Reefer trucking is essential for Massachusetts 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, Numark Transportation, Inc. ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts. Every Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts for your commercial shipping needs.
Numark Transportation, Inc.
10 Lea Lane, Fall River, MA, 02721- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Livestock
- Lumber
- Meat
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Numark Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 1606451) is a reputable Massachusetts-based trucking company that offers a range of efficient freight services since its inception. The company specializes in handling various types of cargo, including agricultural supplies, fresh produce, beverages, meat, paper products, and general freight. Numark Transportation also provides dry van and refrigerated transport, ensuring versatile solutions for diverse shipping needs.
With an active interstate operating authority, Numark Transportation emphasizes safety, evident from zero reported crash injuries and fatalities. They offer comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, life, and vision insurance, alongside paid time off. Despite being a relatively small operation with a single truck, they maintain a strong customer satisfaction record, with favorable ratings on platforms like Google and Indeed. Numark’s commitment to quality service makes them an excellent choice for businesses with varied shipping requirements.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 6.43
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 3.09
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 26,100
Intransit Container, LLC
53 Wiser Ave, Worcester, MA, 1607- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
Intransit Container, LLC (DOT: 536660) is a notable trucking company based in Massachusetts, operational since 1985. They offer various services, specializing in intermodal container transport and general freight hauling. Their fleet includes 139 trucks and a workforce skilled in full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipments, emphasizing versatility in cargo delivery.
Intransit Container, LLC supports commercial shipments with modern vehicles, averaging three years of fleet age, ensuring efficient and reliable transport services. Although they do not handle hazardous materials, they offer a satisfactory safety rating and comprehensive insurance coverage. The company prioritizes employee benefits with health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, supplementing their transportation services with competitive driver salaries and a focus on safety and reliability.
Safety
- Crashes: 10
- Unsafe driving: 2.47
- Driver fitness: 0.09
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.49
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.55
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 139
- Revenue: $9,389,000
- Miles driven: 10,100,000
Lancer Transportation & Logistics, Inc.
311 Industry Ave, Springfield, MA, 1104- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Lancer Transportation & Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 2172975) operates within the Massachusetts region as a reputable freight service provider. With a significant presence since it was established, the company offers a diverse range of shipping solutions, including full and partial truckload services, dry van, flatbed, and reefer transport. Specializing in the interstate distribution of beverages, metals (sheets, coils, rolls), and paper products, Lancer Transportation ensures they meet various shipping needs across industries.
Renowned for their commitment to safety and support, Lancer Transportation & Logistics places a strong emphasis on driver welfare and training. They provide benefits like health, dental, life, and vision insurance, along with retirement plans, paid time off, and safety bonuses. With a fleet of 39 trucks and 78 total units, they guarantee not only reliable transportation but also dedicated route services, regional drivers, and team driving opportunities for enhanced delivery efficiency. Their driver referral bonuses and guaranteed home time further reflect their commitment to employee satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.85
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.06
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 39
- Revenue: $1,886,000
- Miles driven: 2,593,225
Sterling Corporation
263 Industrial Ave, Lowell, MA, 1852- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Sterling Corporation (DOT: 2137906) is a well-respected trucking company established in 1994, operating out of Massachusetts. They offer a diverse range of services, including full and partial truckload solutions, and specialize in handling general freight and household goods. Their fleet includes box trucks, dry vans, tankers, and flatbeds, catering to various cargo needs.
Sterling Corporation provides dedicated support for commercial shipments with offerings such as team driving services and regional driver options. The company is committed to safety with low incident scores and offers a comprehensive benefits package for drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance. With a strong focus on providing efficient and reliable transportation solutions, Sterling Corporation stands out as a leading choice for businesses seeking trustworthy shipping partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.16
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.26
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.77
- Controlled substances: 0.52
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 13
- Revenue: $1,759,000
- Miles driven: 20,000
Rapid Response Llp
20 Sycamore Ave, Medford, MA, 2155- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Rapid Response LLP (DOT: 2832444) is an active trucking company known for its diverse and comprehensive shipping capabilities. They offer a range of services, including partial truckload, full truckload, and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, with a specialization in driveaway/towaway. Their cargo handling includes motor vehicles, machinery, and large objects, leveraging their fleet of 19 trucks and 38 total power units to provide efficient and reliable transportation solutions.
Rapid Response LLP stands out with its offering of health benefits, including dental, vision, and disability insurance, making it an attractive option for its workforce. Despite having a total fleet of 38 units, they maintain a focus on safety with zero crash fatalities and hold an active authority status. Business owners seeking commercial shipment support will find their flexible operations, guaranteed home time for drivers, and a variety of service options particularly appealing.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.37
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $728,000
- Miles driven: 640,000
FJN Transportation, Inc.
53 Cliff St, Malden, MA, 02148- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
FJN Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 2460011) is a Massachusetts-based freight trucking company specializing in a variety of logistics services. Established as an active interstate carrier, they offer services such as full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and partial truckload. The company primarily transports general freight and other mixed cargos, utilizing a small but efficient fleet of box and dry van trucks. Their Google rating stands at 4.5, indicating a positive reception from customers.
FJN Transportation provides several benefits to support their drivers, like health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, as well as paid time off and a retirement plan. Despite their compact size, they ensure quality service with no crash-related injuries or fatalities reported. They offer team driver services, regional driving opportunities, and prioritize driver satisfaction with perks like direct deposit and rider or pet allowances, making them an ideal partner for business owners searching for reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 22.81
- Driver fitness: 0.53
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 50,850
J&N Carrier, LLC
183 Tinkham Rd, Springfield, MA, 1129- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
J&N Carrier, LLC (DOT: 3187065) is a Massachusetts-based trucking company. They operate a fleet of 12 trucks and specialize in transporting a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, beverages, construction materials, and refrigerated foods. With a strong emphasis on general freight, J&N Carrier offers full truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal transportation services, making them a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
J&N Carrier is committed to supporting commercial shippers with services such as refrigerated transport for temperature-sensitive goods and dry bulk commodities. They provide additional benefits like sign-on bonuses, health, dental, and life insurance for drivers, with paid time off. Although they currently do not offer services such as expedited or hazmat transport, their focus on core freight types and reliable service makes them a dependable partner for businesses seeking efficient cargo handling.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 13.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Miles driven: 91,347
FRY Corporation
15 South Street, New Bedford, MA, 2740- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
FRY Corporation (DOT: 1055120) is a Massachusetts-based trucking company that has been in operation for approximately 22 years. They provide comprehensive freight services, including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload (LTL) options, with a specialty in transporting refrigerated foods and intermodal containers. Their reliable fleet consists of dry vans and flatbed trucks, equipped to meet diverse shipping needs for general freight.
The company is noted for its focus on regional operations, providing local delivery services with a fleet of box trucks ideal for last-mile delivery. Despite the competitive landscape, FRY Corporation maintains a respectable 4.5 Google rating, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Although they haven’t prioritized specialized cargo like hazardous materials or oversized loads, their offerings include essential benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside a satisfactory safety rating, demonstrating their emphasis on driver welfare and safety.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- 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: 7
- Revenue: $393,000
- Miles driven: 104
Five Stars Express Transportation, LLC
120 Amesbury Street, Lawrence, MA, 01841- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Five Stars Express Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2113920) is a distinguished carrier operating in the transportation sector, focusing on efficient and reliable services. With a satisfactory safety rating and across a robust fleet of 30 vehicles, the company emphasizes both less-than-truckload and full-truckload services. They specialize in transporting passengers with a fleet of 15 buses. The company is committed to ensuring its operations run smoothly, reflected in their commendable driving and vehicle maintenance scores.
Five Stars Express offers enticing employee benefits, including sign-on bonuses and comprehensive health insurance plans. They also provide paid time off and a retirement plan, ensuring employee satisfaction and retention. The company values ongoing training and development, maintaining a competitive edge in the industry. Their commitment to guaranteed home time and modern fleet equipment attracting top talent, combined with their effective management and operation, makes them a reliable choice for business owners looking to ship products efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.02
- Driver fitness: 3.33
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 11
- Miles driven: 1,000,000
Platinum Trucking, LLC
222 Mccarthy Ave, Chicopee, MA, 01020- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Platinum Trucking, LLC (DOT: 2126293) is a reputable trucking company based in Massachusetts. Although the specific year of establishment is unknown, the company is known for its dependable services with a focus on dry van, flatbed, and tanker freight. They cater to a wide variety of cargo needs, including paper products, beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, and even U.S. Mail, demonstrating their versatility in handling diverse shipments.
Specializing in full and partial truckloads, Platinum Trucking provides team driving opportunities to ensure expedited delivery. They prioritize driver and operational safety with ongoing training programs and offer attractive employee benefits such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance, in addition to a 401(k) retirement plan. With a modest but modern fleet, averaging only two years in age, they offer a reliable transport service backed by their commitment to guaranteed home time for drivers.
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: 1
- Miles driven: 74,935
How Safety Ratings Work in Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Massachusetts, 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