The promise, and drawbacks, of 'power only' models

The promise, and drawbacks, of 'power only' owner-operator models

Have you run in a 'power only' system?

Generally, the phrase "power only" refers to systems where independent owner-operators or small fleets with motor carrier authority bring only a tractor, no trailer, to freight movement, usually contracted to a brokerage (sometimes affiliated with a larger carrier) or occasionally a shipper or forwarder entity. Answer these four questions to help contribute to coverage of the hauling "niche," which has seen a fair amount of growth as brokerages seek to increase drop-hook operations with their shippers given ongoing capacity-expansion constraints since the COVID-19 pandemic's onset.

Over the course of your trucking career, have you hauled in a power-only system? *

Yes, for a brokerage affiliated with a carrier
Yes, for a non-asset broker utilizing its/shippers' trailers
Yes, in a different system
Yes, more than one of the above
No
Other:

How long ago were you hauling in a power-only system?

I'm currently in a power-only system
Within the last year
1-5 years ago
6-10 years ago
More than 10 years ago
Not applicable -- I've never been involved in one
Other:

Which of the following best describes your view of the biggest drawback of a power-only system?

As with leasing, an owner's prospects are tied directly to the success/failure of single third party
No control over trailer maintenance brings potential violations/safety and efficiency drawbacks
Earning opportunity is limited in some systems with little rate negotiation opportunity
Compared to leasing to a carrier, liability insurance costs anymore can be profit-prohibitive
Not applicable -- I've never hauled power-only
Other: