Podcast: Insights on Building a Resilient Freight Brokerage from Liz Wayne

With the increasing complexity of supply chains and the growing demand for efficient logistics solutions, the role of freight brokers has become more crucial than ever. These intermediaries play a vital part in connecting shippers with carriers, optimizing routes, and ensuring timely deliveries.

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Liz Wayne, Founder and CEO of Able Transport Solutions INC. Join them as they discuss Liz’s journey from receptionist to successful entrepreneur, the challenges of starting and scaling a freight brokerage, and the importance of women in logistics.

A Serendipitous Start in Freight

Liz’s entry into the freight industry was, as she puts it, “a happy accident.” As an 18-year-old single mother, she was looking for a job with regular office hours to support her young son. This search led her to a receptionist position at a local trucking company.

“I needed a job with office hours when daycare providers were available. And so, I applied for some office jobs and lucky for me, a local trucking company had something available.”

This initial role sparked Liz’s curiosity about the industry. Despite starting in an entry-level position, she took every opportunity to learn about different aspects of the business, volunteering to help colleagues and absorbing industry knowledge along the way.

Liz’s initiative and willingness to take on additional tasks set her apart. She moved from reception to roles in billing, accounting, and eventually into brokerage and dispatching. This diverse experience laid the foundation for her future success as an entrepreneur.

Building Able Transport Solutions INC

After gaining experience in various roles within asset-based companies and pure brokerages, Liz took the leap to start her own company, Able Transport Solutions INC, in 2014. The name “Able” was chosen to reflect the company’s capabilities – capable, dependable, and reliable.

Starting as a solo operation, Liz faced the challenges of being a “24/7” entrepreneur while balancing family life.

This level of commitment illustrates the passion and drive that fueled Liz’s entrepreneurial journey.

Keys to Success in Freight Brokerage

Throughout the conversation, Liz offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry professionals:

1. Listen to the Customer: Liz emphasizes the importance of truly understanding customer needs and adapting services accordingly. This approach led Able Transport Solutions to specialize in niche markets like heavy haul and expedited shipping.
2. Continuous Learning: From her early days as a receptionist to her current role as CEO, Liz has always been eager to learn and grow. She advocates for seeking knowledge from various sources and applying it to one’s unique situation.
3. Empower Your Team: As the company grew, Liz learned the importance of delegating and trusting her team. She advises against micromanagement, stating, “You hire smart, capable people for a reason… in most cases, like your best to get out of their way.”
4. Plan for Scale: Liz stresses the importance of thinking long-term and setting up systems that can support growth from the beginning. She shares her experience of undergoing a major reorganization, wishing she had implemented certain structures earlier.

Women in Logistics: Progress and Potential

As a successful female entrepreneur in the industry, Liz is passionate about encouraging more women to pursue careers in logistics. She notes the positive shifts in industry culture and the increasing representation of women in various roles, including executive positions.

“We are almost to a point where we can stop talking about this… when we think about logistics and brokerages and that, like, we’re right there.”

While acknowledging that certain areas, like long-haul trucking, may have inherent challenges in attracting women, Liz sees great potential for women in logistics and brokerage roles. She emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive workplace cultures that are comfortable for everyone.

Looking Ahead: Growth and Innovation

With plans to double the size of Able Transport Solutions in the next three years, Liz continues to focus on growth and innovation. She recently hired a president to help drive the company’s expansion, demonstrating her commitment to scaling the business and her willingness to bring in top talent to achieve her goals.

Liz Wayne’s journey from receptionist to CEO is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, continuous learning, and a willingness to adapt. Her story serves as an inspiration not just for women in logistics, but for anyone looking to make their mark in the freight industry.

To learn more about Liz and her journey in the freight brokerage industry, listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.