U.S. Xpress is offering a new compensation plan for its independent contractors beginning Dec. 1.

The new plan will offer up to 84 cents per mile, loaded and unloaded, depending on the length of haul.
The Chattanooga-based fleet has signed on more than 600 owner-operators since it began its owner-operator program a year ago, according to Al Hingst, executive vice president of contractor programs. The company decided to improve its compensation program as part of its effort to attract more independent contractors. They hope to have at least 1,500 by this time next year.
"We're looking at having at least 25% to 30% of our fleet be independent contractors," Hingst says.
Other independent contractor programs that have gone into effect at the company recently include a truck purchase program, a lease purchase program, and a health insurance program that allows owner-operators to take the policy with them if they leave the company.