Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Indiana with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that Mckinley Thomas Transport, LLC is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Indiana
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 Indiana. Every Indiana 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 Indiana for your commercial shipping needs.
Mckinley Thomas Transport, LLC
3501 N Sutherland Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46218- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Mckinley Thomas Transport, LLC (DOT: 2499351) is an active interstate trucking company based in Indiana, operating a fleet of 17 trucks. Specializing in transporting a wide range of cargo, they offer services including full truckload, less-than-truckload, refrigerated transport, and parcel delivery. With a focus on varied cargo types, they efficiently handle the transportation of beverages, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, building materials, and paper products.
Mckinley Thomas Transport supports commercial shipments by providing regional driving opportunities and maintaining a fleet with newer vehicles averaging an age of 3 years. Their workforce benefits from comprehensive employee packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Emphasizing employee well-being, they also offer guaranteed home time and paid time off. Although they report high standards for vehicle maintenance, their overall safety ratings reflect moderate risk management practices.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.14
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $1,887,000
- Miles driven: 150,000
T And K Trucking-Columbus, Inc.
3364 Fall Valley Dr, Columbus, IN, 47203- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
T And K Trucking-Columbus, Inc. (DOT: 1674490) is an active trucking company with a fleet of 11 trucks and 22 trailers, specializing in dry van, flatbed, and full truckload services. They handle a wide range of cargo, including fresh produce, building materials, and paper products, catering primarily to businesses involved with agriculture, construction, and general freight.
The company is known for its commitment to safety, with no crash-related injuries or fatalities reported. Although they do not offer hazardous material services, T And K Trucking provides flexible shipping solutions such as partial and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, which are beneficial for businesses looking to optimize supply chain efficiency. With competitive employee benefits like dental and health insurance, T And K Trucking aims to maintain a reliable and professional team to support its commercial shipping operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.24
- Driver fitness: 0.26
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.27
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $562,000
- Miles driven: 1,049,277
Ktl, Inc.
1526 E Greyhound Pass, Carmel, IN, 46032- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Ktl, Inc. (DOT: 2352168) stands as a reputable freight carrier in Indiana, known for its satisfactory safety standards and diverse logistics services. The company’s operations focus on Interstate transportation, providing an array of specialized services including full truckload (FTL), dry van, and less-than-truckload (LTL) options. Ktl, Inc. capably handles a wide variety of cargo such as fresh produce, beverages, chemicals, metal sheets, and rolls, ensuring secure and efficient delivery.
Though the company is relatively new, Ktl, Inc. has established a strong standing on Carriersource. They offer competitive compensation packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and provide paid time off for their drivers. While they prioritize driver safety, evidenced by a satisfactory safety rating, Ktl, Inc. also meets industry standards with investments in driver fitness and vehicle maintenance, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking comprehensive logistics solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 13
- Unsafe driving: 4.3
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.75
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 110
- Revenue: $1,012,000
- Miles driven: 6,833,085
IST Logistics
7020 Cline Ave, Hammond, IN, 46323- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
IST Logistics (DOT: 257062) has been a respected carrier since 1972 in Indiana, offering reliable flatbed and full truckload services with a modern fleet of 125 trucks. IST specializes in handling dry van cargo, with a focus on dry bulk commodities like coal/coke and liquids/gases. Known for their satisfactory safety rating and strong reputation, IST upholds high standards for vehicle maintenance and driver fitness.
The company caters to diverse shipping needs, providing less-than-truckload (LTL) services, ensuring efficiency for smaller shipments. In addition to ongoing training and development programs, IST Logistics supports its drivers with comprehensive benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, and a retirement plan. Their approach, combining safety and service flexibility, makes them a reliable choice for business owners seeking a dedicated logistics partner for their product shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.13
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.59
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.45
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 97
- Revenue: $1,276,000
- Miles driven: 5,600,000
Gibco Motor Express, LLC
1060 E Diamond Ave, Evansville, IN, 47711- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Gibco Motor Express, LLC (DOT: 125452) is a reputable freight trucking company founded in 1930, based in Indiana. With a small but efficient fleet of 32 trucks, they offer full truckload, dry van, and flatbed services, catering to various cargo needs. Their cargo includes chemicals, coal/coke, general freight, metal sheets, coils, rolls, grains, and dry bulk commodities. Known for dependable interstate operations, Gibco Motor Express maintains a satisfactory safety rating, reflecting their commitment to transporting goods securely.
Specializing in commercial shipments, Gibco Motor Express provides tailored logistics solutions from dedicated local drivers to flexible scheduling, ensuring timely and reliable service. They support their workforce with perks like health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan, enhancing both employee satisfaction and stability. Despite being a smaller operation, their focus on safety and personalized service stands out, making them an excellent choice for businesses seeking trustworthy and efficient freight services.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 6.65
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.56
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.55
- Controlled substances: 0.45
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $1,750,000
- Miles driven: 1,170,150
Mustang Express, LLC
404 Mabry Cove, Fort Wayne, IN, 46825- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Mustang Express, LLC (DOT: 2374678) is an active freight carrier based in Indiana with a specialized focus on diverse cargo needs. Operating with a fleet of 20 trucks, they maintain a broad spectrum of shipping capabilities including full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Their expertise extends to transporting a range of materials such as construction and building materials, agricultural supplies, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, and general freight. The company’s emphasis on versatility makes it an ideal choice for businesses requiring reliable handling of dry bulk commodities and large machinery.
Beyond their cargo offerings, Mustang Express places a high priority on employee benefits, providing essentials like health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. They ensure timely delivery across interstate routes with well-maintained vehicles and a focus on safety, underscored by their commitment to driver welfare through competitive salaries. This well-rounded approach positions Mustang Express as a trusted partner for businesses seeking efficient and comprehensive shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.38
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.26
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.26
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 20
- Miles driven: 1,509,661
Morris Trucking Corporation
3201 Erie Canal Rd, Terre Haute, IN, 47802- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Morris Trucking Corporation (DOT: 72602) is an active and reputable trucking company primarily operating in Indiana. They specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, utilizing a fleet of modern vehicles suited for transporting beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and paper products. Their fleet includes dry vans and flatbeds, supporting a wide range of transportation needs for various industries.
In addition to their specialized cargo capabilities, Morris Trucking Corporation places a strong emphasis on compliance and safety, boasting satisfactory safety ratings. They provide regional, local, and over-the-road driving options, catering to a variety of logistical requirements. Notably, they ensure their employees receive robust benefits, including health, dental, vision insurance, and retirement plans, demonstrating their commitment to both customer service and employee well-being.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.57
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.16
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 20
- Revenue: $8,490,000
- Miles driven: 1,709,285
Mervis Transportation, LLC
1350 College Ave, Terre Haute, IN, 47802- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Mervis Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2342490) is a dedicated freight carrier operating with a fleet of 14 trucks in Indiana. The company specializes in handling dry bulk commodities, construction materials, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and general freight. Their services include full and partial truckload as well as dry van transport, catering primarily to businesses with varied cargo needs. Mervis Transportation is recognized for its efficiency in handling general freight across state lines.
In terms of support, Mervis Transportation offers a range of benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a retirement 401k plan and paid time off. Despite having a recent crash history, their driving safety scores remain commendably low. The company is committed to maintaining a reliable reputation with a Google rating of 4.5 and ensures ongoing operations with active DOT status.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $574,000
- Miles driven: 526,591
American Road Lines, Inc.
2250 East 15th St, Gary, IN, 46402- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
American Road Lines, Inc. (DOT: 345518) is an Indiana-based trucking company that actively operates with a fleet of 23 trucks and 46 trailers. Known for its strong focus on transportation, the company specializes in handling a variety of cargo, including chemicals, dry bulk commodities, intermodal containers, and oilfield equipment. American Road Lines offers services such as full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload, accommodating diverse shipping needs.
Besides their transport capabilities, American Road Lines stands out for providing special support like reefer and tanker transportation, ensuring reliable shipping for temperature-sensitive and liquid freight. Their dedication to safety is reflected in a satisfactory safety rating and investments in life insurance, dental insurance, and vision coverage for their team. Though relatively small in size, this carrier maintains a positive reputation with a solid Google rating of 4.5, making it an appealing choice for businesses seeking a dependable shipping partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.52
- Driver fitness: 0.54
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.38
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.89
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 23
- Revenue: $3,715,000
- Miles driven: 1,221,794
Interstate Delaware & South
2460 N Graham, Indianapolis, IN, 46218- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Interstate Delaware & South (DOT: 2305691) is a well-regarded trucking company established in 1946 in Indiana, known for its experience in transporting diverse cargo. With a fleet size ranging from 11 to 25 trucks and specializing in dry van and flatbed services, they handle a variety of materials including agricultural supplies, building materials, and oilfield equipment. Their focus on safe and reliable transport is reflected in their satisfactory safety rating.
Interstate Delaware & South offers dedicated routes, full and partial truckloads, as well as expedited and cross-border shipments. They provide tanker services for liquids and gases, ensuring tailored support for commercial shipments. Despite a few reported crash injuries, their overall safety performance remains commendable. The company is also committed to employee satisfaction with health, vision, and dental insurance options, paid time off, and retirement plans, making them a comprehensive choice for businesses seeking efficient shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 1.56
- Driver fitness: 1.38
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $2,257,000
- Miles driven: 1,339,008
How Safety Ratings Work in Indiana
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 Indiana
Here’s what Indianabusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Indiana 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 Indiana?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Indiana 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 Indiana?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Indiana 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 Indiana?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Indiana 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 Indiana
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Indiana, 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
