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Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Minnesota (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert
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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 Minnesota flatbed trucking companies and found Logix Transportation, Inc. to be the top pick.

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 Minnesota. Every Minnesota 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 Minnesota for your commercial shipping needs.

Logix Transportation, Inc.

3720 Macalster Dr Ne, Minneapolis, MN, 55421
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Logix Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 939909) is a reputable trucking and logistics company established in 2001, based in Minnesota. With a fleet size categorized between “20 to 49” vehicles, they offer a range of services, including full truckload (FTL), partial truckload (PTL), and less-than-truckload (LTL) options. They are particularly skilled in handling general freight and household goods.

Logix Transportation emphasizes safety, holding a satisfactory safety rating, and supports their drivers with benefits like sign-on bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans. They also provide guaranteed home time for drivers, fostering a balanced work-life environment. The company includes team driving opportunities and maintains a young fleet with an average age of three years.

Safety

  • Crashes: 6
  • Unsafe driving: 1.66
  • Driver fitness: 0.03
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.61
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 97
  • Revenue: $1,629,000
  • Miles driven: 8,575,605
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Lawrence Transportation Company

1515 Industrial Dr Nw, Rochester, MN, 55901
  • Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General
  • Refrigerated food

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Lawrence Transportation Company (DOT: 124408) has been a prominent player in the Minnesota trucking industry since 1957. With a fleet size of 202 and over 99 drivers, the company specializes in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. They are particularly adept at handling refrigerated foods and general freight, utilizing both dry van and flatbed trailers. This versatility allows them to cater to a diverse range of cargo needs.

Lawrence Transportation Company is committed to safety and driver well-being, as demonstrated by their satisfactory safety rating and strong emphasis on health benefits, including dental and life insurance. They offer ongoing training and development programs, ensuring that their drivers are well-equipped for commercial shipments. Additionally, with competitive driver salaries and bonuses, such as sign-on and referral bonuses, the company underscores its focus on employee satisfaction and retention.

Safety

  • Crashes: 6
  • Unsafe driving: 2.4
  • Driver fitness: 0.07
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.13
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.36
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 99
  • Revenue: $24,922,000
  • Miles driven: 9,028,786
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Minstar Transport, Inc.

837 Apollo Rd, Eagan, MN, 55121
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Minstar Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1759560) is a reputable trucking company, established in 2008 and operating out of Minnesota. The company manages a fleet of 95 trucks catering to a wide array of transportation needs, with their services primarily focused on general freight. Minstar is particularly adept at providing full truckload and less-than-truckload options, supported by a modern fleet with an average age of 5 years. Their operations are marked by satisfactory safety ratings and robust health benefits for their drivers, contributing to a relatively stable workforce.

Specializing in both dry van and flatbed services, Minstar Transport supports a diverse range of commercial shipments. While not offering specific handling for hazardous materials, they cover a broad spectrum of freight requirements, including expedited, local, and regional deliveries. Business owners can benefit from their consistent service despite their history of crashes, as they emphasize safety and driver fitness with commendable management practices, all aligning with an active interstate carrier operation.

Safety

  • Crashes: 11
  • Unsafe driving: 1.36
  • Driver fitness: 0.07
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.29
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.9
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 95
  • Revenue: $2,802,000
  • Miles driven: 16,000,000
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Daily Transportation

3464 Washington Drive #125, Eagan, MN, 55122
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • Farm supplies
  • Produce
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Lumber
  • Meat
  • Utility tools, parts & equipment
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Daily Transportation (DOT: 1209875) is an active carrier in Minnesota with a satisfactory safety rating. They excel in providing flexible trucking solutions, offering both full and partial truckload services, together with refrigerated transportation options, making them suitable for sensitive cargo. Daily Transportation is well-equipped to handle a diverse range of shipments, including agricultural goods, beverages, building materials, and fresh produce.

The company stands out due to its commitment to team driving opportunities and ongoing training and development programs for drivers. While boasting a commendable reputation with high ratings on job review platforms, Daily Transportation also supports its workforce with benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. The fleet, though relatively small, is modern, with an average age of three years, ensuring reliability and efficiency for commercial shippers seeking dependable transportation services.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • 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: 7
  • Miles driven: 600,000
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Elite Transportation Systems, Inc.

9113 Davenport St Ne, Blaine, MN, 55449
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • General
  • Lumber
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed

Elite Transportation Systems, Inc. (DOT: 1131056) is a reputable trucking company from Blaine, Minnesota, operational since 2000. The company boasts a fleet size of 95 trucks, focusing heavily on full truckloads and dry van transport. They are particularly skilled in handling various types of cargo, including building materials, construction goods, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and paper products, offering a comprehensive service for business clients with diverse shipping needs.

Elite Transportation Systems emphasizes safety and efficiency, reflected in their active interstate carrier operation status and zero reported crash fatalities. While specializing in general freight services, the company also facilitates transport of U.S. Mail. They support their drivers with health benefits like medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, alongside a 401(k) retirement plan. Although they do not offer services such as hazardous materials or refrigerated foods, their impressive care for driver well-being and consistent service makes them a reliable choice for commercial shipments.

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.48
  • Driver fitness: 0.43
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.26
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.51
  • Controlled substances: 0.11
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 95
  • Revenue: $481,000
  • Miles driven: 9,000,001
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Logistics Services, Inc.

900 Apollo Road, Eagan, MN, 55121
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Logistics Services, Inc. (DOT: 675241) operates as a reputable carrier providing reliable transportation services, primarily in the domain of general freight. They boast a modest fleet of 48 trucks, predominantly employing dry van and flatbed trailers, assuring a variety of shipping options for business needs. Catering to the logistics and transportation sector, they are committed to delivering full and less-than-truckload services with a focus on efficiency.

This Minnesota-based company emphasizes safety with a satisfactory safety rating, supported by their active authority status. Their offering of health insurance and paid time off highlights their commitment to employee welfare. Overall, Logistics Services, Inc. is a solid choice for businesses seeking dependable shipping solutions without compromising on safety and employee care.

Safety

  • Crashes: 7
  • Unsafe driving: 0.62
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.37
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.76
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 52
  • Revenue: $2,802,000
  • Miles driven: 4,831,485
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Premier Transportation, Inc.Orporated

999 American BLVD East, Minneapolis, MN, 55420
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Fleet age: 2 years
  • Insurance: $1,500,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory


Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker

Premier Transportation Incorporated (DOT: 529822) is a Minnesota-based trucking company established in 1988. Operating a fleet with an average age of 2 years, the company specializes in services such as flatbed and dry van transportation, as well as full and partial truckload shipping. Despite its moderate size, with 26 buses and a total fleet size of 52 vehicles, Premier Transportation emphasizes interstate operations, with a satisfactory safety rating.

The company offers competitive benefits such as paid time off, health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, alongside a retirement plan. They also provide ongoing training and development programs to their drivers, ensuring skill enhancement and safety. Premier Transportation specializes in transporting passengers and offers a unique service in tanker transportation. With a satisfactory safety and maintenance record, the company stands out as a reliable partner for commercial shipments requiring specialized logistics solutions.

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: 36
  • Revenue: $5,713,000
  • Miles driven: 160,000
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Kunkel Transfer And Storage

7464 Washington Ave S, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344
  • Fleet age: N/A
  • Insurance: $1,000,000

Cargo Types

  • Produce
  • Refrigerated food

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Kunkel Transfer And Storage (DOT: 1190934) is an active trucking company operating in Minnesota, specializing in freight transportation services. They focus on carrying fresh produce and refrigerated foods, leveraging their expertise in full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. With a modest fleet size of two trucks and four trailers, Kunkel ensures personal attention to detail on each shipment.

Despite a compact operation, Kunkel distinguishes itself by offering services like flatbed and dry van transportation. The company maintains a strong safety record with zero reported crash injuries, fatalities, or unsafe driving violations. Localized operations allow them to provide dedicated attention and unique solutions for commercial clients. Each driver is required to hold a CDL, ensuring experienced personnel handle shipments efficiently. Kunkel Transfer And Storage stands as a reliable choice for businesses seeking personalized, efficient shipping solutions.

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
  • Miles driven: 38,627
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Schmitty & Sons Transportation, Inc.

22750 Pillsbury Avenue, Lakeville, MN, 55044
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $5,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory


Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Schmitty & Sons Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 351246) is a reputable carrier based in Minnesota, primarily focused on passenger transportation with a total fleet size of 104, including 52 buses. Offering dry van and flatbed services, they are well-versed in handling less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) cargo. The company takes pride in its “Satisfactory” safety rating and maintains its fleet with an average age of 3 years, ensuring reliable service.

Schmitty & Sons is committed to supporting their drivers with comprehensive benefits like health, life, dental, and vision insurance. They also provide a 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off, reflecting their dedication to employee well-being. Despite reported crash incidents, their overall focus on safety is evident in their moderate maintenance and driving scores. With active status in interstate operations, they remain a solid choice for businesses seeking a dependable trucking partner.

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.58
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 0.37
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 45
  • Miles driven: 236,673
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Green Horizons, Inc.

12201 River Ridge BLVD, Burnsville, MN, 55337
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Green Horizons, Inc. (DOT: 1106798) is a reputable trucking company established in 1988 in Minnesota. They specialize in full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and dry van shipping, accommodating general freight and various other cargo types. With an active interstate carrier operation, Green Horizons provides reliable service with a moderate safety rating, ensuring efficiency across a fleet of 38 trucks.

This company is notable for its commitment to drivers’ welfare, offering benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off. Despite not handling hazardous materials or refrigerated foods, Green Horizons maintains a fleet that includes flatbed and reefer trucks, catering to diverse shipping needs. Cargo types range widely, making them a versatile choice for businesses in need of dependable transportation solutions.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 1.93
  • Driver fitness: 0.89
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 2.24
  • Vehicle maintenance: 12.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 30
  • Revenue: $6,542,000
  • Miles driven: 350,000
Compare Rates

How Safety Ratings Work in Minnesota

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 Minnesota Shipments

If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

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


Mike Marshall