New Era for Carhaulers: Workers at Squirrelly LLC Unite with Teamsters

In a significant development for the carhauling industry, Teamsters Local 89 has officially organized workers at Squirrelly LLC, a newly established carhaul company located in Stone Mountain, Georgia. This collaborative effort brings together a team of experienced drivers who were formerly with Jack Cooper, a company that faced its challenges recently.

Founded with the goal of revitalizing the carhauling landscape, Squirrelly LLC commenced operations at the Kentucky Truck Plant, marking a new chapter for its workforce. Each driver proudly signed union cards to join the Teamsters, thus ensuring their representation under the National Master Automobile Transporters Agreement (NMATA). This agreement is known for providing fair wages, comprehensive benefits, and safety protocols that enhance working conditions for drivers.

Avral Thompson, the Director of the Teamsters Carhaul Division and President of Local 89, expressed his optimism regarding this new partnership. He stated, "This is a great day for carhaulers and for the future of our industry. We’re proud to welcome Squirrelly workers into the NMATA and look forward to seeing them grow. With 10 new rigs on the way and experienced drivers taking control of their future, Carhaul Teamsters are stepping in to fill the void left by Jack Cooper’s closure."

The Teamsters Carhaul Division played a crucial role in negotiating terms that led Squirrelly LLC management to agree to voluntary recognition. This collaboration illustrates the commitment of the Teamsters to advocate for workers' rights and enhance industry standards.

Among the first drivers hired by Squirrelly LLC, Todd Davis shared his perspective on this monumental transition. "I was a nonunion carhauler until Jack Cooper hired me in 2012. That’s when I first experienced what it meant to be respected, paid fairly, and treated right," Davis remarked. He reflected on the potential downturn following Jack Cooper’s closure and expressed gratitude towards the Teamsters’ efforts that enabled him to return to a supportive work environment under the NMATA.

Squirrelly LLC is characterized by its commitment to progressive practices in the industry, particularly as a minority-owned enterprise. This aspect resonates deeply with many in the workforce, fostering a sense of pride and purpose. The drivers are not only returning to a familiar structure but are also participants in building a new legacy—one that prioritizes ethical operations.

Founded back in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has a long history of standing up for the rights of workers, with a membership of approximately 1.3 million across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. This recent development at Squirrelly LLC further underscores the enduring relevance of unions in today’s labor market.

As Squirrelly LLC continues to expand its operations and integrate its workforce, many are optimistic about the implications for the broader carhauling sector. The revitalization of union representation in this space not only signals hope for current drivers but also sets a precedent for future labor movements across various industries. The collaborative spirit between management and labor in this instance could serve as a template for other businesses aiming to enhance workplace equality and security.

For more information about the Teamsters and their initiatives, visit Teamster.org and follow their updates on social media platforms. The progressive trajectory of Squirrelly LLC symbolizes a potential renaissance in an industry that is ripe for transformation, benefiting labor and logistics as a whole.