Anderson Trucking Service vs Landstar System
ATS and Landstar are both major flatbed carriers. ATS offers company driver positions alongside O/O. Landstar is exclusively owner-operator. ATS provides a career path; Landstar provides O/O independence.
Anderson Trucking Service
- Pay
- $65,000 - $95,000
- Fleet
- 2,800+ trucks (company + owner-operator)
- Rating
- 4.1/5
Landstar System
- Pay
- $150,000 - $300,000+ gross (owner-operators)
- Fleet
- 11,000+ independent trucks (BCOs)
- Rating
- 4.3/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
Anderson Trucking Service
ATS company drivers earn $65K-$95K. O/Os gross more.
Landstar System
Landstar O/Os gross $150K-$300K+ with diverse freight.
Home Time
Anderson Trucking Service
Flatbed and heavy haul mean OTR time.
Landstar System
No forced dispatch. O/Os choose their schedule.
Benefits
Anderson Trucking Service
Health, 401(k), PTO for company drivers.
Landstar System
Fuel discounts, OA insurance, freight network access.
Training/Support
Anderson Trucking Service
ATS trains company drivers in flatbed skills.
Landstar System
Agent network provides load support for O/Os.
Equipment/Technology
Anderson Trucking Service
ATS provides trucks for company drivers.
Landstar System
O/Os provide all equipment.
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.
Anderson Trucking Service
- Founded
- 1955
- Fleet
- 2,800+ trucks (company + owner-operator)
- Drivers
- 3,000+
- Divisions
- OTR, Regional, Flatbed, Specialized, Owner-Operator
- Experience wanted
- 1 year CDL-A (flatbed experience preferred)
- Strongest states
- Minnesota, Texas and North Dakota
Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) is a leading flatbed, heavy-haul, and specialized carrier based in St. Cloud, MN. The company offers both company driver and owner-operator positions hauling oversized loads, machinery, construction materials, and wind energy components. ATS is known for above-average flatbed pay and a strong support system for specialized haulers.
Only Anderson Trucking Service is strong in: Minnesota and North Dakota — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by Anderson Trucking Service and not by Landstar System
- • Percentage-based pay for flatbed
- • Health, dental, and vision insurance
- • 401(k) with company match
- • Paid time off
- • Owner-operator fuel and tire discount programs
Landstar System
- Founded
- 1968
- Fleet
- 11,000+ independent trucks (BCOs)
- Drivers
- 11,000+ (independent BCOs)
- Divisions
- OTR, Flatbed, Specialized, Owner-Operator
- Experience wanted
- 1 year CDL-A (owner-operators)
- Strongest states
- Florida, Texas and Georgia
Landstar operates a unique model as a non-asset-based carrier, connecting independent owner-operators (called BCOs — Business Capacity Owners) with freight through their agent network. Landstar is one of the top carriers for experienced owner-operators seeking independence.
Only Landstar System is strong in: Florida and Georgia — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by Landstar System and not by Anderson Trucking Service
- • Business Capacity Owner (BCO) independence
- • Access to Landstar's freight network
- • Fuel discount program
- • Occupational accident insurance available
- • No forced dispatch
Our Verdict
ATS is the better starting point for flatbed -- company driver benefits and training. Landstar is for experienced O/Os who want the freedom to run their own business. Start at ATS, build experience, then consider Landstar when you buy your own truck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start flatbed with no experience?
At ATS, yes (with 1 year CDL-A). They train flatbed skills. Landstar requires existing flatbed experience as an O/O.
Which pays more?
Landstar O/Os gross more but have truck expenses. ATS company drivers earn $65K-$95K with no truck costs.
Is heavy haul available at both?
Yes. ATS has a dedicated heavy haul division. Landstar's network includes specialized and heavy haul freight.
Learn More About These Companies
Anderson Trucking Service
St. Cloud, MN · 2,800+ trucks (company + owner-operator)