Independence Day/Independent’s Day

Webster’s Dictionary defines Independence as : The quality or state of being independent.

Webster’s Dictionary defines independent as : 1) Free from the control of others: Self reliant 2) Not relying on others.

With that said, we should always remember Mercer is home to independent contractors. These contractors make their own decisions, and rightfully so, about where and when to run. The type of equipment they want to operate, and the rate for which they will run. In short, our contractors are self reliant and free from the control of others. Our contractor’s success or failure is in their own hands.

I feel part of Mercer’s job is to suggest ways to possibly help our contractors be successful and make a reasonable profit for their hard work and dedication. I truly believe Mercer is home to some of the best owner operators in the United States. I sell Mercer as a service carrier and our owner operators come through day after day helping to retain our customer base.

In these difficult economic times we must all look at ways to survive until the economy improves. All of us should look at operating a little differently than we have in the past. No, Mercer cannot  force change on our contractors, we can only suggest ways in which we feel you the contractor will benefit. Remember, Mercer can only thrive if our contractors are successful. To that end I would like to make a suggestion to our contractors. One I feel would benefit you the contractor with added freight availability and also benefit Mercer by giving us a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Every contractor should consider obtaining the HazMat endorsement on their license. Some of our contractors would be shocked at the amount of freight we GIVE BACK to shippers daily. This freight we are giving back has origins all over the United States. Most of the time the only HazMat involved is glue for roofing applications. The commodity is not dangerous to the driver. Obtaining the HazMat endorsement will open up additional freight offerings to you during these difficult times. The additional revenue will make it easier for you to be independent for all of the Independence Days to come.