Cagri Sarigoz · Updated July 1, 2024
Today, we bring you an exclusive interview with our very own David Ray Huffman, a CitizenShipper driver with an incredible story of how finding a new way to connect with potential clients turned into a profound journey of delivering happiness, one family at a time. You can find and book amazing, animal-loving transporters like David on CitizenShipper.
Introduction to the Transport Journey
David began his transport journey in 2020 and has since found great joy in every drop-off. Often delivering beloved pets to their eagerly waiting families, each delivery becomes an unforgettable experience.
Discovering CitizenShipper: A Friend’s Recommendation
David discovered CitizenShipper through a friend and quickly realized that it was a welcoming community where he could put his love for animals and driving to good use. With the motivation to help bring pets to their new homes while simultaneously growing his business, David found his home within the CitizenShipper community.
First Steps on CitizenShipper
Despite the initial challenge of winning his first few bids, David remained resilient. Through each hurdle, he learned the intricacies of the bidding process. Today, he stays busy transporting dogs and enjoying the moments of happiness with each family he delivers to.
A Memorable Shipment Story
One of his most memorable delivery experiences was a late-night drop-off of a greyhound puppy to a family of five. Despite the late hour, the home was abuzz with the excitement of the awaiting family. It’s these enriching moments that make David’s journey with CitizenShipper unforgettable.
Ensuring Safety and Comfort
David ensures the safety and comfort of the pets in his care, with regular stops every 2-4 hours for exercise, fresh water, and food. At every stop, he scrubs any crates that need cleaning, ensuring a comfortable journey for every pet he transports.
Advice for Beginner Drivers
David preaches three major principles for new drivers: resilience, communication and fair pricing. Also, keeping in touch with clients throughout the day helps to build trust and establish strong relationships.
The Joys of Midwestern Routes
David’s preferred routes are in the Midwest, where cheaper gas, fewer tolls and friendly clients make the journey memorable and rewarding for him.
Building a Future with CitizenShipper
David’s goal with CitizenShipper is to continually expand his business, bringing more drivers onboard to service more types of transportation requests. His future plans also include growing into other categories of service.
Managing Communication for Customer Satisfaction
David firmly believes in maintaining strong communication with his clients. His strategy involves initial phone contact to build relationships, followed by frequent text updates to keep the clients informed about their pet’s journey.
Handling Unexpected Situations
Unexpected situations are inevitable on the road. David is always prepared with a complete emergency kit in line with USDA regulations and AAA recommendations. Calm communication and consistent updates help reassure clients during these times.
Valuing Customer Feedback
Feedback from shippers has led David to increase his communication efforts. He thoroughly reviews his profile and performance metrics once a week, eager to continue learning and improving with every trip he makes.
The Rewards of the Job
The most rewarding part of David’s job is the moment of uniting the client with their newest family member. One especially impactful moment involved delivering a Dalmatian puppy to a young lady who had been dreaming of this moment for six years. Her joyous reaction made the journey all worthwhile.
Conclusion
David Ray Huffman’s story paints a vivid picture of the richness and rewards of being a driver with CitizenShipper. For those looking to bring joy, connection, and the comfort of home to families and their loved pets, CitizenShipper offers a gateway to a fulfilling journey. Each day on the road brings new experiences, learnings and the incomparable joy of making dreams come true.
Marketing and product leader with over 14 years of experience, proficient in growth marketing, product management, and team development in fast-paced environments. Experienced in establishing and growing marketing functions and teams from the ground up.
