CDL-A Reefer Owner Operators Earn More at APL Cargo

Now seeking experienced CDL-A reefer owner operators for loads averaging $7,000 - $9,000 weekly gross, very flexible home time, and trailer leasing available.

Class A CDL
1 Year Experience
$7,000 - $9,000
AVERAGE WEEKLY GROSS
Insurance Covered
BY APL CARGO
$2.50 per Mile
GROSS

Average $7,000 - $9,000 Weekly, Gross - Very Flexible Home Time

Top Pay & Benefits

  • Average $7,000 - $9,000 weekly, gross
  • Average cost paid per load is $2,200+, gross or $2.50 per mile, gross
    • If you do not have your own trailer, the paid percentage of the load is 75% for reefer loads
    • If you do have your own trailer, the paid percentage of the load is 82% for reefer loads
    • APL Cargo covers the cost of insurance, which makes up for the other 20-22%
    • Drop & hook lanes available
    • Average 800 - 1,000 miles per load
    • Trailer leasing available*
    • Very flexible home time
    • $2,000 referral bonus available

*Only trailers are available to lease. Drivers must provide their own truck/tractor

Get Started

  • STEP ONE: Request info by submitting this form
  • STEP TWO: Complete the APL Cargo, Inc. online driver application (provided upon completion of STEP ONE and takes 10-15 min)
  • STEP THREE: Connect with a APL Cargo, Inc. talent specialist to discuss the available role (we’ll contact you at the number provided)

Start Earning Real Money - Apply Now & Call (855) 226-9771

Account Requirements & Options

  • Weekly administration fee - required
    • $175 weekly fee covers registration fees, back-office administrative support, permits, 2290, IFTA, & tablet rental OR
    • $125 weekly if you have your own plates
  • Occupational insurance - required
    • APL Cargo offers an occupational insurance plan for $37.50 per week (provided at cost)
  • Cargo liability deposit - required
    • A $100/week contriubution builds your $2,500 cargo deposit over 25 weeks. Held as security and returned in full when you exit the program in good standing
  • Driver legal plan - optional, but highly recommended
    • Cost is $2.98 per week
  • Operational Escrow - optional, but highly recommended
    • "Savings account" provides drivers with consistent paychecks during vacations or other situations. Weekly contributation amount is determined by the driver
  • Maintenance account - optional
    • If opted in, the amount is optional & APL Cargo will pay for repairs; repair costs will be debited from the maintenance account. If repair costs go over account funds, a payment plan will be arranged
    • If opted out, APL Cargo has no obligation to provide financial credit for repairs. Any repairs paid for by APL will be charged back within the pay period

Driver Requirements

  • Valid Class A CDL
  • 1 year of experience
  • Must be an owner operator & own your own truck/tractor


Why APL Cargo?

Founded by former drivers, APL Cargo is one of the fastest-growing private carriers in the U.S. and we know that starts with hiring the best.

Being owned and operated by former drivers, we have what it takes to deliver the best service and treat our drivers fairly and with respect. We treat our drivers like family because we are one. If you're a Class A CDL driver who takes pride in the road, come build your future with us.

Build Your Future Driving with APL Cargo - Apply Now & Call (855) 226-9771

Additional Benefits

Haul & Freight

Drop & hook loads
Late-model reefer fleet

Bonus Pay

Clean DOT inspection
7 MPG fuel efficiency

Home & Lifestyle

Flexible home-time
Pet-friendly policy

Safety & Trust

Safety excellence program
Operating nationwide

Support & Recognition

24/7 Driver support team
Driver recognition program

Career Growth

Leadership role opportunity
Clear path to better routes

FAQs

Q: How much can CDL-A reefer owner operators earn with APL Cargo?

A: APL Cargo reefer owner operators average $7,000–$9,000 per week gross. Each load averages $2,200+ gross, or approximately $2.50 per mile gross, with individual loads running 800–1,000 miles. Owner operators with their own trailer earn 82% of the load rate, while those without a trailer earn 75%, with APL Cargo covering the remaining 20–22% in insurance costs.

Q: Do I need my own trailer to lease on with APL Cargo as an owner operator?

A: No. APL Cargo offers trailer leasing options for owner operators who don't have their own equipment. However, drivers must provide their own truck or tractor — only trailers are available to lease. Owner operators who do bring their own trailer receive a higher load percentage of 82% versus 75% for those using a leased trailer.

Q: What are the weekly fees and account requirements for APL Cargo owner operators?

A: APL Cargo owner operators pay a required weekly administration fee of $175 (covers registration, permits, 2290, IFTA, back-office support, and tablet rental) or $125 per week if you have your own plates. Occupational insurance is also required at $37.50 per week. A $2,500 cargo liability deposit is built over 25 weeks at $100 per week and is returned in full when you exit the program in good standing.

Q: What is the CPM rate for owner operators at APL Cargo, and are there raises?

A: APL Cargo owner operators start with load-based gross pay averaging $2.50 per mile and can earn up to 66 CPM after 1 year. Drop & hook lanes are available to maximize efficiency. The flexible home time policy allows owner operators to manage their own schedule, a strong advantage for independent CDL-A drivers seeking consistent reefer freight.

Q: What optional financial programs does APL Cargo offer owner operators to protect their income?

A: APL Cargo offers several optional but highly recommended programs for owner operators. An Operational Escrow account functions like a savings buffer to provide consistent income during vacations or downtime, with contribution amounts set by the driver. A Maintenance Account allows APL Cargo to front repair costs, debited from your account over time. A Driver Legal Plan is also available for $2.98 per week, providing added protection for independent operators on the road.

Join the APL Cargo Team

Step 1: Request Info
First Name
Last Name
Email
Phone
Address
Do you have a valid Class A CDL?
Have you had more than 3 moving violations in the past 3 years?
How much verifiable CDL-A driving experience do you have?
Are you an Owner Operator?
By submitting this form, I authorize APL Cargo and CareerNow to contact me via phone, SMS, and email regarding employment opportunities, including via automated dialing technology & pre-recorded voice. My consent is not a condition of receiving services. Message and data rates may apply. I expressly agree to this. Privacy Policy and Terms Of Use.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

Straight From Our Drivers

“I’ve been working here for 2 years now. Best company I have ever worked for. Small town big hearted company.

They will bend over backwards to make everyone happy and safe ...

I love it here and they treat me right. Great pay and new equipment.”

Cara Miller
Driver for APL Since 2022

“I would just like to say that coming to APL has been nothing but a great experience ...

Barry and the rest of the staff gets a 10+ from me!!!

Come join APL!!”

John Lamb
Driver for APL

"David is extremely efficient, communicative and strategically plans out my loads for all pick ups and deliveries ...

Extremely helpful to me to be as effective as possible out here in the field. This allows me to plan and manage my time efficiently"

Charles Fantroy
Driver for APL