US Xpress (Knight-Swift) vs Covenant Transport
Both Chattanooga-based truckload carriers that were direct competitors for years before US Xpress was acquired by Knight-Swift in 2023. Both offer OTR, dedicated, and team driving with a strong Southeast presence.
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
- Pay
- $52,000 - $82,000
- Fleet
- 7,000+ 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
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
US Xpress pays $52K-$82K with team driving bonuses and performance incentives.
Covenant Transport
Covenant pays $50K-$80K with team bonuses and expedited premiums.
Home Time
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
US Xpress OTR is typically 2-3 weeks out; dedicated is better.
Covenant Transport
Covenant OTR and team runs can mean 2+ weeks out; dedicated is better.
Benefits
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
US Xpress offers health, 401(k) match, paid CDL training, and rider/pet policy.
Covenant Transport
Covenant provides medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid orientation, and team incentives.
Training/Support
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
US Xpress accepts recent graduates with training programs.
Covenant Transport
Covenant accepts recent graduates with structured training and mentoring.
Equipment/Technology
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
US Xpress runs Freightliner Cascadias including fuel-efficient Variant fleet.
Covenant Transport
Covenant maintains a modern fleet for OTR and expedited operations.
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.
US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
- Founded
- 1985
- Fleet
- 7,000+ trucks
- Drivers
- 7,500+
- Divisions
- OTR, Regional, Dedicated, Team
- Experience wanted
- Recent graduates accepted (training programs available)
- Strongest states
- Tennessee, Georgia and Texas
US Xpress was one of the largest privately held truckload carriers before being acquired by Knight-Swift in 2023. The company continues operating under the US Xpress brand with a strong presence in OTR, dedicated, and team driving. Known for their Variant fleet of fuel-efficient Freightliner Cascadias and team driving programs.
Only US Xpress (Knight-Swift) is strong in: Georgia — worth knowing if you want to be domiciled there.
Listed by US Xpress (Knight-Swift) and not by Covenant Transport
- • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- • 401(k) with company match
- • Paid CDL training
- • Team driving bonuses
- • Rider and pet policy
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 US Xpress (Knight-Swift)
- • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- • 401(k) plan
- • Paid orientation and training
- • Weekly pay
- • Team driving incentives
Our Verdict
Nearly interchangeable. US Xpress now has Knight-Swift backing. Covenant has a stronger expedited division. For team or expedited freight, lean Covenant. For the largest company backing, US Xpress/Knight-Swift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is US Xpress still operating after Knight-Swift acquisition?
Yes, continuing under its own brand within the Knight-Swift family.
Both are in Chattanooga -- do they compete for the same drivers?
Yes, they historically competed directly. The acquisition hasn't changed local operations significantly.
Which is better for team driving?
Covenant has a more established and focused team driving program with expedited freight.