LONDON, KY – His love for trucks runs deep in Joey Johnson’s bloodline. Inheriting the interest from his grandfather and uncles as a child, he plans to pass that same passion and the trucking business he’s building today on to his children.
The Laurel County native started Five Star Transportation Services in 2021. Two years later, he’s added two trucks to his RV Transport Business fleet and the business continues to grow.
“When I decided I wanted to get into the trucking business, it was a mixture of wanting to do something to help financially support my family and doing something I enjoy,” Johnson said. “Trucking has been a part of my life since I was a child, from uncles and cousins to my grandfather, who inspired me to own a truck.”
While continuing to work a full-time job, he recognized the success of the booming transportation industry and wanted to be a part of its success. He owned two pickup trucks and decided to begin working in the RV Transportation business in 2021, but wanted to expand into something much larger in 2022.
While beginning his business, he found SKED and applied for a small business loan to purchase a truck to get his trucking business on the road.
“I looked at their website and gave them a call, and everyone was welcoming and personable,” Johnson said. “They helped a lot more than anyone could ever realize. They expedited the process and went out of their way to help me. Even if I need help with something that is not in their scope of work, they go out of their way to help me. They make me feel like they want me to succeed as much as I want to succeed.”
As Johnson’s business has grown, he’s returned to SKED to purchase more equipment to expand his business.
“Trucking has always been an interest of mine, and thanks to SKED, I was able to make my dream a reality,” he added. “In the beginning, I purchased one truck and trailer and since have purchased another truck with SKED.”
And he is not only providing for his family, but he is also creating jobs and helping others provide for theirs.
“Owning these two trucks has helped me provide a better life for my family as well as employing two drivers who are, in return, able to provide for their families,” Johnson said. “And the best part is we all enjoy what we do because we love the trucking industry.”
Johnson says it’s the emotional support of his family, along with SKED, which are helping him methodically build his business and plan for the future.
“Five Star Transportation Services would not be what it is today without the help of SKED and the support of my wife, who has also helped with every step of this journey. As far as the future of Five Star Transportation, I plan to expand into a business I can one day pass down to my children. And they can provide for their families doing what they love.”
SKED Director of Lending Bob Burgess says, “Joey came to SKED looking for some help in financing his business, and we were very happy to help. Joey is a hard-working entrepreneur, and with the SBA Microloan Program, as well as other sources of funding, we have been able to help his company grow.”
To learn how SKED helps small business owners do business better, visit www.skedcorp.com or call (606) 677-6100.
