After evaluating 10 drayage companies in South Carolina, based on affordability, service speed, and customer satisfaction, Smith Dray Line is our choice for the most reliable port-to-warehouse service.
Drayage Shipping Services & Transport in South Carolina
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 South Carolina. Every South Carolina 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 South Carolina for your commercial shipping needs.
Smith Dray Line
320 Park Commerce Road, Greenville, SC, 29611- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Smith Dray Line (DOT: 122024) is a distinguished trucking company that has been operating since 1911 in South Carolina. The company possesses a fleet of over 50 trucks, including refrigerated trailers and tankers, reflecting its capacity to handle varied shipments such as household goods. With a stellar Google rating of 4.5 and a firm commitment to safety, Smith Dray Line emphasizes dependable service and client satisfaction.
Smith Dray Line provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials transportation, regional deliveries, and cross-border services. Their offerings include both full and partial truckloads, as well as less-than-truckload options, catering to diverse shipping needs. The company’s satisfactory safety rating alongside comprehensive employee benefits underscores their dedication to both safety and staff well-being, positioning them as a reliable partner for business owners seeking efficient freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.57
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.75
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 59
- Revenue: $5,557,000
- Miles driven: 104,038
TMX Intermodal Sc, Inc.
133 Cainhoy Rd, Charleston, SC, 29492- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Container
- Drayage
TMX Intermodal Sc, Inc. (DOT: 1720364) is an active carrier known for its efficient transportation of intermodal containers and general freight across interstate routes. Operating a fleet of 105 trucks and an equal number of total drivers, TMX Intermodal specializes in transporting chemicals and provides drayage services, emphasizing reliable and secure shipping solutions.
Though TMX Intermodal lacks additional perks offered by some competitors, such as guaranteed home time or flexible scheduling, their focus on core transportation services renders them a dependable choice for businesses with specific cargo needs. The company’s significant sales volume and expertise in handling hazardous materials further showcase their capability in managing comprehensive commercial shipments. While their safety record needs improvement, current figures suggest an ongoing effort to maintain operational standards.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.11
- Driver fitness: 0.47
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.43
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 105
- Revenue: $3,091,000
- Miles driven: 5,000,000
Bulldog Hiway Express
3390 Buffalo Ave, North Charleston, SC, 29418- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Tanker
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Bulldog Hiway Express (DOT: 104694) is a reputable trucking company operating actively in the transportation services and logistics industry. With a total fleet size of 458 and 229 trucks, they provide a robust service offering across South Carolina and beyond. Established over 50 years ago, Bulldog Hiway Express specializes in carrying a diverse range of cargo including building materials, chemicals, machinery, metal sheets, and intermodal containers. Their commitment to customer service is enhanced by guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling options for drivers.
The company excels in specialized services such as cross-docking, hazardous materials transport, and drayage, and offers support for commercial shipment with team drivers and dedicated routes. With a focus on safety and training, Bulldog Hiway Express provides ongoing training development programs and has a satisfactory safety rating. Significant employee benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a retirement 401k plan and safety bonuses.
Safety
- Crashes: 13
- Unsafe driving: 0.38
- Driver fitness: 0.09
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.02
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 215
- Miles driven: 11,200,000
Sherwood Trucking
9040 Elina Rd, Turbeville, SC, 29162- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Sherwood Trucking (DOT: 464247) is a prominent trucking company operating in South Carolina, dedicated to providing extensive freight services. They specialize in handling a variety of cargo, including refrigerated foods, construction materials, agricultural and farm supplies, and metal sheets. With an active status and satisfactory safety rating, Sherwood Trucking ensures reliable and secure transportation solutions for businesses seeking efficient logistics support.
The company offers specialized services such as cross-docking, drayage, and heavy haul shipping, ideal for commercial shipments requiring precision and expertise. Sherwood Trucking supports flexible scheduling and guarantees home time for drivers, emphasizing work-life balance. Additional benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan and tuition reimbursement. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their zero crash record and ongoing training and development programs for drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.66
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $321
- Miles driven: 230,000
Premier Logistics Solutions
904 Commerce Circle, Hanahan, SC, 29410- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Lumber
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Premier Logistics Solutions (DOT: 1220227) is a leading South Carolina trucking company with a rich history dating back to 1912. Specializing in the transportation of chemicals, paper products, and logs/poles/beams/lumber, they operate a range of vehicles, including dry vans, tankers, and flatbeds. With a fleet size of over 50 trucks, Premier Logistics is equipped to handle both regional and interstate shipments, emphasizing personalized and reliable service.
The company offers a variety of specialized services, including hazardous materials transport with no recorded violations, cross docking, and managed transportation solutions. Their commitment to employee satisfaction is evident through benefits like tuition reimbursement, paid CDL training, and health insurance. Premier Logistics Solutions prides itself on flexibility, offering dedicated routes and team driving opportunities, making it an attractive partner for business owners seeking efficient and safe transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.45
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.88
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $14,114
- Miles driven: 598,308
Dedicated Transportation Solutions
100 Augusta Arbor Way, Greenville, SC, 29605- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Power only
- Tanker
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Dedicated Transportation Solutions (DOT: 1219712) is a reputable trucking company operating out of South Carolina. Known for managing a total fleet size of 294 vehicles, the company is adept at handling diverse cargo types, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, general freight, paper products, and other specialized items. With a strong focus on commercial shipments, they offer services such as power only, flatbed, and dry van transportation.
Their commitment to specialized commercial support is evident through their array of services, including hazmat, tanker, and drayage operations, complemented by a comprehensive managed transportation program. Drivers at Dedicated Transportation Solutions benefit from a variety of bonuses, flexible scheduling, health insurance benefits, and ongoing training, reinforcing their dedication to employee satisfaction and safety. The company’s “Satisfactory” safety rating and experienced team ensure reliable service, making it a top choice for business owners seeking efficient and secure transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 12
- Unsafe driving: 2.34
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.68
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.9
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 165
- Miles driven: 11,900,000
ATS Intermodal, LLC
4033 W Montague Avenue, North Charleston, SC, 29418- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
- Drayage
ATS Intermodal, LLC (DOT: 776430) is a prominent trucking company based in South Carolina, established in 1998. With a fleet size of 378 vehicles, they specialize in interstate operations and offer a variety of services including full truckload and partial truckload shipping. ATS Intermodal transports general freight, with a particular focus on intermodal containers and dry van services. The company is known for its team driving opportunities and support for reefer cargo, ensuring fresh produce reaches its destination efficiently.
In addition to their diverse cargo capabilities, ATS Intermodal provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including dedicated intermodal drivers and robust safety practices, as indicated by their satisfactory safety rating. The company offers comprehensive benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off, reflecting their commitment to employee well-being and professional development.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 1.18
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.44
- Controlled substances: 0.15
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 142
- Revenue: $16,152,000
- Miles driven: 5,938,114
Greene Farms Trucking, LLC
573 Hankinson St, Jackson, SC, 29831- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
Greene Farms Trucking, LLC (DOT: 1043812) is an active freight carrier based in South Carolina, boasting a robust fleet of 27 trucks and specializing in a variety of cargo types. The company efficiently handles agricultural/farm supplies, building materials, construction equipment, and machinery. With a dedicated focus on general freight, they provide reliable service for businesses seeking meticulous cargo transport solutions.
The company champions safety with a satisfactory safety rating and offers significant driver benefits, including health and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Greene Farms Trucking also supports streamlined logistics with services like drayage and consolidation. They prioritize employee support through direct deposit and driver referral bonuses, ensuring a competitive edge in the commercial shipment sector. Despite a minor record of crash injuries, their operational integrity remains strong, making them a commendable choice for business owners requiring dedicated transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.33
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 13
- Revenue: $344
- Miles driven: 707,552
Williams Trucking, Inc.
711 Produce Lane Suite 305c, West Columbia, SC, 29172- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Lift-gate
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Williams Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 776954) is a South Carolina-based carrier with a satisfactory safety rating, operating nine trucks and specializing in a range of freight services since their establishment. They handle a variety of cargo including beverages, fresh produce, dry bulk commodities, general freight, grain feed hay, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food. They emphasize safety and service reliability with offerings such as flatbed, dry van, and tanker services, making them a versatile choice for business owners seeking efficient freight solutions.
Williams Trucking stands out with services that support commercial shipment needs, such as drayage, ensuring seamless transportation for complex logistics requirements. They offer direct deposit, health insurance, and paid time off for their drivers, with additional incentives like sign-on and safety bonuses. With guaranteed home time and ongoing training and development programs, they aim to maintain both employee satisfaction and a high standard of service for their clients.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.96
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $355
- Miles driven: 366,249
Riga Trucking, LLC
1633 Bishop Rd, Inman, SC, 29349- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Lift-gate
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Riga Trucking, LLC (DOT: 971484) is a South Carolina-based trucking company established in 2016. With a fleet of 20 vehicles, they offer various services including reefer, tanker, and dry van transport. Specializing in interstate operations, Riga Trucking efficiently handles diverse cargo such as beverages, building materials, machinery, metal sheets, and intermodal containers. They are particularly adept at transporting logs, poles, beams, and lumber, demonstrating versatility in their freight capabilities.
Riga Trucking supports commercial shipments with dedicated routes and is equipped for both flatbed and dry bulk commodities transportation. They place an emphasis on safety with a remarkable incident record—no crash injuries or fatalities to date—enhanced by sign-on and safety bonuses. In addition, they provide flexible scheduling, paid CDL training, and a variety of benefits, making them a reliable choice for business owners seeking dependable logistics partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 2.32
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.33
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $397
- Miles driven: 1,168,557
How Safety Ratings Work in South Carolina
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA’s) 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 Drayage Transport Company for Your Shipments in South Carolina
Here’s how to find dependable Drayage services for short-haul moves:
- Proximity to ports and rail yards: Select a Drayage provider close to key terminals in South Carolina to minimize transit times and costs.
- Importing/exporting experience: South Carolina carriers that specialize in Drayage understand how to navigate port processes and reduce potential delays.
- Fleet capacity and availability: A carrier with a sufficient fleet of well-maintained trucks will be better-eqipped to handle fluctuating shipment volumes.
- Real-time tracking: Opt for South Carolina Drayage companies with GPS and tracking tools for better visibility into shipment locations and statuses.
- Compliance and safety standards: Ensure the company meets all FMCSA safety and regulatory requirements for port-related trucking.
- Efficient communication: Reliable customer service is key, particularly for urgent deliveries or high-volume Drayage needs.
FAQs
What role does Drayage play in the shipping process for South Carolina businesses?
Drayage is a crucial part of the shipping process that involves short-distance transportation from ports or rail terminals to distribution centers. For South Carolina businesses, it acts as a vital link between large-scale transportation and local warehousing or distribution.
How does Drayage help streamline intermodal shipping?
Drayage is essential in intermodal shipping because it facilitates the transfer of goods between various transportation modes, such as rail to truck. It minimizes handling times, which in turn improves delivery efficiency and reduces overall shipping costs.
What types of goods are typically handled in Drayage shipping?
Drayage shipping typically handles containerized goods, including consumer products, machinery, electronics, and imported materials. These goods are transported from ports or rail hubs to warehouses or distribution points for further processing or delivery.
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
- 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
- Reefer Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services