About Compton Transfer & Storage
120 YEARS: 5 Generations Strong
Since 1902 Compton Transfer & Storage has been passed down to five generations. From delivering coal by horse powered wagons to providing 3PL services with online inventory management, Compton’s has grown and adapted to meet industry needs, regardless of the century.
Our History
Beginning
Due to Idaho’s drought conditions in 1902, James Randolph “J.R.” Compton and his wife Lillie transitioned from farming to establish the Independent Coal and Transfer Co. By 1908 they had expanded the “fleet” to 16 teams and wagons transporting freight and coal from rail yard to businesses. J.R.’s two son’s Michael and Thomas became the second generation operating the company and were instrumental in establishing the company name, Compton Transfer & Storage Co. By the late 20’s motorized trucks had top performing speeds of up to 20mph, plenty fast for road conditions of the era. Mike’s business savvy allowed for rapid expansion of warehousing and trucking.
1950’s - 1990’s
Mike’s two sons joined the company after their military service. In 1955 Glenn returned from four years as a Naval Aviator and in 1958 Roger returned from active duty in the U.S. Army – the third generation was now in place to further expand the business. Roger managed commercial trucking and warehousing and Glenn took over the household division. Compton’s affiliated with Mayflower in 1948 expanding household good operations to the national market. Glenn and Roger successfully operated the Company after Mike’s retirement in 1969. In 1975, Compton’s purchased their current warehouse located in the Boise Industrial Complex. This transition created expansion room for the fourth generation of Compton’s to operate household business, commercial trucking and professional warehousing operations. Ties with Mayflower were sold and the Compton team ramped up commercial trucking and warehousing. After 43 years of outstanding service, Glenn retired in 1998.
1998 - 2022
The fourth generation continued the traditions of quality service and customer satisfaction. Brett, Randy (“JR”), Scott and Mary Kay launched the company into another era of growth. Compton continued to maintain close ties with transportation partners. Our strong business connections and company focus on essentials allowed for successful navigation through the latest U.S. economic downturn. Compton’s continued commercial storage and trucking operations focusing on building materials. Compton’s expanded into wood pallet repair operations and migrated back into the household goods market through operation of GoMini’s of Boise.
2022 - Beyond
The fifth generation takes the reins! Chad Compton (President), son of Tom Compton and Mary Ann Helton, daughter of Randy Compton take over ownership of the company and transcend into the 5th generation of Compton’s to own and operate the family business. Chad and Mary Ann’s focus will be to modernize the company through an updated fleet, online inventory management system and expanded facilities, all while staying true to the family values that have lasted over 120 years.
Leadership Through the Years
Count on experience and personal attention. Our family-run business is ready to serve your transportation needs.
James R. Compton
Glenn Compton
Chad Compton
1902 - 1924
1924 - 1975
1975 - 1997
1997 - 2022
2022 - Present
Michael A. Compton
