Drive with Admiral
Owner-Operators
At Admiral, we believe owner-operators deserve more than just freight, they deserve a true partnership built around independence, profitability, and long-term success. As a family-owned carrier specializing in open deck freight across the USA and Canada, Admiral gives drivers access to premium direct shipper freight, nationwide opportunities, same-day pay, and dedicated support without sacrificing control of their business.
When you lease on with Admiral, you gain more than loads – you gain a full support team committed to helping your business succeed. From fast settlements and dispatch assistance to safety, compliance, and back-office support, we provide the tools and resources drivers need to stay profitable on the road. Whether you haul flatbed, step deck, oversized, or heavy haul freight, Admiral’s network and experience are built to keep you moving with consistent opportunities and a partnership that gets stronger over time.
Paid Fast. Treated Right.
Cash flow matters, and we don’t mess around with it. We prioritize quick and reliable pay. Fast pay and honest communication aren’t perks here; they’re the standard.
Not Just a Number.
Admiral Merchants isn’t built like the big carriers, and that’s intentional. We’ve built this company to stay personal because drivers deserve more than being treated like a unit on a board.
No Forced Dispatch. Period.
You run your business. We respect that. Take the loads you want. Pass on the ones you don’t. No pressure. No games. Just real freedom to operate the way you choose.
No Company Trucks. No Competition.
At Admiral Merchants, we don’t operate company equipment. Every opportunity we bring in is built to support our owner-operators, not compete with them.
Why Drivers Stay with Admiral
Don’t take our word for it. Hear directly from the owner-operators who choose to build their business with Admiral.
Tom Q.
Ontario
Owner-Operator | Dual Citizen | 16 years with Admiral
“I’ve referred quite a few driver friends to Admiral, and every one of them has thanked me.”
Adam C.
Ohio
Owner-Operator | 4 years with Admiral
“Admiral makes me feel like I’m in business for myself but not by myself.”
Robert C.
Tennessee
Owner-Operator | 1 year with Admiral
“I’ve been with Admiral less than a year, and I’m already an award winner. I’m damn proud of that.”
Learn about the Admiral experience from one of our owner-operators in this 6-minute video
What You’ll Need to Lease On
- 2 years of verifiable OTR experience
- 1 year of verifiable open deck experience
- 21-69 years of age (not accepting applicants aged 70+)
- No DOT recordable/preventable accidents in last 3 years
- Zero tolerance for D/A violations in FMCSA clearinghouse
- No serious violations within 3 years (such as but not limited to: 15+ mph over violation, mobile phone violation, improper lane change etc.)
- No major violations within 5 years (such as but not limited to: Hit and Run, DUI in personal vehicle, etc.)
- No more than 65 CSA points (65+ may be eligible for review)
DOCUMENTATION
Contractor Documents
- Tractor title (front and back copies)
- 2290 form
- Cab card (if providing your own base plate)
- Trailer registration
- Tractor and trailer inspections (done within 90 days of sign on)
Driver Documents
- CDL (front and back copies)
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Fill out Tenstreet application
- A recruiter will be in touch by phone to process the application
- On-boarding tasks (videos and paperwork) are completed online through the Tenstreet portal
- Complete drug screen
- Sign contract
- Rule the road!
- Any questions? Just call Mike Baron at 612-843-8202.
Ready to Drive for Admiral Merchants?
Call Mike Baron at 612-843-8202 to get started
Frequently Asked Questions
▮ Drivers & Owner-Operators
What experience is required to partner with Admiral?
We require 2 years verifiable OTR experience and 1 year of verifiable open deck experience. That is the minimum.
What equipment do you accept?
Admiral works with flatbed, step deck, RGN, and other open deck equipment in good operating condition that meets current DOT safety standards. There are no equipment age requirements, but all equipment must be able to pass a DOT inspection. Contact our recruiting for specifics.
What are the basic qualification expectations?
At a minimum, drivers need a valid Class A CDL and a satisfactory CSA score in good standing, verifiable commercial experience, and equipment meeting DOT standards. Insurance is not required, as this is something we provide. Contact our recruiting team if you have questions about your specific situation.
Do you force dispatch?
Absolutely not. You are an independent owner-operator and your right to choose your loads is fully respected at Admiral. You decide what you haul, where you run, and when you are available. No pressure, ever.
How does same-day pay work?
Once your load is delivered and your paperwork is submitted through our system, payment is processed the same business day. No waiting periods, no delays – your money is available when you earn it.
How long does onboarding take?
The onboarding process can take between 1-2 weeks, depending on how quickly verifications are completed and documents are made available. Requirements can be found on the Driver page.
Do I need my own operating authority?
No. You operate under Admiral’s MC number as part of your lease agreement. If you already have your own authority, you must suspend/dissolve it.
What documents are required to lease on?
See the Driver page for current list of required documents.
How do I lease on with Admiral?
Follow the instructions on the Driver page to get started on an application. Contact our recruiter if you have any questions.
What are the compliance requirements for drivers?
All drivers must maintain a valid Class A CDL, a current DOT medical card, and satisfactory CSA scores. Please contact our Safety Department immediately with any compliance-related questions.
How do I submit load paperwork?
All load documentation including signed bills of lading, delivery receipts, and any exception paperwork should be submitted through the Admiral driver portal. Your dispatcher will confirm the correct submission process during orientation.
Who do I contact for support?
For dispatch and load questions, contact your assigned dispatcher. For safety and compliance, reach out to the Admiral safety team. For settlements or back-office questions, contact the operations support team. All contact details are provided during orientation and available in your driver portal.
Who can I contact with recruiting questions?
Recruiter: Mike Baron 612-843-8202.