ABF Freight (ArcBest) vs TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
ABF and TForce are both Teamsters-represented LTL carriers offering union-scale wages and benefits. ABF has been union since the 1930s, while TForce transitioned from UPS Freight to TFI International ownership in 2021.
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
- Pay
- $60,000 - $95,000
- Fleet
- 4,000+ tractors
- Rating
- 3.9/5
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
- Pay
- $60,000 - $90,000
- Fleet
- 7,000+ tractors
- Rating
- 3.6/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
ABF pays $60K-$95K under the Teamsters National Master Freight Agreement.
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
TForce pays $60K-$90K with Teamsters union-scale wages and overtime.
Home Time
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
City drivers home daily; road drivers have scheduled bids with seniority-based routes.
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
City drivers home daily; road runs are scheduled with seniority preference.
Benefits
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
ABF offers Teamsters health and welfare fund, pension, paid holidays, and vacation by seniority.
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
TForce provides Teamsters health and welfare, pension, and union-negotiated PTO.
Training/Support
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
ABF requires 1 year experience; seniority system governs advancement.
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
TForce requires 1 year experience; Teamsters seniority system applies.
Equipment/Technology
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
ABF's fleet is adequate but some terminals have older equipment.
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
TForce inherited UPS Freight equipment; fleet modernization is ongoing under TFI.
Where they actually differ
The scores above are our reading. This part is just the two carriers' profiles side by side — divisions, what they ask of a new hire, where they run, and which benefits only one of them lists.
ABF Freight (ArcBest)
- Founded
- 1923
- Fleet
- 4,000+ tractors
- Drivers
- 5,000+
- Divisions
- Local, Regional, LTL
- Experience wanted
- 1 year CDL-A
- Strongest states
- Arkansas, Texas and Ohio
ABF Freight is the LTL division of ArcBest Corporation. With Teamsters representation, ABF offers strong union wages and benefits. The company has operated since 1923 and maintains a nationwide service center network.
Only ABF Freight (ArcBest) is strong in: Arkansas — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by ABF Freight (ArcBest) and not by TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
- • Teamsters union contract
- • Union-scale wages
- • Health and welfare fund
- • Paid holidays and vacation
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
- Founded
- 2021
- Fleet
- 7,000+ tractors
- Drivers
- 7,000+
- Divisions
- Local, Regional, LTL
- Experience wanted
- 1 year CDL-A
- Strongest states
- Ohio, Texas and Illinois
TForce Freight, formerly UPS Freight, is a major LTL carrier now operated by TFI International. The company maintains an extensive terminal network across North America and offers competitive union-scale wages under the Teamsters contract.
Only TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight) is strong in: Illinois — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight) and not by ABF Freight (ArcBest)
- • Teamsters union representation
- • Union-scale wages and overtime
- • Health and welfare benefits
- • Home daily for city operations
Our Verdict
Remarkably similar carriers. ABF has more history and stability as a dedicated LTL carrier. TForce is still finding its footing under TFI International ownership. For union LTL drivers, ABF is the slightly more proven choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ABF and TForce both Teamsters?
Yes, both operate under Teamsters contracts with union-scale wages, health and welfare funds, and pension plans.
Is TForce stable after the UPS Freight transition?
TForce has stabilized under TFI International. Operations are running smoothly at most terminals.
Which has a better pension?
Both participate in Teamsters pension funds. The specific fund depends on your local -- check with the local hall.
Learn More About These Companies
TForce Freight (formerly UPS Freight)
Montreal, QC (TFI International) · 7,000+ tractors