Nussbaum Transportation announced a new driver pay increase that not only improves per-mile pay but also attempts to improve fairness, downtime penalties and other headaches drivers commonly face.

The Illinois-based fleet says its new pay structure addresses fair calculation of paid miles, downtime, finding truck parking, and the ability for drivers to get more pay without waiting for favorable market conditions.

The increase is made of four components and is effective starting in February.

• 2-cent-per-mile rate increase. Mileage rate increase of 2-cents per mile to the base pay structure.

• Door-to-door miles. Nussbaum already pays practical miles. To build on this, the traditional zip-to-zip mileage model is replaced by a door-to-door miles calculation method.

• Truck parking reimbursement. Nussbaum is adopting a policy of paying all reserved/paid parking, without question, to support drivers in finding safe and legal parking locations.

• Bonus program increase. Nussbaum is raising bonus payouts for drivers who reach their Platinum performance level. Top earners can reach up to 6 cents per mile on top of base pay.

“Professional truck drivers are critical to the success of our business and this industry,” said Brent Nussbaum, chief executive officer of Nussbaum Transportation. “We intend to lead the way in driver pay to encourage new entrants and deliver the message to our drivers that their time and sacrifice away from their families is appreciated.”