Truckload carrier Heartland Express Inc. announced Wednesday it is implementing an additional 3-cent per mile pay raise for all system and regional drivers.

This raise, coupled with the increase given in earlier this year, brings pay for these drivers 15% higher than 2003. It will move top solo and team company driver pay from $.43 to $.46, and owner-operator solo and team pay from $.88 to $.91 (before additional fuel stabilization program).
The raise will go into effect during the first quarter of 2005. The 3-cent company pay increase will be implemented as a penny increase on Jan. 1, Jan. 29 and Feb. 26. The 3-cent owner-operator increase will be effective on Jan 1.
According to a recent survey the average wage for a driver with three years experience for the companies surveyed was approximately $.33 per mile. With Heartland this same driver will earn $.44 per mile or more than 33% over that average rate.
Cosaert went on to say, "Heartland can give an increase such as this because of the service our drivers provide to our customers. Their professionalism is the key to ensuring that we maintain our excellent reputation. We're committed to performance just as we are committed to maintaining our leadership position with respect to driver pay."
Heartland Express has a unique approach to drivers who run in the Northeast.
In August of 2004 the company introduced a program called GREEN MILE$. Drivers running the Northeast can make an unprecedented $.50 per mile and operators make $.95 per dispatched mile, loaded or empty -- plus fuel stabilization program pay.
Heartland's regional fleets offer increased hometime opportunities for those drivers needing more flexibility. The typical regional driver gets home most weekends. Heartland currently operates regional fleets out of Iowa City, Iowa; Columbus, Ohio; Carlisle, Pa.; Chester, Va.; Kingsport, Tenn.; Olive Branch, Miss.; Atlanta, Ga.; and Jacksonville, Fla.
For more information about Heartland Express call 800-441-4953 or visit www.heartlandexpress.com.