Get Started with a Lease Program from Chief Carriers
Are you ready to take control of your career and become your own boss? At Chief Carriers, we believe in empowering our drivers with the tools and flexibility they need to succeed.
Our Lease-Operator Program is a low-risk, high-reward opportunity that allows you to operate as an independent contractor, backed by the stability and support of a family-oriented company with over 50 years of experience.
Our Lease Program Highlights
- Paid plates/permits
- Low down payments
- No charge mobile comm
- In-house maintenance account and escrow program
- Fuel card with discounts
- Fuel Surcharge Program
- Company-supplied tarps and securement equipment
Available Equipment
- 2026 Kenworth T680
- 2025 Freightliner Cascadia
- 2024 Freightliner Cascadia
- 2023 Peterbilt 579
- 2023 Freightliner Cascadia
Details of Our Lease-Operator Program
With leasing, you get the freedom and earning power of an owner-operator without the long-term commitment and financial risk of purchasing a truck. It’s the perfect way to test the waters of independence while keeping your career on the right track.
Check out the grid below to learn more about what our lease program means for you!
| LEASE-OPERATOR | |
|---|---|
| Meet Chief Hiring Criteria | ✔️ |
| Independent Contractor Status | ✔️ |
| Gross Earnings Potential $175K - $285K | ✔️ |
| Truck Warranty Available | ✔️ |
| Pick Your Loads | ✔️ |
| Choose Your Home-Time | ✔️ |
| Fuel Card With Discounts | ✔️ |
| Mobile App w/ Free Doc Scanning | ✔️ |
| No Charge Mobile Communication System | ✔️ |
| Direct Deposit | ✔️ |
| Pet/Rider Policy | ✔️ |
| Epicvue Satellite TV Option | ✔️ |
| Pro Business Services Option | ✔️ |
| Health Insurance (3rd Party Options Available) | ❌ |
| Vacation | ❌ |
Why Consider a Lease?
High Earning Potential
Top Lease-Operators have the potential to earn $175K – $285K in gross earnings!
Minimal Financial Risk
With leasing, you can get started with just a $1,000 down payment.
Worry-Free Equipment
Operate a newer truck with a factory warranty. We handle the maintenance, so you can focus on the road.
Fuel Savings
Get a Chief fuel card with discounts to help you save money on every fill-up.
Choose Your Home Time
We know family matters. Our program gives you the flexibility to choose your own schedule so you can get home when you need to.
Technology & Perks
Enjoy a mobile app with free document scanning, no-charge Samsara/Elogs, direct deposit, a flexible pet and rider policy, and even an Epicvue Satellite TV option.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Lease?
Becoming a lease operator is a great next step for drivers who are ready to take control of their career and run their own business. The ideal candidate for our program is someone with the right combination of experience and strong business mindset.
Our lease program is an excellent fit if you are:
- Experienced: You have been in the trucking business for at least a year or two as a good company driver. Our program is not recommended for those who are brand new to the industry.
- Financially Disciplined: As a small business owner, you’ll be responsible for managing expenses like truck payments, fuel, and insurance. You must be disciplined with money and have good financial habits to succeed.
- Ready for a Mindset Shift: Our program is designed for those who are ready to transition from a company driver—where many tasks are handled for you—to a small business owner with a greater range of responsibilities.
- Committed to Success: You’re a “hustler” who loves trucking and wants to maximize your revenue. The program is designed for those who want more freedom and the potential to earn more money.
More Expert Advice and Resources
Ready to learn more about making the move to an independent truck driver career? Our Driven Too Far podcast with General Manager host, Andrew Winkler, is your go-to source for real-world advice and insights about trucking.
Check out some of our episodes that discuss leasing and things to know about being a lease operator.
The Good, The Bad, and The Fine Print: Navigating Your First Truck Lease
Before committing to a truck lease program, drivers should fully understand the fine print, including hidden costs, maintenance responsibilities, and early termination penalties, to ensure the agreement serves as a beneficial partnership rather than a financial risk.
Leasing a Rig: What Every New Trucker Must Know Before Signing
A truck driver should listen to this podcast if they’re considering a lease purchase program and want to understand the realities of running their own business, including how to manage finances, choose the right pay model, and avoid common mistakes to ensure long-term success.
The Risks and Rewards of Lease Purchase Programs
In this episode, Andrew explores the viability of truck lease purchase programs as a path to ownership, examining key risks such as unexpected maintenance costs and the value of extended warranties.
Maximize Your Earnings: The Path to Lease Operator Success
Andrew breaks down the 2024 earnings of Chief Carriers’ lease operators, highlighting the mentality, work ethic, and financial choices that separate top performers from those who are less successful.
Walk Away Leases: The Truth Behind the Fine Print
In this episode, Andrew explores the potential pitfalls of a “walk-away” truck lease, using a cautionary tale to emphasize the importance of understanding complex contracts, avoiding hidden clauses related to debt and early termination, and maintaining open communication with your carrier.
Ready to Lease? Essential Questions to Ask Before You Leap
This episode helps potential lease operators navigate the financial realities and potential challenges of truck leasing, guiding them to ask the right questions about contracts, income, and maintenance before committing to a program.
Don’t Just Drive, Drive Your Business
Ready to take the next step in your career? At Chief Carriers, you’re not just getting a truck; you’re gaining a true partnership. We’re here to help you navigate the road to success as an independent contractor, offering the support, resources, and freedom you’ve been looking for.
This is your chance to build a successful future on your terms.
Contact our Driver Recruiting team today and let’s get you on the road to independence.
