Today we’d like to introduce you to Elaine Wilson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
New Life Delight Logistics, LLC (NLDL) was started on a dream. My partner had a vision to start a trucking company, I’m an entrepreneurial soul and believed in his dream, so we jumped in!
We started with a 26ft box truck (that we rented), purchased a box truck, moved to tractor trailers and landed where we are today, working specifically with owner operators (eliminating our overhead of equipment).
We are a small, solid team. The folks leased onto NLDL’s authority are seasoned drivers. They benefit from the age of our authority while running their operation in a way that works for them. No forced dispatch and much of the administrative requirements fall to me, freeing them up to focus on what they enjoy.
They set their schedule and negotiate their pricing.
Since our start in 2018, NLDL has experienced lucrative times and survived financial binds (truck parts on back order for 90 days, service shops backed up for 60 days, $6K fuel bills that I needed to borrow from my adult daughter to cover, and the list goes on). We’ve pivoted multiple times and I’m so proud to say that we’ve stayed afloat in an industry that sees up to a 90% fail rate within the first 2 yrs!!
We listen, absorb and utilize the information that we think will work for us. We provide insight and guidance when asked. Trucking is competitive, but we were fortunate to have some mentorship from local, small trucking companies.
My partner, Jeff, has stepped away from the company, pursuing his next venture. We learned A LOT and I’m extremely proud of what we accomplished and how NLDL continues to thrive.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My God, no.
We lived through the pandemic, parts and service delays gravely affected business, as mentioned. Plus, we were hauling international shipments at the time which came to a halt when borders closed. It was hard but we adapted.
We thought owning multiple tractor trailers was a good plan for growth and to increase revenue…. but it almost bankrupted us.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
NLDL offers a positive team environment, great collaboration and support. The drivers and I work very well together and use each other as resources to build a successful business.
What we are known for…a respectful, collaborative work environment. I make it a priority to let them know I appreciate them and check in to see what they need and what I could do better.
We don’t solicit or advertise to grow our team, in fact, we have a list of folks who have expressed interest in joining us. Additionally, these aren’t decisions I make solely. I ask for driver weigh in and input. A cohesive team is paramount in our success.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Respect
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nldlogisticsva.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newlifedelight
