forward Air
4
Mercer Transportation
5
Total Quality Logistics

Ready to Drive Owner-Op in Chicago?

Submit your profile and get matched with carriers hiring owner-op drivers in Chicago, IL.

Frequently Asked Questions About Owner-Op Jobs in Chicago

How much do Owner-Op truck drivers make in Chicago, IL?

Owner-Op drivers in Chicago typically earn $150,000 - $300,000+ gross annually. Pay varies based on experience, endorsements, and carrier. The Chicago market's cost of living is above average, which affects real take-home purchasing power compared to the national average.

Is Chicago a good market for owner-operators?

Chicago is an excellent market for owner-operators. Spot rates on the I-90 corridor are competitive, and shippers like J.B. Hunt and Schneider National offer dedicated contract opportunities. The area's cost of living (above average) impacts your net profitability.

How do I find owner-op trucking jobs in Chicago?

Start by checking major carriers hiring in Chicago: Landstar, Dart Transit, Forward Air. Apply directly through carrier websites for the best rates. You can also browse CDL job boards, attend local trucking job fairs, and network at the 50+ truck stops in the Chicago area. Having a clean MVR and 2+ years cdl-a experience gives you the strongest negotiating position.

Other Trucking Jobs in Chicago

Explore more CDL driver job types available in Chicago, IL.