Colby Varley · June 8, 2025

Podcast: The Exceptional Sales Leader Podcast
June 8, 2025
In this episode I enjoy a tremendous conversation with Colby Varley, VP Sales at Advanced Transportation Services (ATS), and we explore the intersection of logistics, sales strategy, and operational excellence in the trucking industry. Colby shares rich insights from his…

Redefining Excellence in Refrigerated Transportation
40+ years ATS refrigerated freight track record97% On-time deliveries2 industry awards Blue Book & Food Chain DigestVP & co-owner ATS refrigerated transportation
Colby Varley is a seasoned leader in the refrigerated transportation sector, currently serving as Vice President and co-owner of ATS, a premier non-asset-based carrier that has been an established brand for over 40 years. Colby’s unique background combines hands-on experience with strategic leadership, having risen through the ranks from truck driving to executive management. His journey began in the produce offices where his father worked, instilling a lifelong passion for logistics and a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies.
Colby’s expertise is multifaceted. He excels in creating strong relationships with major grocery chains and shippers, ensuring white-glove service that prioritizes quality over cost. His commitment to excellence extends to the carrier partners ATS collaborates with, emphasizing value and reliability over mere affordability. Colby's intimate knowledge of every operational detail, from loading trucks to final deliveries, sets him apart in an industry often dominated by those without direct field experience.
In addition to his professional acumen, Colby’s personal story adds depth to his authority. Having navigated every role within the logistics chain, from local pickups to night dispatch, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and demands at each stage. This hands-on approach ensures that ATS’s service remains unparalleled, even in a rapidly changing market.
In this episode I enjoy a tremendous conversation withColby Varley, VP Sales at Advanced Transportation Services (ATS), and we explore the intersection of logistics, sales strategy, and operational excellence in the trucking industry. Colby shares rich insights from his professional journey—from growing up in California’s “salad bowl” to leading a highly specialised transportation service. The conversation delves into competitive differentiation in a saturated logistics market, emphasising the nuanced approach required to manage high-value, perishable cargo and how ATS continues to excel by sticking to its niche. As the discussion unfolds, Colby discusses crucial challenges faced by the logistics industry, such as maintaining premium services amidst cost pressures and leveraging personal relationships for strategic business growth. Emphasising a focus on reliability and integrity, Colby offers advice on how sales leaders can improve market positioning through consistent service delivery and building lasting client partnerships. The episode is rich with strategic insights for those interested in logistics, sales leadership, and operational management.
To connect with Colby and to learn more about what he does, please go to:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-varley-5ba57a69/
Website – https://advancedtransportationservices.com/
Guest: Colby Varley
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