K & H Transport, owned by Mario Malone, is based in Madison, Arkansas. This specialized dump transport service is making strides in the sector, transporting gravel, sand, topsoil, asphalt, and other minerals for various companies and organizations. Malone provides services across Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

With over 15 years of experience in the trucking industry, Malone has always had a passion for logistics and transportation. His journey began at a young age, inspired by his uncle’s company, which started back in 1969.

“I started writing business plans for a trucking company when I was 16,” Malone recalled. “I had uncles who drove trucks, and I told them I was going to give them jobs.”

Malone injected a significant sum of cash into the business, purchasing a dump truck, a tractor-trailer, and making necessary repairs and improvements. His dedication and strategic investments have paid off, but he recognized that to take on more contracts and further increase capacity, a new trailer was essential.

To support this growth, Malone looked for outside assistance. He was referred to Communities Unlimited (CU) by the East Arkansas Enterprise Community and has worked with the Entrepreneurship Team and Management Consultant Tracy Cook for the past year.

Cook worked to organize Malone’s financial statements and set up a bookkeeping system. Malone has also learned about business management and financial planning.

Additionally, Malone’s partnership with CU extends beyond technical assistance. Cook strategically blended with the CU Lending Team as Malone sought a loan. This loan, which closed in October 2023, will allow K & H Transport to acquire a new trailer, potentially doubling its revenue.

Working with CU Small Business Lender Candence Brooks, Mario has navigated the complexities of financing with confidence.

“They were precise in telling me what I needed to do and how to do it, and they always got back to me promptly. Tracy was exceptional, teaching me a lot about business. Candence has also been helpful and always responds quickly whenever I need something.”

Operating in the trucking industry comes with its challenges, particularly the rising costs of diesel. While K & H Transport receives fuel reimbursements, Mario strategically takes on contracts closer to home to minimize fuel costs. The company has also established strong retained earnings to ensure vehicle maintenance, maintaining a relationship with a local mechanic.

Malone is aware of the limitations imposed by equipment availability and weather conditions. To mitigate these risks, he plans to buy a trailer compatible with his tractor-trailer, allowing continuous operation even during adverse weather. He emphasizes, “When it’s raining, I don’t work because I may be doing dirt or rock. Having another kind of trailer will let me work all year round.”

He aims to secure more direct contracts by leveraging relationships with companies like Northside Hauling, Trail Construction, and Blood Hauling. By utilizing platforms like Trucker X, a freight marketplace for dump truck jobs, he maximizes opportunities between larger contracts.

“Mario has successfully run a sustainable business for years,” Cook said. “He saw an opportunity for growth, and he worked tirelessly to see it through. Now he is looking to provide his community with those same job opportunities he was provided years ago.”

“We ran into several setbacks while trying to secure his loan. Nonetheless, Mario persisted, and I am happy we got him to the closing table. Mario has what it takes to run a business and the grit to keep going no matter the circumstances.”

Mario’s optimism for the future is high. His ongoing collaboration with CU, particularly with their Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), further solidifies his strategic planning for future contracting opportunities.

“I’m excited. It’s just one step to growing again, so I can get to another truck,” Malone said.