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 Tennessee flatbed trucking companies and found Heavy Haul, LLC to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Tennessee
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 Tennessee. Every Tennessee 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 Tennessee for your commercial shipping needs.
Heavy Haul, LLC
6210 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, TN, 37924- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Lowboy
- Oversized
Heavy Haul, LLC (DOT: 2013312) is a specialized trucking company located in Tennessee, known for its rigorous heavy haul operations. The company was established to cater to industries requiring transportation of oversized and large machinery, logs, building materials, paper products, and oilfield equipment. Their fleet comprises 32 total units, including flatbeds and lowboys, catering to specific transportation needs.
Heavy Haul, LLC excels in full truckload services, facilitating seamless interstate commerce. Their commitment to safety is evidenced by a remarkable absence of unsafe driving violations. Business owners will appreciate their strong reputation, underpinned by competitive salaries, health insurance, and retirement plans for drivers. With a BBB rating of 4.8 and an Indeed rating of 4.2, Heavy Haul, LLC stands out as a reputable choice for commercial shipping needs, offering options like direct deposit and paid time off to their workforce.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.58
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.88
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.9
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $21,392,000
- Miles driven: 779,161
Atomic Transport, LLC
1301 Riverfront Parkway, Chattanooga, TN, 37402- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Trash
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Atomic Transport, LLC (DOT: 2496911) is a reliable trucking company established in 2010, operating primarily in interstate transportation. They maintain an active DOT status with a fleet of up to 948 vehicles and provide comprehensive service coverage across the country. Specializing in flatbed and dry van transport, Atomic Transport is trusted for delivering a variety of cargo including garbage/refuse and liquids/gases, ensuring prompt and efficient services for businesses with diverse needs.
This company supports less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipments, catering to commercial clients requiring flexible solutions. Atomic Transport is dedicated to safe operations, displaying moderate safety scores, and has taken measures to enhance driver welfare, including offering health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Although they reported both crash injuries and fatalities, their ongoing commitment to safety and service makes them a considerable choice for business owners looking to ship their products efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 37
- Unsafe driving: 0.55
- Driver fitness: 0.13
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.59
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 424
- Revenue: $2,173,000
- Miles driven: 23,200,000
Safer Trucking
5600 Brainerd Rd Suite E2, Chattanooga, TN, 37411- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Safer Trucking (DOT: 2540919) offers comprehensive freight delivery services in Tennessee, specializing in dry van and flatbed transportation. As an active and reputable carrier, the company hauls general freight, refrigerated foods, beverages, and paper products. Their fleet comprises 40 trucks and 80 trailers, suitable for diverse shipping needs.
Safer Trucking provides several beneficial services, including team driver options and flexible shipment solutions such as full truckload, less than truckload, and parcel delivery. The company values employee welfare, offering health benefits like dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, alongside a 401k retirement plan. With a commendable safety record, Safer Trucking emphasizes reliability and quality in commercial shipments, making it a strong contender for businesses seeking a dependable trucking partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 1.2
- Driver fitness: 0.34
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.29
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.11
- Controlled substances: 0.07
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $3,693,000
- Miles driven: 3,569,409
Stephens Carriers, Inc.
131 A Sanders Ferry Road, Hendersonville, TN, 37075- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Stephens Carriers, Inc. (DOT: 580726) is a reputable trucking company established in 1986, based in Tennessee, with a fleet size ranging from 1 to 10 trucks. Known for handling general freight, building materials, paper products, and beverages, the company specializes in full and less-than-truckload services, utilizing flatbed and dry van trailers. Stephens Carriers is committed to providing reliable transportation solutions across interstate routes.
Despite being a small operation, Stephens Carriers maintains an active authority status and emphasizes a safe track record with no crash fatalities. The company supports its drivers with benefits like health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which is valuable for retaining experienced local and over-the-road drivers able to handle diverse cargo effectively. Business owners seeking partner services with a focus on essential cargo can rely on Stephens Carriers for dedicated service and transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 2.31
- Driver fitness: 0.55
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.27
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 18
- Revenue: $254,000
- Miles driven: 1,838,641
Pinkerton Transportation, LLC
110 Sheffield Pl, Franklin, TN, 37067- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Pinkerton Transportation, LLC (DOT: 1552379) is a carrier company known for its reliable full truckload and less than truckload (LTL) services. Specializing in transporting agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and more, Pinkerton caters to a wide array of commercial needs, including intermodal containers and general freight. The company prides itself on offering dry van and flatbed services, ensuring versatility in handling various types of cargo efficiently.
Pinkerton operates interstate, emphasizing safety with its zero recorded crash injuries or fatalities. They provide valuable driver benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan. Though their fleet consists of one truck and two trailers, they maintain a positive reputation reflected in a high Google rating of 4.5. The company also offers paid time off and over-the-road (OTR) driving options, making them a dependable choice for business owners seeking quality shipping services.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 110,000
Celebrity Coaches
110 Tennessee Way, Hendersonville, TN, 37075- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Celebrity Coaches (DOT: 1309458) is a prominent trucking company based in Tennessee, primarily focused on transporting passengers. Established several years ago, they offer a young fleet with an average age of just 3 years, consisting of 112 vehicles. The company provides various services including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload shipments, catering to different client needs.
Celebrity Coaches excels in offering services such as refrigerated transport (reefer) and tanker services, ensuring safe and timely delivery of sensitive cargo. They emphasize driver welfare with comprehensive benefits like health, dental, and life insurance, and programs like paid CDL training and safety bonuses. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their satisfactory safety rating. With guaranteed home time and a focus on team driving opportunities, this company is a reliable choice for business owners looking to transport cargo efficiently and securely.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- 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: 56
- Revenue: $1,195,000
- Miles driven: 2,744,649
Orgill Transportation Co, LLC
4100 S Houston Levee Rd, Collierville, TN, 38017- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Orgill Transportation Co, LLC (DOT: 86820) is a venerable trucking company, established in 1847, offering reliable freight transportation services. Based in Tennessee, they operate a substantial fleet focused on full truckload (FTL) services, catering primarily to general freight requirements. Their fleet includes dry vans and flatbeds, capable of managing diverse cargo, with an emphasis on efficiency and quality service.
The company is committed to ensuring smooth interstate operations, maintaining an active status with a satisfactory safety rating. They provide professional healthcare benefits, including dental and life insurance, complemented by a 401(k) retirement plan for their workforce. With a robust fleet comprising over 400 power units, Orgill Transportation remains a solid choice for business owners seeking dependable transportation for their goods across the region.
Safety
- Crashes: 31
- Unsafe driving: 2.28
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.41
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 9
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 422
- Revenue: $529,951,000
- Miles driven: 37,400,000
M & W Transportation Co, Inc.
1110 Pumping Station Rd, Nashville, TN, 37210- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
M & W Transportation Co, Inc. (DOT: 263403) is a Tennessee-based freight carrier known for handling general freight and chemicals. Operating a substantial fleet of 142 trucks and 284 total fleet size, M & W demonstrates a commitment to versatility and reliability with services such as full truckload, less than truckload, and flatbed shipping. Their focus includes providing safe and satisfactory transportation services across interstate routes.
This company is active in offering a range of benefits to its drivers, including health insurance and paid time off. M & W is committed to maintaining safety standards with satisfactory safety ratings. Known for catering to both large-scale and smaller shipping needs, they position themselves as a flexible partner for businesses needing to ship products efficiently and securely.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 0.76
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.43
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.99
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 142
- Revenue: $628,000
- Miles driven: 13,200,000
Specialized Transport Solutions
128 Holiday Court Suite 113, Franklin, TN, 37067- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Specialized Transport Solutions (DOT: 2516354) is a reputable trucking company with a medium-sized fleet of 102 vehicles based in Tennessee. They offer a broad range of transport solutions, including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. The company is equipped to handle a diverse array of cargo such as beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, meat, paper products, refrigerated foods, and liquids/gases.
The company emphasizes safety and reliability and has implemented a robust driver support system, including ongoing training and development programs, guaranteed home time, and various bonuses. Though safety scores indicate room for improvement, their offerings such as tanker, reefer, and flatbed services make them highly adaptable to varying business needs. Specialized Transport Solutions stands out in the competitive market with a strong focus on regional and dedicated routes, appealing to businesses seeking consistent and specialized freight services.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 3.27
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.84
- Controlled substances: 0.08
- Hazardous materials violations: 14
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 39
- Revenue: $880,000
- Miles driven: 3,678,405
Specialized Transportation Services, Inc.
225 Sam Griffin Road, Smyrna, TN, 37167- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Specialized Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 589549) offers comprehensive freight solutions across the nation. Operating with a fleet of over 110 vehicles, they specialize in full truckload services, supported by a strong dry van and flatbed driving team. Their operations focus on transporting general freight, leveraging both interstate and partial truckload capabilities to cater to diverse business needs.
The company emphasizes quality customer service and client satisfaction with a “Satisfactory” safety rating. They provide refrigerated options (“reefer” services) for temperature-sensitive shipments, ensuring cargo safety with their well-maintained fleet. Health, dental, and vision insurance are available to their employees, reflecting a commitment to their workforce. With a Google rating of 4.5 and a commitment to sustainable driving practices, they are a reliable choice for business owners aiming for secure and efficient shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.3
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.4
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 69
- Revenue: $8,610,000
- Miles driven: 4,241,874
How Safety Ratings Work in Tennessee
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 Tennessee Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
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
