Daily Big Rig: 2022 Peterbilt 389 “Last Dance”

Gorin, Missouri-based Dale Musgrove is no stranger to the trucking industry. With over three decades of experience, he has witnessed the evolution of the business and adapted to its changing landscape. In 1988, he established Dale Musgrove Trucking LLC and embarked on a journey that would lead him from hauling grain and fertilizer to crisscrossing the country with a fleet of trucks. Musgrove’s story takes an intriguing twist as he returns triumphantly to trucking in 2022, featuring his stunning 2022 Peterbilt 389 at the 2022 Shell Rotella SuperRigs truck show in Branson, Missouri.

A Journey Through the Years:

Dale Musgrove’s career in trucking began with humble origins, where he initially focused on hauling agricultural products. As the years rolled by, he expanded his operations, adding a second truck in 1993. This significant step marked the beginning of his over-the-road ventures, primarily serving a food distributor based in Illinois with routes extending to California and back. For two decades, Musgrove tirelessly navigated the highways, ensuring the timely delivery of goods.

A Hiatus to Farming:

In 2013, after two decades of dedicated trucking, Dale Musgrove decided to shift his focus. He redirected his energy towards farming, putting his trucking endeavors on hold. He immersed himself in agriculture for nine years, nurturing the land and overseeing his farming operations. However, the allure of the open road and the call of the trucking industry never indeed left him.

The Return to Trucking:

In 2022, Dale Musgrove boldly decided to reenter the trucking world. He did so with style, showcasing his brand-new 2022 Peterbilt 389 at the prestigious 2022 Shell Rotella SuperRigs truck show in Branson, Missouri. The gleaming truck is a testament to his commitment to the industry he loves. Musgrove ordered the truck in January 2021 and finally received it at the end of November, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his trucking journey. To help manage his growing operations, he brought in another driver, Shawn Phillips, who now pilots the 389 while hauling machinery to the West Coast.

Customized Excellence:

Dale Musgrove’s Peterbilt 389 is a masterpiece of customization. The truck features a range of custom additions, including extra lights, a new front bumper, and fresh fenders. While the interior remains stock for now, Musgrove plans to further enhance it with additional lights and a sound system soon. One distinctive touch that adorns all of his trucks is the dreamcatcher Peterbilt emblem accent, a unique and meaningful addition inspired by his son.

The “Last Dance” Moniker:

Musgrove’s 2022 Peterbilt 389 earned its moniker, “Last Dance,” when he acquired it. His wife and son playfully suggested that this would be the last truck he’d purchase, marking the end of his truck-buying journey. However, Musgrove humorously retorts that it’s merely “Last Dance, part 1,” alluding to the fact that there’s always room for sequels and new adventures in the world of trucking.

Navigating the Current Business Climate:

While the current economic environment presents challenges for many owner-operators, Dale Musgrove’s niche market focus has helped maintain reasonable service rates. He’s also actively pursuing direct contract freight, a strategic move that promises to alleviate some of the fuel-related cost pressures.

Dale Musgrove’s return to trucking with his stunning 2022 Peterbilt 389 is a testament to his enduring passion for the industry. With decades of experience, a commitment to customization, and an eye for opportunity, he leaves an indelible mark on the road. As he affectionately dubs it “Last Dance, part 1,” Musgrove reminds us that every journey has its sequels, and the open road always beckons for one more adventure.

See more photos and thanks: Custom Rigs