On February 13, the United Highway Carriers Association was able to talk briefly with Jerry Miller, owner of Miller Trucking. Like the vast majority of UHCA members, Jerry owns a small-sized trucking company. UHCA also had a chance to speak with Jerry’s wife, Sandy, who plays an integral role in Jerry’s business....

UHCA: How would you describe Miller Trucking?

Jerry: We are a three truck operation, with two employees. I generally haul scrap steel for a company called Simsmetal America, out of their Rancho Cordova facility. Miller Trucking usually stays within a 150-mile radius, although we recently started hauling interstate.

UHCA:How did you get started in the trucking business? What line of work were you in before trucking? Jerry: I worked for Pepsi Cola for 23 years, and left as a result of the Company’s downsizing. Although I managed the Auburn Pepsi plant, I started out as a driver. I think it must be in the blood!

UHCA:What made you decide to join UHCA?

Jerry: My wife, Sandy, actually pointed me in their direction, Sandy works as the Chief-of-Staff for State Senator Ruben Ayala. Sandy was impressed by how dedicated the United Highway Carriers Association is in representing the interests of small trucking companies. From there it was not a tough choice. I think UHCA’s proven success in representing the interests of small trucking companies is conducive to my business.

UHCA:How can membership with UHCA benefit your business?

Jerry: With the numberous laws and regulations being considered and imposed each year, it is simply impossible for smaller companies to stay on top of all of the state and federal regulations. UHCA constantly provides informative updates on the regulations that affect my profits.

UHCA:What kind of regulations or laws would you like to see changed?

Jerry: I would like to see consumer protection increased in the diesel engine repair field. In the trucking industry, you are left at the mercy of the repair shop. I can think of few things as aggravating as receiving a bill for diesel repairs that is not even in the same ballpark as the estimate given. Automobile consumers are afforded much better protection when it comes to engine repairs than heavy haulers.

Sandy: Senator Ayala is researching this issue, to see if there is something that can be done legislatively.

UHCA:What has been your experience with the deregulation of the trucking industry? Jerry: It’s just a matter of learning the new procedures - - something that is probably inevitable with the growth of the market. This is where UHCA has proven helpful. When uncertain, we contact them for guidance.

UHCA:What role does your wife, Sandy, play in the operations of Miller Trucking?

Jerry: Sandy is an invaluable part of this Company. She does a lot of the paperwork and public relations.

UHCA:Sandy, how would your describe your contributions to you husband’s company?

Sandy: I help Jerry with the day-to-day bookkeeping and keep him updated on trucking issues and legislation that is being discussed in the Legislature. Both Jerry and I have jobs that are very time consuming. We try to be understanding and supportive of each other in this respect. With the onset of term limits in the California Legislature, I anticipate a career change at the end of 1998. Who knows, maybe I’ll go to work for Miller Trucking!

Reference: Vol. 34, No. 1 - UHCA Newsletter Highway - members