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 Connecticut flatbed trucking companies and found A & F Trucking, LLC to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Connecticut
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 Connecticut. Every Connecticut 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 Connecticut for your commercial shipping needs.
A & F Trucking, LLC
622 Hanover Rd, Meriden, CT, 6451- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
A & F Trucking, LLC (DOT: 1595512) is a robust trucking company based in Connecticut, specializing in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. With a focus on dry van and flatbed transportation, A & F Trucking ensures reliable delivery of building materials, fresh produce, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and refrigerated foods. This array of cargo highlights their capability in managing diverse shipping needs while serving a commercial clientele effectively.
The company primarily operates interstate, serving businesses across the country with a small yet efficient fleet. A & F Trucking places emphasis on safety with no reported crash incidents and a professional approach to vehicle maintenance. Their services are geared towards interstate operations, with local drivers and a competitive driver salary range from $50,000 to $70,000. Health insurance and paid time off are notable benefits, ensuring that A & F Trucking not only meets but strives to exceed business expectations.
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: 3
- Revenue: $697,000
- Miles driven: 210,556
Megill’s, Inc.
1390 Whalley Ave, New Haven, CT, 6515- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Megill’s, Inc. (DOT: 1231651) operates in Connecticut with a focus on driveaway and towaway cargo, primarily for motor vehicles. Their operations extend across state lines with a small yet efficient fleet of four trucks and a total driver count of three. Despite its modest size, this company emphasizes reliable full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services, catering especially to businesses requiring consistent transport for motor vehicles.
Megill’s, Inc. stands out by providing essential benefits, including health, vision, dental, life, and disability insurance, alongside retirement plans for their drivers. They maintain a relatively low score in unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance, reflective of their commitment to safety. Despite not offering specialized services like hazardous material transportation or refrigerated goods shipping, their stable operation supports business owners looking for standard truckload services without the complexities of handling specialized cargos.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.75
- Driver fitness: 3.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Revenue: $801,000
- Miles driven: 10,000
Town & Country Transportation Company
191 Arch St, New Britain, CT, 6051- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Town & Country Transportation Company (DOT: 256416) is a distinguished carrier operating within the interstate sphere, with a fleet size of 46 and a focus primarily on transporting passengers. They are equipped with dry vans and flatbeds for versatile cargo handling, providing both full truckload and less-than-truckload services.
This company is noted for its active status and satisfactory safety rating. Town & Country Transportation offers local driving opportunities and supports healthy work-life balance with health, dental, and vision insurance for drivers. Although new drivers may need existing experience with no new driver programs in place, the company offers reliable service with operational mileage totaling 200,000 miles.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.54
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 14
- Revenue: $586,000
- Miles driven: 200,000
Avenue Transport, LLC
1258 Thomaston Ave Ste B, Waterbury, CT, 6704- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Mobile homes
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Avenue Transport, LLC (DOT: 2990348) is a well-rounded freight trucking company based in Connecticut, excelling in handling various types of cargo such as building materials, construction goods, and oversized machinery. They offer full and partial truckload services tailored to diverse shipping needs with a proficient fleet size of 18 vehicles. Avenue Transport also accommodates a range of clients with specialized requirements, providing reliable interstate delivery solutions.
Avenue Transport prioritizes driver welfare, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off and guaranteed home time, which ensures a satisfied workforce. Their emphasis on safety is reflected in their zero crash records. Businesses can benefit from flexible services like dry van and less-than-truckload options, ensuring efficient and customized deliveries. Despite being a small operation, their effective handling of general freight and intermodal containers make them a dependable choice for commercial shipment support.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 5.68
- Driver fitness: 0.52
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.71
- Controlled substances: 0.4
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $1,717,000
- Miles driven: 168,820
Live Axle Trucking, LLC
63 Great Pyrenees Way, Bristol, CT, 6010- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Live Axle Trucking, LLC (DOT: 2503743) is a dynamic transportation company providing exceptional freight services in the Connecticut area. With a total fleet size of 60, they specialize in general freight, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods, offering flexible solutions for various shipping needs. Their emphasis on full truckload and less-than-truckload services makes them a versatile choice for different business requirements.
Live Axle Trucking prides itself on operating safely and efficiently, with a dedicated team of 59 drivers. They support owner-operators and prioritize offering competitive benefits, including health, dental, vision insurance, and paid time off. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and reliable service ensures that commercial clients can depend on Live Axle Trucking for consistent and professional freight transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.23
- Driver fitness: 0.2
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.18
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.2
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 59
- Revenue: $744,000
- Miles driven: 352,367
J Vitali Transportation, LLC
80 Britannia St, Meriden, CT, 6450- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
J Vitali Transportation, LLC (DOT: 1299065) is a committed carrier in Connecticut, maintaining an active status within the transportation industry. With a fleet size between 1 to 10 and a mixture of updated vehicles, they specialize in full and partial dry van truckloads, ensuring flexibility across a variety of cargo, including liquids and gases. Their tanker and flatbed services further strengthen their capability to handle diverse shipping needs.
J Vitali Transportation places a premium on employee security, offering health, dental, vision, disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. They provide guaranteed home time for drivers and uphold satisfactory safety standards. Although there are a few noted safety concerns, they foster a supportive environment for regional and local drivers. With advanced direct deposit options and paid time off, the company ensures a balance between professional obligations and personal well-being.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.74
- Driver fitness: 0.58
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.31
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 24
- Revenue: $1,932,000
- Miles driven: 1,370,000
J.U. Trucking, Inc.
14 Peveril Road, Stamford, CT, 6902- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
J.U. Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2338370) is an active carrier primarily dealing with general freight and intermodal containers operations throughout Connecticut and beyond. With a sizeable fleet of 21 trucks, they emphasize full truckload (FTL) services, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery for business owners seeking robust logistical support. Established as a reputable entity, J.U. Trucking offers dry van and reefer services, adeptly handling various types of cargo, aligning with specific commercial needs.
J.U. Trucking addresses commercial shipment requirements with key focus points, such as offering health, dental, and vision insurance for its drivers. The company promotes safety with low incident reports, boasting zero crash-related injuries and fatalities. Operations are bolstered by a committed team of regional and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, providing dedicated service routes. J.U. Trucking, Inc. is ideal for businesses requiring dependable trucking solutions with a focus on consistency and service quality.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.16
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.52
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.47
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 21
- Miles driven: 949,428
Orite Services, Inc.
12 Bouton Street, Norwalk, CT, 6854- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Orite Services, Inc. (DOT: 633949) is a trucking company in Connecticut with a commitment to general freight transportation. Their fleet, consisting of 1 to 10 trucks, primarily handles general freight and household goods. With services that include full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments, Orite Services, Inc. ensures flexibility for varying cargo needs.
This carrier focuses on interstate operations, offering their clients reliable solutions for motor vehicle transportation. Despite their small size, they maintain active compliance with safety regulations, with no reported crash injuries or fatalities. Orite Services, Inc. provides additional benefits such as paid time off and health insurance for their local and over-the-road drivers, enhancing driver satisfaction and retention.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.8
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $648,000
- Miles driven: 50,000
Stratchem Logistics, LLC
67 Welton St, New Haven, CT, 6511- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $11,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Stratchem Logistics, LLC (DOT: 3463703) is an active interstate carrier, strategically located in Connecticut, known for its extensive capability in handling general freight and chemicals. The company prides itself on offering robust full and partial truckload services, adeptly utilizing a modern fleet of 32 trucks, including flatbed and dry van options, to efficiently manage shipments of dry bulk commodities and liquids/gases.
Stratchem Logistics prioritizes driver well-being by providing health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside flexible working options such as guaranteed home time and ongoing training programs. They are recognized for their safety and reliability, with no recorded crashes. Business owners seeking dependable logistics support will appreciate Stratchem’s commitment to comprehensive service, ensuring products are delivered securely and on time.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.61
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.08
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $1,034,000
- Miles driven: 594,632
Industrial Riggers, Inc.
264 Chase River Road, Waterbury, CT, 6704- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Industrial Riggers, Inc. (DOT: 27842) is a trusted provider of transportation services in Connecticut. With an active status in interstate operations, they specialize in carrying logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, and utilities. Their fleet includes 14 trucks and 28 total power units, offering full and less-than-truckload services with a focus on dry van and flatbed transport.
Despite a modest fleet size, Industrial Riggers prioritizes customer satisfaction and safety, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating with no crash fatalities. They provide a comprehensive benefits package for employees, including health, dental, and life insurance. While they do not engage in hazardous materials transport, their emphasis on safety and reliable service makes them a dependable choice for businesses needing efficient cargo shipment solutions across the region.
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: 13
- Revenue: $5,769,000
- Miles driven: 129,751
How Safety Ratings Work in Connecticut
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 Connecticut Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut?
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