This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Hopper Division Operations Managers Bryan Hill and Russell Vallance to break down how Oakley’s Hopper Division works, who it’s right for, and why it’s growing. They explain Oakley’s three dry bulk divisions (hoppers, end dumps, pneumatics), how hopper freight is consistent with many repeat customers (roofing granules, pet food, etc.), and why hoppers are often the simplest way for an owner-operator to get started, with no need for a wet kit or blower and relatively light trailers. They discuss pros such as steady freight, regular lanes, the ability to get many drivers home most weekends, and strong customer relationships, as well as cons including cleaning out trailers and competition from smaller hopper carriers. The conversation highlights how dispatchers are motivated to keep drivers generating revenue, the importance of effective communication regarding load times and breakdowns, the role of technology and e-logs in day-to-day operations, and specific growth needs in regions such as Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and the Carolinas. Overall, the key takeaway is that Oakley’s hopper division offers a strong niche with solid earning potential and consistency for committed owner-operators who value service and communication.
Key topics in today’s conversation include:
- Welcome to Today’s Episode on the Hopper Division (0:43)
- Introducing Bryan Hill and Russell Vallance and Their Backgrounds (4:54)
- Roles of Hopper Operations Managers and Board Structures (7:20)
- Pros of Hopper Division From an Operations Perspective (10:16)
- Cons for Drivers Like Cleaning Out Hoppers and Weather Challenges (13:02)
- Pay Structure, Weight Incentives, and Importance of Light Trucks (15:25)
- How Dispatchers Stay Motivated and Focused on Driver Earnings (18:57)
- Biggest Daily Challenges With Delivery Times and Communication (21:34)
- Lessons Learned Moving From Dispatcher to Operations Manager (23:49)
- Why Hopper Division Could Grow Much Larger and Why It Hasn’t Yet (28:04)
- Home Weekend Opportunities in Midwest and East Coast Regions (30:34)
- Key Messages to Current Owner Operators About Communication (33:49)
- Final Thoughts and Takeaways (42:34)
Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.
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