Turning Market Shifts into Opportunity Over the decades, Hitchin’ Post has navigated multiple industry cycles by staying flexible and customer relationship-driven. In the mid-1990s, they sold Wells Cargo trailers and continued to grow into the trailer sales market. Hitchin’ Post’ s operations were challenged during the 2008 recession, when they temporarily lost their Big Tex franchise and came close to shutting their doors.
In 2011, Hitchin’ Post identified an opportunity to strengthen relationships they had built by attending the NATDA Trailer Show in Dallas. The decision to attend marked an important turning point of the business, where onsite show-floor conversations led to partnerships that expanded inventory while preserving financial stability.
By 2012, brands including Aluma, Look, and Big Tex were actively supporting Hitchin’ Post’ s growth with short-term consignment agreements, which transitioned into traditional agreements. As a result of attending the NATDA Trailer Show and securing these partnerships and others, the dealership now carries between $ 2.5 and $ 3 million in inventory, reflecting decades of steady, intentional progress.
Service as the Competitive Advantage Hitchin’ Post serves customers throughout Las Vegas and across a 150-mile radius, stretching into California, Arizona and Utah. From the start of Hitchin’ Post, parts and service have been a central part of the business. Today, Hitchin’ Post maintains approximately $ 1 million in parts inventory and sells between 15,000 and 20,000 parts each month.
The service department has grown to include four mechanics focused primarily on routine wear-and-tear maintenance such as brakes, lighting, and general upkeep. By prioritizing reliable service and long-term support for their customers, Hitchin’ Post has positioned itself as a trusted resource for trailer owners across the region.
Looking Ahead with Hitchin’ Post Hitchin’ Post has been an NATDA member since 2012, when joined after attending their first NATDA Trailer Show. Owner Bruce Childress notes that the company has attended the show most years since then, and the relationships built with manufacturers have played an important role in supporting the dealership’ s continued success. He plans to attend Trailer Tech Expo powered by NATDA this February in Reno to connect with trailer manufacturers, learn about new products, and enjoy the convenient location on the West Coast.
Hitchin’ Post remains focused on smart, sustainable growth. The addition of Air-Tow trailers two years ago expanded the dealership’ s offering in innovative equipment solutions. While continuing to serve the trailer market, the next generation of the family is exploring growth for the company with add-on options such as extended warranties, tire protection, and GAP coverage as potential enhancements in 2026.
With over five decades in business, Hitchin’ Post Trailer Sales stands as a reminder that longevity comes from preparation, relationships, and disciplined decision-making. As Bruce puts it:“ Don’ t live like you’ re new rich. Don’ t overpay yourself. Build the business.” Following this sound strategy for more than half a century, Hitchin’ Post is positioned to continue serving its customers and community well into the future.
46 NATDA Magazine www. natda. org