Cover Story

Marvin and Vicki Dewey-Stars Expedited, Inc.

In 2002, Marvin and Vicki Dewey were ready to expand their young fleet owner business, and they hoped to work with shippers convenient to their home in Rantoul, IL. When they discovered that Stars Expedited, LLC, the 100% owner-operator division of Franklin, WI-based JDC Logistics, Inc., had a steady customer located just blocks from their home, the Deweys were confident they had found the right business partner.

“We learned that our drivers could run steady, profitable runs from Rantoul to Detroit and back, and that was too good of a deal to pass up,” remembers Marvin. The Deweys operated two trucks at the time, and both units were geared for local use, not demanding, over the road runs. “Stars had an affordable lease purchase program going,” says Marvin, “so I leased on and signed up for two great pieces of late-model equipment that allowed me to begin expanding my business profitably.”

Currently, Marvin and Vicki Dewey Trucking operates a fleet of 21 trucks, with 13 leased to Stars Expedited. “It works great for us and our drivers,” says Marvin. “With four dedicated trips out weekly to Detroit and back, our drivers run steady drop and hook freight with no waiting at the dock. They know their routes, and they get home several times a week and weekends, too.”

Marvin Dewey first got behind the wheel of a big rig back in 1982 after working as an ironworker in Illinois. “Business started to fall off, and I had to find another way to make a living,” remembers Marvin. “My brother owned a truck, and I rode with him a few times. It wasn’t long before I realized that I’d enjoy doing the job, so I bought my own truck and hit the road as an owner operator. I’ve been doing it ever since,” he says.

It is Marvin’s years of experience and strong Midwest work ethic that makes him such a success as a fleet owner. Well, that and the consistent support he has received from his wife, Vicki, through the years.

“Back when I was out on the road, I’d talk with Vicki two or three times a day, and that kept my spirits up,” Marvin remembers. “Now she helps me run Marvin and Vicki Dewey Trucking and manage the day-to-day responsibilities of the job.”

The Deweys have raised a son, Jason, and a daughter, Tishlyn. Both children are now grown, and they actively participate in their parents’ company. Jason works in the shop and helps keep the equipment running smoothly, while Tishlyn manages the administrative tasks necessary
to support a fast-growing motor carrier.

As for the future, the Deweys plan to continue expanding their business, a goal that will be quickly realized with the ongoing support of Stars Expedited. “Stars gives us the steady freight we need to succeed and grow,” says Marvin. “They stand behind what they say, and they make
all of their resources available to us.”

The staff of Over the Road and Pro Trucker magazines would like to wish Marvin and Vicki continued success with Stars Expedited, LLC.