
Founded in 1975 by Wally Tielens and his son Bruce as Wisconsin Express Lines — starting with a single truck hauling cheese from the Midwest to the East Coast — WEL Companies has grown into a leading refrigerated trucking, logistics, and temperature-controlled warehousing company. In 1988, Bruce and his brother Randy purchased the business from their father and renamed it WEL Companies, expanding into warehousing and integrated logistics. Today the company remains proudly family-owned, with CEO Bruce Tielens working alongside his children Chris (COO), Dalton (President), and Sarah in a true third-generation family business. WEL operates 400+ trucks and 500 trailers with terminals in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida. Specialties include dairy, cheese, candy, beverages, produce, dry goods, and minor temperature-controlled items — serving Fortune 500 companies from AIB Certified Superior facilities.
Pay drivers can count on: WEL drivers average 62 CPM, translating to a fleet-wide average of over $65,000/year — with top drivers earning significantly more. On top of base mileage pay, the SSA (Safety, Service, Availability) Performance Incentive adds an extra 5 CPM on all miles every 28 days — up to 13 payouts per year. That's a meaningful earnings boost for drivers who show up safely and consistently. Additional pay includes breakdown pay, layover pay, detention pay, stop pay, and per diem. Weekly pay with direct deposit.
Independent Contractors earnings: ICs partnering with WEL ICs receive 70% of line haul revenue, 86% of the fuel surcharge, and 70% of all accessorial pay including detention and stop-offs. WEL also covers reefer fuel costs and provides fuel discounts averaging around $0.75 per gallon at participating locations. Additional incentives include clean DOT inspection bonuses and no forced dispatch, allowing contractors more flexibility and control over their operation.
Driving options to fit your life:
Benefits that matter:
Equipment and terminal amenities: Late-model refrigerated fleet equipped with APUs, double bunks, and toll transponders. WEL''s 24/7 terminal amenities include onsite fitness centers, wellness center, washers/dryers, showers, and company car availability for Orientation purposes. Nearly 1 in 3 company drivers stays with WEL for at least 5 years — well below the industry average for turnover — because WEL backs up its driver-first culture with real pay, real home time, and real support. Student driver program available with paid training, tuition reimbursement for approved schools, and a pay increase after 90 days solo. Veteran-friendly employer with active veteran outreach initiative.
Phone
(800) 387-0088Address
1625 S. Broadway, De Pere, WI 54115