FedEx Corporation, your single source for time-sensitive and time-deferred package, document, and freight transportation services internationally.
 
Owner Operators
Frequently Asked Questions

To find a quick answer to one of the Frequently Asked Questions listed below, click on that question.

Fleet
Eligibility
Scope of Services
Revenues
Orientation
Advantages
Lease
Equipment
Insurance
Plates and Permits
Fleet

Does FedEx Custom Critical employ drivers?
No. The FedEx Custom Critical fleet is made up entirely of independent owner operators and the individuals who drive for them. We do not employ drivers. We are always looking for quality owner operators to become a part of the fleet. Contact us for more information.

Return to Top


Eligibility

What are the qualifications to become a contractor for FedEx Custom Critical?
Safety takes priority at FedEx Custom Critical, and we’re looking for the best professional owner operators. Our general minimum requirements are:

  • No more than three moving violations within the last three years, and one or less in the previous 12 months

  • Ability to pass a Department of Transportation physical and drug test

  • A proper class CDL with HAZMAT endorsement

  • Unrestricted access to and from Canada

In order to contract with or drive for a contractor of FedEx Custom Critical, drivers must meet certain other eligibility requirements. These vary based on the size and type of vehicle: cargo van, 14’ and 22’ straight truck, and tractor-trailer.

Return to Top


Scope of Services

Where does FedEx Custom Critical operate in North America?
We have a large customer base coast to coast, providing excellent revenue potential for owner operators. Our fleet picks up and delivers loads throughout the contiguous United States and Canada.

Do you have dedicated regional run areas?
No. Each FedEx Custom Critical contractor must be willing and able to provide service in the contiguous United States and Canada.

Return to Top


Revenues

How are owner operators paid?
Owner operators receive a percentage of the gross revenue on every load they take. Settlement checks are issued on a weekly basis, based upon paperwork received.

How much money can an owner operator expect to make with FedEx Custom Critical?
The amount an owner operator can expect to make varies based on a variety of factors, such as number of loads taken. A recruiter can discuss revenue structure with you. Contact us to reach a recruiter.

Return to Top


Orientation

Do you have an orientation program?
Yes, we have found that contractors are more successful if they and their drivers visit FedEx Custom Critical headquarters to learn about the company before taking any loads. The program helps to familiarize them with the company’s operations and customer commitment, as well as important safety and regulatory information. As a result, orientation is required for all new contractors. It is a four-day program in Akron, Ohio.

Return to Top


Advantages

What programs do you offer for contractors?
FedEx Custom Critical has a Contractor Relations department that is dedicated to making it easy for owner operators to do business with us. Our contractor relations coordinators continue to implement incentive and discount programs that help owner operators succeed. These include: 

  • ASSET Club – a program that awards savings bonds to contractors based on service and accident-free operation.
  • Four Star Award – an honor given to the top 50 FedEx Custom Critical contractors who meet the award criteria for safety, availability and on-time service.
  • Negotiated discounts with certain hotels, truck stops, fuel stations and more.

Return to Top


Lease

Do you have a lease purchase program?
No. Contractors purchase their own trucks.

Return to Top


Equipment

Does an owner operator’s truck have to meet certain specifications?
In order to serve our customers, FedEx Custom Critical has minimum specifications for cargo vans, 14’ straight trucks, 22’ straight trucks and tractor-trailers.

Does FedEx Custom Critical use a satellite system?
Yes. FedEx Custom Critical uses a two-way satellite system as a communication tool with drivers operating trucks in the fleet. The system allows our team members to immediately contact the truck with loads, and keep in constant communication with the driver.

Return to Top


Insurance

Do you offer a medical insurance plan?
Independent owner operators are responsible for their own medical insurance.

Do you offer a work accident insurance plan?
FedEx Custom Critical independent owner operators are required to have workers compensation or work accident insurance, depending on the regulations of the state in which they are based. Owner operators are responsible for providing their own workers compensation or work accident insurance. Those who choose to purchase work accident insurance from Protective Insurance Company may have the payments deducted directly from their settlement checks.

Return to Top


Plates and Permits

Do you provide base plates or have a purchase program for base plates?
Base plates are the responsibility of the owner operator.

Do you supply permits?
FedEx Custom Critical supplies permits, free of charge, enabling the truck to be operated in the contiguous United States and Canada.

Return to Top