In this episode of The Relay, we take a little different turn as Sarah Williams catches up with our mechanics in the shop. We discuss common issues mechanics encounter such as lighting problems and check engine lights, and the importance of pre-trip inspections and routine maintenance. Don’t miss the discussion around the challenges of after-treatment systems on trucks and a story about a truck that caused a chain reaction of problems. Join us as we talk shop with some of our mechanics at Gulf Relay.

In this episode of The Relay, Rhaya Reynolds, Driver Recruiting Manager at Gulf Relay, sits down with Marcus Myers of the Maintenence department. In this conversation, Marcus talks about the new trucks on the fleet at Gulf Relay. He shares the features of the Volvo 860s trucks, such as spacious fridges, heated seats, and large storage capacity. Marcus highlights that these trucks are designed for top-tier drivers. They also discuss the use of these trucks by both team and solo drivers. The conversation also touches on the new Macks truck, which have a different design without an upper bunk. Don’t miss this in-depth look at some of the new trucks for Gulf Relay.

In this episode of The Relay, hosts Maddie Cook and Blanks Baldwin sit down with Cole Chandler from the business development team. Cole shares his journey from operations to sales, emphasizing the value of his operational experience in building customer relationships. The team discusses their strategy for bringing on new business and targeting areas where they have a strong presence and engineering consistent routes. They also share their excitement about attending industry conferences, the importance of face-to-face interactions with customers, and more.

In this episode of the Relay, host Rhaya Reynolds sits down with the father-son owner-operators of Frederick Hunter Sr. and Fred Hunter Jr., drivers here at Gulf Relay. During this episode, Frederick and Fred discuss their experiences on the road, their favorite places to visit, and their strategies for fuel management. The father-son duo also emphasize the importance of defensive driving and share how they maintain trust and accountability within their team. The episode provides insights into the life of truck drivers and offers advice for new drivers looking to gain experience in the industry.

In this episode of the Relay, the recruiting team at Gulf Relay, led by Rhaya Reynolds, discuss their roles and the recruitment process. Jessica Brown shares her transition from account manager to recruiter, while Nikki Brent talks about her approach to building relationships with drivers. Nelia Toups emphasizes the importance of finding drivers who view Gulf Relay as home. The team also discusses the qualifications required for drivers, the company's commitment to safety, incentives and benefits available, including a driver referral program, the lease purchase program, and more.

In this episode of the Relay, William Everett, Director of Safety at Gulf Relay, is joined by Marcus Myers, Director of Equipment and Maintenance. During the conversation, William and Marcus discuss their experiences at the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Conference (CVSA). They talk about the upcoming implementation of a level eight inspection in the trucking industry, which aims to measure safety, efficiency, and environmental impacts. The two discuss this new system and how it will improve driver utilization, its impact on maintenance, potential challenges in implementation, such as infrastructure requirements and the adaptation of smaller carriers and more.

In this episode of the Relay, Rhaya Reynolds, Driver Recruiting Manager at Gulf Relay, sits down with Bryce Peacock, Director of Operations at Gulf Relay. Bryce discusses his role and experiences at Gulf Relay, highlighting the importance of the people in their success. He acknowledged the challenges in the transportation market, including a down market and fuel price fluctuations, but remains optimistic about opportunities, such as the recent shutdown of Yellow Freight. Bryce advises newcomers to enter the transportation field during a down market to gain valuable experience while explaining how Gulf Relay is well-prepared to handle challenges through their strategic approach and partnerships.

In this episode of the Relay, Rhaya Reynolds, Driver Recruiting Manager at Gulf Relay, sits down with Maddie Cook, Director of Customer Success at Gulf Relay. In this conversation, Maddie shares her background in the trucking industry and what led her to Gulf Relay. Rhaya and Maddie also discuss the obstacles faced by Gulf Relay in the industry today such as the scarcity of drivers and the necessity for effective communication among various teams. They also talk about the influence of technology on the transportation sector and how Gulf Relay employs technology to streamline operations, enhance communication, and provide real-time updates to both customers and drivers. Don’t miss this great episode!

In this episode of the Relay, Rhaya Reynolds, Driver Recruiting Manager at Gulf Relay, sits down with Richard Watkins, a driver on the local team. Richard shares his experience as a driver since 2000 and his positive experiences with Gulf Relay, including the benefits of being home every day and the helpful load information provided by dispatchers. He emphasizes the importance of asking questions and helping each other in the transportation field, as well as the significance of pre-tripping and post-tripping the truck and trailer to ensure everything is as it needs to be. Richard also gives advice for driving in snowy and icy conditions and shares his hobbies, healthy eating habits on the road, and more.

In this episode of the Relay, Dwayne Cochran, a Fleet Manager at Gulf Relay, discusses his role and the importance of communication in the logistics industry. During the conversation, Dwayne emphasizes the responsibilities of a fleet manager, such as providing load information and addressing driver issues. Dwayne stresses the significance of building a good relationship with drivers and being a reliable source of information. He also acknowledges drivers' concerns about job security and the freight market and believes that effective communication and transparency can alleviate these worries. Dwayne highlights the importance of teamwork and accountability within the company, offers advice for trainees to learn from experienced drivers, and more.