Three of the most prominent Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carriers in the United States have reached a centenary milestone despite numerous long-established trucking companies either being overtaken or shutting down during the freight recession over the past two years.
ABF Freight, A. Duie Pyle, and Saia not only share a century in the trucking industry but also common strategies for success, as highlighted by insights from their executives and drivers in conversations with Trucking Dive.
“From the start, we were taught that hard work leads to success,” shared Saia driver Joe Dominguez Jr., who will mark 50 years with the company next year. “As we grew and improved over the years, that philosophy remained with us.”
The experiences of these companies provide valuable lessons for others in the trucking sector aspiring to achieve similar long-term growth and sustainability.
Prioritize Employees and Customers
For many trucking clients, drivers are the primary point of contact. Companies can demonstrate their commitment through fair compensation, fostering a robust company culture, and regular interactions with drivers.
“We offer industry-leading benefits,” noted Seth Runser, the president of ABF Freight’s parent company, ArcBest Corp., emphasizing that this provides an edge through a knowledgeable workforce that excels in customer service, ultimately driving growth.
Consistently Improve Standards
Successful companies reach their centenary by adapting to challenges and seizing new opportunities. Saia maintains a mindset of “continuous improvement,” as President and CEO Fritz Holzgrefe stated in an interview.
“We need to perform even better tomorrow,” he remarked, acknowledging that customer expectations consistently rise. As organizations expand, preserving high service standards becomes increasingly complex due to changing customer and employee dynamics.
Invest in Infrastructure and Technology
Reaching the status of one of the largest or oldest companies often requires strategic financial investment. ABF Freight, A. Duie Pyle, and Saia have developed their networks alongside their customers through investments in trucks, technology, and properties.
While mergers and acquisitions have been pivotal for ABF Freight and Saia, A. Duie Pyle, a family-owned regional carrier, focused on organic growth, having expanded from just one terminal in 1996 and rejecting two acquisition offers in the past two years. Nevertheless, Pyle continues to invest heavily in its operations, a key element of its success.
