Intermodal trucking companies offer cost-effective and flexible solutions for businesses looking to streamline shipping. We reviewed factors like pricing, customer satisfaction, and service offerings for Intermodal carriers in South Carolina and found that Fast Freight Systems, Inc. leads the way for seamless multi-modal transportation.
Intermodal Shipping Services & Transport in South Carolina
Check out our full list of the best South Carolina Intermodal carrriers to optimize your supply chain.
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.
Fast Freight Systems, Inc.
950 Houston Northcutt BLVD Suite 100, Mount Pleasant, SC, 29464- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Fast Freight Systems, Inc. (DOT: 897765) is an active and reputable trucking company operating out of South Carolina, specializing in freight transport across state lines. They maintain a fleet of 68 trucks and have a satisfactory safety rating. Established over 24 years ago, Fast Freight Systems distinguishes itself by providing both full truckload (FTL) services and less-than-truckload (LTL) for general freight and intermodal containers. Their focus on safety is evidenced by their low unsafe driving and maintenance scores.
Fast Freight Systems handles a variety of cargo, including chemicals and general freight, making them a versatile choice for shippers. They boast benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance for their drivers, enhancing workforce satisfaction. The company does not offer dedicated routes, but their regional operation ensures coverage across different areas. With a strong online presence and positive ratings on platforms like Google and Glassdoor, Fast Freight Systems positions itself as a reliable partner for business owners seeking efficient transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 1.47
- Driver fitness: 0.16
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 68
- Revenue: $5,384,000
- Miles driven: 3,450,869
Carolina National Transportation, LLC
950 Houston Northcutt BLVD Suite 100, Mount Pleasant, SC, 29464- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Carolina National Transportation, LLC (DOT: 659150) is a South Carolina-based trucking company distinguished by its robust operations handling general freight, building materials, and intermodal containers. Operating a fleet of approximately 185 trucks, the company specializes in full truckload, partial truckload, dry van, and flatbed services, ensuring a wide spectrum of transport solutions. Established with a focus on customer satisfaction, Carolina National Transportation maintains an active status with the USDOT.
Known for its effective logistics capabilities, Carolina National Transportation supports commercial shipments with flexible scheduling, guaranteed home time, and ongoing training programs for its drivers. With innovative parcel solutions, the company meets diverse cargo needs while maintaining a satisfactory safety rating. Offering competitive salary packages ranging from $50,000 to $60,000, they also provide comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring strong employee benefits and support.
Safety
- Crashes: 11
- Unsafe driving: 2.28
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.75
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 185
- Revenue: $5,384,000
- Miles driven: 9,559,578
Liquid Box, Inc.
3135 Pacific Street, North Charleston, SC, 29418- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
Liquid Box, Inc. (DOT: 1794775) began operations in 2008 and is headquartered in South Carolina. This company specializes in Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping, with a focus on transporting building materials, chemicals, general freight, intermodal containers, and liquids/gases. With a fleet size between 20 to 49 trucks and the capacity to handle both small and large shipments, Liquid Box Inc. offers efficient solutions for diverse transportation needs.
The company is dedicated to safety with a controlled substance violation rate of 0.0 and moderate unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores. Despite a reported crash injury, Liquid Box Inc. maintains a solid reputation with favorable ratings from Google and Glassdoor. Business owners can benefit from their employee-friendly policies, such as direct deposit, health insurance, and paid time off. While their services do not extend to hazardous materials or specialized cargo, Liquid Box Inc.’s comprehensive approach ensures reliable service for general freight and specific commodities.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.42
- Driver fitness: 0.34
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.34
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.71
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 9
- Revenue: $4,308,000
- Miles driven: 841,075
Prime Time Logistics, LLC
2819 Industrial Ave, North Charleston, SC, 29405- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Prime Time Logistics, LLC (DOT: 3114604) is an emerging trucking company that has operated since 2018 in South Carolina. The company specializes in general freight, including beverages, intermodal containers, US mail, paper products, and other freight types. They provide services such as full truckload, partial truckload, dry van, reefer, flatbed, and tanker transport, offering flexibility in the kinds of shipments they can handle.
Prime Time Logistics distinguishes itself with interstate carrier operations and prioritizes truck safety, reporting zero injuries or fatalities. They offer life and health insurance, including dental, vision, and disability coverage, to support their drivers. The company maintains an active status with a relatively young fleet and focuses on providing reliable logistics solutions to meet various shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.33
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Revenue: $510,000
- Miles driven: 2,030
Excel Transport, LLC
161 Scalybark Rd, Summerville, SC, 29485- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Excel Transport, LLC (DOT: 1593361) is an established trucking company based in South Carolina. They offer a diverse array of services including full and less-than-truckload (LTL) freight, partial truckload, and parcel shipments. Operating a modern fleet of 8 vehicles with an average age of 3 years, Excel Transport facilitates the movement of general freight and intermodal containers across interstate routes.
Although the company does not provide certain specialized services such as hazardous materials or oversized loads, it excels in dry van and flatbed services. Excel Transport is noted for its general freight capabilities and prioritizes the quality of service with a strong emphasis on vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices. With benefits like paid time off, health, dental, and vision insurance, Excel Transport supports its workforce, positioning itself as a reliable partner for business owners seeking efficient freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.0
- Driver fitness: 2.5
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Miles driven: 231,160
MNT Trucking, LLC
8130 Littl Sydneys Way, North Charleston, SC, 29406- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
MNT Trucking, LLC (DOT: 2867669) is a dynamic freight trucking company established in 2016, based in South Carolina. They operate a compact fleet specializing in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, efficiently handling various types of cargo including building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, and fresh produce. MNT Trucking distinguishes itself by ensuring reliable transport of general freight, intermodal containers, and refrigerated foods with a focus on dry van and flatbed logistics.
MNT Trucking ensures a satisfactory safety rating and employs a modest team of five interstate drivers who prioritize seamless interstate operations. Their services are tailored to meet diverse business needs, from water well and utility transportation to accommodating machinery and large objects. Additionally, MNT Trucking emphasizes competitive driver compensation within the $50,000-$60,000 range, while offering benefits like direct deposit, health insurance, and paid time off, ensuring their commitment to both safety and driver welfare.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 5.08
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.88
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $647,000
- Miles driven: 196,821
J & L Transport, LLC
910 Martha Street, Columbia, SC, 29203- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
J & L Transport, LLC (DOT: 2314742) is a transport carrier offering reliable interstate trucking services. Specializing in dry bulk commodities, general freight, and intermodal containers, the company employs a fleet of five trucks and ten total fleet units. With reefer, dry van, and flatbed services, J & L Transport efficiently handles diverse cargo needs, making it a versatile choice for business owners.
J & L Transport prioritizes driver safety and compliance, maintaining excellent safety records with no reported crash injuries or fatalities. The firm provides support through benefits, including health insurance and paid time off, contributing to driver satisfaction. Although focused on full truckload and less-than-truckload services, they also supply local drivers to cover both short- and long-haul routes, ensuring timely distribution of products. Their active status on carriersource reflects their commitment to efficient and reliable service in commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.2
- Driver fitness: 1.81
- Hours-of-service compliance: 5.18
- Vehicle maintenance: 14.83
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Miles driven: 297,901
Rtr, Inc.
7109 Cross County Road, North Charleston, SC, 29418- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Rtr, Inc. (DOT: 713044) is a reputable trucking company founded in 1994, operating a fleet of 45 trucks in South Carolina. Specializing in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, they are adept at transporting general freight and intermodal containers. With a focus on flatbed and dry van transport, Rtr, Inc. efficiently handles cargo such as chemicals, showcasing their versatility in cargo transport.
Rtr, Inc. provides substantial support for commercial shipments, offering services like regional driving to optimize delivery efficiency. They ensure a safe and secure shipping experience, reflected by active authority and a strong emphasis on vehicle maintenance. With employees enjoying benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, coupled with a positive reputation on platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, Rtr, Inc. proves to be a reliable partner for businesses seeking robust and trustworthy trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.48
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.11
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate hazardous
- Drivers: 45
- Revenue: $2,647,000
- Miles driven: 1,170,000
Fountain Transport Services, LLC
113 Oak Hollow Ct, Columbia, SC, 29212- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Fountain Transport Services, LLC (DOT: 3061224) is an active freight transportation company headquartered in South Carolina. Known for their specialization in general freight and intermodal containers, they operate a fleet of 32 trucks, focusing on flexibility with full and partial truckload services. Their logistics expertise extends to carrying other cargo types, ensuring that diverse shipment needs are met efficiently.
The company is committed to enhancing driver satisfaction and operational safety, offering benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance along with paid time off and a retirement plan. They promote a supportive working environment through incentives such as safety bonuses and guaranteed home time. Fountain Transport Services places emphasis on maintaining vehicle standards, reflected by their moderate unsafe driving score, showcasing their diligence in providing reliable and secure transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.12
- Driver fitness: 0.1
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.08
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.38
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 55
- Miles driven: 2,878,192
Cargo Logistics International, LLC
201 Sigma Dr Suite 320, Summerville, SC, 29486- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Cargo Logistics International, LLC (DOT: 2234262) is a reputable logistics and transportation company founded in 2005, based in South Carolina. The company specializes in full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and intermodal container cargo services. They maintain a compact but efficient fleet of 5 trucks, emphasizing precision in delivery. The company greatly extends its expertise in handling dry van and flatbed freight operations, ensuring a full spectrum of logistics solutions tailored to meet diverse shipping requirements.
Despite its small size, Cargo Logistics International focuses on providing specialized support with well-trained reefer and flatbed drivers. They offer paid time off and dental and health insurance benefits for their employees, highlighting their commitment to employee well-being and satisfaction. With a strong safety record and customer-centric service, this company is dedicated to delivering reliable and efficient solutions for commercial shipments, making them a trusted partner for businesses seeking dependable freight transport services.
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: 5
- Revenue: $1,504,000
- Miles driven: 165,000
How Safety Ratings Work in South Carolina
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 Intermodal Trucking Company in South Carolina for Your Shipments
Intermodal trucking is ideal for South Carolina businesses looking to combine multiple transportation modes.
Here’s what to consider when selecting a carrier:
- Container options: Verify that the carrier provides containers compatible with your cargo type and shipping needs, from standard to high-capacity units.
- Cost-effectiveness: Intermodal shipping can be a cost-saving option, so look for South Carolina providers with competitive rates and balance affordability with quality service.
- Network reach: Choose a company with strong connections across rail, sea, and road modes for smooth transitions and cost-effective shipping.
- Customs and regulatory compliance: For cross-border shipments, choose a South Carolina provider skilled in navigating customs and regulatory requirements.
- Intermodal experience: South Carolina carriers experienced in Intermodal logistics ensure efficient transfers between modes and reduces delays and handling issues.
- Tracking tools: Select companies with tracking technology to provide continuous visibility of your shipment’s status across different transit stages.
FAQs
What types of goods are best-suited for Intermodal shipping?
Intermodal shipping is ideal for durable, non-perishable goods like electronics, machinery, and retail products.Intermodal shipping can be an affordable solution for businesses looking for efficient — but not urgent — long-distance transport.
How do South Carolina businesses coordinate Intermodal shipping?
South Carolina businesses can coordinate Intermodal shipping by working with a carrier experienced in managing multi-modal logistics. Intermodal trucking companies with established partnerships across transportation modes ensure smooth transitions and help reduce delays.
What are the key considerations for choosing Intermodal shipping providers in South Carolina?
When selecting South Carolina providers specialized in Intermodal transport, the most important factors to consider are their network reach, container options, and tracking capabilities. Providers with advanced logistics technology and a good track record for on-time delivery are ideal for efficient Intermodal shipping.
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
- LTL Shipping Services
- Parcel Delivery Shipping Services
- Pneumatic Shipping Services
- Power-Only Shipping Services
- Reefer Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services
