Show notes
What you’ll hear
In this BulkLoads Podcast episode, Emile van der Merwe shares how he went from arriving in the U.S. with just $100 to building a growing bulk freight company with six hopper trailers in under a year. Emile opens up about his journey from farming in Africa to starting Vander Trucking in Nebraska, and how the BulkLoads platform and Bulk TMS played a key role in managing growth, dispatching loads, and scaling quickly.
Jared Flinn offers real-time coaching on how Emile—and other carriers—can negotiate better freight rates, build stronger relationships with shippers, and stand out in a competitive market. The conversation also covers smart outreach strategies using the BulkLoads shippers tab, providing real-time updates to customers, and setting ambitious business goals with daily focus.
Whether you're just starting out in trucking or looking to grow your fleet, this episode offers actionable insights for using technology, communication, and grit to move your business forward.

Hosted by
Jared Flinn — Founder, BulkLoads
Twenty years of bulk-freight operating experience. Jared sits down weekly with the carriers, brokers, and shippers who actually move the freight — not the pundits who write about it. New episode every Monday.
Questions
Frequently asked
What is "Zero to Six Hoppers in a Year" about?
In this BulkLoads Podcast episode, Emile van der Merwe shares how he went from arriving in the U.S. with just $100 to building a growing bulk freight company with six hopper trailers in under a year. Emile opens up about his journey from farming in Africa to starting Vander Trucking in Nebraska, and how the BulkLoads platform and Bulk…
Where can I listen to "Zero to Six Hoppers in a Year"?
Stream this episode here on bulkloads.com, or find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — search "Zero to Six Hoppers in a Year" or the BulkLoads Podcast.
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