In the industry of horizontal directional drilling (HDD), having the right tools is crucial, but having the right solutions is what truly makes a difference.

According to founders Mark Leach and Derek Briggs, Underground Supply Solutions is more than just an equipment provider; they are problem solvers, partners and industry experts dedicated to ensuring that contractors get not only the best products but also the expertise and support needed to fuel their success.

Built On Relationships, Driven By Solutions

Founded in 2017, the Underground Supply Solutions team brings decades of combined experience in the HDD industry. The company was born out of a simple but powerful mission: to provide contractors with more than just tools but provide answers, training and expertise.

Both Briggs and Leach felt that, too often, contractors were forced to choose between affordability and quality or between availability and expert guidance.

Underground Supply Solutions was created to eliminate that choice by providing solution-oriented service to every customer, they said.

"We don't just sell price; we sell relationships and expertise," Briggs said. "Our goal is to ensure every contractor has the right tool for the job, the knowledge to use it properly and the support to keep their projects running smoothly."

Since its founding, they have experienced rapid growth, expanding from one location to seven in just eight years.

Hands-On Approach to Problem-Solving

"What sets Underground Supply Solutions apart is its hands-on approach," Leach said.

Rather than simply fulfilling orders, the company takes the time to understand each contractor's unique challenges and provides individual recommendations. The process begins with asking the right questions and not just about the tool being bought, but about the job itself, he said.

"We don't answer the phone thinking about a sale; we answer it thinking about a solution," Briggs said. "If a customer calls looking for a specific part, we ask them about the project and what they are trying to achieve. Is this truly the best tool for the job? In some cases, we've helped customers save significant money by recommending a more efficient solution rather than just selling them what they initially requested."

Underground Supply Solutions also provides training for drilling, locating and mud mixing, ensuring contractors not only have the right equipment but also know how to use it effectively.

Inventory, Availability: Right Tools, Right Away

With seven locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana, the company maintains a multi-million-dollar inventory to ensure contractors get what they need when they need it.

"We take pride in keeping our shelves stocked with the products contractors rely on," the team said. "When you walk into one of our stores, you're not waiting weeks for a shipment; you're walking out with the right tool that same day."

Every store is equipped with a Spanish-speaking bilingual employee, ensuring that every customer, regardless of background, receives the service and support they need.

Recognizing Excellence

Underground Supply Solutions' reputation as a premier HDD solutions provider is reinforced by industry recognition. For three consecutive years (2022-2024), it has been the No. 1 dealer of Melfred Borzall, a manufacturer of HDD tooling. It also is a top dealer of Universal and other major brands.

In addition to HDD tooling, Underground Supply Solutions carries Sunward earth-moving equipment, offering contractors access to quality excavators, skid steers and construction machinery. Customers have consistently praised the performance, reliability and value of Sunward equipment.

"The feedback we've received on Sunward has been incredible," Leach said. "Customers can't believe the value they're getting. They tell us time and again that the performance matches or exceeds their expectations, and the reliability is outstanding."

Partner for Every Contractor

While Underground Supply Solutions has grown significantly, its efforts remain with the independent contractors, owner-operators and small businesses that drive the industry. The team said that it has built the business by supporting and educating customers, ensuring that even the smallest operations have access to the same level of expertise as the industry giants.

"Our goal is simple: We want to be the go-to source for HDD contractors who need not just products but solutions," Briggs said. "From the moment a customer walks through our doors, they know we're here to help them succeed. That's what being a solutions-based business is all about."

For more information, visit ugsupply.com.