For many CDL-A drivers, becoming an owner operator is the next step toward greater independence and higher earning potential. But buying a truck outright isn’t always realistic. That’s where a lease-purchase program can offer a practical path forward.
What is an Owner Operator?
An owner operator is a CDL-A truck driver who owns or leases their truck and operates as an independent business. Unlike company drivers, owner operators take on responsibilities like fuel, maintenance, and other operating expenses—but they also gain control of their earning potential.
Owner operators:
Choose their own loads
Set their own schedules
Manage their own business operations
Many owner operators partner with a carrier like U.S. Xpress to access consistent freight, support, and infrastructure, while maintaining the flexibility of working for themselves.
Ready to be your own boss?
Get started today and take control of your future.
What is a Lease-Purchase Program?
A lease-purchase program allows drivers to lease a truck with the option to purchase it.
At U.S. Xpress, qualified CDL-A drivers can lease newer equipment with:
- No money down on trucks with 12,500+ miles
- No credit check
- Predictable weekly payments
With built-in support like maintenance plans and access to a strong freight network, this program provides a structured path to ownership—without the upfront financial burden.
What type of equipment is available to lease through
U.S. Xpress Leasing?
You can view the types of equipment available on our Lease Equipment page.
What are the Advantages of the U.S. Xpress
Lease-Purchase Program?
The advantages of the U.S. Xpress Lease-Purchase program include:
Being your own boss
Take control of your career and build your own business, with the opportunity to own your truck in as little as two years.
Increasing your earning potential
Choose from percentage-based or mileage-based contracts designed to align with your goals. The more strategic you are, the more you can earn.
Predictable maintenance costs
With up to 600,000 miles of coverage through the Maintenance Repair Program, you can better manage expenses and avoid unexpected repair costs.
Experienced support every step of the way
You’re not on your own. Gain access to experienced Owner Operator Consultants and Trainers who can help you succeed from day one through ownership.
Want to see if you qualify?
Review our requirements and find out if the U.S. Xpress Lease-Purchase Program is the right fit for you.
Understanding your Pay Options
What is a percentage-based contract?
With a percentage-based contract, you earn a set percentage of the revenue collected from each load you haul. This means your earnings are tied directly to the value of the freight—not just the miles driven.
Why it matters:
- Opportunity to earn more on high-paying loads
- Ideal for shorter hauls with strong rates
- Benefit from favorable market conditions
What is a mileage-based contract?
A mileage-based contract for every load delivered.
Why it matters:
- Consistent, predictable pay structure
- Earnings increase with more miles driven
- Simpler planning for revenue expectations













