Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Alabama with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that M & M Trucking Company, Inc. is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Alabama
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 Alabama. Every Alabama 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 Alabama for your commercial shipping needs.
M & M Trucking Company, Inc.
980 Lee Rd 10, Auburn, AL, 36830- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
M & M Trucking Company, Inc. (DOT: 275148) is an active trucking company based in Alabama, boasting a fleet of 74 vehicles and using 37 trucks to provide efficient transportation services. While they’ve been in operation for several decades, they lack a specific start year. Known for handling dry bulk commodities and construction materials, M & M Trucking offers a range of services including flatbed and box truck shipments.
Emphasizing reliability, M & M Trucking provides regional and full truckload services, with operations extending interstate. They have commendable safety scores, reflected by a satisfactory safety rating. Commercial clients can look forward to additional logistical support, including less-than-truckload options. Although offering health, dental, and vision insurance, the company’s Google and Glassdoor ratings highlight a solid reputation in the industry, with accommodations for regional driving and paid time off for employees.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.16
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $12,237,000
- Miles driven: 2,340,645
Trailblazer Trucking, LLC
6205 Angus Circle Nw, Huntsville, AL, 35810- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Trailblazer Trucking, LLC (DOT: 1737024) operates a versatile fleet in Alabama, focusing on comprehensive freight solutions. With a wide range of trucking services such as flatbed, reefer, and dry van, they excel in transporting diverse cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, and paper products. Their fleet’s average age is three years, ensuring reliability in service.
Trailblazer Trucking is committed to meeting commercial shipment needs with regional driving services and competitive health benefits, including dental and vision insurance. They also offer paid time off. With an active DOT status and a Google rating of 4.5, Trailblazer maintains robust service levels suitable for business owners seeking dependable and efficient shipping solutions. Despite a fair vehicle maintenance score, Trailblazer continues to prioritize safety, evident in their zero crash fatalities and focused safety measures.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.36
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.48
- Vehicle maintenance: 17.17
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Miles driven: 410,000
Topcat 3 Enterprises, LLC
13255 Hackberry Dr, Mobile, AL, 36608- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Topcat 3 Enterprises, LLC (DOT: 1664905) is an active freight carrier dedicated to versatile shipping solutions. Although details about the establishment year are unspecified, the company operates a small but efficient fleet of 4 trucks and offers essential services like full truckload and less-than-truckload shipping. Topcat 3 Enterprises specializes in transporting diverse cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, and oilfield equipment. Their robust offering includes flatbed services that can handle large machinery and logs.
This Alabama-based company emphasizes reliability and safety, maintaining a commendable safety record with no crash incidents reported recently. The company provides dry van services and supports driveaway/towaway operations, making it suitable for companies needing flexible cargo solutions. While some benefits like health and dental insurance are offered, advanced programs like driver referral bonuses and ongoing training are currently not available. Topcat 3 Enterprises continues to serve businesses looking for dependable freight delivery across state lines.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.33
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 3.84
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Miles driven: 2,076
Hodges Logistics, LLC
125 6th Street, Montgomery, AL, 36104- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Hodges Logistics, LLC (DOT: 2026491) is a prominent logistics provider operating across Alabama with a focus on reliability and comprehensive service coverage. They are equipped to handle a wide range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, general freight, and paper products. Their services include dry van, flatbed, and tanker solutions, with a fleet size of 252 and 126 power units, supporting both full and partial truckloads.
Specializing in regional deliveries, Hodges Logistics offers less than truckload (LTL) services and employs regional and over-the-road (OTR) drivers. Health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan, highlight their commitment to employee welfare. Despite a few crash incidents, their investment in safety bonuses and a controlled driving rating (2.09) reflects a commitment to safety. Hodges Logistics is recognized for its robust service offerings and efficient commercial shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 12
- Unsafe driving: 2.09
- Driver fitness: 0.31
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.57
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.9
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 134
- Miles driven: 8,013,559
Evergreen Transport, LLC
41 W I 65 Service Rd N. Suite 300, Mobile, AL, 36608- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Evergreen Transport, LLC (DOT: 1980141) has been a reputable freight trucking company since its establishment in 1946. Serving Alabama and beyond with a fleet of 175 trucks, this carrier provides a range of services including full truckload (FTL), partial truckload, and dry van transportation. They are well-versed in hauling general freight, dry bulk commodities, coal/coke, and intermodal containers, showcasing their diverse cargo handling capabilities.
Evergreen Transport demonstrates a commitment to driver welfare and operational efficiency with offerings such as team driving opportunities and guaranteed home time. The company also supports driver growth through ongoing training and development programs, paid CDL training, and safety bonuses. With services tailored for commercial shipments, Evergreen Transport combines experience and reliability, giving business owners confidence in their ability to meet various logistics needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 14
- Unsafe driving: 1.05
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.13
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 136
- Revenue: $602,000
- Miles driven: 7,613,712
Wiley Sanders Truck Lines, Inc.
100 Sanders Road, Troy, AL, 36079- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Hazardous materials
Wiley Sanders Truck Lines, Inc. (DOT: 122275) is a distinguished freight trucking company established in 1970, headquartered in Alabama. Operating with a fleet of over 570 trucks, they specialize in transporting a diverse array of cargo, including beverages, chemicals, coal/coke, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and paper products. Known for their commitment to safety, Wiley Sanders boasts a satisfactory safety rating.
Wiley Sanders offers comprehensive trucking services with specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials handling and oversized cargo transport. They provide significant incentives like sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, and ongoing training and development programs. Their emphasis on driver welfare is evident through benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Wiley Sanders excels in maintaining high safety standards, with roadside assistance and deadhead detention layover compensation, making them a solid choice for businesses needing reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 68
- Unsafe driving: 2.16
- Driver fitness: 0.1
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 10
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 498
- Revenue: $829,000
- Miles driven: 50,000,000
Greenbush Logistics, Inc.
445 Singletary Rd, Abbeville, AL, 36310- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Oversized
- Power only
- Consolidation
- Cross-docking
Greenbush Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 159292) is a reputable trucking company established in 2004 in Alabama. With a fleet of 353 trucks, they specialize in general freight, building materials, and dry bulk commodities. The company provides a range of services including power-only operations, flatbed deliveries, and dry van transport, showcasing expertise in handling intermodal containers and oversized machinery.
Greenbush Logistics offers specialized support for commercial shipments through their managed transportation services and consolidation offerings. They cater to businesses with a variety of compensation programs including sign-on and referral bonuses, as well as flexible scheduling. The company is known for its satisfactory safety ratings and robust suite of employee benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan, positioning itself as a key contender for business owners seeking reliable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 20
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.28
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 353
- Revenue: $887,000
- Miles driven: 19,700,000
Thompson Carriers, Inc.
1700 Old Columbus Road, Opelika, AL, 36804- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Liquids & gases
- Livestock
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Thompson Carriers, Inc. (DOT: 523910) is a reputable freight trucking company based in Alabama. They maintain an active status with a satisfactory safety rating and a fleet of over 330 vehicles. Specializing in the transportation of building materials, dry bulk commodities, and large machinery, this company has a rich assortment of specialized equipment, including flatbeds and lowboys. Their expertise extends to handling hazardous materials and livestock, providing versatile shipping solutions to cater to diverse client needs.
Thompson Carriers offers significant support for commercial shipments, including regional and dedicated routes, with opportunities for owner-operators. The company emphasizes employee benefits with offerings such as paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and health insurance, along with flexible compensation like per diem payments. With 165 drivers adept in over-the-road and long-haul duties, they promise reliable shipping services throughout interstate regions.
Safety
- Crashes: 21
- Unsafe driving: 3.24
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.06
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 5
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 165
- Revenue: $24,473
- Miles driven: 15,200,000
Commercial Hauling Co, Inc.
1700 22nd Ave North, Birmingham, AL, 35204- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Step deck
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
Commercial Hauling Co, Inc. (DOT: 226614) is an active trucking carrier based in Alabama, specializing in various freight services and maintaining a satisfactory safety rating. Despite being a relatively small operation with a fleet of 46 vehicles, the company excels in offering dry van, dump trailer, and step deck services. They handle a diverse range of cargo, including building materials, coal/coke, general freight, and garbage/refuse, leveraging their expertise in dry bulk commodities and grain feed hay transportation.
The company provides comprehensive support for commercial shipments, including dedicated routes and flexible scheduling. They value driver satisfaction and safety, offering benefits such as health and vision insurance, paid time off, and driver referral bonuses, along with ongoing training and development programs. Commercial Hauling Co, Inc. also supports owner-operators, cross-border operations, drayage, and offers services like expedited and regional driving, contributing to the efficient shipment of goods across state lines.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.38
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.14
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 21
- Revenue: $2,760
- Miles driven: 1,442,416
Bhones & Jones Logistic, LLC
191 Meadow Crest Drive, Madison, AL, 35757- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Bhones & Jones Logistic, LLC (DOT: 788642) is an active freight trucking company based in Alabama, renowned for its diverse cargo capabilities. They specialize in transporting beverages, commodities dry bulk, fresh produce, general freight, paper products, refrigerated foods, and US mail. Despite having a modest total fleet size of only two trucks, Bhones & Jones Logistic offers significant flexibility, including full truckload, partial truckload, and last-mile delivery services, supported by a reefer and dry van system.
This company offers numerous advantages for businesses, such as ensuring fresh produce transport with reefer units and providing general freight solutions. They afford unique employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Furthermore, Bhones & Jones Logistic encourages a supportive work environment with flexible scheduling, sign-on bonuses, guaranteed home time, direct deposit, and ongoing training and development programs. The Google rating stands at an impressive 4.5, attesting to their reputation for reliability and service excellence.
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: 2
- Miles driven: 1
How Safety Ratings Work in Alabama
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) 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 Dry Bulk Trucking Company for Your Shipments in Alabama
Here’s what Alabamabusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Alabama carriers with an established reputation for transporting specific Dry Bulk materials will best understand how to handle sensitive cargo.
- Tank and trailer options: Ensure the carrier offers specialized trailers suited to your cargo type for secure handling and transit.
- Loading and unloading capabilities: A Dry Bulk company with the right equipment for efficient loading and unloading of bulk materials will minimize handling time.
- Maintenance standards: A well-maintained fleet reduces risks of spills or delays, especially for materials requiring special handling.
- Driver training requirements: Drivers trained specifically in handling Dry Bulk materials ensure safer and more efficient transportation.
FAQs
What products are typically shipped via Dry Bulk trucks in Alabama?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Alabama commonly use Dry Bulk shipping to move agricultural products, construction materials, and raw industrial resources. This method allows large quantities to be shipped efficiently, typically in hoppers or pneumatic tank trailers for ease of unloading.
What are the safety requirements for Dry Bulk shipping in Alabama?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Alabama carriers must follow federal and state safety standards, particularly when transporting materials that can create dust or pose environmental risks. Regular vehicle maintenance and driver training are essential for safe Dry Bulk transport.
What is the disadvantage of transporting goods by truck in Alabama?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Alabama 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 Shipping Services Available in Alabama
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Alabama, here are your top options:
- 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