If you’re in the business of manufacturing construction materials, machinery, or other heavy load items, flatbed carriers are the most efficient way to get your products where they need to go. We looked at areas like pricing, safety, fleet size, and customer feedback for leading Arkansas flatbed trucking companies and found Propak Logistics, LLC to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Arkansas
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 Arkansas. Every Arkansas 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 Arkansas for your commercial shipping needs.
Propak Logistics, LLC
5000 Rogers Avenue Ste 800, Fort Smith, AR, 72903- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Propak Logistics, LLC (DOT: 1703885) is a reputable logistics company with a primary focus on full truckload (FTL) services, dry van, and less-than-truckload (LTL) solutions. They handle a wide array of cargo, including beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, fresh produce, general freight, and refrigerated foods. Propak’s fleet comprises over 50 vehicles, maintaining an average fleet age of 2 years, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation.
Specializing in the brokerage, carrier, and shipper roles, Propak operates actively interstate, highlighting its capability to manage diverse transportation needs. With an emphasis on cargo such as metal sheets, coils, and rolls, the company ensures proper handling of specialized freight. Propak Logistics supports commercial shipments with essential services, including health insurance and paid time off for employees, demonstrating its commitment to both operational excellence and workforce support.
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: 4
- Revenue: $3,481,000
- Miles driven: 48,381
W L Transport, Inc.
3116 Nestle Rd, Jonesboro, AR, 72401- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
W L Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1376503) operates in the robust transportation industry with a primary focus on interstate freight services. With a fleet of over 40 vehicles, this Arkansas-based company excels in offering full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Specializing in flatbed and dry van transport, W L Transport handles a variety of cargo, including beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction items, metal sheets, coils, and paper products. The company also emphasizes general freight handling, ensuring a broad spectrum of shipping solutions.
W L Transport prioritizes driver and vehicle safety, highlighting zero crash injuries and fatalities, and maintains an impressive fleet average age of three years. While the company offers paid time off and health insurance, it notably boasts a strong Google rating of 4.5. Despite no current offerings of certain commercial shipment services like hazardous materials handling or specialized routes, W L Transport remains a reliable choice for business owners seeking efficient and secure product transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.08
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $8,823,000
- Miles driven: 1,741,884
H.W. Tucker Company, Inc.
1301 East 13th Street, North Little Rock, AR, 72114- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
H.W. Tucker Company, Inc. (DOT: 1720160) is a trucking carrier based in Arkansas. Although specific details about their founding year are unavailable, they are active and specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. The company operates a modest fleet, primarily handling construction materials and large machinery.
H.W. Tucker Company emphasizes employee benefits, offering paid time off, a retirement plan, dental and health insurance. They employ over-the-road drivers and possess a small fleet of modern flatbed and dry van trucks, with an average age of three years. Their focus on non-hazardous materials ensures a secure and reliable service for businesses seeking a dedicated and qualified shipping partner.
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: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 8
- Revenue: $6,815,000
- Miles driven: 50
Tommy Surrett Trucking, Inc.
13724 Arch St, Little Rock, AR, 72206- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Tommy Surrett Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2504091) is a reputed trucking company based in Arkansas, known for its focus on transporting general freight and construction materials. With a fleet of 19 trucks and a total of 38 vehicles, the company efficiently handles a range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, beverages, machinery, building materials, logs, paper products, and intermodal containers. They emphasize over-the-road (OTR) driving, providing partial and full truckload services with a primary operation focus on interstate transport.
Despite a moderate record of safety with one reported crash injury, Tommy Surrett Trucking, Inc. highlights its dedication to safety and driver fitness. Their benefits package for employees includes direct deposit, paid time off, and health insurance. While they do not offer specialized or hazardous material transportation services, the company maintains active authority and compliance with federal regulations, making them a reliable choice for business owners seeking dependable freight shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.67
- Driver fitness: 0.52
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.35
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.71
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Miles driven: 560,496
NWA Heavy Haul And Transport, Inc.
2200 S Old Missouri Rd Suite B, Springdale, AR, 72764- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Lowboy
NWA Heavy Haul And Transport, Inc. (DOT: 3463699) is a reputable trucking company based in Arkansas, recognized for its effective logistics and transportation services. Operating a fleet of 10 trucks, the company is known for its proficiency in handling a diverse array of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, construction items, fresh produce, general freight, machinery, meat, motor vehicles, oilfield equipment, and refrigerated foods. Their services are tailored to cater to versatile transportation needs, encompassing full truckload and less-than-truckload deliveries.
Specializing in heavy haul and transport, the company employs skilled heavy haul, flatbed, and dry van drivers to ensure efficient and safe cargo delivery. NWA Heavy Haul And Transport prioritizes customer satisfaction with services like direct deposit and paid time off, backed by an impressive safety record. Business owners can rely on their consistent service quality, supported by excellent vehicle maintenance and effective preventive measures in place, to safely and reliably ship their products.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 6.3
- Driver fitness: 0.35
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.38
- Controlled substances: 0.35
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 11
- Revenue: $727,000
- Miles driven: 750,892
M.C. Express, LLC
95 Cr 407, Jonesboro, AR, 72404- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
M.C. Express, LLC (DOT: 345951) is a reputable trucking company based in Arkansas, having served the industry since 1994. With a fleet of over 85 trucks and more than 50 trailers, they specialize in general freight transportation, offering both full and partial truckload services. They provide reliable dry van and flatbed transportation, catering to regional needs with a substantial team of local and over-the-road drivers.
M.C. Express, LLC is dedicated to safety and professionalism, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating and moderate scores in vehicle maintenance and driving safety. Although their services do not include hazmat or refrigerated cargo, they excel in delivering standard goods efficiently. Business owners will appreciate their competitive salary ranges, coupled with benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, and a commitment to guaranteed home time for their drivers. With a notable presence in the industry, M.C. Express, LLC remains a solid choice for commercial freight needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 2.61
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 68
- Revenue: $17,645,000
- Miles driven: 8,495,150
S&E Transport, LLC
4362 North Waterside Court Suite 220, Fayetteville, AR, 72701- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
S&E Transport, LLC (DOT: 2005674) is a relatively new player in the Arkansas trucking industry, commencing operations in 2024. They focus on catering to various cargo types, including beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They excel in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, backed by a fleet of 8 trucks and 16 trailers, demonstrating their capability in handling diverse shipping needs.
S&E Transport offers a range of benefits for their drivers, including paid time off and health insurance, while also maintaining a commendable safety record with no recorded crash injuries or fatalities. The company operates across interstate routes, making them a viable choice for businesses requiring reliable freight solutions. Their customer-focused approach, backed by a solid infrastructure, positions them as a strong contender for businesses seeking efficiency in logistics and transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.63
- Driver fitness: 0.47
- Hours-of-service compliance: 3.47
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.4
- Controlled substances: 0.71
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $617,000
- Miles driven: 70,000
Mcconnell Heavy Hauling, Inc.
5500 Highway 365 S, Little Rock, AR, 72206- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Conditional
Cargo Types
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Lowboy
- Oversized
Mcconnell Heavy Hauling Inc. (DOT: 81055) is a reputable trucking company in Arkansas that has been in operation since 1946. They specialize in handling heavy and oversized shipments with their fleet of flatbed and lowboy trailers. The company is capable of transporting machinery, large objects, and materials like metal sheets, coils, and rolls, as well as logs, poles, beams, and lumber. With a fleet size of over 50 trucks and the capacity to manage full truckload and partial truckload services, Mcconnell Heavy Hauling provides reliable transportation solutions for varied cargo types.
Despite having an average safety rating, the focus on heavy hauling places Mcconnell Heavy Hauling in a niche market, catering specifically to businesses with unique shipping requirements. They operate within interstate parameters and maintain active authority. Though they do not offer extensive employee benefits, they do provide health insurance and paid time off. With zero recorded crashes, they exhibit strong safety records, further enhancing their appeal to business owners seeking dependable transport partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.4
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $7,371,000
- Miles driven: 347,469
Drivelink Services
18383 Habberton Rd, Springdale, AR, 72764- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Drivelink Services (DOT: 2920262) is a dynamic trucking company based in Arkansas, equipped with a fleet of 19 trucks and specializing in transporting dry bulk commodities, building materials, and intermodal containers. They offer reliable general freight services and have capabilities for flatbed, tanker, and dry van transportation, ensuring versatility for diverse cargo needs.
Drivelink Services supports their operations with regional drivers and offers enticing sign-on bonuses and dedicated routes. Though notable for their regional focus, the company maintains safety and efficiency with services like partial and full truckload deliveries. Their commitment to employee welfare and development is evident with benefits such as health insurance, ongoing training programs, and a retirement plan (401k), fostering a supportive environment for their dedicated workforce.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.24
- Driver fitness: 0.17
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.61
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.27
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $4,962,000
- Miles driven: 1,901,245
Sapper Transport, Inc.
4210 East Broadway Street, North Little Rock, AR, 72117- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Sapper Transport, Inc. (DOT: 2469475) is a reputable trucking company based in Arkansas, catering to a diverse array of cargo needs. Established in 2018, they provide specialized services such as flatbed and dry van trucking, catering to industries dealing with building materials, paper products, and large machinery. With a fleet size of 6 units and a total of 4 drivers, they focus on delivering reliable interstate transportation solutions.
Known for their commitment to safety with no recorded crash injuries, Sapper Transport emphasizes employee satisfaction through benefits like health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 401k retirement plan. They offer team driving opportunities and dedicated driver routes. The company also provides sign-on and referral bonuses, ensuring competitive compensation. Overall, Sapper Transport, Inc. is an ideal choice for businesses seeking efficient and attentive freight transport services.
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: 4
- Miles driven: 20,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Arkansas
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 Flatbed Trucking Company for Your Arkansas Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Arkansas, it’s important to consider the following before selecting a Flatbed trucking company:
- Specialized Flatbed options: Some companies offer specialized Flatbed vehicles like stretch or double-drop trailers that may be necessary for extra-long or heavy loads.
- Fleet Condition and maintenance: Choose a company that prioritizes fleet upkeep, as well-maintained trucks reduce the risk of delays and improve safety for your shipments.
- Weather-resistant protection: Flatbed carriers have an open deck, which make them ideal for loading and unloading bulky items. But open transport means exposure to the elements, so for more sensitive equipment or materials, look for carriers that provide tarping and other weather-protection services to safeguard cargo during transport.
- Experience with permits and regulations: Ensure the company is knowledgeable about handling oversize load permits, escort vehicles, and other regulatory requirements specific to Flatbed shipments.
- Load size and weight limits: Flatbed carriers have different weight and size capacities, so choose a company that can accommodate your cargo dimensions and meets Arkansas regulations.
- Geographic coverage: You’ll want to confirm that a carrier provides routes in your required shipping areas to ensure timely delivery.
- Tracking and communication: Carriers with advanced tracking technology and responsive communication help provide real-time updates on your shipment’s status.
- Driver experience and training: Experienced drivers are essential for safe and efficient flatbed transport, especially for complex hauls or challenging routes. Find out what basic and ongoing training a carrier requires.
- Insurance coverage: Confirm that the company’s insurance policies cover the value of your cargo, especially for high-value or heavy-duty loads.
- Customer reviews and reputation: Look for a company with positive consumer feedback, specifically from Flatbed customers.
FAQs
What types of shipments are best-suited for Flatbed shipping?
Shipments that require specialized handling or unique configurations — such as oversized, heavy, or oddly-shaped items — are best-suited for Flatbed shipping. Industries like construction and manufacturing often use Flatbed shipping for transporting machinery, raw materials, or equipment. Flatbed trucks have an open deck, making them particularly useful for products that cannot fit within the confines of standard trailers.
How can Flatbed shipping benefit my business in Arkansas?
Flatbed shipping can benefit your business by providing flexible transport options for loads that may not fit on more conventional trucks. They allow for easier loading and unloading, which in turn reduces handling time and potential damage for oversized or delicate items.
What are the biggest factors I should consider when choosing a Flatbed shipping provider?
Some of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a Flatbed shipping provider include experience with that transport type. Companies that have double-drop trailers and protective tarps are likely well-versed in Flatbed shipments. It’s also important to choose a company with skilled drivers and a well-kept fleet. You can review a company’s FMCSA score to check for safety violations and see maintenance records.
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
- 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
