How SBA Fueled Woody’s Trucking’s Growth & Expansion

Woody’s Trucking started in Lester Prairie, MN with a handful of trucks, and their primary efforts spent hauling materials like sand, gravel, and salt. Since the beginning, Terri and Mike Wood had their sights set on growing Woody’s Trucking into a model, family-owned enterprise with an unwavering commitment to satisfaction and meeting delivery deadlines.

In 2011, Woody’s Trucking moved to Wilmar, MN, which has proven to be a significant milestone for the business. In 2015, Woody’s Trucking entered an expansion phase which included adding to their fleet, and purchasing their 17,600 square foot building, solidifying their commitment to growth. Today, Woody’s Trucking has a full-service location, including a convenient drive-through washout facility.

Woody’s Trucking offers modern, refrigerated, temp controlled truck transportation to 40 contiguous states. Their trucks keep product protected from heat and cold, and they specialize in working with fresh and frozen food wholesalers. Woody’s Trucking is managed by both Terri and Mike Wood, who attribute their success to dedicated drivers, local customers, and well-maintained equipment.

Throughout their foundation and growth stages, Woody’s Trucking has leaned on expertise from the Southwest Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Terri has worked with the same SBDC consultant since 2012, who has supported her efforts in steering the company through their strategic relocation, and the ups and downs of the trucking industry. Additionally, Woody’s Trucking obtained SBA 504 loans in 2015 and 2020 to help fuel the business’ expansion.

When Terri assumed control of the business, she implemented changes that would later contribute to the substantial growth of Woody’s Trucking. At the time of transition, the fleet consisted of only a few trucks, but under Terri’s leadership, the business has flourished to a fleet of 18 trucks today.

Terri is committed to community, shown by her support of other small businesses. In 2024, Woody’s Trucking was recognized as SBA’s Minnesota Women-Owned Small Business of the Year. Terri’s connection with the Southwest SBDC led her to pursue a position on the Minnesota SBDC board, where she shares her experiences and contributes her expertise to uplifting other small business owners. Over time, Woody’s Trucking has demonstrated generosity, directly contributing to several initiatives and programs that benefit their community in Wilmar, MN.