Kevin Haywood, owner-driver at Haywood Transport Services, gives his account of why he became an owner-driver, and how he got to running the business alongside his wife, Vicky (also a qualified transport manager).
“I wanted to run my own truck from passing my C+E test back in 2013, now 32 (looking 52), and 7 years on, we are 2 years into running our little outfit
“I didn’t come from a family of truck drivers, I came from a family of proud nurses, but for me, transport was always calling – It just took me a few years into my 20’s before I realised. Vick has always been hands-on, a fully trained HGV mechanic to start her career and now a train driver whilst also being transport manager.
“As to be expected it was a big leap of faith starting up, with so many hoops to jump through and boxes to tick, it was no easy task. Thankfully I had a friend I used to work with who helped me get our first bit of work through the door and we have never looked back since.
“I’m a big fan of Volvo trucks, I have V3 FH13 and I’m proud of how good it has been to us. It seems a lifetime ago since my first ever day, driving a version one FH in pounding rain with wipers that did more harm than good, it being the first time ever driving a 3 over 3 with the big boss sat next to me. Truth be known it was that truck that got me hooked on Volvos.
“I believe our industry is one to be very proud of; it feels great to be an important cog in a big machine. I also think it’s great that most transport firms are small to medium-sized businesses running 1-30 trucks, it really adds an element of individuality to the industry.
“With the current situation surrounding COVID-19, there is no denying that is has been tough for most hauliers across the board, (albeit feeling the pinch in places myself) I feel we as a company have been very lucky to have helped keep the country running through this time, though I do feel we have kept busy from the trust we have built up with our customers through our reliability and a phone that is always answered.
“The appreciation that has been shown for drivers and hauliers lately has been fantastic, it’s just what the industry needs at the moment to keep everyone motivated. I think once the virus has passed and we can start to recover it can only lead on to great things for us as an industry.
“The truck is definitely part of our family, it provided the transport at our wedding and our two girls love coming out to work with Dad, although my most regular passenger is my proud Dad – even though I’m convinced it’s just to get away from the chores at home!
“I would like to thank all of our customers and people that we work closely with at helping us to continue working not only through this difficult time but through normality too.”
Based in Bredbury, just off the M60 near Stockport, Haywood Transport Services started in April of 2018. Haywood Transport are a family run business which offers a range of traction and trailer services.
