From Laptop to Legacy: J-M Trucking’s 27-Year Journey with Truckstop

In the heartland of America, where endless highways stretch across Nebraska’s vast plains, Junior and Marlene Watermeyer have been quietly building something extraordinary. For nearly three decades, their company, J-M Trucking, has proven that with the right tools, partnerships, unwavering dedication, and a willingness to embrace change, small trucking operations can not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.

A Partnership Born at a Trucking Show

The J-M Trucking and Truckstop success story began 27 years ago at a bustling trucking show, where Junior and Marlene first encountered representatives from Truckstop. In an era when the internet was still finding its footing and smartphones were the stuff of science fiction, the Watermeyers made a decision that would transform their business forever. They didn’t just sign up for a load board – they invested in a complete technological transformation, getting set up with a laptop, internet access, and Truckstop’s innovative load matching platform.

Embracing Technology When It Mattered Most

What sets J-M Trucking apart isn’t just their longevity, but their early adoption of technology that many in the industry were hesitant to embrace. While competitors were still working the phones and relying on traditional broker relationships, the Watermeyers were already leveraging digital tools to find better loads, optimize routes, and build a more efficient operation.

This technological foresight didn’t just improve their bottom line – it fundamentally changed how they approached their business. With access to real-time load information and the ability to book freight digitally, J-M Trucking could make faster decisions, reduce deadhead miles, and ultimately provide better service to their customers.

A Blueprint for the Next Generation

Today, as the trucking industry faces unprecedented challenges – from driver shortages to rising fuel costs to increasing regulatory demands – J-M Trucking stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring owner-operators and small fleet owners. Their journey offers several key lessons for the next generation of truckers:

Innovation over tradition.

While respecting the industry’s rich heritage, the Watermeyers understood that success requires adaptation. They didn’t cling to “the way things have always been done” but instead embraced new tools and technologies that could give them a competitive edge.

Partnership matters.

Their 27-year relationship with Truckstop demonstrates the value of finding reliable partners and maintaining those relationships over time. In an industry where trust is paramount, long-term partnerships provide stability and growth opportunities. “I don’t know what we’d have done without Internet Truckstop,” said Junior.

Technology as an equalizer.

J-M Trucking proves that small operations can compete with larger fleets when they leverage the right technology. Modern load boards, fleet management software, and digital communication tools level the playing field, allowing smaller operators to access the same opportunities as major carriers.

J-M Trucking’s Lessons for Tomorrow’s Truckers

For young entrepreneurs looking to break into trucking or existing owner-operators seeking to grow their operations, J-M Trucking’s story offers a roadmap for success:

Start with the right tools: Just as the Watermeyers invested in that first laptop and internet connection, today’s truckers need to embrace modern technology from day one. Whether it’s electronic logging devices, fleet management software, or advanced load boards, the right tools can make the difference between struggling and thriving.

Build lasting relationships: The trucking industry runs on relationships. J-M Trucking’s quarter-century partnership with Truckstop shows the value of finding good partners and nurturing those relationships over time.

Stay adaptable: The industry will continue to evolve, with new regulations, technologies, and market conditions constantly emerging. Success belongs to those who can adapt while maintaining their core values and commitment to excellence.

Think long-term: Building a sustainable trucking business isn’t about quick wins or shortcuts. It’s about making smart decisions, reinvesting in your operation, and playing the long game.

Looking Forward to the Road Ahead

As J-M Trucking enters its third decade of partnership with Truckstop, Junior and Marlene Watermeyer continue to demonstrate that small trucking companies can achieve remarkable longevity and success. Their story serves as both inspiration and instruction for the next generation of truckers who are just beginning their journey.

In an industry often focused on the challenges ahead, J-M Trucking reminds us that with the right approach, technology, and partnerships, the road forward is full of opportunity. For aspiring owner-operators and small fleet owners, the Watermeyers have shown that success isn’t reserved for the biggest companies – it belongs to those who are willing to evolve, adapt, and never stop driving forward.

The next generation of truckers would do well to follow their example: Embrace technology, build strong partnerships, and remember that in trucking, as in life, the journey is just as important as the destination.