Family-Owned Freight Brokerage | SPI Logistics

Описание: On this episode of SPI Logistics, host Blythe Brumleve is joined by guest Steve Burroughs, a freight brokerage owner, to discuss the world of family-owned freight brokerage. Steve reveals that his company primarily relies on referrals for growth and is attending a conference to meet potential clients and receive more referrals. He believes that cold calling is not an effective strategy and prefers approaching shipping managers for referrals to other contacts within the company. Steve highlights that their company is currently focused on providing quality service and being selective about taking on new business.

Steve shares the challenges and benefits of running a family business, his experience of bringing his children and daughter-in-law into the venture, and the importance of prioritizing family over the business. He also discusses their new technology system that streamlines the process of finding carriers and booking loads, saving them time and allowing them to focus on acquiring more customers. Occasionally, they have to wait due to an inability to handle additional loads.

Steve talks about his background in the trucking industry, starting with owning trucks, managing drivers, and eventually becoming a corporate director of transportation for a steel company. He eventually started his own brokerage business with his wife after facing challenges during the 2008 economic downturn. They initially aimed to earn $200 per week but have since grown to become one of the top three companies in SPI.

Integrity is paramount for Steve, and he emphasizes the importance of never lying to customers or carriers. He believes in paying drivers well and never taking advantage of them. He shares a cautionary tale about a woman who trusted an outsider with her business and lost everything. Steve believes that their unique way of conducting business and maintaining trust is their competitive advantage.

Steve discusses the dynamics of their family-run company, including remote work arrangements, communication tools like Zoom, and the collaboration among different family members with their own areas of expertise. He also talks about his plans to take more time off from the business and let the in-laws and the younger generation take on more responsibility.

While Steve acknowledges the importance of branding and social media presence, he admits that they haven't focused on it yet. However, he recognizes the changing role of technology and social media in business and highlights the company's strength in adapting to changes in the economy. Finally, he expresses his satisfaction with SPI and his lack of interest in exploring other opportunities, emphasizing his intention to continue growing the business and pass it down to future generations for a better lifestyle opportunity.

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00:00 Introduction
00:02:28 Summary: Truck driver turned logistics expert builds a successful business.
00:05:46 Trusted brokers; built their own dreams with integrity.
00:09:58 Leased trucks, bad company, switched to SPI.
00:15:53 Most growth comes from referrals and conferences.
00:20:24 Competitive advantage led to a devastating loss.
00:22:34 Family-oriented company with remote workers communicating effectively.
00:24:59 Prepare for the future, focus on branding. Seek help with social media presence.
00:27:45 Great story, post on LinkedIn, powerful perspective.