Redefining the Route: How Kojo Benton Started Benton Thompson Transportation
At Clicklease, we love seeing small business owners turn challenges into opportunities. Every day, we meet hardworking entrepreneurs who push through setbacks, adapt, and keep chasing their goals. One of those inspiring individuals is Kojo Benton, whose journey from a disqualified CDL to running his own transportation business is a story of resilience, determination, and the right equipment leasing at the right time. Here is his story.
In 2005, Kojo Benton began his career navigating highways as a tractor-trailer driver, hauling general freight. Reflecting on those early days, Benton recalls, "I was a flatbed driver. There's money to be made, but there are also great expenses—high diesel prices and low-paying freight." Over time, the appeal of the open road became overshadowed by mounting violations and the pressures of the trucking industry.
Benton’s career faced a turning point due to regulatory issues. "I realized my CDL had been disqualified," Benton explains. "I was in Nebraska when I found out, and it cost me an arm and a leg to get home. My dad had to fly out to deliver the load for me and drive me back." Despite no accidents, minor infractions accumulated, leading to his disqualification. "The city disqualified me, which I could eventually requalify for, but I thought, 'There must be other ways to use my skills as a driver.'"
With a resilient spirit and a passion for driving, Benton transitioned to the towing industry. A friend’s towing company became his entry point into a new world. "I was his first hire, and I fell in love with it—going in and out of auctions, providing roadside assistance," he says. This career shift laid the foundation for what would become Benton Thompson Transportation.
After 12 years in the towing business, Benton wanted to go back to being an owner-operator. However, starting his company came with its challenges. "Money was running short, and bills were still coming," Benton admits. To get the equipment he needed to start his business, he did his research which led him to American Trailers in Pennsylvania. Kojo's experience getting a trailer was remarkably smooth. “American Trailers introduced me to Clicklease," Kojo recalls. Clicklease leasing options are designed for business owners at all stages, including those just starting out, so there’s no requirement for time in business. At first, he was hesitant. "I looked at my son and said, 'Well, you know, I don't know about picking out the trailer before being approved.'" But the sales person reassured him, saying, "Don’t worry, you don’t need time in business, you'll be fine." Kojo ventured out to look at the trailers. " I found an 18-foot trailer and thought, 'Man, this is perfect.' It was brand new with new tires and not a scratch on it."
Despite his nervousness and limited financial means, Kojo proceeded. Clicklease’s approval amounts also meant Kojo could cover more than just the trailer. "My heart was beating fast," he admits. To his surprise, he received great news: "You've been approved!” Astonished, Kojo asked, "What? For how much?" The answer was $20,000. "I said, '$20,000? I could buy four trailers for that!' The sales person then explained, 'You don't have to use the whole amount, but you might need some accessories.' I realized I needed wheel straps and other things, so I got those too.”
About an hour later, Kojo had a brand new 2024 American Utility one-car hauler trailer with a dovetail hooked to his new truck. "It was just that simple," he says, still in disbelief. "I kept telling my son, 'They’re going to call any minute and tell us to turn around and bring that trailer back.'"
Balancing the excitement of new beginnings with the reality of financial commitments, Benton faced practical challenges head-on. Despite the early stages of his business, Benton’s story is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. "I can't really say it's a success story because I'm at the very beginning," he reflects. Yet, his vision is clear: "I'm going to dedicate 100% to me and my business."
For those considering starting their own business, Benton offers this advice: "Do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions. Take the initiative to find out for yourself. And save as much money as you can."
Kojo Benton’s path from a disqualified CDL to the owner of Benton Thompson Transportation is an example of resilience, resourcefulness, and relentless pursuit of his dreams. As he continues to navigate the roads of his new venture, Benton remains focused on steady growth and dedication, always driven by the passion that first led him to the open road.
Clicklease is built for moments like Kojo’s. When an entrepreneur is ready to move forward but needs the right equipment without the long wait or heavy up-front cost. With instant decisions, simple payment options, and the ability to include accessories, our goal is to help small business owners focus on growth instead of financial roadblocks.
Kojo Benton’s path from a disqualified CDL to the owner of Benton Thompson Transportation is an example of resilience, resourcefulness, and relentless pursuit of his dreams. As he continues to navigate the roads of his new venture, Benton remains focused on steady growth and dedication, always driven by the passion that first led him to the open road.
