In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Jason Reed of Reed’s Fuel and Trucking joins us to share the remarkable story behind one of Oregon’s longest-running family businesses. Now in its 86th year, the fourth-generation company has evolved from a 1940 moving and home heating operation into a high-volume wood residual hauling powerhouse serving sawmills across the region.

Jason reflects on growing up in the business—starting at just six years old—and how pride, community reinvestment, and a strong team culture have helped the company beat the odds, with fewer than 5% of family businesses making it to the fourth generation. With both of his children now involved, Reed’s is positioned to become a rare fifth-generation operation.

He also breaks down what truly sets Reed’s Fuel and Trucking apart: a 24/7/365 operation, a fleet of 40 do ...