On the Road with Joseph Raymond Lightner

There’s something truly special about the call of the open road—especially when that journey has the power to bring joy into the lives of others. For Joseph Raymond Lightner, a dedicated driver on CitizenShipper, this call turned into an opportunity not just to explore, but to create unforgettable experiences for pet owners across the Southeast. Let’s delve into Joseph’s story and discover how CitizenShipper has become an integral part of his life, one mile at a time.

Discovering CitizenShipper

Joseph’s journey with CitizenShipper began in a rather serendipitous manner. “My neighbor was doing CitizenShipper with his girlfriend, who was very established on the website and having a great deal of success,” Joseph recalls. With a background that already married his passions for travel, animals and driving, the platform seemed like a perfect fit. Yet, he acknowledges the initial challenges, noting, “It does take some time and effort to get to making money, but it can be done.” Communication with a CitizenShipper advisor proved to be a turning point, offering valuable guidance as he embarked on this new venture.

The Journey Begins

The motivation for joining CitizenShipper was straightforward for Joseph: the allure of making extra money while doing something he loved. Armed with his trusty F-150 and outfitted with a camper shell, he hit the road, specializing in the transport of dogs. It didn’t take long for him to recognize the joy his services brought to people. “It is nice to see people get a new puppy and to be reunited with an old friend,” he shares, reflecting on the memorable shipment stories that have marked his experiences.

Ensuring Safety and Comfort on the Road

For Joseph, ensuring the safety and comfort of his furry clients is paramount. “They all travel in secure crates,” he states, underscoring the care taken to provide a safe journey for each pet. His preferred routes lie in the Southeast, particularly in the winter months when he seeks to avoid snow and icy roads, making each trip as smooth as possible for both him and his charges.

Building Success Through Coaching and Community

Like many about to embark on a new adventure, Joseph faced challenges early on, especially in winning bids. However, participation in coaching calls with CitizenShipper’s Driver Success Manager Haick Avakian proved to be a game-changer. “He gave me good tips,” Joseph says, revealing that one of the key techniques he learned was to bid low to stay competitive. These coaching sessions not only offered practical advice but also served as an incentive, boosting his confidence and equipping him with strategies for success.

Communicating with Transparency and Care

Joseph emphasizes the importance of ongoing communication with pet owners, sending updates at pick-up, then every four hours during the day, and giving notice one hour before drop-off. This meticulous approach to keeping pet owners informed has, without a doubt, played a significant role in achieving customer satisfaction. When unexpected situations arise, Joseph ensures to notify customers of delays in real time, maintaining a level of trust and transparency essential in the transport industry.

Paving the Road Ahead

With aspirations to make a full-time living wage from CitizenShipper, Joseph is keen on expanding his routes and bidding more actively. His story is a testament to the platform’s potential to not just supplement income but to forge a viable career path for those willing to commit. Joseph’s advice to new drivers? “Stick with it.” Simple yet profound, this encouragement embodies the spirit of persistence that has defined his journey.

“All of it,” he says, when asked about what he values most about CitizenShipper, reflecting a genuine appreciation for the resources at his disposal.

A Journey of Many Miles

The road, with all its unpredictability, has a way of revealing what we’re made of — our resilience, our ability to adapt, and our capacity for joy. For Joseph Raymond Lightner, the journey as a CitizenShipper driver has been one of discovery, learning, and fulfillment. Through each mile driven, each puppy delivered, and each customer satisfied, he’s not just transporting pets; he’s delivering happiness.

In Joseph’s story, we see the essence of what makes CitizenShipper more than just a platform for pet transport — it’s a community of individuals united by a shared love for animals and a passion for making a difference, one journey at a time.

For those inspired by Joseph’s journey and eager to chart their own course with CitizenShipper, the road is open, and the possibilities are endless. Join the community, make a difference, and witness how rewarding the journey can be — both for you and those you serve.

Are you ready to hit the road with CitizenShipper? Explore the opportunities, connect with a vibrant community, and start your journey with CitizenShipper today.