As the chill of winter sets in, truckers face some of their toughest challenges on the road; even here across the Mid-South. From icy surfaces to decreased visibility, winter driving demands extra caution and preparation. At Cooper Freight, we prioritize the safety of our drivers with comprehensive training and resources tailored for winter conditions.

Understanding Winter Hazards:

Winter roads can be treacherous. Common challenges include snow, ice, slush, and frigid temperatures. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 17% of all vehicle crashes occur under winter conditions, underscoring the need for specialized driving strategies.

Winter Driving Best Practices:

1. Reduce Speed: Traction is significantly reduced in icy conditions. Slowing down helps maintain control and gives you more time to react to unforeseen hazards.
2. Increase Following Distance: It’s advisable to increase your following distance to eight to ten seconds to ensure you have ample space to stop safely without risking a collision.
3. Brake and Accelerate Carefully: To prevent skids, apply brakes and accelerator slowly and smoothly.
4. Stay Alert: Focus is key, especially near ramps, bridges, and overpasses which freeze first.

Vehicle Preparation: Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is ready for the winter:

• Check your battery, as cold weather can reduce its power.
• Use winter-grade lubricants.
• Ensure your radiator has the right level of winter coolant to avoid freezing.
• Verify that lights, heaters, defrosters, and wipers are operational to combat frost and fog.

Equip for Emergencies: A well-stocked emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Include items like:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Non-perishable food and water
• First-aid kit
• Necessary tools and warning devices (flares, reflectors)

By adopting these safety measures and continuously enhancing our training protocols, Cooper Freight remains committed to ensuring that our drivers can navigate winter safely. Remember, preparedness is key to safe winter driving, and at Cooper Freight, we navigate these challenges together.

Stay safe and stay prepared this winter season.

As we celebrate milestones at Cooper Freight, it’s essential to recognize individuals who have shaped our company’s journey. This month, we honor Steven Cooper, our Shop Manager, as he marks his 20th anniversary with us.

Meet Steven Cooper: Steven has dedicated two decades to maintaining the heart of Cooper Freight’s operations—the shop where all our vehicles are kept in prime condition. His commitment goes beyond just managing; it’s about nurturing a space where reliability and care are paramount.

Why Cooper Freight? Steven’s philosophy for his long tenure is simple yet profound: “God first.” This principle guides him in his daily responsibilities and interactions, ensuring that his work is not just a job but a calling.

Perks of the Job: Being part of a family-owned business is what Steven values most about Cooper Freight. He appreciates the close-knit environment and the personal connections he’s developed over the years.

Fuel for the Day: For Steven, coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s his go-to fuel that keeps him energized and ready to tackle any challenge in the shop.

Living by Faith: Steven’s guiding light is a powerful verse from Luke 9:23: “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'” This verse not only inspires his personal life but also his ethos at work.

Long-Term Focus: At Cooper Freight, Steven’s approach is all about long-term focus. He believes in building something lasting, whether it’s relationships, professional skills, or the very vehicles that drive Cooper Freight’s success.

Steven Cooper’s 20-year journey at Cooper Freight is a testament to loyalty, faith, and dedication. His commitment to excellence and his team shines through every task he undertakes.

Thank you, Steven, for 20 remarkable years. Here’s to many more!

Join Steven and the Cooper Freight Family

We are accepting applications for OTR, Team, and Local Company Drivers. Click here to learn more about our driver benefits, pay, and company culture.

For more information on our hiring process and qualifications, please call our Recruitment Office at (901) 215-9100 Or email to drive4us@cooperfreight.com

As we observe Veterans Day, Cooper Freight takes immense pride in celebrating Martha Winn, a cherished member of our team for nearly two decades. Martha’s journey at Cooper Freight is not just a testament to her dedication but also a reflection of her service spirit, honed during her time in the military.

Meet Martha Winn: Martha Winn serves as the Lead Planner at Cooper Freight, where her leadership is invaluable. Her commitment extends beyond logistics; it is felt in the familial atmosphere she helps foster among her team. “If one employee hurts, we ALL hurt,” Martha shares, emphasizing the unity within Cooper Freight.

Why Cooper Freight? For Martha, the appeal of Cooper Freight lies in its family-oriented culture. The company’s supportive environment echoes the camaraderie she cherished in the military. It’s a place where no one is left behind, reflecting a deep commitment to collective success and personal care.

Veterans Day Reflections: Today, more than ever, we honor Martha’s service to our nation. Her sacrifices have not only protected our freedoms but have also enriched our Cooper Freight family. Her favorite verse, “Do everything in love,” mirrors her approach to both life and logistics.

Teamwork and Perks: Martha appreciates the team-oriented approach at Cooper Freight. Whether it’s the updated and clean equipment or the unified support system, everything is designed to ensure that everyone, including drivers, feels like part of the family.

Misconceptions in Trucking: Martha hopes to clarify misconceptions about truck driving, particularly regarding DOT regulations on driver logs and restarts. Her insights help bridge gaps between shippers and drivers, ensuring smoother operations and compliance.

Conclusion: Martha Winn embodies the spirit of service, leadership, and community that Veterans Day celebrates. At Cooper Freight, we are grateful for her continued dedication and for the example she sets every day. Thank you, Martha, for both your service and your significant contributions to our success.

Join Martha and the Cooper Freight Family

We are accepting applications for OTR, Team, and Local Company Drivers. Click here to learn more about our driver benefits, pay, and company culture.

For more information on our hiring process and qualifications, please call our Recruitment Office at (901) 215-9100 Or email to drive4us@cooperfreight.com

At Cooper Freight, we celebrate the unique contributions of each team member who helps us drive success. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Cortney Winn, our dedicated Driver Manager, who has been with us for two remarkable years.

Cortney plays a pivotal role in managing our drivers, ensuring they have the support they need to perform their best. With a deep commitment to family values, she resonates perfectly with Cooper Freight’s family-oriented ethos.

Why Cooper Freight? Cortney cherishes the family-like atmosphere at Cooper Freight. “It’s the work-life balance and the family-oriented approach that make Cooper Freight special,” she says. This supportive environment allows her to excel in her role while also attending to her family’s needs.

Perks of the Job: One significant perk that Cortney values is the generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy. Whether it’s taking care of her sick children, attending school functions, or making doctor’s appointments, Cooper Freight supports her need to be there for her family.

Snack Time Choices: When on the road, Cortney enjoys snacking on O-KE-DOKE popcorn and beef jerky, which keeps her energized throughout her busy day.

Living by Faith: Cortney is inspired by the verse from Matthew 19:26, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” This faith guides her both personally and professionally, instilling a can-do spirit that she brings to her work every day.

Addressing Misconceptions: Cortney wishes more people understood that many truck drivers are dedicated family individuals. She emphasizes, “Most truck drivers are just like anyone else, trying their best to provide for their families.”

Cooper Freight and Family Time: Cortney wants others to know that working at Cooper Freight doesn’t mean sacrificing family time. “You can still enjoy quality weekends with your family as a truck driver here,” she affirms, highlighting the company’s commitment to its employees’ work-life balance.

Cortney Winn exemplifies the spirit of dedication and family values at Cooper Freight. Her role as a Driver Manager is crucial not just in operations but in nurturing the familial culture that defines our company. Thank you, Cortney, for your commitment and passion.

Join Cortney and the Cooper Freight Family

We are accepting applications for OTR, Team, and Local Company Drivers. Click here to learn more about our driver benefits, pay, and company culture.

For more information on our hiring process and qualifications, please call our Recruitment Office at (901) 215-9100 Or email to drive4us@cooperfreight.com

This month’s Employee Spotlight shines on Jim Woods, a dedicated member of the Cooper Freight family for over two decades. As the Grenada Terminal Manager, Jim has played a pivotal role in maintaining the smooth operations and strong team spirit at Cooper Freight.

A Journey of Dedication: Jim has been with Cooper Freight for an impressive 21 years, a tenure that speaks volumes about his commitment and loyalty. His journey with us highlights a career built on respect, teamwork, and mutual support.

Why Cooper Freight? Jim appreciates the camaraderie among the team and the respectful, fair treatment he has received over the years. “Cooper Freight treats people with respect and has a genuinely helpful, open-door policy,” says Jim, emphasizing the supportive work environment that has been pivotal in his long service.

Perks of the Job: For Jim, the perks of working at Cooper Freight go beyond just good pay. He values the company’s flexibility, particularly appreciating how management is always willing to provide time off when needed, fostering a healthy work-life balance.

Snacking on the Go: Even a terminal manager needs his road snacks! Jim’s go-to choice? Chocolate covered peanuts—a sweet treat that keeps him going during busy days.

Guiding Philosophy: Jim lives by a simple yet powerful motto: “Treat people the way you want to be treated.” This principle guides him both personally and professionally, ensuring respectful and positive interactions with his team and peers.

Dispelling Misconceptions: Jim wishes more people understood that truck drivers are just ordinary individuals striving to provide for their families. His insight sheds light on the often-overlooked personal sacrifices drivers make to keep our supply chains moving.

Conclusion: Jim Woods is not just a manager but a cornerstone of Cooper Freight’s operations at Grenada. His enduring service, leadership, and dedication to fairness and respect make him a valued member of our team. Thank you, Jim, for your unwavering commitment and for helping shape the heart of Cooper Freight.

Join our team here.

Introduction:
At Cooper Freight, we believe our strength lies in our people. This month, our Employee Spotlight shines on Alexis McCuistion, the Safety Director who has been with us for nearly a decade. Her commitment to safety and community embodies the spirit of our company.

A Journey of Commitment:
Alexis joined Cooper Freight nine years ago and quickly became a central figure in fostering our company’s culture. As Safety Director, she’s not just a guardian of protocols but a builder of bonds, creating an environment where everyone feels like family.

Why Cooper Freight?
For Alexis, the choice is clear. “The people that I work with day in and day out are the finest group I’ve ever met,” she says. It’s this sense of community and mutual respect that makes Cooper Freight more than just a workplace.

The Perks of Being Part of a Family:
Beyond the logistics and the daily grind, Alexis treasures the strong relationships she has built over the years. These relationships are not just perks; they are the pillars that support the collaborative and warm environment at Cooper Freight.

Nutrition on the Go:
While committed to her role, Alexis knows the importance of staying energized. Her go-to snacks? Almonds and Reese’s—a little bit of health mixed with a sweet treat!

Guided by Wisdom:
Alexis lives by the words of Proverbs 31:26: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” This verse not only guides her personal ethos but also her professional interactions, ensuring kindness is at the heart of our safety practices.

Dispelling Misconceptions:
Alexis wants people to understand the resilience and dedication required in truck driving. “It takes a very special person to drive all over delivering what it takes to keep the country going,” she notes, emphasizing the critical and often overlooked skills our drivers possess.

A Career Home at Cooper Freight:
For those looking for more than just a job, Alexis points to Cooper Freight as a career home. “We go above and beyond to make sure our drivers are well taken care of,” she states, highlighting our true open-door policy and our commitment to our team’s well-being.

Conclusion:
Alexis McCuistion is more than just our Safety Director—she’s a testament to the values and dedication that Cooper Freight stands for. We are proud to have her in our family, leading with wisdom and kindness. Thank you, Alexis, for making Cooper Freight a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.

#CooperFreightFamily #EmployeeSpotlight #SafetyFirst

In the vast network that keeps Cooper Freight moving, each member of our team plays a pivotal role. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on a valued member of our family, Triforis Perry, whose journey and dedication exemplify the core values we hold dear at Cooper Freight.

Returning to us after a brief hiatus, Triforis has been with Cooper Freight for over two years now.

Why Triforis Chooses Cooper Freight:
Triforis highlighted the balance between professional and personal life that Cooper Freight offers, with home weekly schedules and competitive compensation. He appreciates the driver appreciation initiatives, the quality of the equipment, and our commendable CSA score that keeps us thriving in the industry.

A Day in the Life on the Road:
For Triforis, pistachio nuts, Reese’s cups, and a cold Dr. Pepper are road trip essentials that keep him going. His guiding light is Isaiah 41:10, a reminder of strength and support through every mile.

Dispelling Misconceptions:
Triforis wishes for a better understanding of the intricacies of truck driving, particularly the challenges of braking in large vehicles, stressing the importance of road safety and awareness.

A Closer Look at Cooper Freight:
“Not too big, not too small, but just right”—Triforis’s perspective on Cooper Freight reflects a Goldilocks principle that many seek in their careers. From the safety department to HR, mechanic shops to management, every facet of the company is designed to ensure efficiency, safety, and job satisfaction.

Triforis Perry’s journey with Cooper Freight is a narrative of dedication, growth, and community. We’re thankful for his contributions and proud to have him as a key player in our success story. Join our team by applying here.

As winter sets in, truck drivers face not just challenging road conditions but also an increased risk of slips and falls due to icy and snowy environments. These suggestions provide essential safety tips for truckers to prevent winter-related accidents.

Key Safety Recommendations:

1. Appropriate Footwear: Wear shoes that offer good traction on snow and ice. Materials like rubber or steel in the soles can provide better grip, reducing the risk of slipping.
2. Caution Around Vehicles: Be extra careful when entering and exiting your vehicle. Use the vehicle for balance and support to avoid falls.
3. Mindful Walking: Stick to designated walkways and be vigilant about potential hazards on your path.

4. Avoid Dangerous Inclines: Steer clear of inclines that become especially hazardous in winter conditions.
5. Maintain Balance: Walk slowly and take small steps. Keep your hands out of your pockets to maintain balance and be prepared to react if you start to slip.
6. Use Support: Hold onto handrails, walls, or anything sturdy to help keep your footing stable.
7. Test Before Stepping: If an area looks slippery, test it by gently tapping your foot on the surface before stepping fully onto it.
8. Keep Shoes Dry: Dry your shoes or boots on floor mats when entering buildings to remove excess moisture.
9. Report Hazards: Immediately report any detected slip and fall hazards at your workplace.

These safety tips are not just for truckers but for everyone facing the winter season. By being cautious and prepared, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries during these colder months.

Stay safe this winter, and remember that taking these small steps can make a significant difference in your well-being.

At Cooper Freight, we take immense pride in our team. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our exceptional employees, Milton Chapman, a dedicated driver who’s been with us for two years. His story is not just about driving but about the values that make Cooper Freight stand out in the logistics and trucking industry.

Milton’s Journey with Cooper Freight: Milton joined Cooper Freight two years ago, drawn by our culture of respect and autonomy. He values the freedom to perform his duties without micromanagement, a testament to our trust in our employees’ expertise and professionalism.

What Milton Enjoys About Working Here: For Milton, the perks of working at Cooper Freight include competitive pay, ample home time, and well-maintained equipment. These factors contribute significantly to his job satisfaction and are a reflection of our commitment to ensuring a positive work environment for all our staff.

On the Road Snacks and Inspiration: Milton keeps his energy up on the road with Nature Valley bars. He draws inspiration from the “Footprints in the Sand” poem (click the poem to read it larger), a guiding light in his journey, both personally and professionally.

Addressing Misconceptions: Milton is passionate about clearing up common misconceptions about truck driving. He wants people to understand that truckers are not a hindrance on the road but hardworking individuals striving to make a living and return safely to their families.

Working at Cooper Freight: Milton’s experience at Cooper Freight paints a picture of a caring and supportive company. He appreciates that his work allows him to make a decent living while still having time for his family, highlighting the balance Cooper Freight maintains between professional demands and personal life.

Milton Chapman is not just an employee; he’s a vital part of the Cooper Freight family. His commitment to his job and the values he upholds are a reflection of what we stand for – respect, autonomy, and support. We’re thankful for Milton and all our employees who make Cooper Freight a leader in the trucking industry.

Join our team by applying here.

On October 4, as the early autumn breeze stirs the air and trees begin their golden transformation, we pause and turn our attention to a group of unsung heroes. National Truckers Appreciation Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s an opportunity for every American to recognize and celebrate the tireless men and women who keep our nation’s heart beating and wheels turning.

The Unseen Forces on the Roads
Truck drivers form the arteries of America’s commerce system. Their presence might seem ubiquitous on the highways, but it’s easy to forget the importance of their job. They transport goods and raw materials, ensuring that our stores are stocked, our factories are supplied, and our economy keeps moving forward. But it’s not just about transportation—it’s also about dedication. Every trip they make involves meticulous planning, from inspecting their vehicles for mechanical and safety issues to adhering to state-specific axle weight limits.

The Billion-Dollar Backbone
In 2019, the value of the trucking industry in the U.S. soared to an astonishing $791.7 billion. With roughly 7.4 million individuals employed within the industry—3.5 million of whom are truck drivers—it’s evident that trucking isn’t just a profession; it’s a pillar of American society. And even amid global challenges, this industry has shown resilience and growth, with truck driving jobs increasing significantly between April and June 2020.

Sacrifices Behind the Wheel
Yet, behind these staggering numbers lie countless personal stories of sacrifice. Truckers often brave harsh weather conditions, challenging routes, and long hours, all while being away from their loved ones. They might miss birthdays, anniversaries, or even a simple family dinner. It’s a sacrifice they make to ensure we, as a nation, never run out of the essentials we rely on daily.

A Time to Show Gratitude
So, this National Truckers Appreciation Day, Cooper Freight joins the nation in tipping our trucker caps to these valiant individuals. We salute the bravery, commitment, and indomitable spirit of every trucker who has ever hit the road. Thank you for being the true backbone of our nation, for your unwavering service, and for the stability you provide in the most uncertain times.

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the truckers in our lives, and if you see one on the road, maybe offer a friendly wave.

Here’s to you, our road warriors. Happy National Truckers Appreciation Day! 🚛