Sitting down with Tyler Fairey, owner
(803) 376-4884
How did you get started in this business?
I’m asked this question a lot – usually with a look of, “You must be crazy to want to do this every day!” My first job after college was as a financial advisor for AG Edwards in Charleston. I learned a ton about business during this time, but folks weren’t exactly lining up to hear the financial wisdom of a 23 year old. I pressed on for about five years, but knew it was time for a change. One of the associates in our office had joined his best friend in a new venture. They were in the moving and storage industry, but also serviced other niche markets that differentiated themselves from others. Their commitment to accountability, different hiring practices, and attention to detail was impressive. Besides, I really needed a job! From there, I picked up the Yellow Pages and called local moving companies until I found a job for base experience. For $8/hour I gave it my best every day while our licensure was being approved by the state. When we received the green light, one truck was purchased, and we were off and moving. And, we haven’t stopped since.
What differentiates your business from the other competitors?
People and process. We do a nice job of identifying good people who want to do a great job. We’ve put together a pay scale and employee growth program that puts the ball in our employees’ court. They are shown exactly what’s expected and the pay/benefits that follow. From there, our people have full-time supervision and continual training, and their performance is reviewed regularly. This program has made a huge difference in our staff’s abilities and motivation to do a great job for our clients.
What is distinct about your business?
Strong minds – not just strong backs. While having some athleticism is certainly important, it’s actually mental toughness and composure that we’re looking for in our employees. Remaining cool and calm in a high-stress environment over the course of a long Columbia summer day requires endurance, composure, and making lots of good decisions. I spent years working on our trucks and have the greatest respect for what our young men do.
