CRST International vs Knight-Swift Transportation
Two large carriers accepting brand-new drivers. CRST is known for team driving through CRST Expedited. Knight-Swift has the widest range of solo and team opportunities through Swift Academy.
CRST International
- Pay
- $48,000 - $80,000
- Fleet
- 5,500+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.4/5
Knight-Swift Transportation
- Pay
- $50,000 - $85,000
- Fleet
- 18,000+ trucks
- Rating
- 3.5/5
Head-to-Head Comparison
Pay
CRST International
CRST pays $48K-$80K with team starts on the lower end.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Knight-Swift pays $50K-$85K varying by division.
Home Time
CRST International
Team driving means extended road time.
Knight-Swift Transportation
OTR 2-3 weeks; dedicated improving.
Benefits
CRST International
CDL training, health, 401(k), team bonuses.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Health, 401(k), stock purchase, CDL training.
Training/Support
CRST International
CRST pairs new drivers with experienced team partners.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Swift Academy is one of the largest CDL programs.
Equipment/Technology
CRST International
Large fleet suited for team operations.
Knight-Swift Transportation
Massive fleet; quality varies.
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 Knight-Swift Transportation
- • Paid CDL training program
- • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- • 401(k) plan
- • Rider and pet policy
- • Team driving bonuses
Knight-Swift Transportation
- Founded
- 1966
- Fleet
- 18,000+ trucks
- Drivers
- 25,000+
- Divisions
- OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Refrigerated, Intermodal
- Experience wanted
- Recent graduates accepted (Swift Academy)
- Strongest states
- Arizona, Texas and Tennessee
Knight-Swift is the largest full truckload carrier in North America, formed by the 2017 merger of Knight Transportation and Swift Transportation. The company operates an enormous fleet with opportunities across every division and geography.
Only Knight-Swift Transportation is strong in: Arizona — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by Knight-Swift Transportation and not by CRST International
- • CDL training academy (Swift)
- • Health insurance with multiple plan options
- • 401(k) retirement plan
- • Stock purchase plan
- • Weekly pay with direct deposit
Our Verdict
Knight-Swift is the better choice for solo drivers with more division options and higher starting pay. CRST is worth considering if you specifically want team driving experience from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CRST team driving mandatory?
For CRST Expedited, yes. CRST Malone (flatbed) and Dedicated offer solo options.
Which pays more starting out?
Knight-Swift, slightly. CRST team starting pay can be on the low side.
Which has more locations?
Knight-Swift, by a wide margin.