After analyzing pricing, services, and consumer ratings, we picked Select 1 Transport as the best Michigan trucking company for commerce shipments.
Depending on the size of your business and specific shipping needs, you may want to consider Select 1 Transport or one of the other top trucking companies on our list.
Top Trucking Companies in Michigan
Why Trust FreightWaves?
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 Michigan. Every Michigan 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 Michigan for your commercial shipping needs.
Select 1 Transport
1749 Northwood, Troy, MI, 48084- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Select 1 Transport (DOT: 673525) is a quality-oriented trucking company in Michigan with a commendable reputation. The firm boasts a diverse fleet of 57 trucks and offers specialized services that include dedicated routes, partial truckload, and full truckload options. Key cargo handled by Select 1 Transport comprises general freight and motor vehicles, highlighting their capacity to address varied logistical needs efficiently.
For business owners, the company provides exceptional commercial shipment support with features like dry van service, flatbed availability, and lift gate assistance. Their commitment to driver welfare is evident through benefits such as direct deposit, dental, life, and vision insurance, paid time off, and guaranteed home time. Select 1 Transport also emphasizes team driving opportunities and ongoing training programs, ensuring safe and reliable transport of goods.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.67
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.48
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 57
- Revenue: $543,000
- Miles driven: 3,154,090
Black Hornets, Inc.
16931 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield, MI, 48075- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Black Hornets, Inc. (DOT: 1285004) is an active freight trucking company based in Michigan. Although relatively small, with a total fleet size of 22 trucks and 11 drivers, they offer a wide range of services supporting commercial shipments. The company specializes in various types of cargo, including beverages, building materials, chemicals, general freight, household goods, intermodal containers, metal sheets/coils/rolls, paper products, refrigerated food, and U.S. mail. Their comprehensive service offerings include full and partial truckloads, dry van, flatbed, and reefer transportation.
Black Hornets, Inc. provides notable special support, such as guaranteed home time for drivers, flexible scheduling, last-mile delivery services, and health benefits like dental and vision coverage. They maintain a focus on driver and vehicle safety, as indicated by moderate safety scores and offering ongoing training and development programs. For businesses needing dependable and versatile freight solutions, Black Hornets, Inc. stands out with its commitment to service and driver support.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.5
- Driver fitness: 2.58
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 11
- Miles driven: 319,082
Gemini Transport
9680 Eagle St, Dearborn, MI, 48120- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Gemini Transport (DOT: 1035057) is an active and reputable freight trucking company based in Michigan. Operating with a fleet of 90 trucks and primarily handling general freight and various other cargo types, they are known for their reliable shipping services. The company offers specialized services like flatbed and dry van transportation and provides both full truckload and less than truckload options for diverse shipping needs.
In addition to their transportation services, Gemini Transport supports commercial shipments with features such as lift gate services, guaranteed home time for drivers, and rider or pet allowance. They prioritize driver welfare with benefits like health, dental, vision, and life insurance, paid time off, direct deposit, and a sign-on bonus. Business owners will find Gemini Transport’s strong reputation, satisfactory safety rating, and commitment to service an attractive choice for their logistics needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 1.18
- Driver fitness: 0.36
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.45
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.47
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 85
- Revenue: $1,176,000
- Miles driven: 5,150,000
Matrix Expedited Service
4268 Holiday Dr, Flint, MI, 48507- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Matrix Expedited Service (DOT: 1246253) is a reputable trucking company in Michigan, renowned for its high-quality trucking services and proactive customer support. Established with a focus on transportation and logistics, this company specializes in carrying general freight and motor vehicles. They maintain a modern fleet with an average age of 3 years, consisting mainly of dry van and reefer (refrigerated) trucks, offering full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) options to meet diverse shipping needs.
Matrix Expedited Service is committed to providing exceptional support for commercial shipments. They employ experienced interstate over-the-road (OTR) drivers and offer expedited driving services to ensure timely deliveries. Additionally, the company supports services like last-mile delivery and partial truckload shipments, catering to businesses looking for specific logistical solutions. Their extensive benefits packages for drivers, including health, dental, vision insurance, and retirement plans, demonstrate their dedication to maintaining a skilled and satisfied workforce.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.61
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.79
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 155
- Revenue: $2,541,000
- Miles driven: 6,380,000
ALL Seasons Express, LLC
5398 Market St, Kalamazoo, MI, 49048- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
ALL Seasons Express, LLC (DOT: 305136) is a reputable trucking company operating out of Michigan with an active USDOT status and an overall satisfactory safety rating. The company boasts a fleet of 47 trucks and 50 drivers, significantly handling a range of cargo, including commodities dry bulk, fresh produce, general freight, meat, and refrigerated foods, making it a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
ALL Seasons Express offers a variety of services to support commercial shipments, including dedicated local and over-the-road drivers. The company ensures maximum convenience for business owners through a series of employee benefits such as direct deposit, dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and paid time off, which contribute to their high employee satisfaction rating. They also take pride in having an average fleet age of just 3 years and provide guaranteed home time and team driving opportunities, ensuring reliability and consistency in their operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 3.02
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.76
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.97
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 50
- Revenue: $3,084,000
- Miles driven: 3,505,755
Concepts Transport, Inc.
163 Morrell St, Detroit, MI, 48209- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Concepts Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1600173) is a respected trucking company based in Michigan, specializing in the transportation of a versatile array of cargo. Their operations include beverage transport, building materials, construction items, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and US mail. The company boasts a fleet that includes flatbed and dry van trailers, with an emphasis on partial and full truckload services.
Concepts Transport, Inc. supports commercial shipments with dedicated services like guaranteed home time for drivers, paid CDL training, team drivers, and regional and local drivers. The company has an overall satisfactory safety rating, and their average fleet age is five years. Additionally, they provide comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, and a retirement plan (401k).
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.58
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $706,000
- Miles driven: 421,018
West Ua Transport, Inc.
13195 East 8 Mile Road, Warren, MI, 48089- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
West Ua Transport, Inc. (DOT: 2163401) operates with a primary focus on interstate transportation, carrying a diverse range of cargo including beverages, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, refrigerated food, and US mail. With a fleet that encompasses 61 trucks and 122 power units, they specialize in both full truckload and less-than-truckload services, ensuring versatile and efficient delivery options for various shipment needs.
Committed to providing reliable commercial shipping solutions, West Ua Transport, Inc. supports refrigerated and dry van transport, emphasizing the safe carriage of temperature-sensitive goods. Despite having a few reported crashes, their practice includes a relatively low rate of vehicle maintenance issues and unsafe driving violations, showcasing their effort towards maintaining safety standards. With health insurance benefits and paid time off for their employees, they are dedicated to ensuring driver welfare as part of their operational ethos.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 3.82
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.71
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 56
- Revenue: $1,232,000
- Miles driven: 6,431,400
Keller Transfer Line, Inc.
5635 Clay Ave Sw, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Keller Transfer Line, Inc. (DOT: 75812) is a Michigan-based trucking company. They have been serving the transportation sector for a considerable period. With a fleet size ranging from 50 to 99 tractors and a satisfactory safety rating, they are well-equipped to handle various types of cargo, including general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They employ a total of 12 truck drivers, with a significant emphasis on both local and over-the-road (OTR) operations.
Keller Transfer Line, Inc. provides several specialized services to support commercial shipments, including full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) options. They also offer dry van and flatbed services, ensuring versatility in cargo handling. Additional amenities for drivers include direct deposit and paid time off (PTO), enhancing their employment benefits. Despite a few reported crashes, they maintain a solid reputation, supported by positive reviews. Overall, Keller Transfer Line, Inc. stands out for its comprehensive service offerings and commitment to reliable transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.25
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $10,707,000
- Miles driven: 523,117
Hello Express, Inc.
3900 Wyoming, Dearborn, MI, 48120- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Hello Express Inc. (DOT: 1195535) is a versatile trucking company based in Michigan. With a fleet comprised of 20 power units and 40 trailers, including dry vans and flatbeds, they handle a variety of cargos such as machinery, metal sheet coils, paper products, household goods, and other general freight. They also provide refrigeration services for temperature-sensitive shipments.
Hello Express Inc. supports commercial shipments with specialized services like cross-border transportation and partial truckloads. Additionally, they offer comprehensive employee benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with paid time off, a retirement plan, and safety bonuses. They maintain a strong safety record with zero crash incidents and prioritize the well-being of their drivers through direct deposit and sign-on bonuses.
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: 12
- Revenue: $4,704,000
- Miles driven: 450,000
Powell Relocation Group
4937 Starr Street Se, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Last-mile delivery
Powell Relocation Group (DOT: 261884) operates in Michigan, providing specialized services in transporting household goods. With a total fleet size of 53 trucks and 106 trailers, they focus on dry van and full truckload services. Their commitment to safety is evident with no reported crashes and a low unsafe driving score of 0.15. The company’s staff boasts 50 drivers with experience in both local and over-the-road routes.
Powell Relocation Group supports its employees with a comprehensive benefits package that includes dental, life, disability, and health insurance, alongside retirement plan 401(k) options and paid time off. Business owners can rely on them for handling property shipments and last-mile services. Their strong reputation is backed by high ratings on Indeed (4.2), Yelp (4.0), and Google (4.5), reflecting consistent customer satisfaction and reliable service quality.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.15
- Driver fitness: 0.2
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 50
- Revenue: $6,010,000
- Miles driven: 900,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Michigan
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 Michigan Trucking Company for Your Shipments
Whether you operate an e-commerce platform, local business, or regional chain in Michigan, there are a few key factors to consider when looking for the best trucking company:
- Shipment volume and frequency: The total dimensional weight of your shipment can impact the company you choose, since some companies have minimum project size requirements. If your shipping order is on the smaller size, look for a company without any size restrictions that also offers a variety of options, including LTL and partial truckload shipping. Similarly, you’ll want to look for companies that will fit your anticipated ongoing volume. You may also want to consider companies that provide some surge capacity to accommodate unexpected growth.
- Shipping destinations: If possible, try to determine how often you’ll need shipping for what distances. Knowing where in the U.S. you ship to most frequently — or if you need nationwide shipping — will help you select a carrier that provides the regions and haul distances you need.
- Services: Consider looking for a trucking company in Michigan with specialized support for businesses — like logistics and supply chain management and warehousing and distribution — as well as online shipment tracking or other helpful technological tools and resources.
- Safety: While we verify that each trucking company we recommend has a DOT number and follows Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) safety standards, you may want to further consider the average fleet age and years of driver experience, ongoing training programs, and other steps a company takes to ensure your shipment will be delivered efficiently and without incident.
FAQs: Michigan Trucking Companies
Which is the most frequently used mode of transportation for distributing products in Michigan?
Trucking, in general, is the most frequently used mode of transportation for distributing products in Michigan. In fact, nationwide, trucks transport more goods domestically than all other modes of commercial transportation combined. One reason for the popularity is affordability — road transport is typically the most cost-efficient shipping method. And a variety of vehicle options — like flatbeds, dry vans, and refrigerated trucks — makes it easier to move a variety of products.
What products are best transported by truck in Michigan?
The products that are best transported by truck in the U.S. include commodities like:
- Building materials
- Food and beverages
- Furniture
- Clothing
- Electronics
What is the disadvantage of transporting goods by truck in Michigan?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Michigan and nationally, there are some minor disadvantages to consider, including weight and size restrictions and delays caused by inclement weather or traffic. Using a truck for your commercial shipments can also be expensive for longer-distance deliveries. And trucks require loading, unloading, and reloading of goods, which can add more time to and logistical management of your shipment.