Reefer trucking is essential for Pennsylvania 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, Penske Logistics ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania. Every Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania for your commercial shipping needs.
Penske Logistics
2675 Morgantown Road, Reading, PA, 19607- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $7,500,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Drayage
Penske Logistics (DOT: 268015) is a renowned logistics provider with a substantial presence since 1969. Operating a massive fleet of 7,306 trucks, they specialize in full truckload, less than truckload, and refrigerated shipments, ensuring diverse transportation solutions. Their services cover carrying intermodal containers, refrigerated foods, and general freight, making them versatile in handling different types of cargo efficiently.
Penske Logistics offers robust support for commercial shipping, including dedicated routes, team driving opportunities, and managed transportation services. They maintain a satisfactory safety rating, indicating a strong commitment to driver and cargo safety. In addition, Penske provides competitive benefits such as tuition reimbursement, direct deposit, and health insurance, positioning them as an attractive choice for both shippers and employees seeking reliability and professionalism in logistics operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 462
- Unsafe driving: 0.87
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.34
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 14
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8798
- Revenue: $117,379,000
- Miles driven: 476,000,000
Uncle Rus Transportation, LLC
624 Alder Street, Scranton, PA, 18505- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Uncle Rus Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2875481) is an active carrier providing top-notch freight services in Pennsylvania. With a diverse fleet and a focus on both full and partial truckloads, Uncle Rus offers reliable transportation solutions for various types of cargo, including building materials, machinery, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods. Their operation, known for its safety focus, serves interstate routes with a total fleet size of 28 units and 14 drivers.
The company is dedicated to providing essential transportation services with dry van, flatbed, and driveaway/towaway options. Despite offering services without sign-on bonuses or specialized programs, Uncle Rus Transportation prioritizes employee benefits like health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with paid time off. Their commitment to safety and customer satisfaction makes them a strong contender for businesses seeking effective logistics partnerships.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.9
- Driver fitness: 1.23
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 14
- Revenue: $225,000
- Miles driven: 814,546
Bentco Transportation Group, LLC
56b Runway Road, Levittown, PA, 19057- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Bentco Transportation Group, LLC (DOT: 1469598) is an established carrier in Pennsylvania, known for their comprehensive services in freight trucking. They specialize in handling a wide range of cargo including fresh produce, beverages, dry bulk commodities, farm supplies, construction materials, and metal products. Bentco is equipped with a modern fleet that includes refrigerated (reefer) and flatbed trailers, ensuring the efficient transport of time-sensitive and large items. The company supports interstate operations and emphasizes on-time delivery with their full and partial truckload offerings.
Bentco Transportation Group offers special programs such as guaranteed home time and ongoing training for drivers, demonstrating a commitment to employee satisfaction and development. Their benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan. Despite a few operational challenges, Bentco maintains active authority and prioritizes safety and customer service, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking effective logistics solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.21
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8
- Miles driven: 16,000
H.R. Trucking, LLC
7081 Creek Crossing Dr, Harrisburg, PA, 17111- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
H.R. Trucking, LLC (DOT: 1859053) is a well-equipped trucking company based in Pennsylvania, operating a fleet of 36 trucks and offering comprehensive freight transportation services since its establishment. Specializing in a range of cargo types including agricultural supplies, beverages, construction materials, and paper products, H.R. Trucking ensures reliable and versatile shipping solutions. They provide key services like partial truckload and full truckload shipments, with available options for dry van and tanker needs.
H.R. Trucking is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, highlighted by commendable ratings on platforms like Indeed and Google. The company supports commercial shipments extensively, offering services such as intermodal containers and US mail transportation. While their primary focus is on general freight, they also ensure safety with moderate vehicle maintenance and safe driving scores, making them an ideal choice for business owners seeking dependable and diverse shipping services.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 3.05
- Driver fitness: 0.49
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.46
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.34
- Controlled substances: 0.11
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 31
- Miles driven: 1,587,389
Grand Usa Transport, LLC
6225 Taconystreet, Philadelphia, PA, 19135- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Grand Usa Transport, LLC (DOT: 2325919) is a dynamic carrier service provider in Pennsylvania known for its versatile freight solutions. Operating a fleet of 30 trucks and 60 trailers, they offer a variety of cargo transport options, specializing in general freight, refrigerated foods, fresh produce, beverages, and meat. They cater to businesses needing reliable full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services.
Despite some challenges, such as minor vehicle maintenance issues and driving safety scores, Grand Usa Transport prioritizes satisfactory safety standards. Their professional drivers ensure efficient interstate operations and promise reliable delivery for business owners. The company provides competitive amenities, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off, ensuring a supportive environment for their dedicated workforce.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 4.44
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.2
- Controlled substances: 0.08
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 24
- Miles driven: 2,991,970
A.B. Logistics, Inc.
501 Cambria Avenue Suite #208, Bensalem, PA, 19020- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
A.B. Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 2410313) is an active logistics carrier operating productively in Pennsylvania. With a fleet age of around 3 years and a moderate team of 8 trucks, A.B. Logistics handles a variety of cargo including general freight, fresh produce, building materials, chemicals, paper products, and metal sheets. The company is equipped for less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) services, specializing in refrigerated (reefer) transport and flatbed shipping, ensuring versatile freight options for business owners.
While A.B. Logistics places a strong emphasis on professional development with ongoing training programs, the company also provides substantial employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, in addition to retirement plan options. Notably, they operate in interstate regions, catering to clients’ comprehensive shipping needs with dedication and efficiency.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.71
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.25
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8
- Miles driven: 690,848
Simonik Transportation And Warehousing Group, LLC
45 Runway Road Suite H, Levittown, PA, 19067- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Simonik Transportation And Warehousing Group, LLC (DOT: 1643848) is a reputable trucking company operating since 2019 in Pennsylvania. With a fleet size of 30 and specializing in dry van and flatbed transportation, the company excels in shipping general freight, household goods, intermodal containers, machinery, and motor vehicles. Simonik Transportation provides comprehensive logistics solutions tailored to the diverse needs of business owners seeking efficient and reliable shipping partners.
The company emphasizes safety with excellent driving scores and offers numerous employee benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Simonik Transportation supports commercial shipments with regional and local drivers, focusing on full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Despite being relatively new, their strong service scope and competitive wages, ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, make them a trustworthy choice for businesses aiming to meet their transportation needs efficiently.
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: 7
- Revenue: $512,000
- Miles driven: 120,000
Golden Key Express
5422 Oakview Dr, Allentown, PA, 18104- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Golden Key Express (DOT: 2907620) operates in the transportation industry with a decent reputation in Pennsylvania. The company runs a fleet of 25 trucks and specializes in general freight, fresh produce, meat, and refrigerated foods. They offer full truckload, less-than-truckload, and partial truckload services, catering primarily to the needs of regional shippers. Despite not providing specialized cargo services like hazardous materials or construction equipment, their focus on refrigerated and temperature-sensitive cargo makes them a preferred choice for businesses dealing in perishable goods.
Golden Key Express maintains an active status with a sound safety record demonstrating zero crash fatalities. Their operations encompass interstate shipments, supported by 27 drivers, including dedicated reefer drivers, ensuring timely delivery across regions. Additional perks such as health insurance and dental coverage highlight their commitment to employee well-being, although benefits like sign-on bonuses and retirement plans are not currently available.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 3.7
- Driver fitness: 0.15
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.73
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 27
- Miles driven: 1,701,025
CAS Express
817 Maple Street, Scranton, PA, 18505- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
CAS Express (DOT: 1393999) offers specialized trucking services with an active license for interstate operations. Although newly established, they focus on carrying general freight and partial and full truckload shipments. Their fleet includes flatbed and dry van trucks, making them well-suited for a range of goods.
CAS Express highlights its commitment to employee satisfaction through features such as guaranteed home time, paid time off, and robust health benefits, including vision and dental. They also offer a sign-on bonus, safety bonus, and referral bonuses to attract and retain quality drivers. CAS Express stands out for team driving opportunities and overlaps, ensuring efficient and swift delivery for businesses seeking reliable freight services across state lines.
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: 85,000
STI Trucking, Inc.
227 Rocklyn Road, Upper Darby, PA, 19082- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
STI Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2524976) is a reputable trucking company specializing in diverse freight services within Pennsylvania and beyond. Offering full truckload, less than truckload, partial truckload, and dry van services, STI Trucking Inc. is well-equipped to meet various shipping needs. The company focuses on transporting fresh produce, general freight, refrigerated foods, and operates with a small but efficient fleet.
STI Trucking emphasizes both safety and driver satisfaction, as evidenced by their significant emphasis on maintaining safety bonuses and offering benefits such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Drivers also enjoy dedicated routes, tanker driving opportunities, and guaranteed home time. With clean safety records, including zero crash injuries or fatalities, STI Trucking ensures dependable and secure transportation of goods, making it a reliable partner for businesses seeking quality transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 14.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 66,502
How Safety Ratings Work in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Pennsylvania, 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
