Private fleet management can be costly and complex—from driver shortages and maintenance to compliance headaches. That’s why more companies are turning to transportation outsourcing as a smarter, more efficient way to move freight. U.S. Xpress offers a smarter way to maximize your operations while minimizing risk: private fleet conversion.

What Is Private Fleet Conversion?

Private Fleet conversion allows you to outsource some of the most challenging parts of running your business and focus on what matters most: growth.

Managing your own private fleet of trucks means you’re in charge of everything. Purchasing and maintaining trucks, recruiting truck drivers, keeping up with DOT regulations, handling insurance, and maintaining on-time deliveries are just a few of the ongoing tasks of running a trucking operation on your own.

Benefits of Outsourcing

Managing your own fleet is no easy task and can take up time better spent on other aspects of your business. By partnering with a top transportation company, like U.S. Xpress, and outsourcing your fleet needs, you get benefits to your business like:

• Cost Efficiency and Predictability

Fleet ownership comes with hidden and not-so-hidden costs. U.S. Xpress’s dedicated fleet solutions offer consistent, predictable transportation costs that make forecasting and planning simple. Let us handle things like recruiting qualified, safe CDL drivers and planning optimized routes with peace of mind, knowing we’ve got it covered.

• Scalable, Right-Sized Capacity

Need to increase your trucking capacity for seasonal spikes or new markets? Fleet outsourcing allows you to scale and stay agile without adding trucks or truck drivers to your payroll. Adjust capacity as you need, on your terms, with private fleet conversion.

• Improved Freight Visibility and Insights

With U.S. Xpress dedicated fleet solutions, you gain full visibility into your freight movement. Our team provides route optimization and detailed performance data so you can make smarter, faster decisions backed by real-time insights.

• Driver Recruitment and Safety

The driver shortage is real. So is the risk of regulatory noncompliance. We handle hiring and training of qualified truck drivers who meet strict safety standards and operate as an extension of your brand. We recruit drivers who prioritize both safety and the customers they serve each day.

• Nationwide Network, Proven Expertise

As one of the top trucking companies in the country, U.S. Xpress has the network, expertise, and team to support your growing business. With decades of industry experience and best-in-class services, like private fleet management, we are here to help you. Gain improved reliability and reach more customers with our proven, dedicated fleet solutions.

A Smarter Path Forward with U.S. Xpress

By moving to a dedicated fleet solution with U.S. Xpress, you gain efficiency, cost savings, and strategic focus—without sacrificing control. We partner with you to deliver top-quality results that benefit your business and allow you to focus on what you do best.

If you’re considering private fleet conversion or looking for ways to improve overall efficiency in your operation, U.S. Xpress is here to help.

Ready to explore the benefits of private fleet conversion? Contact us today to learn how we help businesses like yours meet the demands of today, while growing for the future.

Let’s Build a Dedicated Fleet Solution Together.

That’s when he was introduced to the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program: a military transition assistance program, helping service members gain real-world experience in the civilian workforce before transitioning to a civilian job.

What is the SkillBridge Military Transition Program?

The DOD SkillBridge military transition program offers active-duty service members hands-on career training during their final 180 days of service. It’s designed to ease the transition from military to civilian life by providing:

• Real-world, civilian work experience
• SkillBridge job opportunities that align with your skills and interests
• Paid job training
• Networking opportunities for transitioning service members
• Clarity on “what’s next” after your service
• Higher earning potential from the start
• Career development opportunities with top companies that participate in the SkillBridge program

SkillBridge Program Opportunities with U.S. Xpress

Christina Gindi leads the team at U.S. Xpress that oversees military transition programs like SkillBridge. She works closely with transitioning service members to understand their benefits, career goals, and background to connect them with the right opportunities within the company, kind of like a matchmaker would.

Christina and her team receive more than a dozen SkillBridge program inquiries each month from transitioning service members, figuring out their next steps after service. Her goal is to support candidates through their military transition and give them someone to go to when, inevitably, questions come up. “Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions,” Christina advises. “Get the information you need to make the best choice for yourself and your family.”

Christina’s team finds that transitioning military members bring discipline, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to go above and beyond for the job. They ask smart questions, stay curious, and are committed to doing things the right way. Traits like these make transitioning military members standout contributors business-wide.

What Transitioning Service Members Bring to the Workforce

SkillBridge graduate Nathaniel Creech gained valuable interpersonal, organizational, and computer skills, during his time in the Navy. Those skills helped him get into a full-time position after graduation, doing something he loves. “U.S. Xpress was one of the first companies to respond to my resume,” Creech said. “The process was so effortless on my end, thanks to the constant communication from Christina. My questions were answered quickly, and she stayed engaged with me, all the way up to my first day. That kind of support made it clear that U.S. Xpress was the right fit for me.”

Creech joined the team in Dallas and was immediately welcomed. Though he had never stepped inside a commercial motor vehicle before, he quickly learned how to perform inspections, understand the importance of tandem positioning, and even experienced firsthand the dangers of distracted driving—via a driving simulator, of course.

“Not many service members can say they feel this grounded just two months before separation,” he shared. “I’ve found a new sense of belonging and purpose here. I already feel like I have a home outside of the Navy.”

He has brought tremendous value to the Dallas Orientation team and credits his military service with teaching him the skills needed to succeed in civilian life. He loves sharing his experience with SkillBridge and encourages other active-duty service members to take advantage of the opportunity. “If you have family or friends getting ready for military transition, I highly recommend looking into the SkillBridge Program with U.S. Xpress. It’s a unique and extremely valuable experience you won’t get anywhere else,” said Creech.

Nathaniel Creech officially separates from the Navy in late June but is already making a meaningful impact at U.S. Xpress. For him, and many others, SkillBridge is more than just a transition. It’s a launchpad.

To learn more about SkillBridge benefits and the best jobs for transitioning service members at U.S. Xpress, contact us today.

For nearly 31 years, Tammy Roszell has been a dedicated part of U.S. Xpress, playing a vital role in supporting drivers throughout their careers. Over the years, she’s seen many people come and go, but her favorite part of the job is helping drivers succeed through training.

Tammy began her journey at U.S. Xpress as a Training Coordinator, where she quickly discovered her passion for advocating for drivers and ensuring they had the support they needed. Now, in her current role as Professional Driver Onboarding Program (PDOP) Advisor, she works closely with our driver trainers, recruiting experienced drivers to join our training program and pass on their knowledge to the next generation.

Drivers trust Tammy because they know she always has their best interests at heart. She’s their go-to person for managing personality differences and resolving conflicts on the road. “Sometimes hard conversations need to happen. I try to limit conflict by fostering a culture of respect and empathy. We have a lot of different personalities here, and my job is to help manage them well. It all starts with respect,” said Roszell.

Since the program’s relaunch in April 2023, Tammy has played a significant role in its expansion. Currently, there are 365 Driver Trainers at U.S. Xpress, and she has her sights set on growing that number to 400 by the end of the year. The Professional Driver Onboarding Program is a crucial part of both U.S. Xpress and the trucking industry as a whole. Trainers pass along their hard-earned knowledge, helping new drivers develop the skills they need to be successful on the road—a responsibility that is no small task.

“Many times, I’m talking to someone who is finally achieving their lifelong dream of becoming a driver. It’s pretty amazing to be part of that journey,” Tammy shared. She makes it a priority to ensure new drivers feel supported from day one. Her goal is to provide U.S. Xpress drivers with a solid foundation as they begin their careers.

The impact of our driver training program is undeniable. In 2023 alone, 1,800 drivers completed the Professional Driver Onboarding Program (PDOP) thanks to the dedication of our trainers. Many of these drivers choose to stay with U.S. Xpress and eventually become trainers themselves. Our program consistently produces high-quality drivers whose commitment to safety, service, and professionalism makes them highly sought after in the industry.

Becoming a driver trainer is a way to really leave a mark for many of our trainers. There is pride in the program, and the willingness of our trainers to take this on is what sets them apart. They essentially invite a stranger into their “home on the road” for weeks at a time, guiding them through the early days of their driving career. It requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to teach effectively. Leading with empathy and understanding creates a supportive culture that not only helps students succeed but also keeps experienced drivers with U.S. Xpress.

Today, Tammy works out of our Tunnel Hill, GA facility, where she’s focused on recruiting the next generation of trainers. She enjoys talking with drivers about life on the road, mentoring new training recruiters, and finding the best trainers to shape the future of U.S. Xpress. More than anything, she loves the challenge each day brings and the opportunity to help build the strongest team of drivers on the road.

The transition from military to civilian life can be daunting. For many veterans, the path to a fulfilling career post-service requires a bit of guidance and preparation. The SkillBridge Internship Program offers an invaluable opportunity for military members to make this transition smoothly, all while retaining their income and benefits. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, the program provides a unique bridge from military life to a successful civilian career.

Matthew Mata, a Marine Corps veteran, is currently participating in the SkillBridge program at U.S. Xpress. We asked him to share a little bit about how the SkillBridge program has helped him prepare for life outside the military.

What is the SkillBridge Program?

For those unfamiliar with the SkillBridge Program, Matthew explains it simply: “It’s an opportunity for any Marine to begin transitioning through on-the-job training and coursework while maintaining your current income.”

Essentially, SkillBridge connects service members with civilian companies, allowing them to work in internships that align with their career interests. The best part? Service members continue to receive their military pay and benefits throughout the internship, making it easier to focus on gaining valuable skills for the future.

What kind of work is Matthew doing at U.S. Xpress?

As a Supervisor II on our Dedicated team, Matthew’s responsibilities include tracking the performance of truck drivers, ensuring their safety on the road, and helping mentor new employees. He is deeply involved in the operational side of logistics, managing tasks such as:

• Tracking and managing load plans assigned to tractors
• Monitoring driver behavior through LYTX (a telematics and safety system)
• Coaching drivers on safety and performance
• Verifying freight delivery to the correct facilities
• Preparing new drivers for success by helping them understand the safety protocols and other key operational procedures

“There are plenty of similarities to our daily workflow,” he says. “Mentoring new drivers and counseling employees on their practices mirrors the leadership and coaching skills I developed in the Marine Corps.”

How has the transition to civilian life been?

One of the most significant benefits of the SkillBridge program is its ability to ease the transition to civilian life. Matthew notes that U.S. Xpress has been flexible in allowing him to handle personal matters, such as Veteran Affairs appointments and other transition-related tasks, while still advancing his career.

“The flexibility at U.S. Xpress has allowed me to manage my personal affairs without missing a beat at work,” he explains. “Weekly meetings with the Director of Operations allow me to communicate directly about any concerns or challenges I’m facing, which has been incredibly helpful in navigating my transition.”

The balance between professional development and personal transition is key in making the adjustment smoother, and the mentorship and support at U.S. Xpress have been instrumental in this process.

Would Matthew recommend the SkillBridge Program?

 “Definitely! I already have,” he says. “I’m still on the lookout for fellow Marines on social media who are looking for a challenging new career. The SkillBridge program offers a real opportunity to start a civilian career while still getting the support and benefits of military service.”

For veterans looking to enter the workforce, SkillBridge provides a crucial stepping stone, and Matthew encourages anyone considering it to take the leap.

SkillBridge is just one of the many offerings at U.S. Xpress to support our veterans. Contact Nina Gindi (cgindi@usxpress.com) for more information about our SkillBridge Program. Visit the U.S. Xpress website to learn more about our corporate or driver veteran programs. 

More about Katie Dyson, Senior Brand Manager

Katie is a dynamic communicator dedicated to meeting people where they’re at. With a diverse background in corporate communications, marketing, and graphic design, her career spans a range of industries, including automotive manufacturing, paperboard packaging, insurance, and trucking. Outside of her professional work, Katie enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, playing sports, and traveling.

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn.

Veterans bring a unique sense of duty to any workplace. Their tenacity, problem-solving, and courage are just a few things that set veterans apart from their peers in the workplace.

The transportation industry is a safe space for veterans who want to transition their skills from active-duty to a civilian career. We welcome veterans to our team at U.S. Xpress and we offer many avenues for support and recognition.

Veterans and Supporters Employee Resource Group

At U.S. Xpress, we value all our team members, but we know there’s a special bond that forms for veterans based on shared experiences and sacrifices. The Veterans and Supporters Employee Resource Group is an employee-led group that connects and supports veterans at U.S. Xpress. This group fosters a community where their invaluable contributions are celebrated and supported.

Military fleet

Our fleet of military trucks are driven by veterans, featuring representatives from each military branch. This fleet honors their commitment to service and celebrates the contributions they make on the road and beyond.

Skillbridge program

Skillbridge partners with the Department of Defense to offer real-world job experience to active-duty service members through training and internships. This program may offer a transition for service members through the last 180 days of their military contract.

Military apprenticeship program

This partnership between the VA and U.S. Xpress allows veteran drivers and shop team members to use their GI benefits to receive additional pay directly from the VA on top of their company pay for on-the-job training.

Advanced rate of pay for veteran drivers

If you’re a veteran driver who holds a CDL and less than two years of driving experience, this program is for you. Our advanced rate of pay offers you the same rate as a driver with two years of experience, so you can make up to $70,000 in your first year. Plus, we’ll reimburse you up to $7,000 to cover your CDL school tuition, even if you used your Post-9/11 GI Bill^® to pay for it.

Click here to learn more about our Veteran programs.

Ready to take on the road with U.S. Xpress? Click here to fill out an application today or call a recruiter to see if you qualify.

More about Michael Paul, Vice President of Talent Management

Michael Paul has over 12 years of experience in the trucking industry, beginning his career at U.S. Xpress in Operations and Load Planning. Before entering the trucking world, Michael served eight years as a Marine, completing two tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom. A dedicated family man, he enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife and three-year-old daughter, as well as his passions for muscle cars and competitive shooting sports. Michael’s blend of military discipline and industry expertise makes him a valued leader in logistics.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

As a driver, we know you have many options to choose from when it comes to employment, and we want to make sure our drivers have the best experience starting on day one.

Watch the video below to hear more about what you can expect at orientation if you decide to drive at U.S. Xpress.

Ready to take on the road with U.S. Xpress? Click here to fill out an application today.

More about Vismari Cruz, driver development specialist

Vismari is a bilingual driver development specialist, focused on guiding new drivers through onboarding and student upgrades. She has over 13 years of experience in the transportation/training field, including service in the United States Army and managing driving schools before coming to U.S. Xpress. In her free time she enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and going on weekend road trips.

Use these four tips to install chains so you can reach your safe haven during winter weather.

As winter rolls in, so do the joys of the season—snowball fights, hot cocoa, and holiday fun. Families gather, friends reconnect, and many of us hit the road to see loved ones. But while we look forward to these moments, it’s important to remember that winter also brings challenges, like slick and dangerous roads.

For truckers out on the road working hard to deliver the goods that keep America moving, navigating snow and ice is a real challenge. Staying safe on the road is always a priority, and sometimes, the best decision is to shut down and wait out the dangerous weather. But when conditions require pressing on to get to a safe haven, tire chains can be a crucial tool to keep your truck moving safely.

A tire chain is a device that fits around the tires of vehicles to improve traction on snowy or icy roads. They are typically made of interlocking metal links and wrap around the tire treads, providing a better grip on slippery surfaces. Proper installation and maintenance are key to ensuring safety and maximizing the effectiveness of tire chains.

Whether it’s your first winter using chains or you’re an experienced driver looking for a refresher, here are four tips to help you tackle tire chain season like a pro.

1. Know where to get your chains from. If you don’t know where to pick up tire chains, you might find yourself procrastinating—and that’s the last thing you want when you hit snowy conditions. U.S. Xpress drivers can conveniently pick up chains at any of the following terminals: Tunnel Hill, Dallas, Springfield, Markham, Indy, Shippensburg, Allentown, and Ellenwood. Stock up before heading into areas where they might be required. If you’re not sure where to pick up tire chains, ask your supervisor for guidance.
   
2. Keep at least four sets of chains with you. This is crucial, especially when driving through certain states west of the Mississippi and in parts of the northeast.Having four sets ensures you’re prepared for the toughest conditions and can cover all your drive wheels.
   
3. Have the right tools for installation. You’ll need serviceable chains that aren’t rusty or worn out, a tension tool for tightening the cam locks, and at least four rubber bungee cords (12-18 inches long) for extra security. With the right equipment, you can install your chains efficiently and safely.
   
4. Inspect your chains regularly. Before winter hits and throughout the season, take time to inspect your chains. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as broken links, rust, or damage that could compromise their effectiveness. If you spot any issues, replace the chains immediately to avoid potential problems on the road. When you find yourself in a situation that requires chains, remember to test drive and retighten the chains as needed, checking every 5 miles to ensure that they don’t become damaged or loose while you’re driving. 

Winter weather can be tough, but with the right preparation and tools, you can navigate the roads safely and become a pro this season. As always, remember to find a safe place to shut down if the road and / or weather conditions are unsafe, and it is too dangerous to press forward.

Ready to take on the road with U.S. Xpress? Click here to fill out an application today.

More about Brenna Powers, Communications Specialist

Brenna specializes in digital media, with a focus on driver communications. Her experience in social media, email marketing, and communication campaigns give her the ability to adapt to reach drivers where they are. When she’s not writing epic content to keep our team up to speed, Brenna enjoys going to concerts, traveling, and reading. 

Connect with Brenna on LinkedIn.