FreightWaves Ratings cuts through the noise of freight technology product reviews to make you a smarter buyer

9 Best Drayage Trucking Companies in Ohio

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

After evaluating Ohio Drayage companies based on affordability, service speed, and customer satisfaction, Containerport Group is our choice for the most reliable port-to-warehouse service.

If you’re a logistics provider, retailer, or manufacturer, explore our list of the top Drayage trucking companies to find the right one for your supply chain needs.

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 Ohio. Every Ohio 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 Ohio for your commercial shipping needs.

Containerport Group

1340 Depot Street, Cleveland, OH, 44116
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Intermodal containers

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed
  • Container
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Drayage

Containerport Group (DOT: 232734) is a well-regarded trucking company established in 1972 in Ohio. Specializing in the transportation of intermodal containers and operating both flatbed and dry van trailers, the company ensures the efficient handling of diverse cargo types. Their extensive fleet includes over 1,300 trucks and 85,000 trailers, equipped for full truckload and less-than-truckload services, making them a reliable choice for various shipping needs.

Containerport Group stands out with dedicated local drivers and comprehensive health insurance support for its employees. The company operates on an interstate level, adhering to a satisfactory safety rating, and continues to maintain an active status in the industry. Notably, they provide direct deposit payment options and paid time off, demonstrating a commitment to driver well-being and satisfaction. With an emphasis on intermodal transportation and a robust operational framework, Containerport Group remains a top choice for commercial shipments.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 54
  • Unsafe driving: 0.93
  • Driver fitness: 0.05
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.08
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.36
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 16

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 1331
  • Revenue: $10,563,000
  • Miles driven: 60,000,000

Horizon Freight System, Inc.

8777 Rockside Road, Cleveland, OH, 44125
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 2 years
  • Insurance: $4,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Chemicals
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Produce
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Auto carrier
  • Conestoga
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Hopper bottom
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Pneumatic
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Tanker
  • Dump trailer
  • Hot shot
  • B-train semi
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Consolidation
  • Alcohol-insured
  • Drayage
  • Cross-docking
  • Hazardous materials

Horizon Freight System, Inc. (DOT: 237360) is a reputable and diverse trucking company based in Ohio. Operating with a modern fleet of 276 trucks and 552 trailers, they specialize in intermodal transportation and handle a wide variety of cargo. This includes beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, intermodal containers, machinery, metal sheets, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They offer numerous specialized services such as reefer, conestoga, dry bulk, dump trailer, hopper bottom, lowboy, step deck, flatbed, and tanker transportation.

Horizon Freight System provides essential support for commercial shipments with services like cross-border transport, drayage, and consolidated shipment options. They ensure logistics efficiency through power-only, cross-docking, and managed transportation solutions. Plus, they prioritize driver welfare with programs like health insurance, paid CDL training, and paid time off. They also offer enticing perks such as sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, gym memberships, and a truck lease-purchase program, underscoring their commitment to both service excellence and driver satisfaction.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 21
  • Unsafe driving: 1.32
  • Driver fitness: 0.02
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.02
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.86
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 4

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 276
  • Revenue: $1,107,000
  • Miles driven: 12,100,000

ACE Doran Hauling & Rigging Co

10765 Medallion Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45241
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • Farm supplies
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles
  • Oilfield equipment

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Consolidation
  • Alcohol-insured
  • Drayage
  • Cross-docking
  • Hazardous materials

ACE Doran Hauling & Rigging Co (DOT: 81361) is a reputable trucking company offering diverse shipping solutions in Ohio, active since its establishment. Specializing in transporting a variety of cargos such as agricultural supplies, building materials, construction items, large machinery, and oilfield equipment, they are well-equipped with a fleet of 135 trucks and 270 trailers.

With significant support for commercial shipments, ACE Doran provides specialized services including hazardous materials transport, flatbed, dry van, and tanker solutions. They offer dedicated routes, cross-docking, and cross-border services, with distinct support features such as driver fitness programs, health insurance, 401k retirement plans, and more. Ensuring reliable and flexible scheduling, they also prioritize safety with minimal unsafe driving records and zero crash injuries.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 4
  • Unsafe driving: 0.14
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.24
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.92
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 154
  • Miles driven: 6,833,065

City Service

1461 State Route 28, Loveland, OH, 45140
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Produce
  • General
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Flatbed
  • Auto carrier
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Hopper bottom
  • Oversized
  • Pneumatic
  • Power only
  • Tanker
  • Dump trailer
  • B-train semi
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border
  • Drayage
  • Cross-docking
  • Hazardous materials

City Service (DOT: 436440) is a comprehensive trucking company with a significant presence in Ohio. With a fleet size ranging from 20 to 49 trucks and a workforce that includes 40 interstate drivers, they are well-equipped to handle a wide array of cargo such as beverages, building materials, fresh produce, general freight, household goods, meat, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and paper products. Their cargo carrying capabilities are further enhanced with specialized vehicles such as dump trailers, flatbeds, and step decks.

City Service provides several specialized services that cater to commercial shipping needs, including hazardous materials, refrigerated foods, and dry bulk commodities. They also support cross-docking, cross-border shipping, and managed transportation, ensuring efficient and seamless logistics solutions for businesses. Notably, the company possesses a satisfactory safety rating, reinforcing their commitment to reliable and secure transportation services.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 1.76
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.93
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 40
  • Revenue: $924
  • Miles driven: 3,001,172

Ohio Transport Corporation

5593 Hamilton Middletown Road, Middletown, OH, 45044
  • Fleet size: 11 to 25
  • Fleet age: 3 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
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Sprinter van
  • Hot shot
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border
  • Drayage

Ohio Transport Corporation (DOT: 384170) has been a key player in Ohio’s transportation industry since 1988. The company operates a fleet of 134 power units and specializes in handling diverse cargo types including beverages, building materials, construction equipment, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. With a notable Indeed rating of 4.5 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.5, it is evident their services are well-regarded in the industry.

In addition to robust general freight services, Ohio Transport Corporation offers dedicated support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials, flatbed, dry van, and box truck services. They also cater to cross-border transportation needs and provide perks like rider or pet allowances, direct deposit, sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, health insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. This company stands out for its comprehensive driver support programs and competitive benefits, ensuring reliability and efficiency for all commercial shipping requirements.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 9
  • Unsafe driving: 2.62
  • Driver fitness: 0.16
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.84
  • Vehicle maintenance: 8.87
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 114
  • Revenue: $1,641,000
  • Miles driven: 5,270,992

Klingshirn & Sons Trucking, Inc.

14884 State Route 118, Burkettsville, OH, 45310
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Construction equipment
  • Farm supplies
  • Produce
  • General
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Box truck
  • Container
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Drayage
  • Hazardous materials

Klingshirn & Sons Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 392874) is a prominent trucking company serving clients across state lines from their base in Ohio. They are recognized for their dedication to shipping a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, construction materials, fresh produce, meat, metal sheets, coils, and rolls, general freight, and refrigerated foods. The company operates with 58 trucks and 116 total fleet units, emphasizing safe and reliable transport services.

Klingshirn & Sons Trucking excels in offering specialized commercial shipment supports, such as hazardous materials transportation, cross-border deliveries, and container hauling. Their commitment to driver satisfaction is evident with benefits like guaranteed home time, health and dental insurance, retirement plans, and ongoing training and development programs. They’re noted for their efficiency in handling quick and complex shipments, making them a top choice for business owners seeking reliable and tailored freight solutions.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 1.06
  • Driver fitness: 0.15
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.78
  • Vehicle maintenance: 7.54
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 51
  • Revenue: $581
  • Miles driven: 3,951,424

John R Jurgensen Co

11641 Mosteller Road, Cincinnati, OH, 45241
  • Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
  • Fleet age: 4 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Chemicals
  • Construction equipment
  • Liquids & gases
  • Machinery & large objects

Truck Types

  • Flatbed
  • Oversized
  • Drayage
  • Hazardous materials

John R Jurgensen Co (DOT: 81558) is a seasoned trucking company established in 1934. Based in Ohio, the company maintains a respectable fleet size of 56 trucks with a total fleet of 112 vehicles. Jurgensen specializes in transporting building materials, chemicals, machinery, and oversized objects, notably excelling in handling hazardous materials and liquids/gases. They offer both flatbed and drayage services, ensuring a broad spectrum of shipping needs are met efficiently.

John R Jurgensen Co places emphasis on supporting commercial shipments with services such as guaranteed home time for drivers, safety bonuses, and direct deposit options. They cater to local, regional, and over-the-road drivers, with special drivers skilled in flatbed operations. With a satisfactory safety rating and a moderate maintenance score, the company prioritizes the safety and reliability of their services.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 0.57
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 52
  • Revenue: $19,415
  • Miles driven: 141,234

Building Systems Transportation Co

460 E High St, London, OH, 43140
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Box truck
  • Drayage
  • Hazardous materials

Building Systems Transportation Co (DOT: 157581) is a versatile trucking company operating in Ohio with a fleet of 106 trucks and 20 to 49 trailers. Though the exact year of establishment isn’t provided, their DOT age of over 18,000 days suggests a long-standing presence in the industry. They specialize in carrying a variety of cargo, including general freight, intermodal containers, logs, poles, beams, lumber, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and refrigerated food. Their service offerings span regional routes, full truckload, less-than-truckload, drayage, and even hazardous materials transport, making them a comprehensive solution for diverse shipping needs.

Building Systems Transportation offers specialized support for commercial shipments with direct deposit, paid time off, health insurance, vision coverage, and a retirement plan. They also provide significant incentives for drivers, including sign-on bonuses, guaranteed home time, and driver referral bonuses. With a commitment to safety, they maintain a “Satisfactory” safety rating with moderate scores for unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance. Their strong service repertoire ensures that they are well-equipped to handle a wide variety of commercial shipping requirements efficiently and reliably.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 4
  • Unsafe driving: 2.09
  • Driver fitness: 0.1
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.63
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 106
  • Revenue: $5,568
  • Miles driven: 6,586,503

THE Wm Hafer Drayage Co

11320 Mosteller Rd, Cincinnati, OH, 45241
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General
  • Intermodal containers

Truck Types

  • Drayage

THE Wm Hafer Drayage Co (DOT: 81385) is a reliable trucking company in Ohio specializing in general freight and intermodal containers. With a fleet size of 64 and 32 trucks, they operate an interstate carrier service with a “Satisfactory” safety rating. This company is known for handling general freight and intermodal containers effectively, making them a versatile option for various shipping needs.

Despite not offering many additional services or commercial shipment support such as hazardous materials handling or specialized drivers, THE Wm Hafer Drayage Co remains a solid choice for businesses needing dependable transportation. The focus on general freight and intermodal container shipping ensures that cargo like raw materials and finished goods can be transported smoothly and efficiently within and across state lines.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.81
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.2
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 34
  • Revenue: $4,288,000
  • Miles driven: 694,103

How Safety Ratings Work in Ohio

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 Ohio Drayage Trucking Company for Your Shipments

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 Ohio to minimize transit times and costs.
  • Importing/exporting experience: Ohio 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 Ohio 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: Ohio Drayage Trucking Companies

What role does Drayage play in the shipping process for Ohio businesses?

Drayage is a crucial part of the shipping process that involves short-distance transportation from ports or rail terminals to distribution centers. For Ohio 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.


Mike Marshall