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Best trucking companies in South Dakota

Nearly 95% of products sold in stores across South Dakota are transported by truck. With a heavy reliance on trucking for everyday needs, drivers are an essential part of the state’s economy. South Dakota trucking jobs are plentiful and rewarding, but finding the best company to work for is not always easy. 

Learn which six trucking companies come out on top and discover more about truck driving in the Mount Rushmore State.

Quicklook: Best trucking companies in South Dakota

  • Best for on-time deliveries: Sutton Transport -Match Now
  • Best for career stability: K&J Trucking, Inc. -Match Now
  • Best for flexibility: Dakota Carriers -Match Now
  • Best for consistent shipments: Habeck Trucking, Inc. -Match Now
  • Best for refrigerated shipments: A&A Express -Match Now
  • Best for driver opportunities: Windwalker Transportation, Inc. -Match Now

6 best South Dakota trucking companies

Whether you’re a driver looking for a company offering great pay and the best benefits or a shipper seeking your next carrier partner, these are the six best trucking companies in South Dakota. 

Sutton Transport

Sutton Transport is committed to serving the state of South Dakota and the entire Midwest region. Through its partnerships with trucking companies throughout the state, shippers can expect one-to-three day delivery times to South Dakota and an on-time delivery rate of 99%.

This Wisconsin-based trucking company strives to provide the ultimate customer experience through continuous improvement and an employee-focused mindset. Sutton also aims to attract, develop and retain the best drivers through positive motivation and competitive pay. 

Best for: On-time deliveries 

Established: 1979

Location: Weston, Wisconsin

Employees: 700

Carrier Type: 

  • LTL
  • Truckload
  • Hazmat

Services Provided: Mainly LTL shipping but also logistics, expedited shipping and freeze protection services

Revenue: $96.6 million

Google Rating: 3.8/5 stars on 34 reviews

K&J Trucking, Inc. 

K&J Trucking, Inc. 

K&J Trucking, a reputable company in the industry, provides drivers with exceptional long-term career opportunities. With an impressively low turnover rate, working at K&J guarantees you are part of the best team. The company offers a range of routes, including regional, intermediate, and long-haul trips, allowing you to choose the route that suits your preferences. What sets K&J Trucking apart is its genuine appreciation for its employees, fostering a positive work environment that extends to both new hires and seasoned professionals. Joining K&J Trucking means being valued and supported throughout your journey as a truck driver. 

Best for: Career stability 

Established: 1979

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Employees: 28

Carrier Type: 

  • Truckload
  • LTL
  • Refrigerated

Services Provided: Most commonly reefer transportation, but also transports general commodities.

Revenue: $5.1 million

Google Rating: 4.6/5 stars on 57 reviews

Dakota Carriers

Dakota Carriers, a well-established trucking company since 1992, has experienced remarkable growth and revitalization through a strategic acquisition in 2015. This industry leader stands out for its commitment to employee well-being and satisfaction. At Dakota Carriers, you will discover a wealth of career opportunities tailored to your needs. With diverse positions available, the company prioritizes the contentment of both employees and customers. Working at Dakota Carriers guarantees an excellent career path and a supportive environment where your success is valued.

Best for: Flexibility 

Established: 1992

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Employees: 67

Carrier Type: 

  • Truckload
  • LTL
  • Refrigerated

Services Provided: Transportation of refrigerated and non-refrigerated goods, dispatch services 

Revenue: $7.6 million

Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars on 35 reviews

Habeck Trucking, Inc. 

Habeck Trucking, a trusted name in the industry, prioritizes consistency and excellence when it comes to shipping services. As one of the leading trucking companies in South Dakota, Habeck offers a wide range of options to cater to diverse customer needs. With their state-of-the-art equipment and unwavering commitment to delivering the best, Habeck Trucking provides an exceptional working environment for both employees and customers. Joining the team at Habeck ensures the opportunity to contribute to their outstanding track record and be part of a company that values quality and professionalism.

Best for: Consistent shipments 

Established: 1999

Location: Belle Fourche, South Dakota

Employees: 25

Carrier Type: 

  • Truckload
  • LTL
  • Refrigerated

Services Provided: Transportation and brokerage services available. 

Revenue: $5 million

Google Rating: 4.1/5 stars on 9 reviews

A&A Express 

A&A Express 

A&A Express, a leading company in temperature-controlled transportation, understands the significance of transporting fresh, frozen, and refrigerated items. With their efficient processes, A&A Express has successfully reduced costs for all stakeholders involved. Leveraging innovative technology to monitor trailer temperatures, they ensure the utmost quality in every delivery.

Joining A&A Express as a driver means taking pride in delivering goods that meet the highest standards of freshness and reliability. With their commitment to excellence, A&A Express provides an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding career in the transportation industry.

Best for: Refrigerated shipments

Established: 1978 

Location: Brandon, South Dakota

Employees: 25

Carrier Type: 

  • Truckload
  • Refrigerated

Services Provided: Temperature-controlled transportation for the food-service industry

Revenue: $6.6 million

Google Rating: 3.8/5 stars on 92 reviews

Windwalker Transportation, Inc. 


Windwalker Transportation, a reputable company with an expansive distribution area across the United States, offers drivers abundant opportunities and possibilities. Whether you prefer local routes or aspire to embark on long hauls, Windwalker caters to your preferences. With a strong emphasis on fostering a family-like atmosphere, the company takes pride in its enduring team camaraderie. Joining Windwalker means becoming part of a dedicated workforce that values longevity and strives to provide a fulfilling and rewarding career in the transportation industry.

Best for: Driver opportunities

Established: 1994

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Employees: 15

Carrier Type: 

  • LTL
  • Truckload
  • Flatbed
  • Refrigerated

Services Provided: Short- and long-haul transportation, dispatch and brokerage services 

Revenue: $6 million

Google Rating: 4.6/5 stars on 28 reviews

Trucking jobs in South Dakota

South Dakota is an excellent state for truck driving jobs, with opportunities for new drivers and career growth for experienced CDL drivers. By choosing one of the top six trucking companies in the state, you can have a rewarding career with plenty of growth and great pay. What are you waiting for? Become a South Dakota truck driver today.

FAQ

How much do CDL drivers make in South Dakota?

High pay and excellent benefits attract many people to CDL jobs. South Dakota truck drivers earn an average annual base salary of $58,423.

How many trucking companies are in South Dakota?

More than 20 trucking companies operate in South Dakota, from small local carriers to regional and long-haul fleets.

What do I need to start a trucking company in South Dakota?

The first step to starting a South Dakota trucking company is to earn your CDL. Commercial truck drivers should then check out the state’s official trucking resource site, SD Truck Info, to learn about the rules and regulations for becoming a carrier in South Dakota.

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