Contrasting freelance and franchise haulage contracts

One of the most perennial and perpetual discussion points amongst delivery drivers is whether there are more advantages to working franchise haulage contracts than freelance ones, or whether it is the other way around. Less bellicose individuals among this demographic will no doubt try to quell this somewhat heated argument by pointing out that, like so many other things in life, it ultimately comes down to a question of individual preference; however, in this case, the matter is not that simple. The truth is, there are very definite advantages and drawbacks to each of these options, which hauliers should take into consideration when trying to decide on their next career move.

Every Man For Himself

From the point of view of human personality, it is not hard to understand the appeal freelance haulage contracts hold over most professionals in this field. Humans – particularly those raised in so-called ‘civilised’ societies – have an innate tendency to mistrust authority and management, believing (whether justifiably or otherwise) that their superiors will try to disservice them whenever they have the chance. As such, the opportunity of becoming one’s ‘own boss’ – deciding on workloads, rates of pay and schedules entirely independently – understandably holds a degree of appeal to any member of a workforce, whether in the field of haulage or in any other industry.

However, while many who imagine such an opportunity may be tempted to view it through rose-tinted glasses, the reality is a little different. With the choice to carry out haulage contracts independently comes the need to run an entire business, managing overheads, balancing profits and budgeting carefully. This is something that may not be within reach of every delivery driver, and an aspect they will have to factor into their eventual decision.

Furthermore, when hauling in a freelance capacity, drivers cannot be sure to maintain a constant flow of business; on the contrary, they can easily fall into extended lulls or even slumps. Drivers who may need to make a living wage should therefore be aware of this peril before deciding to go into business on their own.

With that said, schedules and workloads are, indeed, rather flexible and entirely customisable in this sort of arrangement, which explains why it is increasingly popular among more experienced drivers looking for a career change.

Earning Your Pay

The alternative to working freelance haulage contracts is, of course, to sign up as a haulier or delivery driver for a large franchise. This type of job is viewed by many through the ‘soulless corporations’ prism mentioned earlier in this article, but those who manage to look beyond their innate prejudice against larger outfits may discover this type of contract to hold many benefits.

In fact, a corporate haulage job by and large does away with the uncertainty factor brought about by freelance set-ups. Drivers who work for a large outfit can expect a regular (usually monthly) paycheque and a steady flow of work that will allow them to justify it. Therefore, this might ultimately be the better option for drivers just starting out or those with families or responsibilities that may call for a steady income source.

As such, while the choice of corporate or freelance work does ultimately hinge on an element of choice, drivers trying to decide which path to take would do well to take all these factors into consideration.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for haulage contracts in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.