After analyzing pricing, services, and consumer ratings, we picked Logix Transportation, Inc. as the best Minnesota trucking company for commerce shipments.
Top Shipping Services & Transport in Minnesota
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
MTL Companies
7211 Winnetka Ave North, Brooklyn Park, MN, 55428- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
MTL Companies (DOT: 863958) is a prominent Minnesota-based trucking company known for its reliable services in the transportation sector. Operating with a fleet size of 59 trucks, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, primarily transporting general freight and paper products. Established with a focus on safety and efficiency, the company holds an “Active” status and a “Satisfactory” safety rating, ensuring dependable service for their clients.
MTL Companies provides several driver benefits, including health, dental, and retirement plans. The company keeps its trucks modern with an average age of 2 years, emphasizing their commitment to quality service and safety. They cater to a variety of shipping needs with dry van operations, making them a versatile choice for businesses seeking efficient last-mile delivery solutions. With a credible presence on platforms like CarrierSource, MTL Companies offers a professional transportation experience backed by a solid industry reputation.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 1.03
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.36
- Controlled substances: 0.08
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 59
- Revenue: $10,406,000
- Miles driven: 2,200,000
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
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
Rochester City Delivery, Inc.
3101 40th Ave Nw, Rochester, MN, 55901- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,250,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Rochester City Delivery, Inc. (DOT: 116397) is a reputable trucking company operating out of Minnesota, specializing in transportation services since its establishment. They boast a fleet of over 50 trucks, with a focus on full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services. The company effectively manages shipments of general freight and paper products, leveraging its fleet that includes box trucks and dry vans to cater to diverse customer needs.
Rochester City Delivery, Inc. ensures reliable and efficient delivery services, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking dependable logistics support. Although their safety record notes a single injury-related crash incident, their satisfactory safety rating demonstrates a commitment to maintaining safe operations. The company prioritizes employee well-being with benefits such as paid time off, dental and health insurance, making them not only a strong logistics partner but also a supportive employer.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.56
- Driver fitness: 0.2
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 31
- Revenue: $4,257,000
- Miles driven: 1,020,000
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
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
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
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
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
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 Minnesota Trucking Company for Your Shipments
Whether you operate an e-commerce platform, local business, or regional chain in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota 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
Which is the most frequently used mode of transportation for distributing products in Minnesota?
Trucking, in general, is the most frequently used mode of transportation for distributing products in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Minnesota 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.
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
- Flatbed 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