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 Indiana flatbed trucking companies and found Prime Transport, Inc. to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Indiana
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 Indiana. Every Indiana 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 Indiana for your commercial shipping needs.
Prime Transport, Inc.
4640 Green Court, Elkhart, IN, 46516- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Hazardous materials
Prime Transport, Inc. (DOT: 327540) offers a versatile range of trucking services, making it a compelling choice for business owners. With a relatively small fleet of 66 vehicles, the company specializes in full truckload, partial truckload, and less than truckload services. Prime Transport efficiently handles cargo like general freight, household goods, and machinery, emphasizing adaptability for diverse shipping needs. Their well-maintained fleet, featuring reefer, tanker, and flatbed trucks, ensures safe and secure transportation for a wide variety of goods.
Prime Transport distinguishes itself with specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials and cross-border services. The company provides several employee benefits, such as health, dental, and vision insurance, well-rounded driver incentives, and ongoing training and development programs. Their focus on safety and professional growth contributes to a strong team of qualified drivers, making Prime Transport a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable and comprehensive trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.87
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.55
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.04
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 33
- Revenue: $1,471,000
- Miles driven: 2,188,370
Keystone Logistics, Inc.
1657 Commerce Drive Ste 9a, South Bend, IN, 46628- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Keystone Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 1202938) is a reputable trucking company established in 1999, based in Indiana. Specializing in transporting refrigerated goods, general freight, and fresh produce, they cater to diverse commercial shipping needs. With an active fleet of 35 trucks and operations across state lines, Keystone Logistics is equipped to handle full and partial truckloads. Their fleet includes trucks equipped for dry van, flatbed, and tanker deliveries, ensuring flexibility for various cargo types.
Keystone Logistics prioritizes safety and driver well-being, offering competitive salaries, health insurance, paid time off, and ongoing training programs. Known for their emphasis on safety, they hold a satisfactory safety rating and have zero hazardous material violations. Their operation extends dedicated regional and local driving opportunities, with team drivers available for efficient, time-sensitive shipments. Their commitment to service excellence and flexibility makes them a top choice for businesses seeking reliable logistics partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.23
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.68
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $4,326,000
- Miles driven: 3,000,000
AIR Logic, Inc.
1644 Fortner Dr, Indianapolis, IN, 46231- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Farm supplies
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
AIR Logic, Inc. (DOT: 1805411) is a reputable trucking company operating actively in interstate transportation. Specializing in a variety of cargo, AIR Logic provides full truckload and less-than-truckload services with a focus on shipping general freight, agricultural supplies, building materials, and beverages. Their fleet comprises dry van and flatbed trucks, reflecting versatility in handling diverse transportation needs.
With a fleet size of 11 trucks and 6 interstate drivers, AIR Logic ensures efficient and secure delivery of goods. Although their specialized services like reefer, hazmat, or auto transport are not available, they maintain essential insurance and prioritize health, dental, and disability coverage for their employees. Furthermore, their focus on stellar service is backed by strong Google and Glassdoor ratings, showcasing their commitment to customer satisfaction and employee well-being.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- 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: 6
- Revenue: $2,103,000
- Miles driven: 85,337
Mckinley Thomas Transport, LLC
3501 N Sutherland Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46218- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Mckinley Thomas Transport, LLC (DOT: 2499351) is an active interstate trucking company based in Indiana, operating a fleet of 17 trucks. Specializing in transporting a wide range of cargo, they offer services including full truckload, less-than-truckload, refrigerated transport, and parcel delivery. With a focus on varied cargo types, they efficiently handle the transportation of beverages, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, building materials, and paper products.
Mckinley Thomas Transport supports commercial shipments by providing regional driving opportunities and maintaining a fleet with newer vehicles averaging an age of 3 years. Their workforce benefits from comprehensive employee packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Emphasizing employee well-being, they also offer guaranteed home time and paid time off. Although they report high standards for vehicle maintenance, their overall safety ratings reflect moderate risk management practices.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.14
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $1,887,000
- Miles driven: 150,000
Superior Transportation Logistics, LLC
1411 Roosevelt Avenue Suite 250, Indianapolis, IN, 46201- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Superior Transportation Logistics, LLC (DOT: 952829) is a reputable carrier operating since 1932 in Indiana. This logistics company boasts a diverse fleet that includes flatbeds and dry vans, specializing in transporting various cargo such as chemicals and liquids/gases. Their operations are primarily interstate, ensuring smooth and efficient long-haul deliveries for clients.
Catering to businesses requiring less-than-truckload and full-truckload services, Superior Transportation Logistics is committed to excellence. They offer comprehensive employee benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement planning with a 401(k). Although their safety ratings are moderate, they maintain an active authority and demonstrate a commitment to reliable service with a well-maintained and modern fleet. Business owners can rely on Superior Transportation Logistics for their expertise and focus on customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.42
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 6
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 63
- Revenue: $48,564,000
- Miles driven: 2,838,837
T And K Trucking-Columbus, Inc.
3364 Fall Valley Dr, Columbus, IN, 47203- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
T And K Trucking-Columbus, Inc. (DOT: 1674490) is an active trucking company with a fleet of 11 trucks and 22 trailers, specializing in dry van, flatbed, and full truckload services. They handle a wide range of cargo, including fresh produce, building materials, and paper products, catering primarily to businesses involved with agriculture, construction, and general freight.
The company is known for its commitment to safety, with no crash-related injuries or fatalities reported. Although they do not offer hazardous material services, T And K Trucking provides flexible shipping solutions such as partial and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, which are beneficial for businesses looking to optimize supply chain efficiency. With competitive employee benefits like dental and health insurance, T And K Trucking aims to maintain a reliable and professional team to support its commercial shipping operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.24
- Driver fitness: 0.26
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.27
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $562,000
- Miles driven: 1,049,277
Imperial Travel
2150 Sagamore Parkway North, Lafayette, IN, 47904- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Imperial Travel (DOT: 515724) is an established carrier company operating in Indiana, specializing in comprehensive transport services. While the company does not specify its founding year, Imperial Travel operates a fleet of 20 vehicles, including box trucks and flatbeds, primarily focused on passenger transport. Customers seeking reliable trucking services will benefit from their flexible parcel service, partial truckload, and dry van options that cater to a wide variety of shipping needs.
Imperial Travel prioritizes safety with a satisfactory safety rating and offers attractive benefits such as sign-on and safety bonuses, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. The company provides services like lift-gate support, guaranteed home time, and ongoing training programs. With a focus on regional driving opportunities and team driving services, Imperial Travel ensures efficient and dependable transport solutions tailored to business owners seeking to ship their products with confidence.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.82
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Miles driven: 168,471
IST Logistics
7020 Cline Ave, Hammond, IN, 46323- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
IST Logistics (DOT: 257062) has been a respected carrier since 1972 in Indiana, offering reliable flatbed and full truckload services with a modern fleet of 125 trucks. IST specializes in handling dry van cargo, with a focus on dry bulk commodities like coal/coke and liquids/gases. Known for their satisfactory safety rating and strong reputation, IST upholds high standards for vehicle maintenance and driver fitness.
The company caters to diverse shipping needs, providing less-than-truckload (LTL) services, ensuring efficiency for smaller shipments. In addition to ongoing training and development programs, IST Logistics supports its drivers with comprehensive benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, and a retirement plan. Their approach, combining safety and service flexibility, makes them a reliable choice for business owners seeking a dedicated logistics partner for their product shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.13
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.59
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.45
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 97
- Revenue: $1,276,000
- Miles driven: 5,600,000
Extra Transportation & Logistics
1001 W Hanna Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46217- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Extra Transportation & Logistics (DOT: 565140) is a reputable trucking company operating in Indiana, providing a range of freight services tailored to business needs. Their services include full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), dry van, and partial truckload solutions. The company handles a variety of cargo types such as general freight, household goods, paper products, and refrigerated foods, showcasing their capacity to manage diverse shipping requirements effectively.
With a fleet of 54 vehicles and a focus on interstate operations, Extra Transportation & Logistics prioritizes team driving opportunities and provides ongoing training and development for its drivers. They offer a variety of employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. They have an active status with a satisfactory safety rating, reflecting their commitment to reliability and safety in commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 5.44
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.27
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.58
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 27
- Revenue: $1,269,000
- Miles driven: 2,403,574
Grammer Logistics
6320 E State St, Columbus, IN, 47201- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Grammer Logistics (DOT: 184668) is a prominent trucking company in Indiana, known for its robust capabilities in handling various types of cargo, including chemicals, general freight, and liquids/gases. With a fleet size of over 1,058 trucks, they offer services like full truckload, less than truckload, and dry van capabilities, ensuring a wide range of shipping options for different business needs. Their fleet has an average age of just 2 years, showcasing their commitment to maintaining modern and reliable equipment.
Despite facing some crash-related incidents, Grammer Logistics maintains a “Satisfactory” safety rating, indicating a decent emphasis on safety standards. They provide comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and disability insurance, along with a retirement 401(k) plan and paid time off. The company also supports cross-border operations, making them a versatile choice for businesses with international shipping requirements. Grammer Logistics stands out with a solid reputation, backed by positive ratings across platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor.
Safety
- Crashes: 30
- Unsafe driving: 1.18
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.15
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.58
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 35
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 514
- Revenue: $1,497,000
- Miles driven: 33,300,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Indiana
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 Indiana Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Indiana, 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 Indiana 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 Indiana?
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
