February 2014 Feature...
Joel Olson Trucking Inc., Vancouver, WA
2014 Peterbilt 389

In the Pacific Northwest, nice trucks and Joel Olson are nearly synonymous.  “Often Imitated, Never Duplicated”, the motto proudly displayed on many of their units holds true today after 50 years in the industry.  From humble beginnings with an ancient gravel truck, Joel Olson Trucking has grown into the proud, 100 truck – strong fleet that currently serves as the standard bearer for innovation and appeal.

The year was 1962.  Joel Olson purchased his first truck, a 1957 Ford and began hauling rock products in the rugged coast range of western Oregon.  In 1968 Joel purchased four log trucks and, as the saying goes, never looked back.  The fleet has grown and diversified over the years, adding chip trucks, flatbeds, curtain vans and an innovative drop box program designed to recycle wood waste.  Trucks operate both on and off-highway, carrying everything from biomass to dry groceries.  Their primary area of service continues to be western Oregon and Washington, but also now operates into and out of California and are making their presence felt in Idaho as well.  All power units are Kenworth and Peterbilt with the majority of the highway trucks extended-hood Peterbilts pulling 4 axle 53’ flats and curtain vans. 

Februarys featured truck is a 2014 Peterbilt 389.  Riding on a 272 inch wheelbase, it features a 485 Paccar engine and 18 speed transmission.  Extended cab and sleeper panels were added as well as Dynaflex 8 inch stacks.  It rolls on low profile 22.5’s and wears the company’s signature Guards Red exterior.  A dropped visor, extra markers and older 359 – style headlights help with the retention of the classic Peterbilt extended-hood look.  This particular truck was the first of four identical units delivered to Joel Olson Trucking at the end of 2013.  All four are currently on the road pulling 48’ curtain vans and serving the company’s customers in Oregon Washington and California. 

On the web at:  www.joelolsontrucking.net