CRST International vs Covenant Transport
Two carriers known for team driving. CRST Expedited pairs new drivers with experienced partners. Covenant offers team incentives with expedited freight. Both accept new CDL holders.
CRST International
- Pay
- $48,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 5,500+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.4/5
Covenant Transport
- Pay
- $50,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 3,500+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
CRST International
CRST team starts $48K-$80K on lower end.
Covenant Transport
Covenant $50K-$80K with team bonuses.
Home Time
CRST International
Team driving means extended road time.
Covenant Transport
Teams out 2+ weeks; dedicated better.
Benefits
CRST International
CDL training, health, 401(k), team bonuses.
Covenant Transport
Health, 401(k), paid orientation, team incentives.
Training/Support
CRST International
Pairs new grads with experienced team drivers.
Covenant Transport
Training programs with mentoring.
Equipment/Technology
CRST International
Fleet for team/expedited operations.
Covenant Transport
Modern fleet for OTR and expedited.
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.
CRST International
- Founded
- 1955
- Fleet
- 5,500+ trucks
- Drivers
- 5,500+
- Divisions
- OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Team, Flatbed
- Experience wanted
- No experience required (paid CDL training available)
- Strongest states
- Iowa, Texas and Tennessee
CRST International is one of the largest privately held transportation companies in the U.S., headquartered in Cedar Rapids, IA. The company operates multiple divisions including CRST Expedited (team driving), CRST Dedicated, and CRST Malone (flatbed). CRST is well known for their paid CDL training program and team driving opportunities that pair experienced drivers with new graduates.
Only CRST International is strong in: Iowa — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by CRST International and not by Covenant Transport
- • Paid CDL training program
- • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- • Rider and pet policy
- • Team driving bonuses
Covenant Transport
- Founded
- 1986
- Fleet
- 3,500+ trucks
- Drivers
- 4,000+
- Divisions
- OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Team, Expedited
- Experience wanted
- Recent graduates accepted (training programs available)
- Strongest states
- Tennessee, Texas and Florida
Covenant Transport, part of Covenant Logistics Group, is a major truckload carrier based in Chattanooga, TN. The company operates OTR, dedicated, and expedited divisions with a strong presence in the Southeast and Midwest.
Only Covenant Transport is strong in: Florida — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by Covenant Transport and not by CRST International
- • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- • Paid orientation and training
- • Weekly pay
- • Team driving incentives
Our Verdict
Covenant is the better team driving carrier with higher pay and expedited freight premiums. CRST is more accessible for brand-new drivers through their pairing system. For team driving specifically, Covenant edges ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pays teams more?
Covenant, with dedicated team incentives and expedited premiums.
Which is easier to get into for teams?
CRST, since they pair new graduates with experienced drivers. Covenant prefers some experience.
Can I go solo at either?
CRST has dedicated and Malone (flatbed) solo options. Covenant has dedicated solo accounts.