Fikes offers program that connects professional drivers with affordable equipment

The FreeWay program is open to independent contractrs and company drivers seeking to become owner-operators. (The Trucker file photo)

The Trucker News Services

4/9/2008

HOPE, Ark. — Fikes Truck Line has announced the launch of the Fikes FreeWay, a program that connects professional drivers with affordable equipment and supports their long-term success with bookkeeping, tax preparation and financial advice provided by partner Higher Roads.

The FreeWay is open to independent contractors and company drivers seeking to become owner-operators who meet the criteria for a lease with Fikes, according to Jack Milligan, who conceived the program.

Milligan serves a dual role as director of special projects at Fikes and as president of Higher Roads, an organization that helps truckers advance their personal and business goals.

“Many drivers want to get out on their own, but too often we see them get in over their heads, and quickly,” Milligan said. “We wanted a truck program where qualified candidates could own a truck and be positioned to run it profitably. We’re setting them up to succeed through payment plans, maintenance programs and financial services that get them focused on their goals. When they sign on with Fikes, they will never have to compete with company drivers or equipment.”

According to Milligan, the Fikes FreeWay helps truckers launch and maintain an independent operation, providing:

• Access to equipment that can be acquired and owned directly by the contractor through third-party equipment suppliers who specialize in quality used trucks. Fikes is not involved with the transaction and has no stake in the truck

• An ownership opportunity with zero-down

• A fair maintenance escrow that ensures operational safety while maximizing cash flow

• Convenient settlement deductions to manage truck payments

• Bookkeeping, tax prep and business planning with Higher Roads, and

• Buy-out options that make pay-offs and equipment upgrades possible.

“Fikes has always prioritized the personal success of our owner-operators,” said Gary Salisbury, who began his career at Fikes as a contractor and today serves as senior vice president and COO. “The Fikes FreeWay is designed for independent-minded professionals who want to create financial freedom and are committed to doing what it takes to get there. Fikes is the company that will support their achievements.”

Fikes Truck Line is a flatbed and heavy-haul specialist and an approved Department of Defense carrier. For more information on the truck line, visit www.fikes.com or call (800) 643-6611.

For more information on Higher Roads, visit www.higherroads.com or call (877) 444-0128.

For more information on the Fikes FreeWay program, contact Jack Milligan at (877) 444-0128 or visit www.fikesfreeway.com. 8