Compensation for pilot car services, often associated with oversized or overweight loads, is frequently structured on a per-mile basis. This pay model dictates that the pilot car driver and their company receive a pre-determined rate for each mile the escort vehicle travels in conjunction with the load being transported. For instance, a contract may specify a rate of $1.50 per mile, meaning a 500-mile trip would generate $750 in compensation before other potential charges.
The adoption of a per-mile compensation structure offers both transparency and predictability for both the pilot car company and the transportation company employing their services. It provides a clear metric for calculating expenses, allowing for easier budgeting and cost management. Historically, other compensation models have been used, but the per-mile system gained prominence due to its relative simplicity and direct correlation to the work performed, especially as oversized load transportation became more standardized and regulated.