Freight Carriers

Author: Max Antonov

Updated: 06/07/2023

Ideas or suggestions: max@fusefreight.com

Choosing the right freight carrier is a critical decision for any business. A trustworthy, reliable carrier can significantly enhance your supply chain operations. At FuseFreight, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about freight carriers. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to choose the best freight carrier, how to qualify them, and how to ensure they are licensed and insured.

Choosing the Best Freight Carrier

There are several factors to consider when choosing a freight carrier:

1. Type of Goods: Different carriers specialize in different types of goods. Ensure the carrier has experience handling your type of cargo.

2. Service Area: The carrier must cover your shipping lanes. Some carriers have specific regional focuses, while others offer nationwide or international services.

3. Transit Time: How quickly does the carrier deliver goods? Understand their transit times and whether they meet your needs.

4. Pricing: Competitive pricing is essential. However, the cheapest option is not always the best when it comes to reliability and quality of service.

5. Reputation: Look at reviews and testimonials. A carrier’s reputation in the industry can speak volumes about their service quality.

Once you’ve shortlisted potential freight carriers, it’s time to qualify them. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Verify Operating Authority: Make sure the carrier has the necessary operating authority to transport your goods. This information can usually be found on their website or upon request.

2. Check Safety Records: Carriers in the U.S. are rated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Check these ratings to assess the carrier’s safety record.

3. Ask for References: Request references from the carrier’s existing clients. This can provide valuable insights into the carrier’s reliability and service quality.

Ensuring the Freight Carrier is Licensed and Insured

Verifying that a carrier is both licensed and insured is crucial for your peace of mind and the safety of your goods. Here’s how:

1. Check FMCSA Database: In the U.S., carriers must be licensed by the FMCSA. You can check a carrier’s licensing status on the FMCSA’s website.

2. Request Proof of Insurance: The carrier should provide a certificate of insurance upon request. This document should detail their coverage limits and types.

3. Check Cargo Insurance: Make sure the carrier has adequate cargo insurance to cover the value of your goods in case of damage or loss during transit.

Choosing the right freight carrier is a vital step in streamlining your logistics operations. By thoroughly researching and qualifying potential carriers, you can ensure that your goods are in safe and capable hands. Ready to explore your freight carrier options? Get a Free Quote from FuseFreight today!

1. UPS Freight

• Description: UPS Freight offers a variety of freight services including LTL and truckload.
• Pros: Reliable, extensive network, high volume handling.
• Cons: Higher rates for small businesses.
• Year Established: 1907

2. FedEx Freight

• Description: FedEx Freight provides fast and reliable LTL freight services.
• Pros: Nationwide coverage, efficient tracking system.
• Cons: Could be expensive for small shipments.
• Year Established: 1971

3. XPO Logistics

• Description: XPO Logistics is a top ten global provider of transportation services.
• Pros: Wide range of services, global presence.
• Cons: Customer service could be improved.
• Year Established: 1989

4. Old Dominion Freight Line

• Description: Old Dominion Freight Line is a leading, less-than-truckload (LTL) company.
• Pros: Excellent on-time delivery record, good customer service.
• Cons: Higher rates than some competitors.
• Year Established: 1934

5. YRC Freight

• Description: YRC Freight is a leading transporter of industrial, commercial, and retail goods.
• Pros: Specializes in large shipments, comprehensive coverage area.
• Cons: Some reports of late deliveries.
• Year Established: 1924

6. Estes Express Lines

• Description: Estes is a leading, full-service freight transportation provider.
• Pros: Wide range of services, good customer service.
• Cons: Some limits on size and weight of shipments.
• Year Established: 1931

7. R+L Carriers

• Description: R+L Carriers is a global freight shipping company that offers LTL, Truckload, Logistics, and more.
• Pros: Reliable, extensive network.
• Cons: Limited international shipping.
• Year Established: 1965

8. Saia LTL Freight

• Description: Saia is an American trucking company, offering regional and interregional LTL, non-asset truckload service, and third-party logistics.
• Pros: Good on-time delivery record, comprehensive coverage.
• Cons: Limited services compared to larger competitors.
• Year Established: 1924

9. ABF Freight

• Description: ABF Freight operates a less-than-truckload network across North America.
• Pros: Comprehensive tracking, good customer service.
• Cons: Some limits on size and weight of shipments.
• Year Established: 1923

10. Southeastern Freight Lines

• Description: Southeastern Freight Lines specializes in next-day service in the Southeast and Southwest.
• Pros: Excellent customer service, reliable.
• Cons: Limited to the Southeast and Southwest.
• Year Established: 1950

11. Central Freight Lines

• Description: Central Freight Lines is a leading LTL company providing freight transportation services.
• Pros: Comprehensive services, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to central US states.
• Year Established: 1925

12. AAA Cooper Transportation

• Description: AAA Cooper Transportation is a privately held asset based multi-regional transportation solutions provider.
• Pros: Reliable, variety of services.
• Cons: Limited international coverage.
• Year Established: 1955

13. Dayton Freight Lines

• Description: Dayton Freight Lines is a regional LTL carrier servicing the Midwest.
• Pros: Excellent customer service, reliable.
• Cons: Limited to the Midwest.
• Year Established: 1981

14. Averitt Express

• Description: Averitt Express is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management.
• Pros: Wide range of services, reliable.
• Cons: Limited international coverage.
• Year Established: 1971

15. Pitt Ohio

• Description: Pitt Ohio offers direct LTL service in the mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions.
• Pros: Excellent on-time delivery record.
• Cons: Limited to mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions.
• Year Established: 1979

16. New England Motor Freight

• Description: New England Motor Freight provides LTL carrier services in the Northeast US.
• Pros: Specializes in the Northeast, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to the Northeast.
• Year Established: 1918

17. Oak Harbor Freight Lines

• Description: Oak Harbor Freight Lines provides regional LTL service in the Western United States and Canada.
• Pros: Specializes in the West, excellent customer service.
• Cons: Limited to the West and Canada.
• Year Established: 1916

18. Roadrunner Freight

• Description: Roadrunner Freight offers LTL and truckload freight services.
• Pros: Wide range of services, good customer service.
• Cons: Some reports of late deliveries.
• Year Established: 1984

19. Reddaway

• Description: Reddaway provides reliable Next-Day Delivery throughout the Western United States and parts of Canada.
• Pros: Specializes in the West, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to the West and parts of Canada.
• Year Established: 1919

20. A. Duie Pyle

• Description: A. Duie Pyle is a Northeast transportation and logistics provider.
• Pros: Specializes in the Northeast, reliable.
• Cons: Limited to the Northeast.
• Year Established: 1924

21. Forward Air

• Description: Forward Air provides expedited surface shipping throughout North America.
• Pros: Fast delivery, reliable.
• Cons: Limited to North America.
• Year Established: 1990

22. Xpress Global Systems

• Description: Xpress Global Systems specializes in shipping for the floor covering industry.
• Pros: Industry-specific expertise, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to floor covering industry.
• Year Established: 1986

23. New Penn

• Description: New Penn specializes in Next-Day delivery in the Northeastern US, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
• Pros: Specializes in the Northeast, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to the Northeast, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
• Year Established: 1931

24. Clear Lane Freight Systems

• Description: Clear Lane Freight Systems provides economical LTL service across the US.
• Pros: Economical rates, reliable.
• Cons: Longer transit times.
• Year Established: 2012

25. Holland

• Description: Holland is a regional LTL trucking company covering the Central and Southeastern US.
• Pros: Specializes in the Central and Southeastern US, good customer service.
• Cons: Limited to the Central and Southeastern US.
• Year Established: 1929

This concludes our list of the top 25 freight carriers in the USA. Each of these companies has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, such as the size of your shipment, your budget, and the region you’re shipping to. Always remember to do your research and consider all your options before making a decision.