After evaluating seven drayage companies in Connecticut, based on affordability, service speed, and customer satisfaction, Continuum International Logistics, Inc. is our choice for the most reliable port-to-warehouse service.
Drayage Shipping Services & Transport in Connecticut
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 Connecticut. Every Connecticut 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 Connecticut for your commercial shipping needs.
Continuum International Logistics, Inc.
61 Gray’s Bridge Road, Brookfield, CT, 6804- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Continuum International Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 601324) is a versatile trucking company located in Connecticut. Specializing in a wide array of cargo types, they handle household goods, intermodal containers, and other specialized freight. Offering reefer and dry van services, the company manages both interstate and cross-border operations, ensuring a broad reach for their clients.
Continuum International provides several key services such as power-only and consolidation, supporting efficient freight management. Their expertise in hazardous materials transportation highlights their commitment to safety and specialized logistics. Additionally, the company offers tanker services, signifying robust support for various liquid cargos or oversized freight. With a focus on flexible scheduling and ongoing training programs, Continuum International is dedicated to providing excellent service, supported by modern equipment with an average fleet age of just two years. Their strong emphasis on driver support, including paid CDL training and a retirement plan, makes them a competitive choice for businesses.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.5
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.26
- Controlled substances: 0.06
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 19
- Revenue: $661
- Miles driven: 526,704
Manchester Transport
51 Bissell St, Manchester, CT, 6040- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Refrigerated food
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Manchester Transport (DOT: 252367) has been serving various transportation needs since 1973 with a satisfactory safety rating. Their diverse offerings include transportation of general freight, liquids/gases, refrigerated foods, and water well components. The company operates a fleet of 7 trucks and 14 trailers, including refrigerated and dry vans, ensuring they can accommodate a variety of cargo.
By providing specialized support such as dedicated routes and team drivers services, Manchester Transport ensures dependable service for commercial shipments. They also handle hazardous materials and offer managed transportation solutions. Additional services include sign-on bonuses, ongoing training programs, and comprehensive benefits such as health and dental insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid time off, making them an attractive logistics partner for businesses.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.75
- Driver fitness: 0.18
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $1,018
- Miles driven: 251,359
William B Meyer, Inc.
255 Long Beach BLVD, Stratford, CT, 6615- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Box truck
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
William B Meyer, Inc. (DOT: 17847) is a well-established trucking company in Connecticut, with a long history dating back to 1915. Specializing in logistics, relocation, and workplace solutions, they offer comprehensive freight services including the transportation of general freight, household goods, and large machinery. This company is known for its dedicated routes and provides specialized support with trained hazmat drivers, ensuring safe handling of hazardous materials.
The company’s fleet size falls between 50 to 99 corporate-only vehicles, with a total fleet size of 176, demonstrating a robust capacity for commercial shipments. They operate interstate, and support services such as managed transportation, owner-operator opportunities, and drop trailer logistics. Additionally, William B Meyer, Inc. invests in the welfare of their drivers by offering flexible scheduling, safety bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement. Their emphasis on safety is highlighted by a satisfactory safety rating and zero reported crash injuries or fatalities.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.04
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.21
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 96
- Revenue: $91,078,000
- Miles driven: 1,236,985
Star Express
3 Barker Drive, Wallingford, CT, 6492- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Trash
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Tanker
- Consolidation
- Drayage
Star Express (DOT: 254515) is an active trucking carrier that primarily focuses on providing specialized and efficient freight transportation services. With a fleet of 12 modern trucks and experience spanning 14,461 days, the company offers dedicated routes across interstate operations. Star Express demonstrates expertise in transporting general freight, building materials, metal sheets, coils, and rolls, along with paper products. The company is known for its adaptability in the industry, providing a range of services such as flatbed and tanker transport, ensuring versatile solutions for various shipping needs.
Star Express stands out with its committed team drivers and owner-operators, while providing important perks such as flexible scheduling, health insurance, and paid time off. The incorporation of new driver programs and ongoing training development highlights their investment in staff skills and safety. Additional commercial support includes drop trailer and consolidation services, ensuring seamless logistics and reliable transportation for business owners seeking a proficient shipping partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.65
- Driver fitness: 0.48
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.33
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.9
- Controlled substances: 0.15
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 9
- Revenue: $2,759
- Miles driven: 462,354
Pace Motor Lines, Inc.
1425 Honeyspot Road Ext, Stratford, CT, 6615- Fleet size: 50+
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Last-mile delivery
- Drayage
Pace Motor Lines, Inc. (DOT: 107052) is a Connecticut-based trucking company founded in 1973, recognized for its reliable reputation in the industry. The company operates a robust fleet of over 128 vehicles, specializing in handling dry van and flatbed cargo services. With a focus on intermodal containers, it facilitates seamless cargo movement across state lines, making it a dependable choice for businesses looking to ship general freight efficiently.
Pace Motor Lines supports commercial shipments with experienced flatbed and drayage services, catering primarily to general freight and intermodal container needs. They emphasize safety and compliance, holding a satisfactory safety rating. Their fleet is configured for various cargo types, including lowboy and step deck options. Business owners can rely on their expertise in managing complex freight logistics, ensuring timely and safe deliveries.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 2.38
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.09
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 68
- Revenue: $47,535
- Miles driven: 2,777,372
Nova Express
570 Mat Street, Naugatuck, CT, 6770- Fleet age: 5 years
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Nova Express (DOT: 788061) is a Connecticut-based trucking company actively serving customers with a diverse range of cargo needs. With a fleet of 10 trucks, they specialize in transporting general freight, refrigerated foods, and dry bulk commodities. They are well-regarded for handling construction materials, farm supplies, and US mail, ensuring reliable service for various industries.
Nova Express offers services that support commercial shipments across borders, and their team driving service caters to businesses requiring expedited delivery. The company emphasizes safety, boasting zero crash injuries or fatalities. With options like driver referral bonuses and flexible scheduling, Nova Express is committed to efficient and dependable freight transportation 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: 9
- Miles driven: 1
Connecticut Bulk Transport, LLC
482 Honeyspot Road, Stratford, CT, 6615- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Water well
Truck Types
- Reefer
- Container
- Step deck
- Pneumatic
- Tanker
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Connecticut Bulk Transport, LLC (DOT: 389195) is an active commercial freight carrier equipped with modern fleet assets located in Connecticut. Specializing in interstate transportation, the company provides a comprehensive range of services including the transport of general freight, building materials, liquids, and gases. With the capability to manage hazardous materials and dry bulk commodities, they are well-suited for diverse shipping needs. The average fleet age is two years, contributing to reliability and efficiency in operations.
The company offers specialized support through dedicated routes and the availability of reefer and tanker drivers, ensuring the safe transport of sensitive cargo. Additional services include drayage and cross-border transport, enhancing logistics flexibility for commercial clients. Connecticut Bulk Transport takes pride in its employee benefits, including health and vision insurance, ongoing training and development programs, and per diem payments, which underscore their commitment to quality service and employee satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 4.28
- Driver fitness: 0.28
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Miles driven: 165,333
How Safety Ratings Work in Connecticut
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 Drayage Transport Company for Your Shipments in Connecticut
Here’s how to find dependable Drayage services for short-haul moves:
- Proximity to ports and rail yards: Select a Drayage provider close to key terminals in Connecticut to minimize transit times and costs.
- Importing/exporting experience: Connecticut carriers that specialize in Drayage understand how to navigate port processes and reduce potential delays.
- Fleet capacity and availability: A carrier with a sufficient fleet of well-maintained trucks will be better-eqipped to handle fluctuating shipment volumes.
- Real-time tracking: Opt for Connecticut Drayage companies with GPS and tracking tools for better visibility into shipment locations and statuses.
- Compliance and safety standards: Ensure the company meets all FMCSA safety and regulatory requirements for port-related trucking.
- Efficient communication: Reliable customer service is key, particularly for urgent deliveries or high-volume Drayage needs.
FAQs
What role does Drayage play in the shipping process for Connecticut businesses?
Drayage is a crucial part of the shipping process that involves short-distance transportation from ports or rail terminals to distribution centers. For Connecticut businesses, it acts as a vital link between large-scale transportation and local warehousing or distribution.
How does Drayage help streamline intermodal shipping?
Drayage is essential in intermodal shipping because it facilitates the transfer of goods between various transportation modes, such as rail to truck. It minimizes handling times, which in turn improves delivery efficiency and reduces overall shipping costs.
What types of goods are typically handled in Drayage shipping?
Drayage shipping typically handles containerized goods, including consumer products, machinery, electronics, and imported materials. These goods are transported from ports or rail hubs to warehouses or distribution points for further processing or delivery.
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
- 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
