After analyzing pricing, services, and consumer ratings, we picked O.N. Time Delivery Service, Inc. as the best Minnesota trucking company for commerce shipments.
Depending on the size of your business and specific shipping needs, you may want to consider O.N. Time Delivery Service, Inc. or one of the other top trucking companies on our list.
Top Trucking Companies in Minnesota
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 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.
O.N. Time Delivery Service, Inc.
1050 W 94 Th Street, Bloomington, MN, 55420- Fleet size: 50+
- 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
O.N. Time Delivery Service, Inc. (DOT: 912165) is a reputable Minnesota-based trucking company known for its solid commitment to timely deliveries, operating since the late 20th century. The firm handles general freight, with specialized capabilities for drop-trailer operations and the transportation of less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipments. Their fleet consists of over 66 vehicles, including flatbed and dry van trailers, empowered by a dedicated team of regional, OTR (over-the-road), and reefer drivers. With a commendable BBB rating of 4.5 and consistently strong customer reviews, O.N. Time Delivery Service is a reliable choice for businesses seeking efficient and reliable logistics support.
O.N. Time Delivery Service provides key support services for commercial shipments, such as ongoing training and development programs, flexible scheduling, and a range of employee benefits including dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. They also offer paid time off and a 401k retirement plan to ensure their staff is well-supported. Although the company has reported minor crashes, their safety ratings remain satisfactory, underpinning a strong safety culture. With a focus on maintaining a modern fleet and offering dedicated support to business operations, O.N. Time Delivery Service is well-positioned to meet various shipping demands with reliability and professionalism.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $3,574,000
- Miles driven: 1,535,000
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) is a longstanding trucking company founded in 1957 in Minnesota. With a diverse fleet of over 100 trucks and various trailers, they specialize in transporting general freight and refrigerated foods. They also offer full truckload and less-than-truckload services, reflecting their capacity to handle different shipment sizes and types under a satisfactory safety rating. A notable 120 employees support their operations, emphasizing reliability and dedicated service in the industry.
From heavy goods to perishable items, Lawrence Transportation Company caters to a range of commercial shipment needs, including flatbed and dry van services. They offer several employee benefits such as dental, vision, life, and health insurance, as well as ongoing training and development programs. Their focus on team driving, reimbursement bonuses, and guaranteed home time underscores their commitment to optimal service and driver satisfaction, making them an excellent choice for business owners seeking dependable freight transportation.
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
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 established in 2000, headquartered in Minnesota. With a fleet size of 95 trucks and an emphasis on maintaining a relatively young and active fleet, they specialize in diverse cargo such as building materials, construction supplies, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, paper products, and U.S. Mail. Their flatbed and reefer drivers ensure specialized handling, making them suitable for a range of commercial shipping needs.
This carrier stands out by offering comprehensive support systems for their drivers, including dental, life, vision, and health insurance, as well as paid time off and a 401k retirement plan. Their operation focuses on both interstate and less-than-truckload (LTL) services while maintaining top-tier safety and vehicle maintenance standards. Elite Transportation ensures reliability and efficiency in commercial freight projects, making them a strong choice for business owners seeking quality shipping solutions.
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
Eagle Transport Services, Inc.
2430 Marion Rd Se, Rochester, MN, 55904- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
Eagle Transport Services, Inc. (DOT: 587147) is a prominent Minnesota-based trucking company known for its expertise in handling a variety of cargo types such as General Freight, Household Goods, and Refrigerated Food. With a fleet of 38 trucks and a total of 38 drivers specialized in both full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipments, the company assures reliable and efficient services tailored for diverse shipping needs.
Eagle Transport Services, Inc. goes the extra mile by offering health insurance and paid time off to its employees, reflecting a commitment to their well-being. Despite having some reported crashes, they maintain a satisfactory safety rating and uphold moderate vehicle maintenance standards. With an ongoing focus on interstate operations, this company is well-equipped to meet the shipping requirements of business owners looking for dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 3.07
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 38
- Revenue: $831,000
- Miles driven: 2,829,288
Green Horizons, Inc.
12201 River Ridge BLVD, Burnsville, MN, 55337- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Green Horizons, Inc. (DOT: 1106798) is a seasoned trucking company established in 1988, based in Minnesota. With a fleet of 38 trucks and a total driver count of 30, they specialize in general freight and other cargo categories while also offering reefer and dry van services. Known for reliable local and over-the-road (OTR) transportation, Green Horizons provides efficient last-mile delivery and full truckload (FTL) support, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of a variety of goods.
Green Horizons stands out for its comprehensive employee benefits, including health, vision, dental, and life insurance, alongside paid time off and guaranteed home time, showcasing their commitment to workforce satisfaction. Special support for commercial shipments includes flatbed and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, catering to diverse shipping needs. With reputable safety records and a solid reputation, Green Horizons is a prime choice for business owners seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.93
- Driver fitness: 0.89
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 30
- Revenue: $6,542,000
- Miles driven: 350,000
Rochester City Delivery, Inc.
3101 40 Th 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 based in Minnesota with a moderate track record in safety and vehicle maintenance. Specializing primarily in transporting general freight and paper products, they offer extensive expertise in managing routine shipments. Their fleet consists of 22 trucks and 44 trailers, underscoring their capability to handle significant cargo volumes efficiently.
Rochester City Delivery, Inc. provides several commercial shipment services, including dry van and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, ensuring flexibility and reliability for various shipping needs. They cater to last-mile deliveries and have provisions in place for intrastate and interstate operations. Additionally, the company extends notable employee benefits such as dental and health insurance and paid time off, demonstrating their commitment to workforce well-being. Business owners looking for dedicated and versatile freight solutions will find Rochester City Delivery, Inc. an ideal partner for their shipping requirements.
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
Bronco Trucking, LLC
1170 Eagan Industrial Rd, Eagan, MN, 55121- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Bronco Trucking, LLC (DOT: 813915) is a reputable transportation company established in 2021, based in Minnesota. With an active USDOT status, the company focuses on the interstate transport of general freight, property, and reefer goods. They possess a fleet size of 18, including 9 total trucks and drivers who are cdl-certified.
Bronco Trucking offers full truckload (FTL) services and has capabilities for tanker and flatbed transportation. They provide benefits such as health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, alongside paid time off and a retirement plan (401k). Business owners will appreciate their reliable drivers operating both locally and over the road (OTR), ensuring the safe and efficient shipment of products across regions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.96
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 3.34
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.85
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $1,509,000
- Miles driven: 180,000
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 a moderately sized fleet of 48 trucks and 96 trailers from Minnesota. They were established over 27 years ago and have built a sound reputation in freight transportation. The company specializes in hauling General Freight, utilizing dry vans and flatbed trailers to accommodate a variety of cargo needs effectively.
Logistics Services Inc. offers critical services such as interstate full truckload and less-than-truckload shipping, catering specifically to business owners who require reliable and efficient transport solutions. They ensure driver safety and compliance with satisfactory vehicle maintenance and safety ratings. Additionally, the company supports its drivers with benefits such as health insurance, direct deposit, and paid time off, reflecting a commitment to workforce well-being. This makes them a dependable partner for commercial shipments.
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
Schmitty & Sons Transportation, Inc.
22750 Pillsbury Avenue, Lakeville, MN, 55044- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Schmitty & Sons Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 351246) is an active carrier offering interstate trucking services in Minnesota. They predominantly carry passengers using a versatile fleet consisting of 52 buses, showcasing their specialization in the transportation of people. Established with a focus on safety and reliability, their average fleet age is three years, and they have a satisfactory safety rating.
They provide various employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as paid time off and a retirement plan. Schmitty & Sons offer comprehensive cargo services like dry van and flatbed transportation, as well as less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) shipping. Specializing in partial truckload, they are well-suited for commercial shipments that require flexible and tailored transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.58
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 45
- Miles driven: 236,673
Atlas Specialized Transport, Inc.
8425 213 Th Street West, Lakeville, MN, 55044- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Atlas Specialized Transport, Inc. (DOT: 386122) is an active freight trucking company based in Minnesota. Despite its small fleet size of 16 trucks and 32 trailers, the company is equipped to handle a variety of cargo, including building materials, intermodal containers, logs, poles, beams, lumber, large machinery, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. The company also provides reefer services and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, catering specifically to businesses needing versatile and reliable transportation options.
Atlas Specialized Transport offers several benefits for its employees, such as health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. They emphasize both interstate operations and maintaining a relatively young fleet with an average age of 3 years. Although they do not provide specialized services like hazmat or heavy haul, their focus on fundamental freight needs and comprehensive employee benefits positions them as a dependable choice for commercial shipments in the region.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.31
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.94
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Revenue: $1,293,000
- Miles driven: 1,059,528
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: Minnesota Trucking Companies
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.
