Maximize Your Earnings with Smith Transportation
Where Owner Operators Are Family

Competitive Pay • Consistent Freight • 24/7 Support • Home Time That Works For You

100% No-Forced Dispatch

Thermal King Reefer units & Newer Utility Trailers

Owner−Operators earn a conservative average of $3500/week after fuel and deductions

Smith Transportation is a trucking company that unites a group of exceptional people with diversified and complementary professional experiences, all of which devoted to the same goal: exceeding its clients’ expectations.

Owner Operators Join The Smith Transportation Team

As an owner operator, partnering with Smith Transportation means working with a company that values your hard work and offers top-tier loads with competitive payouts. Our strong and loyal direct customer base across the Midwest and Southeast keeps you on the move, ensuring you’re always running and earning.

Earn 70% of Gross Revenue
Flexible Home Time
Fuel Discount Programs(“Cost-plus a few pennies” at major fuel chains)
Pet Friendly Policy
Rider Pass Available
Referral Bonuses
No Forced Dispatch
New Model Utility Trailers with Thermo King Reefer Units
No Trailer Rental or hidden fees
We cover the Auto-Liability and Cargo Insurance, with the best insurers in the industry

At Smith Transportation, we understand that your costs on the road vary, and we’re here to provide you with loads and routes that make sense for you. Ready to drive your business forward?

Why Elite Owner Operators Choose Smith

Top-Tier Pay & Bonuses

- Competitive rates with Weekly Deposits
- Fuel Discounts and bonuses for safety & driver referrals

Freight You Can Count On

- Quality reefer loads(produce, pork, poultry, juice, etc)
- Direct Customer freight to keep you moving
- Midwest & Southeast freight (we don't go west of Colorado, no Dakota's or north of Virginia)

Support That Feels Like Family

- 24/7 dispatch & teams - we answer the phone, day or night
- No trailer rentals, lumpers paid, and no hidden fees

Flexibility for Owner Operators

- Keep 70% of revenue the first year, increases to 72% after the first year
- Fuel surcharge paid at 100% on every load
- 1099-independent contractors with transparent deductions

Own Your Business.
We'll Handle the Rest.

Fuel Savings: Access our bulk discount network

Owner Operators: Calculate Your Potential Earnings

How It works

Get Started in 4 Simple Steps

1. Apply Online

Our online application is quick, simple, and hassle-free, making it easy for you to get started in just a few clicks.

2. Interview

Speak with a recruiter to get personalized guidance and answers to all your questions.

3. Orientation

(in Kansas City, Kansas) where new drivers learn about safety, company policies, and job expectations before hitting the road.

4. Hit the Road

We'll match you with loads that fit your prferences, so that you can be on your way!

What Our Owner Operators Are Saying

“I am not one to recommend any company to a driver due to fact that if something goes wrong , guess who gets the blame, but with this company I would recommend for O/O’s. They are very family oriented and know that there is more to life than being in the truck. The office crew is second to none and the owner Greg is right in the middle of everyone. I’ve been at Smith Transportation just short of 3 years and looking forward to many more. Good luck and drive safe.”

- Steve B. (Owner Operator 3 years with Smith)

“Smith Transportation hands down is the best Company that I have leased my truck onto! I'm very happy with how coming back has turned my financial situation around very fast & for the better because having my own authority almost bankrupt me.”

-James S. (Owner Operator left and RETURNED to Smith)

FAQs

Your Questions Answered

Do I need my own truck?

Yes, our fleet is 100% owner operator based. If you do not own your own truck but still want to join the team, contact our recruiting team to see if they can place you in a truck.

How many miles per week are your trucks running?

Our owner operators are averaging between 2,500 to 2,800 miles per week.

What experience is required?

We only bring on “the best”. You must be at least 24 years old, 2 years verifiable experience with CDL and clean MVR

How often do I get home?

We ask drivers to stay out 7-10 days at a time, but if you would like to stay out longer that is fine too. Just let us know when you need to get home and we will make it happen. At Smith, you have the final say on your schedule.

Is there a fuel surcharge?

Yes! You receive 100% of the fuel surcharge on all loaded miles

Which truck stops do you have fuel discounts with?

We’re thrilled to offer fuel discounts at top locations like Sapp Bros., Love’s, Pilot Flying J, and TA Petro! And that’s just the beginning— we’re always working behind the scenes to secure even more savings, ensuring that Owner Operators get the best deals possible on every trip.

Is there a trailer rental fee?

There isn’t a trailer rental fee, Smith handles all the maintenance on the trailers but we do ask the driver to pay for the reefer fuel.

Am I able to get a license plate through your company?

Yes, with the needed documents we are able to get you a State of Kansas license plate.

What company do you use for eLogs and do you have inward-facing cameras?

We use Motive for our eLogs. As for cameras, we prioritize safety and transparency with outward-facing only cameras—giving us a clear view of the road and ensuring we’re always driving with safety in mind!

What is the cost for cargo and liability insurance?

At Smith Transportation, we’ve got you covered! We take care of both cargo and liability insurance—so there’s no cost to the Owner Operator. It’s just one of the ways we support you while you focus on getting the job done and keeping money in your pocket!

Ready to Drive with a Company That Puts YOU First?

Join Smith Transportation today and enjoy consistent freight, top pay, and the support you deserve.

Apply Now

Speak To A Recruiter

Our Areas of Coverage

Smith Transportation began in Kansas City, but our drive for excellence quickly took us far beyond. What started as a small operation has blossomed into a thriving company that now proudly serves a wide range of key regions across the U.S. With each year, we’ve expanded our footprint, delivering top-quality service to more states and offering new opportunities for our team.

Haul For Us

Not sure if you want to keep driving under your own authority or lease on with Smith Transportation? Let us show you the benefits of partnering with us! We offer excellent rates and the flexibility you need, especially for refrigerated loads. Reach out today by phone or email us at recruiting@driveforsmith.com to learn more about Smith Transportation or our brokerage, GS Enterprises.

Maximize Your Earnings with Smith TransportationWhere Owner Operators Are Family