A TRUCKING FAMILY
Cole Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer, welcomes us into the family atmosphere at Stevens Trucking, one of North America’s premier carriers
Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Poppi Burke
This is not just a business – it’s our way of life. When all of us are in it together, we have to make things work.”
Cole Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer, is the youngest of three sons working at Stevens Trucking (Stevens), founded by his father Kenney in 1979.
Having been around trucks his whole life, it was an easy transition for Cole when he joined the family company 10 years ago after graduating from the University of Oklahoma.
“My two older brothers were already in the business; we live, vacation, and do everything together, so I always felt like I understood what was going on and it was really easy to dive into,” he reflects.
What started with one truck and a dream has matured into something much greater for Stevens as it now
operates a specialized fleet of over 400 trucks and more than 1,800 trailers across the US.
“Currently, we have a corporate terminal in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (OK) and own some others in the state,” Cole informs us.
“We also have about 15 other drop yards that we lease across the country in the Upper Midwest, Southeast, and Central US, and service all 48 lower states as well as Canada.”
JUST-IN-TIME DELIVERY
Stevens has become one of North America’s premier carriers with Kenney’s hotshot mentality of just-intime delivery at the core.
“We need to focus on delivering every load on time, which keeps customers around. If you don’t, then you’re going to have a lot of dwell time with people’s goods, they’re not
going to be happy, and you’re not going to be making money doing it, so it’s not just some simple talking point,” emphasizes Cole.
“From a profitability perspective, we always want to play hot potato with these trailers. You want to get freight on and off as quickly, safely, and legally when it comes to hours of service as possible,” he insights.
The company therefore tries to deliver on time, every time for its diverse client base and, from a core business perspective, free up its assets to generate revenue.
Stevens offers a drop-andhook solution that keeps freight moving quickly and securely. This methodology also equates to drivers getting the miles they’re promised thanks to its high trailer-to-truck ratio.
Its dedication to timely delivery is maintained by a team of just under 500 employees with many years of experience in the US trucking industry.
“Our entire team is based here in the US. When you’re dealing with people in our operations team, they know what’s going and they’ve driven trucks, unlike some of the competition who outsource a lot of things,” Cole acclaims.
FAMILY FEEL
There is a huge family feel at Stevens, whose upper management is almost entirely made up of family members.
From the top down, there’s a family member involved in every single department of the company.
“We work together, play together, and actually live together on the same family compound,” Cole shares.
“We genuinely love each other and drive the business forward because we all rely on living off it. You don’t get to choose your family members, so you should always try to work things out because family comes first.”
This family feel has been passed down the organization and there are no ulterior motives as everyone is trying to accomplish the same mission.
The Stevens family
“WE GENUINELY LOVE EACH OTHER AND DRIVE THE BUSINESS FORWARD BECAUSE WE ALL RELY ON LIVING OFF IT. YOU DON’T GET TO CHOOSE YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS, SO YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TRY TO WORK THINGS OUT BECAUSE FAMILY COMES FIRST”
– COLE STEVENS, CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, STEVENS TRUCKING
“We’re genuinely all in this together; that’s what gives Stevens the family feel. We lead by example because that’s what we do in our day-to-day lives.”
By focusing on building a familyfriendly atmosphere for its staff, Stevens has reshaped the industry.
“We’re a group that is goaloriented. That’s how our family operates and we’re trying to execute those goals,” affirms Cole.
Stevens is also a team when it comes to the business side of things
and driving forward to achieve its goals.
The company tries to provide a healthy working environment for its people to operate in, which can be tough in trucking as it’s a very fastpaced, stressful, and tough industry.
“Our emphasis is always on trying to take some of the stress off our people. That means helping your coworker with an extra dispatch on a load of keying in some data for a customer, rather than just walking past the dirty laundry.”
STEVENS’
VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES
VISION – To be the best embodiment of what a trucking company should be by offering best-in-class services and facilities.
MISSION – Reshape the industry by focusing on building a family atmosphere for staff to ensure they always have a place to call home.
VALUES – Being a familyrun company puts Stevens’ employees front and center since they are an extension of the family.
Cole Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer
Driving Success
In the dynamic landscape of commercial transportation, the reliability and efficiency of a fleet are paramount. For trucking powerhouses like Oklahoma City’s own Stevens Transport, known for their extensive operations and commitment to excellence, having a trusted partner for vehicle sales, service, and support is not just a convenience - it’s a necessity. Enter Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City, a full-service commercial vehicle dealership that embodies the spirit of a true “one-stop shop,” providing comprehensive solutions that keep America’s commerce moving.
A Foundation of Excellence: The Premier Truck Group Advantage
Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City, strategically located at 5301 W I-40 Service Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73128, is more than just a dealership; it’s a vital hub for the commercial trucking industry in the region. As a proud member of Daimler Truck North America and part of the esteemed Penske Automotive Group, Premier Truck Group leverages a vast network and deep industry expertise to offer an unparalleled suite of services designed to meet the diverse and demanding needs of modern trucking companies.
From the moment a truck rolls onto their lot or a fleet manager makes a call, the “Premier Way” becomes evident. This philosophy is rooted in a customer-centric approach, prioritizing speed, friendliness, and thorough service. For an enterprise like Stevens Transport, where every minute of uptime translates directly to profitability and customer satisfaction, this commitment to efficiency is invaluable.
Comprehensive Services:
Beyond the Sale Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City distinguishes itself through a truly integrated service model. They understand that a commercial vehicle’s lifecycle extends far beyond its initial purchase, requiring continuous support to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales: Tailored to Your Needs
The dealership boasts an elite selection of new Freightliner and Western Star commercial vehicles, two brands synonymous with durability, innovation, and performance in the heavy-duty trucking sector. For companies with diverse operational requirements, the ability to choose from a wide array of new trucks, equipped with the latest advancements in fuel efficiency, safety, and driver comfort is a significant advantage.
How Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City Powers Companies Like Stevens Transport
Beyond new sales, Premier Truck Group also offers an extensive inventory of high-quality, previously owned trucks from all makes. This vast selection, accessible through their expansive dealership network across the US and Canada, ensures that businesses of all sizes, including those expanding their fleets like Stevens Transport, can find the right truck to fit their specific operational needs and budgetary considerations. Their experienced sales team, including contacts like Jonathan Magas (New Truck Sales Manager) and Sunny Ghag (Remarketing Sales Manager), are dedicated to guiding customers through the selection process, ensuring the chosen vehicle is a perfect match for the business.
Unrivaled Service and Maintenance: Maximizing Uptime
Downtime is the enemy of any trucking operation.
Premier Truck Group’s service department is meticulously designed to minimize this impact, offering a full spectrum of maintenance, repair, and diagnostic services. Their team of OEMcertified technicians possesses the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to handle everything from routine preventative maintenance to complex engine and transmission repairs.
A key differentiator is their ability to perform warranty work on a wide range of brands, including Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Isuzu, Freightliner Custom Chassis, Detroit, and Cummins. This comprehensive capability ensures that all aspects of a truck’s needs can be addressed under one roof, streamlining the maintenance process for busy fleets.
Furthermore, Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City offers specialized services that cater to the demanding nature of commercial trucking:
• Mobile Field Service: Recognizing that breakdowns can happen anywhere, their fully equipped Mobile Service trucks are ready to provide onsite troubleshooting, diagnostics, light engine repairs, air conditioning service, electrical system repairs, and even onsite warranty repairs. This mobility is a critical asset for long-haul operations.
• Roadside Assistance: For those unexpected moments on the road, Premier Truck Group provides access to roadside assistance and technical information, ensuring help is always within reach.
• Elite Support Program: As an Elite Support certified dealer, Premier Truck Group adheres to stringent criteria across customer service areas. This includes “Express Assessment,” aiming to provide a preliminary assessment of needed repairs, estimated completion time, and cost within two hours of arrival. This commitment to transparent and timely communication is invaluable for fleet managers planning their routes and schedules. The program also emphasizes “Robust Parts Available” through a data-driven stocking program and “Exceptional Amenities” for drivers while their trucks are being serviced.
• Oasis RV Service Network: For recreational vehicle owners, the dealership is also part of the Oasis RV Service Network, with technicians trained to work on FCCC chassis and access to a nationwide parts distribution system.
Parts Department: The Right Components, Right Away
Having the correct parts readily available is crucial for efficient repairs and maintenance. Premier Truck Group’s parts department stocks a large selection of OEM and aftermarket parts, including those for Freightliner, Detroit, Thomas Built Bus, and Alliance. Their commitment to using OEM branded replacement parts ensures higher quality, better fit, and longer life for critical components, directly contributing to the longevity and reliability of a commercial fleet.
State-of-the-Art Collision Repair: Getting Back on the Road
Accidents, unfortunately, are a reality in the trucking industry. Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City’s collision center, conveniently located on the same property as the main dealership, is a full-service, heavyduty paint and collision repair facility. Staffed by factorytrained technicians, they are dedicated to reducing downtime and getting damaged trucks back on the
road quickly. They work seamlessly with all insurance companies and provide quick and accurate estimates, simplifying the recovery process for their clients.
Financial Services: Supporting Your Investment
Understanding the significant investment that commercial vehicles represent, Premier Truck Group offers comprehensive financial services, including truck financing, insurance, and extended warranty coverages. These services are provided at competitive prices, designed to fit various budgets and provide peace of mind for truck owners and fleet operators.
The Partnership with Stevens Transport: A Synergistic Relationship
For a company like Stevens Transport, with its extensive fleet and rigorous operational demands, a partnership with a dealership like Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City is more than a vendor-client relationship—it’s a strategic alliance. Stevens Transport’s commitment to delivering goods safely and efficiently across long hauls
requires a fleet that is consistently in top condition. Premier Truck Group’s ability to provide timely service, readily available parts, and expert repair capabilities directly supports Stevens Transport’s operational continuity and overall success.
Whether it’s acquiring new, fuel-efficient Freightliner or Western Star models to expand their capacity, ensuring existing trucks receive top-tier preventative maintenance, or swiftly addressing unexpected repairs, Premier Truck Group serves as an indispensable partner. Their mobile service and roadside assistance are particularly vital for a company with trucks constantly on the move, offering a lifeline that minimizes disruptions. The emphasis on customer care, coupled with competitive pricing, aligns perfectly with the needs of a large-scale trucking operation focused on both performance and fiscal responsibility.
Experience the Premier Way Today
Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City stands as a testament to comprehensive commercial vehicle support. Their dedication to a customer-centric approach, combined with a full suite of services encompassing sales, maintenance, parts, collision repair, and financial solutions, makes them an invaluable asset to the commercial trucking community.
For Stevens Transport and other businesses relying on robust and reliable commercial vehicles, Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City is not just a dealership; it is a strategic partner, committed to their success on the open road.
To learn more or to experience the Premier Way, commercial vehicle operators and businesses are invited to call (405) 917-5009 or visit Premier Truck Group online at premiertruck.com.
“THIS IS NOT JUST A BUSINESS – IT’S OUR WAY OF LIFE. WHEN ALL OF US ARE IN IT TOGETHER, WE HAVE TO MAKE THINGS WORK”
– COLE STEVENS, CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, STEVENS TRUCKING
STEVENS’ SERVICES – AT A GLANCE
OILFIELD TRANSPORTATION – Stevens provides 24/7/365 expedited hauling for the oilfield industry, from lightweight loads to oversized freight across the lower 48 states.
DRY FREIGHT SOLUTIONS – The company specializes in full truckload deliveries with around-the-clock dispatch and satellite tracking.
SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT FLEET – Its versatile fleet includes flatbeds, double drops, gin trucks, winch trucks, hotshots, lowboys, forklifts, and more – ready for any job.
SMARTER GREEN INITIATIVES – Stevens is committed to reducing its environmental impact through efficient technology and sustainable transportation practices.
As part of its family atmosphere, Stevens places its employees front and center through showcases and marketing campaigns.
This puts names to faces and provides a window into the inner workings of the business and an understanding of its morals and
IN-HOUSE MAINTENANCE
Stevens uses a lot of cutting-edge technology and software programs to carry out maintenance in-house.
“It requires true logistics when managing purchase orders, invoicing, stock keeping units (SKUs), and all
these different things yourself, rather than just making a payment on a truck you’re leasing,” Cole enlightens.
Add in the fact Stevens has 400 trucks moving around the US in real time tied to another 400 active and 1,400 dwelling trailers, it’s a large operation with thousands of moving pieces per day.
“You need to have some form of centralized dispatch and maintenance programs to keep your core data together and ensure you’re all executing in sync.
“We always say we should be a well-oiled machine and moving like an engine. The pistons should be firing in
tandem,” he elaborates.
Stevens is expanding with some terminals in Southwest OK – key real estate that will help the company better service customers and give its operations team more flexibility when it comes to equipment and maintenance.
“Whenever you get to open up a terminal that has a full-service shop, that’s a big thing. Because we do all our maintenance in-house, it’s really exciting what’s going on,” Cole concludes.
As well as putting its real estate acquisitions to bed, Stevens is focused on winning new business for some large blue-chip
keeping up its safety program, and building on vendor relationships as the company pursues sustained, healthy, and organic growth.
