Driver Effie Jones builds own fleet at Roadrunner

Post Date - Dec 21, 2021

Effie Jones says he was going down the wrong path with his life before he discovered trucking. Today, 22 years later, he is a successful business owner with a small fleet of trucks.

“My life changed for the better when I became a truck driver,” he explains. “Trucking became my comfort zone because no one bothered me out here.”

Jones, who is based out of Memphis, has been an owner operator for 15 years. He started working with Roadrunner Freight two years ago. This is when he decided it was the right time to begin building his business and add additional trucks. He bought the first truck about seven months in and currently owns five trucks and has three employees.

“I’ve wanted to own my own company since I started this whole trucking thing. My motivation was when people tell me I can’t do it, I make it happen,” adds Jones. “What I love about Roadrunner is that they’ll teach you how to be a businessperson and give you responsibilities, but they also give you the freedom to be your own boss. Most of all, our Vice President of Operations demands you get your respect as a business owner.”

Roadrunner has a unique business model that gives its owner operators autonomy and provides them with everything needed to build successful careers and businesses. It is the ultimate long-term partnership designed to give linehaul independent contractors more flexibility, stability, and support.

“They’re giving people a chance to work, helping them build a strong foundation and help them along the way,” Jones explains. “I have my own company inside of Roadrunner.”

Jones remembers a time he wanted to quit. He met with Roadrunner’s Vice President, who helped him work through some issues and answer his questions.

“He told me it was going to get better and if I ever had a problem, he was there to help me fix it,” Jones says. “Roadrunner lets you do your own thing, but they have this great open-door policy for support when you need it.”

When Jones isn’t on the road, he lives in Memphis with his wife and four kids ages 10 and up. In addition to spending time together as a family, Jones breeds Rottweilers and enjoys traveling.

“Do what your mind is set on and you’ll be alright,” he advises other drivers. “Focus on your own goals instead of what everyone else is doing.”

Owner operators at Roadrunner Freight enjoy a number of great perks including a generous $10,000 sign-on bonus, stable rates with consistent freight, practical mileage pay, maintenance and fuel discounts, preloaded trailers, and pet and rider programs. Connect with Roadrunner to take the next step in your career today!