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 Nebraska flatbed trucking companies and found Mills Transfer, Inc. to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Nebraska
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 Nebraska. Every Nebraska 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 Nebraska for your commercial shipping needs.
Mills Transfer, Inc.
656 Rose St, Lincoln, NE, 68502- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Mills Transfer, Inc. (DOT: 72245) is a reputable trucking carrier based in Nebraska, offering a diverse range of services since its establishment. With a fleet size of 18 vehicles, they specialize in providing full and partial truckloads along with less-than-truckload services. The company’s primary focus is on general freight, utilizing an array of flatbed and dry van trailers to transport such cargo efficiently.
Mills Transfer excels in supporting commercial shipments with team-driving opportunities and dedicated routes to ensure timely deliveries. They emphasize driver incentives like a sign-on bonus, driver referral bonuses, and ongoing training programs. Their commitment to employee welfare is reflected in the comprehensive health coverage, including vision, dental, and disability insurance. Equipped with tankers, they are prepared to handle liquid cargo, and their dedication to service has earned them a Google rating of 4.5, making them a strong choice for business owners seeking reliable freight transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.45
- 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: $1,949,000
- Miles driven: 175,000
Corby Flagle Trucking, Inc.
3932 Meadow Way Trail, Grand Island, NE, 68803- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Livestock
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Corby Flagle Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 249511) is a versatile trucking company operating in Nebraska, with a focus on reliability and safety, as evidenced by its satisfactory safety rating and minimal incident reports. The company offers full and partial truckload services, utilizing a fleet of 3 trucks and 6 total fleet power units. They specialize in transporting a variety of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, fresh produce, grain, feed, hay, livestock, metal sheets, coils, rolls, refrigerated foods, and meat. Their dry van and flatbed services ensure flexibility for different cargo needs.
Corby Flagle Trucking provides notable benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and offers direct deposit for its employees. Although they do not provide team driving opportunities, they do support local and over-the-road (OTR) drivers. With a solid online reputation, the company is positioned as a reliable partner for business owners seeking dependable freight solutions.
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: 4
- Revenue: $853,000
- Miles driven: 385,416
Midwest Express, LLC
2110 E Hwy 30, Grand Island, NE, 68801- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Midwest Express, LLC (DOT: 543587) operates an active and well-regarded trucking service in Nebraska. With a fleet of over 50 trucks, they offer a variety of transport solutions including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload services. Their specialization extends to the refrigerated transport of perishable goods, handling general freight, meat, and refrigerated foods with a commitment to reliability and efficiency.
Midwest Express stands out for their comprehensive support for commercial shipments. They provide regional trucking options with guaranteed home time for their drivers, enhancing reliability and punctuality. In addition, they offer benefits such as paid time off, health, dental, and vision insurance, making them a preferred choice for both business partners and employees. With a satisfactory safety rating and a dedication to maintaining fleet standards, they ensure that your products are transported safely and effectively.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.75
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.02
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.2
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 64
- Revenue: $9,381,000
- Miles driven: 6,470,818
Rick Johnson Cartage
2885 N St Paul Rd, Grand Island, NE, 68801- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Rick Johnson Cartage (DOT: 590404) operates under Patrick Investment Inc and is deeply embedded in the transportation industry. Specializing in full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments, their 42-unit fleet features 21 trucks, including flatbeds and dry vans. They expertly handle diverse cargo such as building materials, grain, logs, machinery, and metal sheets, providing reliable service for varied shipping needs.
With an interstate carrier designation, Rick Johnson Cartage emphasizes safety, evidenced by relatively low unsafedriving scores and zero reported crash injuries and fatalities. Catering primarily to local routes, they offer benefits like health insurance and paid time off to their drivers. Despite offering no specialized driver programs or bonuses, their focus remains on transporting general freight efficiently for commercial clients seeking dependable logistics solutions in Nebraska.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.6
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.08
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.7
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 14
- Revenue: $1,859,000
- Miles driven: 677,000
Schulz Transportation Services, Inc.
4301 West Adams St, Lincoln, NE, 68524- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Schulz Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 205228) has been a reputable name in Nebraska’s transport industry since 2003. With a fleet size of over 80 trucks, they specialize in the transportation of fresh produce, general freight, meat, and refrigerated food. Their services are remarkable for their commitment to full truckload and parcel shipments, guaranteeing the reliable transport of products across state lines.
Schulz Transportation emphasizes a satisfactory safety rating for business owners seeking secure shipping. They offer a well-rounded benefits package including paid time off, health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with a retirement plan. The company supports ongoing training and development programs to maintain high standards of service, while their operation covers less-than-truckload (LTL) logistics, dry van capabilities, and last-mile delivery, making them a standout choice for comprehensive commercial shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 2.16
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.11
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.69
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 80
- Revenue: $23,382,000
- Miles driven: 9,155,738
Secure Logistix, Inc.
1540 Garret Ln, Lincoln, NE, 68512- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Secure Logistix, Inc. (DOT: 2119641) is a reputable logistics company known for its comprehensive freight solutions in Nebraska. With a fleet of 27 trucks, Secure Logistix offers full and partial truckload services, specializing in handling fresh produce, beverages, meat, and paper products. Their operations primarily focus on general freight and refrigerated foods, ensuring that client shipments are managed with care and efficiency.
Secure Logistix prioritizes safety and compliance with an active USDOT status and an assurance of reliable service. They provide regional and local driving opportunities, ensuring adaptability to diverse shipping needs. Their health insurance and 401(k) plans reflect a commitment to employee well-being. Business owners can rely on Secure Logistix for efficient transport and handling of goods, supported by a dedicated team of drivers adept at interstate operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 5.04
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.7
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.68
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 27
- Miles driven: 1,750,000
Central Cooperative Nonstock Transport Co
5120 South Elk Drive, Grand Island, NE, 68803- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Central Cooperative Nonstock Transport Co (DOT: 54815) is a conscientious trucking company based in Nebraska. They operate a fleet ranging from 11 to 25 trucks, specializing in full truckload, less than truckload, and flatbed services. The company primarily transports general freight, grain, feed, hay, and liquids/gases, demonstrating versatility in handling diverse types of cargo with an emphasis on efficient and reliable delivery.
Central Cooperative Nonstock Transport Co is dedicated to supporting commercial shipments with a focus on safety, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating, and a relatively low unsafe driving score of 0.23. They offer essential employee benefits such as health and dental insurance, a retirement plan (401k), and paid time off, underscoring their commitment to employee welfare. This company facilitates interstate operations, catering to various business needs with dependable service.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.23
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.4
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Revenue: $2,559,000
- Miles driven: 518,000
Hunt Transportation, Inc.
10770 I Street, Omaha, NE, 68127- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $3,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Conestoga
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Sprinter van
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
Hunt Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 72097) is a reputable trucking company established in 1927, with a fleet size ranging from 50 to 99 corporate-owned vehicles. Operating primarily in Nebraska, they specialize in handling various cargo types, including agricultural supplies, construction materials, fresh produce, and more. Known for their robust flatbed services, Hunt Transportation also offers specialized handling for oversized and intermodal containers, ensuring flexibility and reliability for sizable commercial shipments.
Hunt Transportation provides a comprehensive range of services tailored to commercial needs, such as dedicated routes and managed transportation solutions. The company stands out for its employee benefits, including sign-on bonuses, health insurance, and paid CDL training. With a satisfactory safety rating and a focus on quality service, Hunt excels in facilitating smooth transportation logistics for business owners seeking a reliable partner for their shipping requirements.
Safety
- Crashes: 14
- Unsafe driving: 2.67
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.41
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 164
- Revenue: $8,651,000
- Miles driven: 15,000,000
Grand Island Express
432 South Stuhr Road, Grand Island, NE, 68801- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Grand Island Express (DOT: 54988) is a renowned 3rd Party Logistics provider in Nebraska with a robust and versatile fleet. They excel in transporting a wide range of cargo including beverages, building materials, fresh produce, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food. Their services are supported by specialized equipment such as reefer trailers and tankers, as well as flatbeds and step decks to handle various types of freight.
Grand Island Express offers exceptional solutions for commercial shipments, including intermodal and cross-border operations. They provide dedicated routes and expedited delivery options, supported by a team of experienced and specialized drivers. Their commitment to professional development through paid CDL training and tuition reimbursement enhances their service quality. With a strong focus on safety and customer satisfaction, Grand Island Express is an ideal choice for business owners seeking reliable and comprehensive transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 18
- Unsafe driving: 2.14
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.23
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 164
- Revenue: $1,986,000
- Miles driven: 17,600,000
Transportation Specialists Ltd
10001 South 152nd Street, Omaha, NE, 68138- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Pneumatic
- Sprinter van
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
Transportation Specialists Ltd (DOT: 193227) is an active, diversified trucking company operating in Nebraska with a fleet of 375 trucks and 750 power units. They offer a range of specialized services, including flatbed, dry van, and refrigerated transport. Their cargo expertise spans a variety of industries, with notable capabilities in handling fresh produce, beverages, chemicals, construction materials, and large machinery.
Transportation Specialists Ltd also provides special support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials transport and cross-border services. They prioritize driver well-being, offering benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Furthermore, they have dedicated and OTR driving opportunities, with a strong reputation for maintaining safety standards and continuous development programs for their drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 18
- Unsafe driving: 1.65
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 309
- Revenue: $38,783,000
- Miles driven: 22,000,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Nebraska
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 Nebraska Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska 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 Nebraska?
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