Team drivers Robert and Julie Badker, of Osage, Io

Aug 10, 2010

Team drivers Robert and Julie Badker, of Osage, Iowa, call this 2006 Kenworth W900L their “motor home that makes money.” The truck features a 120-in. custom bunk and is powered by a 530-hp Cummins ISX geared by an 18-speed transmission.

MRL Transport owner Mark Ledford today hauls direct freight outbound for customers in part built from his years of ownership of another fleet, since sold after years of growth. MRL in some ways is Ledford's effort to right-size a business for his life today.

Right-sizing for management: MRL Transport owner Mark Ledford hits five trucks

Ledford got his start trucking after working a dock where his manager said Ledford would never drive truck. Not only would he drive, he'd grow a fleet well beyond 30 trucks before selling out. MRL Transport is his second turn in the barrel, and Ledford's hit a profitability sweet spot.

FMCSA cancels sexual assault study 'focused on DEI' and 'transgender ideology'

Small-biz trucking success, with family assist: The woman behind owner-operator Jason Shelly

Trucks Cars Highway Adobe Stock 180348823

FMCSA, other agencies update timelines for bevy of in-progress regs

BlueParrott S650-XT Bluetooth Headset

Small-biz trucking success, with family assist: The woman behind owner-operator Jason Shelly

More episodes »

The Business Manual for Owner-Operators

Overdrive editors and ATBS present the industry’s best manual for prospective and committed owner-operators. You’ll find exceptional depth on many issues in the Partners in Business playbook.

Access the Playbook