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Drop Deck Owner Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Mays, IN · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Danville, IN · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Franklin, IN · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year* Why Drive for Forward Air? At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're ...

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Drop Deck Owner Operator information

What is a drop deck owner operator?

A Drop Deck Owner Operator is an independent truck driver who owns and operates their own drop deck (or step deck) trailer to transport oversized or heavy freight. These trailers have a lower deck to accommodate taller cargo that wouldn't fit on a standard flatbed. Owner operators manage their own business, choose their loads, and handle expenses like fuel, maintenance, and insurance. They often work with freight brokers or trucking companies to find loads and maximize earnings. This role offers flexibility but requires strong business management skills.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drop deck owner operator?

As a Drop Deck Owner Operator, your daily tasks include inspecting and maintaining your truck and trailer, securing various types of freight, planning routes for oversized or heavy loads, and ensuring compliance with federal and state transportation laws. You'll also handle paperwork such as bills of lading, coordinate with dispatchers and clients, and oversee safe loading and unloading procedures. In many cases, operators are responsible for managing their own schedules, billing, and negotiating rates, which offers flexibility but also requires strong organizational skills. Most days involve long hours on the road, with occasional overnight or multi-day hauls depending on delivery distances. Working closely with shippers, receivers, and sometimes escort drivers is typical, making communication and professionalism key to building lasting client relationships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the drop deck owner operator position, and why are they important?

Success as a Drop Deck Owner Operator requires expertise in driving commercial vehicles, a valid CDL, a solid understanding of load securement, and familiarity with DOT regulations. Operators must be proficient with ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices), GPS navigation, and often need certifications such as HazMat or TWIC, depending on cargo. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for managing schedules and client interactions. These competencies ensure safe, on-time deliveries while maintaining regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction.

What are popular job titles related to Drop Deck Owner Operator jobs in Indiana?

For Drop Deck Owner Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drop Deck Owner Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Forward Air

Mays, IN • On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators
  • MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly.
  • LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight.
  • TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to $250,000 gross per year*
Why Drive for Forward Air?

At Forward Air, Owner Operators aren't just drivers, they're business partners. Forward is built around helping Owner Operators run a stronger, more profitable operation, with programs designed to offset rising industry costs and keep more revenue where it belongs, in your pocket. Running through Forward's closed terminal network, Owner Operators get access to steady freight, strong pay, and the kind of support that helps a business, not just a truck, succeed.

If you're looking for a partner that treats your business like it matters, Forward Air is ready to move you forward, solo or as a team.

CDL-A Solo Owner Operator Overview
  • Pay built for owner operators. Solo Owner Operators earn up to $250,000 gross per year*, with base compensation of $1.31 per loaded mile and $1.18 per empty mile plus FSC*, averaging $4,100 to $5,200 gross per week*, plus additional compensation on all miles based on load destination.
  • Freight that's easy on your truck. Run 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight averaging just 26,000 pounds, meaning less wear and tear on your equipment and more of your revenue staying in your pocket.
  • Best-in-class miles. Solo Owner Operators average 2,500 miles per week across Forward's closed terminal network of 100+ nationwide locations, keeping you moving and earning consistently. Drivers are typically out on the road 2 to 3 weeks at a time.
  • Sign on bonus. $5,000 paid out within your first year.*
  • Support built around your success. A dedicated Driver Support Team is available to help with any concerns that come up, giving Owner Operators the backing they need to run a successful business.
Owner Operator Perks & Support
  • Programs designed to save you money. Forward offers an assortment of cost-saving programs, including a substantial fuel surcharge program, built to help Owner Operators offset rising industry expenses and keep more of what they earn.
  • A network built to keep you earning. Routes run exclusively between Forward's nationwide terminal locations, supporting some of the strongest average annual revenue in the industry for Owner Operators who partner with Forward.

*All pay & bonus amounts may vary by job type, location, experience level, and performance and are subject to change based on company discretion. Talk with a recruiter to confirm specific details.

There is no deadline to apply. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Driver Requirements
  • Valid Class A CDL
  • 12+ months verifiable driving experience
  • Must be 23 years of age
  • Equipment must be newer than 10 years old