Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Illinois with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that IKO Express, Inc. is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Illinois
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 Illinois. Every Illinois 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 Illinois for your commercial shipping needs.
IKO Express, Inc.
200 Howard Ave Suite 244, Des Plaines, IL, 60018- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
IKO Express, Inc. (DOT: 2120480) is a reputable trucking company specializing in a wide range of freight transportation, including agricultural supplies, building materials, fresh produce, and large machinery. Based in Illinois, the company maintains a fleet of 17 trucks, designed to cater to both full and partial truckload needs. Their commitment to quality service is reflected in their handling of general freight and their capability to transport intermodal containers, dry vans, and flatbed loads.
IKO Express supports commercial shipments by offering regional driving services and a strong emphasis on health and vehicle maintenance, with a vehicle maintenance score of 5.18. Though they do not transport hazardous materials, they accommodate the transportation of motor vehicles, paper products, and oilfield equipment. With an emphasis on safety, the company boasts a commendable record with no reported crash injuries or fatalities, making it a reliable choice for business owners seeking trustworthy shipping partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.87
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.29
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.18
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 18
- Miles driven: 1,967,728
WIN Driven Trucking
7401 Old River Rd, Rockford, IL, 61103- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
WIN Driven Trucking (DOT: 949989) is a versatile carrier based in Illinois, managing interstate operations with a strong emphasis on reliable transportation services. The company maintains a fleet of flatbed, dry van, and full truckload services, efficiently handling a wide array of cargo, including fresh produce, building materials, grain feed hay, and paper products. Their operations are underpinned by a commitment to safety and ongoing training development programs, ensuring the highest standards for their clients.
In addition to general freight transportation, WIN Driven Trucking offers team driving opportunities that enhance service efficiency, particularly for perishable and time-sensitive goods. While they have an active authority and manage a small but agile fleet, the company focuses on providing competitive benefits for its workforce, including health, dental, and vision insurance. This emphasis on employee welfare contributes to their reputation as a trusted partner for business owners seeking reliable shipping solutions for commercial shipments.
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: 1
- Miles driven: 72,208
Rotrans Lines, Inc.
2010 S Carboy Rd, Mount Prospect, IL, 60056- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Rotrans Lines, Inc. (DOT: 2404805) is a reputable trucking company based in Illinois, specializing in the transport of various cargo types such as beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, grain, feed, hay, and large machinery parts. Although the company’s history is not clearly established, they have built a solid reputation with favorable online reviews—boasting a 4.5-star Google rating and positive feedback on Indeed and Glassdoor.
Rotrans Lines offers full truckload and less-than-truckload services, catering to a wide range of shipping needs. Their fleet comprises dry vans and flatbeds, which are tailored for carrying general freight, paper products, metal sheets, and even the U.S. mail. The company emphasizes employee well-being by providing health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, alongside paid time off and a retirement plan. With a commitment to safety and efficient interstate operations, Rotrans Lines stands as a dependable partner for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 6.77
- Driver fitness: 0.16
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.8
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Miles driven: 3,402,138
B & M Transport Company
2245 Elmwood Avenue Apt 2, Berwyn, IL, 60402- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
B & M Transport Company (DOT: 1332761) is a reputable freight carrier operating in Illinois, specializing in interstate transportation. Despite being relatively new compared to some industry giants, B & M offers comprehensive services including flatbed, dry van, and reefer logistics. Their ability to handle diversified cargo such as agricultural supplies, construction materials, and refrigerated foods positions them as versatile partners for businesses looking for reliable shipping solutions.
In addition to full and partial truckload services, B & M Transport Company provides special perks for drivers, including sign-on bonuses, health and dental insurance, and 401(k) retirement plans. Their focus on safety ensures a zero crash record, enhancing their reliability. The company’s commitment to timely deliveries and driver satisfaction makes them an attractive option for business owners seeking 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: 1
- Miles driven: 40,000
Drew Transport Services, LLC
2648 West 50th Street, Chicago, IL, 60632- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Drew Transport Services, LLC (DOT: 1064226) is a dynamic trucking company with an impressive fleet of 145 trucks, serving clients across interstate routes. They specialize in handling a wide array of cargo, including dry bulk commodities, construction materials, general freight, motor vehicles, and liquids/gases. Their services include full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipments, leveraging dry van and reefer trailers to accommodate diverse shipping needs.
Drew Transport emphasizes safety and maintains a moderate record in safe driving and vehicle maintenance. Although they encountered 16 crashes with one fatality, their commitment to safety is underscored by driver fitness and controlled substance scores. The company also supports its team with benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and direct deposit, ensuring their workforce is well-cared for. Businesses seeking reliable and versatile trucking solutions will find Drew Transport to be a capable partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 16
- Unsafe driving: 0.54
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 102
- Revenue: $1,278,000
- Miles driven: 8,497,287
RVK Express, Inc.
2112 Horncastle Ln, Naperville, IL, 60564- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Last-mile delivery
RVK Express, Inc. (DOT: 2556965) is a dynamic trucking company specializing in general freight transportation across interstate routes. They offer services such as partial and full truckload shipments, accommodating a variety of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and metal products. RVK Express has been operational for a considerable time in Illinois, ensuring reliable and efficient delivery solutions.
RVK Express holds an active authority status and boasts a moderate fleet of 19 trucks and 25 drivers. They provide employees with health, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring a supportive work environment. With a focus on safety, evidenced by zero reported crash injuries or fatalities, RVK Express stands as a dependable choice for business owners seeking a trustworthy partner for transporting their products. They maintain a notable presence with high ratings on platforms like Google, Indeed, and Glassdoor, underscoring their reputation for service and reliability in the trucking industry.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.27
- Driver fitness: 0.19
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.06
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.41
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Miles driven: 2,338,692
SOI Trucking
4498 Steward Road, Rockford, IL, 61101- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
SOI Trucking (DOT: 1128641) is a reputable transportation company based in Illinois. They specialize in full truckload services, particularly focusing on flatbed and dry van transportation. The company effectively manages a wide array of cargo, including chemicals, building materials, agricultural supplies, and dry bulk commodities, indicating their versatile transport capabilities.
SOI Trucking offers comprehensive benefits to their employees, such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off. The company prioritizes safety, as evidenced by their zero crash injuries and fatalities. Although SOI Trucking does not provide intermodal or hazardous materials services, they excel in interstate operations with a solid emphasis on delivering general freight efficiently and reliably.
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: 7
- Miles driven: 350,000
AVA Trans, Inc.
8800 Bronx Ave, Skokie, IL, 60077- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
AVA Trans, Inc. (DOT: 2305727) is an active transportation company located in Illinois. With a fleet size of 40 and 20 trucks, they efficiently handle a variety of cargo, including beverages, construction materials, fresh produce, general freight, meat, and paper products. The company offers a range of services including refrigerated shipping (reefer), partial truckload, full truckload, dry bulk commodities, flatbed, and parcel transportation, ensuring the diverse needs of their clients are met.
Ava Trans provides noteworthy benefits such as health, dental, life, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid time off. They maintain a strong compliance record with zero crash injuries or fatalities reported. The company supports long-haul operations with local and regional drivers, focusing on timely deliveries and safety while guaranteeing home time and offering flexible options for drivers. Ava Trans’s well-rounded offerings make them a compelling choice for business owners looking for reliable trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.55
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.84
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 20
- Revenue: $1,023,000
- Miles driven: 2,569,365
JAC Transfer, LLC
5728 Logistics Parkway, Rockford, IL, 61109- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Livestock feed
- Livestock
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
JAC Transfer, LLC (DOT: 845774) specializes in the efficient transportation of dry bulk commodities, grain, feed, and hay, with an emphasis on livestock transport. Operating interstate with a fleet of six vehicles, the company maintains all necessary cargo insurance and is committed to providing high-quality trucking services. JAC Transfer offers less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) services, using a fleet that includes dry vans and flatbed trailers.
Despite their small size, JAC Transfer enjoys a solid reputation with a Google rating of 4.5. In terms of employee support, they offer benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and ongoing training and development programs. Although they do not provide specialized or hazardous materials hauling, their reliable service and focus on common shipment needs make them a compelling choice for businesses seeking dedicated freight 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: 150,000
Yunak Corp
1320 S 6th Ave, Des Plaines, IL, 60018- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Yunak Corp (DOT: 2334371) is a reputable interstate trucking company with a moderate presence in Illinois. They focus on full and partial truckload services, traditionally spanning several cargo types such as general freight, building materials, paper products, and agricultural supplies. Their fleet consists of 24 trucks and 28 drivers, emphasizing timely and efficient transportation for sizable shipments.
Yunak Corp stands out for their comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, coupled with 401(k) retirement plans and a safety bonus. The company provides both dry van and flatbed drivers, catering to diverse logistical needs. With attention to competitive compensation and reliability, Yunak Corp offers a robust last-mile delivery service, making them a suitable partner for businesses seeking dependable shipping solutions in the region.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.34
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.44
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.25
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Miles driven: 1,178,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Illinois
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 Illinois
Here’s what Illinoisbusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Illinois 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 Illinois?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Illinois 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 Illinois?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Illinois 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 Illinois?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Illinois 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 Illinois
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Illinois, 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
