At Cooper Freight, our drivers are the heart of what keeps freight moving. They show up day after day, mile after mile, helping serve customers, support communities, and keep businesses running.

Today, we’re proud to spotlight Delane Reynolds, a Truck Driver who has been part of the Cooper Freight family for an incredible 25 years.

• Name: Delane Reynolds
• Position: Truck Driver
• Years with Cooper Freight: 25 years

Why Delane Enjoys Working at Cooper Freight

When asked why he enjoys working at Cooper Freight, Delane summed it up with the things that matter most to drivers:

“Good family company, home time, great miles, great pay.”

That says a lot. For 25 years, Delane has seen firsthand what it means to be part of a company that values its drivers, respects their time, and works hard to provide steady miles and strong support.

A Workplace That Feels Like Home

One of the perks Delane appreciates is the nice terminal. For drivers who spend so much time on the road, having a clean, welcoming, and well-kept place to return to makes a real difference.

It’s one more way Cooper Freight works to create an environment where drivers feel supported, appreciated, and proud to be part of the team.

Road Snacks of Choice

Every driver has their go-to snacks for the road, and Delane keeps it simple and dependable:

Fruits and chips.

Favorite Quote

Delane’s favorite quote is short, direct, and maybe the most truck-driver answer ever:

“Move out the way.”

More Than a Job

When asked about misconceptions around truck driving, Delane shared something that captures the heart of the profession:

“More than a job.”

Truck driving is a career, a commitment, and for many drivers, a way of life. It takes focus, responsibility, patience, and pride. Drivers spend long hours on the road, navigate changing conditions, and play a major role in keeping businesses and communities supplied with what they need every day.

Work and Adventure

Delane describes trucking and working at Cooper Freight this way:

“It’s work and an adventure.”

That’s the beauty of the road. Every day brings new routes, new destinations, and new challenges. It’s not always easy, but for drivers like Delane, it’s meaningful work — and after 25 years, it’s clear he has built a career with pride, consistency, and dedication.

Thank You, Delane

We’re grateful for Delane Reynolds and his 25 years of dedication to Cooper Freight. His commitment, experience, and steady work ethic are a true reflection of what makes our team strong.

Thank you, Delane, for helping keep freight moving and for being such an important part of the Cooper Freight family.

Want to Join the Cooper Freight Family?

If you’re looking for a driving career with a family atmosphere, great miles, strong pay, and the kind of support that helps you build a long-term future, Cooper Freight may be the right fit. Follow along for more Employee Spotlights and learn more about what makes Cooper Freight different.

At Cooper Freight, our drivers are more than the miles they drive — they’re the heart of what keeps freight moving, customers served, and our company culture strong. Today, we’re proud to spotlight Steve D. Wood, a Driver who has been part of the Cooper Freight family for 3 years.

A Culture Built on Respect and Open Doors

For Steve, one of the things that stands out most about Cooper Freight is the company’s open-door culture.

“Everybody has an open door policy,” Steve shared. “You can talk to anybody in a personal manner.”

That kind of accessibility matters. In an industry where communication, trust, and support are essential, Steve appreciates being part of a company where people are approachable and drivers feel heard. Whether it’s a question, concern, personal need, or something that comes up in day-to-day life, Cooper Freight works hard to create an environment where employees know they matter.

Keeping Drivers Moving

Steve also values the way Cooper Freight’s dispatch team works to keep drivers rolling.

“Dispatch always tries to keep you moving,” he said. “Even when it is slow, dispatch works hard to keep you rolln.”

For drivers, steady miles matter — and so does knowing there’s a team behind the scenes doing everything they can to support them. Steve appreciates the variety of load destinations, the strong mileage pay, and the effort Cooper Freight puts into making sure drivers are taken care of on the road.

Equipment That’s Clean, Secure, and Well-Maintained

Another major highlight for Steve is the quality and care of the equipment at Cooper Freight.

He pointed out that the trucks are well maintained, always clean, and supported by a secure lot, on-site fuel, a wash bay, and an on-site shop. Those details make a big difference for drivers who spend so much time in and around their equipment.

Some of the perks Steve enjoys most include:

• Good insurance
• Secure lot
• Fuel on site
• Wash bay on site
• Shop on site
• Open-door policy
• Well-maintained trucks
• Clean equipment
• Great mileage pay

These benefits help drivers stay safe, supported, and ready for the road.

A Company That Understands Life Happens

Steve also appreciates that Cooper Freight understands drivers are people first. Life doesn’t stop just because someone has a route to run, and he values how accommodating Cooper Freight is when personal needs come up.

“Cooper is very accommodating to a driver’s needs for taking time off for doctor appointments, family matters, and personal situations that come up in life,” Steve said.

That kind of flexibility reflects one of the things Cooper Freight strives to be known for: treating people fairly and supporting them both professionally and personally.

Road Snacks of Choice

Every driver has their go-to snacks for the road, and Steve keeps it classic:

Hot dogs, pizza, and Pringles.

Because sometimes the right snack can make the miles feel a little better.

Verses That Guide Him

Steve shared two Bible verses that are meaningful to him:

Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

John 8:36
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

These verses point to faith, humility, freedom, and purpose — values that carry into both life and work.

Trucking Is a Way of Life

When asked what misconception he would like people to understand about truck driving, Steve put it simply:

“It is not a job… it is a way of life.”

That statement says a lot. Trucking takes commitment, patience, sacrifice, and pride. It’s early mornings, long miles, changing schedules, weather, traffic, responsibility, and constant awareness. It’s also a profession that keeps communities, businesses, and families supplied with the things they depend on every day.

For Steve, trucking is more than a paycheck. It’s a lifestyle — and one he takes seriously.

What He Wants People to Know About Cooper Freight

Steve summed up Cooper Freight in just a few words:

“Cooper is fair.”

That kind of reputation is earned over time through consistency, trust, and the way people are treated. We’re thankful for team members like Steve who represent Cooper Freight with pride and help carry our company forward mile after mile.

Thank You, Steve

Thank you, Steve D. Wood, for your dedication, professionalism, and the pride you bring to the Cooper Freight family. We’re grateful to have you on the team and appreciate the role you play in helping keep freight moving safely and efficiently every day.

Want to Join the Cooper Freight Family?

If you’re looking for a driving career with well-maintained equipment, strong support, great pay, and a company culture built on fairness and respect, Cooper Freight may be the right place for you. Follow along for more Employee Spotlights and learn more about what makes Cooper Freight different.

At Cooper Freight, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s part of who we are. Every mile matters, and every decision behind the wheel plays a role in protecting not only our drivers, but everyone sharing the road.

One often underestimated hazard? Sun glare.

It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but the reality is far more serious.

The Hidden Danger of Sun Glare

Sun glare can strike suddenly and without warning—turning a routine drive into a high-risk situation in seconds.

Research shows:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration identifies sun glare as a contributing factor in hundreds of crashes each year.
• The American Automobile Association believes the number is even higher.
• A long-term study by the National Institutes of Health found that bright sunlight was present in roughly one-third of over 11,000 life-threatening crashes.

That’s not just a statistic—it’s a clear reminder that visibility is everything in trucking.

Why Sun Glare Is So Dangerous

Unlike other hazards, sun glare doesn’t build gradually—it appears instantly.

One moment, the road is clear.
The next, your vision is compromised by:

• A sudden turn into direct sunlight
• A break in cloud cover
• Reflections off wet pavement or nearby vehicles

When that happens, your reaction time drops, your depth perception is reduced, and your margin for error disappears.

Practical Ways to Reduce Risk

While you can’t control the sun, you can control how you respond. Here are key strategies every driver should use:

1. Slow Down and Create Space

Reduced visibility means reduced reaction time. Lower your speed and increase following distance immediately when glare hits.

2. Wear Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized lenses cut down harsh reflections from:

• Windshields
• Wet roads
• Chrome and metal surfaces

This simple tool can significantly improve visibility.

3. Keep Your Windshield Clean

Dust, streaks, and smudges amplify glare. A clean windshield can make the difference between seeing clearly and being temporarily blinded.

4. Minimize Dashboard Reflections

Loose items or glossy surfaces on your dashboard can reflect sunlight back into your eyes. Keep it clean and clutter-free.

5. Use Lane Markings as a Guide

If visibility drops, rely on road markings to maintain your position safely until conditions improve.

6. Plan Ahead When Possible

You can’t always avoid it, but you can be strategic:

• Avoid driving directly into sunrise or sunset when possible
• Choose north-south routes to minimize direct sun exposure
• Be extra alert during early morning and late afternoon hours

The Cooper Freight Commitment to Safety

Sun glare is just one of many unpredictable challenges our drivers face—but preparation is what sets professionals apart.

At Cooper Freight, we believe:

• Awareness leads to better decisions
• Preparation prevents accidents
• Safety protects everything that matters

Every driver is empowered to make the safest choice possible—even if that means slowing down, adjusting routes, or taking extra precautions.

Final Thought

Sun glare doesn’t announce itself—it shows up when you least expect it.

That’s why the best defense is readiness.

Stay alert. Stay prepared. And always remember:
Getting there safely is the goal—every single time.

If you ever have questions or concerns about safety on the road, don’t hesitate to connect with your supervisor. We’re in this together.

Cooper Freight — Driving Safety Forward.

The People Behind the Miles

At Cooper Freight, we believe the story behind every mile matters. This Employee Spotlight features Charles Caruthers, an OTR Driver who has spent the last 9 years helping keep freight moving safely and on time. Charles brings consistency, pride, and a steady commitment to the work—qualities that keep our team strong and our customers supported.

• Name: Charles Caruthers
• Position: OTR Driver
• Years with Cooper Freight: 9

Why Charles Loves Working at Cooper Freight

Ask Charles what keeps him at Cooper Freight, and his answer is simple—and powerful:

“I love working here because I am treated like family.”

That kind of culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through respect, consistency, and a team-first mindset—on the road and back at the terminal. For Charles, knowing he’s valued as a person (not just a truck number) makes all the difference.

The Perks That Matter Most

Life on the road requires balance, and Charles appreciates the things that make the job sustainable and rewarding:

• Home on the weekends
• Great pay

Being able to do meaningful work while still making time for life at home is a big part of what makes Cooper Freight a place drivers can build a long-term career.

Road Essentials: Snack of Choice

Every driver has a go-to, and Charles keeps it classic:

Roasted Peanuts

A Verse That Leads the Way

Charles lives by a verse that many know by heart—and for good reason:

John 3:16

It’s a reminder of faith, purpose, and perspective—especially on long days and long miles.

One Misconception Charles Wants People to Understand

Charles keeps it real with a truth every driver wishes more people remembered:

“Trucks don’t stop on a dime.”

That one sentence carries a lot of weight. Driving safely means planning ahead, leaving space, and making careful decisions—because what looks like “just driving” from the outside requires constant awareness and responsibility.

The Pride Behind the Profession

Charles wants people to understand the impact trucking has on everyday life—and the pride drivers take in doing the job well:

“Everything that everyone touches is moved by a truck and we take pride in the job we do day in and day out.”

From groceries and medical supplies to building materials and everyday essentials, trucking plays a critical role in keeping communities running. Drivers like Charles make that possible with consistency, professionalism, and dedication.

Thank You, Charles

We’re grateful for Charles Caruthers… for the last 9 years of dependable service, for representing Cooper Freight with pride, and for helping keep freight moving across the country. Charles, thank you for being a key part of the Cooper Freight family.

Want to Join the Cooper Freight Family?

If you’re looking for a career where you’re treated like family, respected for your work, and able to enjoy meaningful home time, Cooper Freight may be the right fit. Follow along for more Employee Spotlights—and reach out to learn about opportunities.

The People Behind the Miles

At Cooper Freight, we know our drivers are more than the trucks they drive and the miles they run—they’re the heartbeat of what we do. In this Employee Spotlight, we’re proud to introduce Willie Lee, an OTR Driver who has spent 11 years helping keep freight moving across the country with professionalism, skill, and dedication.

• Name: Willie Lee
• Position: OTR Driver
• Years with Cooper Freight: 11

Freedom on the Road. Strength in the Team.

When you talk to Willie, you quickly hear two themes: he loves the independence of the job, and he appreciates being part of a team that has his back.

“I enjoy working at Cooper Freight as an OTR driver because it gives me the freedom of the open road while still being part of a strong team. I like the independence of managing my routes and schedule, and it’s rewarding knowing I’m helping keep freight moving across the country. Another thing I really appreciate is being able to get home on the weekends, which helps keep a great balance between work and personal time.”

That mix—personal responsibility and real support—is a big part of what makes Cooper Freight different. Drivers like Willie are trusted to do the job well, and they’re supported by a company that recognizes the value of what they do every single day.

The Perks That Make a Difference

For Willie, the best perks at Cooper Freight aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re the things that make the career sustainable and the work feel respected.

Some of the perks Willie values most include:

• Competitive pay
• Top-quality equipment
• Good benefits
• Home most weekends
• A smaller-company culture where drivers are supported and recognized

He also highlights something that matters to so many drivers and families: work-life balance.

“Being able to get home on the weekends helps keep a great balance between work and personal time.”

Go-To Road Snack

Every driver has that snack.

For Willie? Pink Starburst. Simple. Classic. Road-tested.

A Verse That Guides the Journey

Willie’s favorite Scripture is Proverbs 3:5–6:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Willie describes it as a reminder to trust God even when life doesn’t make sense—a powerful mindset for a profession that requires calm judgment, patience, and steady decision-making in changing conditions.

Clearing Up a Big Misconception About Trucking

Willie wants people to understand that truck driving isn’t “just sitting and driving all day.”

“Truck driving is often misunderstood. A lot of people think it’s just sitting and driving all day, but it actually takes a lot of skill, planning, and responsibility.”

He points out what most people don’t see behind the scenes:

• Careful time management
• Strict safety regulations
• Navigating weather and traffic conditions
• Ensuring freight is delivered safely and on time

Another misconception is that drivers are gone constantly. Willie notes that at Cooper Freight, schedules can allow for regular home time—something that makes a huge difference for families.

Truck drivers play a major role in keeping the country running, and it’s a profession that requires professionalism, patience, and dedication.

Why Cooper Freight Makes the Work Even Better

Willie is proud of trucking—and he’s proud of where he gets to do it.

“Trucking takes skill, responsibility, and dedication, and drivers play a big role in keeping the country running. Working at Cooper Freight makes it even better because the company has a great atmosphere, supports its drivers, and allows me to take pride in what I do while still getting home on the weekends.”

Thank You, Willie

We’re grateful for Willie Lee—for his commitment to safety, his pride in the profession, and his steady contribution to the Cooper Freight family. Drivers like Willie represent the best of what trucking is: dependable, disciplined, and essential.

Want to Join the Cooper Freight Family?

If you’re looking for a trucking career where you’re supported, recognized, and respected—and where home time matters… Cooper Freight may be the right fit. Follow along for more Employee Spotlights and reach out to learn about opportunities.

At Cooper Freight, we believe the people behind the loads matter just as much as the miles. Every successful delivery is supported by a team of dedicated professionals working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly. In this Employee Spotlight, we’re excited to introduce you to Travis Woods, our Customer Service / Planner, and share what has made Cooper Freight feel like home for more than a decade.

Years with Cooper Freight: 17+

A little about their role

As a Customer Service / Planner, Travis plays a key role in keeping daily operations moving efficiently. From coordinating details to supporting drivers and customers alike, this position requires focus, problem-solving, and a steady commitment to doing things the right way. It’s the kind of work that often happens behind the scenes—but it’s essential to making sure freight arrives safely and on time.

Why they love working at Cooper Freight

“Great job, and they treat you as real people.”

That sense of respect and appreciation has kept Travis here for 16 years—and it reflects the culture Cooper Freight works hard to protect every day.

Favorite perks

A great atmosphere and a family-oriented environment. At Cooper Freight, teamwork and care for one another aren’t just talked about—they’re lived out daily.

Go-to snacks

Jerky and peanut butter crackers — dependable fuel for a busy day.

Favorite quote / Bible verse

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:5–6

Thank you, and keep rolling

We’re grateful for Travis Woods and the steady, behind-the-scenes excellence they bring to Cooper Freight. Employee spotlights like this remind us that our culture isn’t just a slogan — it’s built by real people who show up, care about one another, and take pride in the work they do.

Want to join 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 know that our strength lies in the incredible people who keep our team connected, supported, and moving forward. This month, we shine our spotlight on Annette Avery, who has faithfully served as a Driver Manager for the past eight years. Annette’s story reflects what makes Cooper Freight unique: a family-first atmosphere, grounded in respect, teamwork, and faith.

👩‍💼 Building a Family, Not Just a Team

For Annette, Cooper Freight is more than a workplace — it’s a family. “We are like a family, not just co-workers,” she shares. In her role as Driver Manager, she works daily to ensure our drivers are supported and valued, cultivating relationships that extend beyond business. That sense of camaraderie is what makes the long hours worthwhile and creates a culture where drivers feel at home.

💼 Benefits That Build Stability

When asked about perks, Annette highlights Cooper Freight’s 401(k) program as a benefit she truly appreciates. It’s one of many ways Cooper Freight invests not only in the success of its employees on the road today, but also in their long-term stability and financial security.

🍬 Snacks & Smiles on the Job

Annette keeps her workdays fueled with a mix of sweet, sour, and spicy snacks — Lemonheads, chewy Sweet Tarts, and Flaming Hot Cheetos. These favorites reflect her vibrant personality: a little sweet, a little fiery, and always full of energy.

✝️ Grounded in Faith

At the heart of Annette’s life and work is her favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

This verse guides her both in her personal life and in her professional journey, offering her strength and perspective as she supports the drivers who keep Cooper Freight rolling.

🚚 Advocating for Drivers and Families

Annette is deeply committed to helping drivers find balance. She emphasizes that at Cooper Freight, “we strive to get our drivers home on the weekend so they can have family time.” She understands the sacrifices drivers make and works hard to ensure they can return to what matters most — family.

🌟 A Lasting Impact

For eight years, Annette has played an essential role in making Cooper Freight more than just a trucking company. She is part of what makes us a family-oriented, faith-centered business, and her dedication inspires both her colleagues and our drivers.

Annette, thank you for your unwavering commitment, your compassion, and the strength you bring to the Cooper Freight family. Here’s to many more years of success, teamwork, and family-first leadership.

🔗 Learn more about our team and career opportunities at www.cooperfreight.com

Cooper Freight Employee Spotlight: Allen Brown – 15+ Years of Dedication on the Road

At Cooper Freight, our team is the backbone of our success, and today we’re celebrating one of our longest-tenured drivers, Allen Brown. With over a decade and a half of dedication behind the wheel, Allen has seen the ins and outs of the trucking industry and remains a valued member of our family.

A Career Built on Reliability and Respect

Allen joined Cooper Freight over a decade ago, drawn to the company’s strong reputation and commitment to its drivers. Over the years, he has found that competitive pay and top-tier equipment make a huge difference in his work life. “They keep the equipment looking good,” he shares, emphasizing that having well-maintained trucks makes long hauls smoother and safer.

But beyond just the trucks, Allen appreciates the work atmosphere at Cooper Freight. He enjoys being part of a team that supports one another, making the challenges of trucking more manageable.

Life on the Road: Snacks, Quotes, and Hard Work

Truck drivers know that life on the road isn’t just about driving—it’s about staying fueled and focused. When it comes to road-trip snacks, Wendy’s is Allen’s go-to. A classic meal from the fast-food favorite keeps him energized for long trips across the country.

He also lives by a simple but powerful motto: “Live, Laugh, Love.” This quote keeps him grounded no matter how many miles he travels.

The Truth About Trucking

Allen wants people to understand that trucking is much harder than it looks. It’s not just about driving; it requires stamina, patience, and skill. The job is demanding, but at Cooper Freight, drivers like Allen know they are supported every step of the way.

When asked what he’d want others to know about Cooper Freight, his answer was simple but meaningful: “It’s a nice place to work, and they take care of you like family.”

Allen’s 15-year journey with Cooper Freight is a testament to the company’s commitment to its drivers. We’re proud to have him on board and grateful for his hard work and dedication.

Join Allen 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 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.