Eric Hessler, owner operator with the Heavy Haul Division at Bennett Motor Express, has been driving trucks for close to 10 years. Like many, Hessler began his career in the transportation industry after finishing a tour of duty with the military. While looking for a new career path, he took a leap of faith and responded to an online ad to attend truck driving school. After he completed the program, his first job was with Stevens Transport hauling reefer. Soon, he then purchased his first truck and trailer; a 2004 Volvo and flatbed trailer, later. Immediately, he fell deeply in love with trucking due to the independence and freedom to travel the open road all over the United States.
Six months into driving, he wanted to have greater flexibility and more skill in hauling other commodities. Eric had never pulled a flatbed trailer in his life and did not have a lot of knowledge and experience. As a new driver, he found himself seeking out knowledge or tips from mentors about the trucking industry (i.e., how to secure loads, how to handle DOT inspections, etc.). Many fellow truckers were happy to help, but Hessler realized he still needed help. He turned to the internet to help with further questions. While searching the YouTube, he could not locate any useful content or tutorial videos that answered his questions.
In July of 2020, he started the YouTube channel, Heavy Haul Nation. With many videos, his channel is a beneficial resource for truck drivers, gives other drivers in the industry a look into the life of a heavy haul truck driver, and it also showed his five-year-old son what his daddy did while working. Hessler is proud of his content, and as of today, Hessler’s channel has over 27,000 subscribers.
Eric and his family live near Orlando, Florida, and they will be welcoming another son in November! Please check out his YouTube channel, Heavy Haul Nation, below to see what it’s like out on the road to be a Heavy Haul driver with Bennett. If interested in driving for Bennett, please visit www.drive4bme.com.