Independent contractors at Dart Transit Company will realize pay increases worth $2,400-$4,200 a year in 2005. The increases will become effective in the first quarter of 2005 for most of Darts operating options, and will be comprised of higher mileage rates and a fully paid base-plate package.
These increases are coming on the heels of large rate increases in 2004 that were worth $3,200 to $5,000 a year to most of our contractors, says David Oren, Executive Vice President with Dart. Adding the two increases together, Dart has raised contractor pay about $7,500 a year. Mr. Oren said the company would continue to work toward future contractor mileage rate increases.
Dart has operated with independent contractors for 70 years. Dart has a long history as an owner operator company, and this increase demonstrates our commitment to their long-term success, Oren said.
Dart also has one of the strongest fuel discount and cost adjustment programs in the industry, allowing many of the companys contractors to buy fuel at a net cost below $1.00 per gallon.
Dart operates with 2,200 independent owner operators, and offers a variety of contracts including 48-state, regional, local, and over 20 dedicated opportunities.