Reefer trucking is essential for Alabama companies that sell perishable food products and other goods that require refrigeration in transit. After evaluating top Reefer shipping services on factors like cost, dependability, safety, and customer satisfaction, Stephens Enterprises, LLC ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Alabama
Check out our top recommendations for the best reefer trucking companies to ensure your products arrive fresh and secure.
Why Trust FreightWaves Ratings?
There’s a reason we’re one of the world’s leading authorities on the global freight market. Our expert team has an in-depth understanding of the industry and is up-to-date on employment trends, regulations, and other insights into the trucking workforce.
We conduct thorough research and data analysis to develop our recommendations for the best trucking companies in Alabama. Every Alabama trucking firm is closely scrutinized based on its service range and capabilities. Our team also verifies companies’ safety records and regulatory compliance and looks at what real users have to say about their experience.
From there, we narrow our focus to select only those top-performing and highest-rated firms to give you an informed and up-to-date list of the best trucking companies in Alabama for your commercial shipping needs.
Stephens Enterprises, LLC
6348 Eastwood Glen Place, Montgomery, AL, 36117- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Stephens Enterprises, LLC (DOT: 1705045) operates as an interstate carrier with an active USDOT status. Specializing in refrigerated transport, they handle a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, fresh produce, meat, and paper products. With a combination of full truckload and less-than-truckload services, they cater to both small and large shipments, enhancing flexibility for business clients. The company maintains a modest fleet of 9 trucks, emphasizing quality and reliable service.
Stephens Enterprises supports commercial shipment needs with a focus on safety, evidenced by zero crash incidents. They provide amenities such as health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. While not offering team driving opportunities, they excel in on-time delivery with guaranteed home time for drivers. Their ongoing training and development programs ensure that drivers are well-prepared and professional. This attention to service detail makes Stephens Enterprises a suitable choice for businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.71
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.9
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8
- Revenue: $613,000
- Miles driven: 600,105
Moving It
6704 Steeplechase Dr Nw, Huntsville, AL, 35806- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Moving It (DOT: 1220017) is an active interstate carrier focusing on logistics and transportation. They specialize in box truck services and dry van shipments, with a significant emphasis on full and partial truckloads. The company excels in moving household goods and offers a flatbed transportation option.
Moving It places a high value on driver benefits, providing health, dental, vision, and disability insurance. They offer paid CDL training, sign-on, and safety bonuses, making them attractive for drivers seeking supportive employment. The carrier also guarantees home time, ensuring a balanced work-life setup for its drivers. With their commitment to safety and ongoing driver development, Moving It stands out as a promising choice for businesses aiming for reliability and efficiency in their shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 20,000
K And B Transportation, LLC
3041 Wetumpka Hwy, Montgomery, AL, 36110- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
K And B Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2074918) is an active freight trucking company operating from Alabama, featuring a modest fleet size of 14 with 7 total trucks. The company focuses on general freight and has expertise in transporting beverages, paper products, and various other cargo types. Established operationally for over 13 years, K And B Transportation specializes in both full truckload and less-than-truckload shipping solutions, with particular proficiency in dry van and reefer transport services.
The company provides several benefits for its drivers, including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, along with a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off. While K And B Transportation does not offer hazardous materials transportation, they maintain interstate operational capabilities and prioritize driver safety and vehicle maintenance. Though their safety metrics show moderate scores, they highlight a commitment to ongoing improvements and customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 5.43
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.44
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.17
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $869,000
- Miles driven: 695,124
M & M Trucking Company, Inc.
980 Lee Rd 10, Auburn, AL, 36830- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
M & M Trucking Company, Inc. (DOT: 275148) is an active trucking company based in Alabama, boasting a fleet of 74 vehicles and using 37 trucks to provide efficient transportation services. While they’ve been in operation for several decades, they lack a specific start year. Known for handling dry bulk commodities and construction materials, M & M Trucking offers a range of services including flatbed and box truck shipments.
Emphasizing reliability, M & M Trucking provides regional and full truckload services, with operations extending interstate. They have commendable safety scores, reflected by a satisfactory safety rating. Commercial clients can look forward to additional logistical support, including less-than-truckload options. Although offering health, dental, and vision insurance, the company’s Google and Glassdoor ratings highlight a solid reputation in the industry, with accommodations for regional driving and paid time off for employees.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.16
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $12,237,000
- Miles driven: 2,340,645
Guaranteed Recovery, LLC
3091 Westernhills Dr E, Mobile, AL, 36618- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Guaranteed Recovery, LLC (DOT: 2425355) is a reputable trucking company operating in Alabama, known for its robust services in the transportation of general freight and motor vehicles across interstate routes. With a fleet of 15 trucks primarily configured as dry vans and flatbeds, Guaranteed Recovery provides comprehensive coverage for both partial and full truckloads. Their emphasis on reliability is showcased through their specialized team driving opportunities, ensuring expedited and efficient delivery of shipments.
The company supports a wide range of cargo types, including driveaway and towaway services, backed by a selection of driver benefits such as guaranteed home time, paid time off, and health insurance options, including dental and vision coverage. Guaranteed Recovery, LLC stands out by offering zero crash-related injuries or fatalities, indicating their commitment to safety and professional service. Their noteworthy DOT-compliance and fleet management underscore a dependable option for business owners seeking seamless logistics solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 15
- Revenue: $266,000
- Miles driven: 600,000
SLT Transport, LLC
5704 Sweet Meadow Drive, Montgomery, AL, 36117- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Trash
- General
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
SLT Transport, LLC (DOT: 1459725) operates as a reliable freight carrier based in Alabama, primarily focusing on transporting general freight. Equipped with a formidable fleet of flatbed and dry van trucks, they efficiently handle cargo types including agricultural supplies, construction materials, household goods, paper products, utilities, and U.S. mail.
They excel in offering flexible transportation solutions, such as less-than-truckload and partial truckload shipping, which makes them adaptable for various business needs. SLT Transport prioritizes driver satisfaction by offering health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off. With an emphasis on safety demonstrated by their low record of crash incidents, SLT Transport is a dependable choice for commercial shipments requiring a balance of service and safety.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 5.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.66
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Miles driven: 77,000
SBG Trucking
5430 Colony Way, Hoover, AL, 35226- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
SBG Trucking (DOT: 1540524) is a reputable carrier in Alabama, with a focus on integrity and service excellence in the transportation industry. They specialize in handling a variety of cargo, including construction materials, general freight, machinery, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. This company provides full and partial truckload services, supported by a fleet that includes flatbeds and dry vans, for efficient and flexible shipment solutions.
SBG Trucking excels in offering commercial shipment support with team drivers and guaranteed home time for employees. Additional benefits include health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement 401k plan, and paid CDL training. SBG Trucking also offers safety and sign-on bonuses, underscoring their commitment to workforce welfare and safety. With zero reported crash injuries or fatalities, SBG Trucking ensures reliable delivery and peace of mind for business owners seeking dependable transportation partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.44
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.23
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 2
- Miles driven: 80,000
Trailblazer Trucking, LLC
6205 Angus Circle Nw, Huntsville, AL, 35810- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Trailblazer Trucking, LLC (DOT: 1737024) operates a versatile fleet in Alabama, focusing on comprehensive freight solutions. With a wide range of trucking services such as flatbed, reefer, and dry van, they excel in transporting diverse cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, and paper products. Their fleet’s average age is three years, ensuring reliability in service.
Trailblazer Trucking is committed to meeting commercial shipment needs with regional driving services and competitive health benefits, including dental and vision insurance. They also offer paid time off. With an active DOT status and a Google rating of 4.5, Trailblazer maintains robust service levels suitable for business owners seeking dependable and efficient shipping solutions. Despite a fair vehicle maintenance score, Trailblazer continues to prioritize safety, evident in their zero crash fatalities and focused safety measures.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.36
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.48
- Vehicle maintenance: 17.17
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Miles driven: 410,000
JLD Enterprises, LLC
360 Lee Road 10, Auburn, AL, 36830- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Trash
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
JLD Enterprises, LLC (DOT: 1742889) is a prominent trucking company known for its diverse range of transportation services, operating actively across interstate routes. Their fleet of 39 trucks and 78 total power units offers full truckload (FTL) services, supplemented by less-than-truckload (LTL) options. Specializing in handling construction materials, garbage/refuse, and utility cargo, JLD Enterprises provides tailored solutions for varied commercial shipment needs.
The company emphasizes safety and employee benefits with offerings such as a sign-on bonus, health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Their dedication to employing skilled drivers is evident with specialized reefer, flatbed, and tanker driver positions. Despite having experienced a single reportable crash, they maintain a strong safety record, with zero crash-related injuries or fatalities, reinforcing their commitment to reliable and safe operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.21
- Driver fitness: 1.87
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.23
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 38
- Miles driven: 450,000
Hodges Logistics, LLC
125 6th Street, Montgomery, AL, 36104- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Hodges Logistics, LLC (DOT: 2026491) is a prominent logistics provider operating across Alabama with a focus on reliability and comprehensive service coverage. They are equipped to handle a wide range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, general freight, and paper products. Their services include dry van, flatbed, and tanker solutions, with a fleet size of 252 and 126 power units, supporting both full and partial truckloads.
Specializing in regional deliveries, Hodges Logistics offers less than truckload (LTL) services and employs regional and over-the-road (OTR) drivers. Health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan, highlight their commitment to employee welfare. Despite a few crash incidents, their investment in safety bonuses and a controlled driving rating (2.09) reflects a commitment to safety. Hodges Logistics is recognized for its robust service offerings and efficient commercial shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 12
- Unsafe driving: 2.09
- Driver fitness: 0.31
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.57
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.9
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 134
- Miles driven: 8,013,559
How Safety Ratings Work in Alabama
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Compliance, Safety & Accountability (CSA) program evaluates trucking companies using BASICS (Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories)
Here’s a look at what each of the BASICS cover:
- Crashes: Trucking companies are required to report any accidents that result in injury or death. The FMSCA uses these state-reported crashes to determine any patterns of crash involvement and potential behaviors contributing to that pattern.
- Unsafe driving: This CSA category covers behaviors like texting and speeding that can lead to accidents
- Driver fitness: The FMCSA requires trucking companies to keep up-to-date records on their drivers. That includes identification and paperwork like CDLs, annual driving reviews, and any relevant medical certifications or documentation. Violations of this category will result in lower overall safety scores.
- Hours-of-service compliance: The FMCSA cites truckers and trucking companies that do not follow or enforce hours-of-service regulations that limit how much time a large commercial vehicle operator can be on the road without rest.
- Vehicle maintenance: Truckers are responsible for completing inspections before hitting the road on a route. They must also log any issues and have repairs to those identified problems completed before operating the truck.
- Controlled substances: As with all vehicle operators, truckers must be sober behind the wheel. This category accounts for violations issued to a trucking company’s driver(s) for being under the influence of or in possession of alcohol and street drugs or prescriptionor over-the-counter medicines that could impair judgement.
- Hazardous materials violations: Trucking companies and their drivers must exhibit proper loading and handling of hazardous materials, including labeling these items correctly, ensuring packaging meets regulations, and follows all restrictions and rules for the vehicle type.
Companies scoring a zero for any or all of the above categories did not receive any citations or other violations within a given month. Essentially, any trucking company that has multiple zeroes in these categories can likely be considered a safe freight shipper in compliance with all FMCSA standards and regulatory requirement.
Choosing the Right Reefer Trucking Company in Alabama for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Alabama, here are some tips on what to look for in reefer trucking company for your refrigerated shipments:
- Temperature-control capabilities: Choose a carrier that provides precise temperature monitoring and control to ensure your products stay within safe temperature ranges throughout the journey.
- Specialized Reefer options: Look for companies with a variety of Reefer trailer sizes and configurations to accommodate different loads and product requirements.
- Driver experience and training: Experienced drivers trained in handling Reefer loads can help prevent temperature fluctuations and ensure safe, timely deliveries.
- Tracking tools: Carriers with GPS and real-time monitoring tools keep you informed on the location and condition of your shipment.
- Fleet maintenance: Well-maintained reefer trucks minimize the risk of breakdowns that could compromise the quality of your products.
- Customer support: A company with a reputation for customer service and dedicated logistics and freight management teams will be better able to handle any changes or issues with your shipment.
- Safety record and compliance: Check a company’s CSA score to make sure they have a history of safe transport and are compliant with industry regulations.
FAQs
What products are best transported by truck in Alabama?
The products that are best transported by truck in the U.S. include commodities like:
- Building materials
- Food and beverages
- Furniture
- Clothing
- Electronics
What is Reefer shipping, and when is it needed for businesses in Alabama?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Alabama, businesses that ship food, pharmaceuticals, flowers, and other perishables rely on Reefer shipping to ensure product quality and prevent spoilage or damage during transit.
How does Reefer shipping protect temperature-sensitive goods?
Reefer shipping protects temperature-sensitive goods by utilizing trucks equipped with refrigeration units that can maintain specific temperature settings. By controlling the climate inside the trailer, Reefer shipping reduces the risk of spoilage and extends product shelf life during transport.
Other Types of Transport Options for Your Shipments
Depending on the types of products your business retails or manufactures, you may have several shipping options to choose from.
- Hopper Bottom Shipping Services
- Beverage Shipping Services
- Box Truck Shipping Services
- Drayage Shipping Services
- Dry Bulk Shipping Services
- Dry Van Shipping Services
- Flatbed Shipping Services
- Hot Shot Shipping Services
- Intermodal Shipping Services
- LTL Shipping Services
- Parcel Delivery Shipping Services
- Pneumatic Shipping Services
- Power-Only Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services