2012 Overall Category Winners

The winners of the 2012 Best Fleets to Drive For are truly the best of the best. With a focus on progressive programs, terrific feedback from surveyed drivers, and strong results across a number of metrics, the winners are case studies in how to develop an outstanding workplace.

Motor Carrier Service, Inc.

Head office: Northwood, OH
Total drivers/owner-ops: 90

In the world of CSA, measuring driver performance has become standard. Top carriers add their own evaluation methods and communicate these to drivers. Rarely though, do drivers have the opportunity to provide input on these methods.

MCS did just that. The result was a resounding success and has "changed things dramatically" according to the company. Drivers were able to say what they wanted to be measured on, and what they thought was less useful. The process resulted in better understanding between management and drivers - especially when it became clear that both groups agreed!

Paramount Freight Systems

Head office: Ft. Myers, FL
Total drivers/owner-ops: 138

Even though they are one of the smallest fleets in this year's top 20, Paramount keeps its operators happy. As one owner-operator put it: "Finally found somewhere I want to stay." The others seem to agree. All operators that were surveyed would like to be contracted to Paramount for the rest of their careers and would recommend the company to other operators.

What are they doing? Even though the fleet is 100% owner-operator, they have generous referral bonuses. They incent drivers to improve safety results and have driver of the week, month and year programs. And they have partnered with a health insurance provider, a national parts company to lower costs for contractors as well as providing access to a maintenance escrow.