Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Iowa with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that Quest Liner is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Iowa
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 Iowa. Every Iowa 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 Iowa for your commercial shipping needs.
Quest Liner
2099 Southpark Ct Ste 1, Dubuque, IA, 52003- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Cross-border
Quest Liner (DOT: 1609038) is a prominent transportation company specializing in the interstate carriage of various goods, including chemicals and dry bulk commodities. They boast a fleet size of over 600 vehicles, supported by 307 highly skilled drivers. Quest Liner offers full and partial truckload services and excels in handling liquid and gaseous cargoes, which is complemented by their fleet of tankers and dry vans.
This company’s commitment to safety is underscored by their focus on maintaining a well-rehearsed fleet averaging five years in age. Quest Liner provides comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside retirement plans. They also ensure their drivers have the support they need through direct deposit and paid time off. Noteworthy is their capacity to support cross-border shipments, making Quest Liner a robust choice for business owners seeking a reliable logistics partner with an extensive array of services.
Safety
- Crashes: 22
- Unsafe driving: 1.5
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.31
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 15
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 307
- Revenue: $20,938,000
- Miles driven: 22,700,000
DHL Freight
1909 E 17th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50316- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
DHL Freight (DOT: 1996747) is a prominent trucking company operating in Iowa as both a broker and carrier, with a total fleet size of 604 vehicles, including 302 trucks. They offer an array of services such as full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), parcel, and dedicated routes. Their service specialization includes carrying a variety of cargo, such as agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, and metal sheets.
DHL Freight distinguishes itself with strong commitments to team driving opportunities, guaranteed home time, and ongoing training development programs. They provide comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Special support is offered for commercial shipments through refrigerated (reefer) and intermodal container services. Known for their satisfactory safety rating and cross-border capabilities, DHL Freight is an ideal partner for businesses seeking reliable and supportive logistics services.
Safety
- Crashes: 24
- Unsafe driving: 1.46
- Driver fitness: 0.14
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.04
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 277
- Miles driven: 18,600,000
Transportation Express, Inc.
224 S Bell Ave, Ames, IA, 50010- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Transportation Express, Inc. (DOT: 401811) is a versatile trucking company operating with a satisfactory safety rating. Specializing in dry bulk commodities and general freight, they efficiently handle a variety of cargo such as chemicals, grain, feed, hay, liquids, and gases. They provide full and less-than-truckload services, catering to both large and small freight needs across interstate routes.
With a fleet size of 85, including 28 trucks, Transportation Express offers multiple benefits to its employees, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan and paid time off. Despite having reported crashes, their safety scores suggest a balanced approach to vehicle maintenance and driver conduct. The company stands out in providing comprehensive service for business owners looking for reliable and efficient shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.81
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.81
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $641,000
- Miles driven: 2,990,000
J D Double M Trucking, Inc.
1125 Lew Ross Rd, Council Bluffs, IA, 51501- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
J D Double M Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 544027) provides reliable trucking services as both a broker and carrier, operating actively with 24 trucks and a total fleet size of 48. Specializing in transporting dry van, flatbed, and less than truckload shipments, they effectively carry a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, fresh produce, meat, and paper products. Their services are supported by a competent team of 24 over-the-road drivers.
J D Double M Trucking, Inc. is known for handling dry bulk commodities and general freight, ensuring trustworthy interstate operations across the nation. The company prioritizes employee well-being by offering benefits such as health and dental insurance, along with paid time off. Despite reported crashes, their safety efforts are evident through a moderate driving score, and they leverage up-to-date vehicle maintenance practices. Business owners can expect a dependable partner focused on efficiently transporting goods with professionalism and care.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.18
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 24
- Revenue: $2,370,000
- Miles driven: 2,034,294
Central Petroleum Transportinc
4036 South Gate Drive, Sioux City, IA, 51106- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: N/A
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Reefer
- Tanker
Central Petroleum Transportinc (DOT: 214433) has been an active player in the Iowa transportation industry since 1980. With a fleet comprising 47 vehicles, they specialize in transporting agricultural/farm supplies, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, and general freight. The company demonstrates a strong proficiency in tanker operations, ensuring efficient movement of liquids and gases across interstate routes.
In addition to offering reefer services for temperature-sensitive cargo, Central Petroleum Transportinc provides health benefits and paid time off to its local driver workforce. Known for maintaining satisfactory safety standards, the company caters specifically to commercial clientele requiring reliable handling of various construction materials and grain products. Their emphasis on dry bulk commodities makes them a specialized choice for businesses needing dedicated logistics support in these sectors.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.56
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.48
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $3,916,000
- Miles driven: 795,265
NEY Trucking, Inc.
5070 Wolff Rd, Dubuque, IA, 52002- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
NEY Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 315228) offers reliable interstate trucking services with a satisfactory safety rating. They specialize in full truckload (FTL) shipments and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, focusing on transporting commodities such as dry bulk, fresh produce, paper products, and general freight. Their fleet includes both flatbed and refrigerated trailers, emphasizing versatility in cargo handling.
The company is dedicated to employee well-being, offering benefits like health, dental, life, and vision insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Despite being a small operation with 5 trucks and 5 drivers, NEY Trucking has managed to maintain efficient operations, evidenced by their careful safety scores and zero crash records. With an average fleet age of 5 years, NEY Trucking is well-equipped to provide high-quality service while ensuring competitive compensation packages for its drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $556,000
- Miles driven: 159,472
Crst The Transportation Solution, Inc.
3930 16th Ave Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Container
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
Crst The Transportation Solution, Inc. (DOT: 53773) has operated since 1955, and offers a wide range of services throughout the transportation/trucking/railroad industry. Based in Iowa, CRST handles various types of freight, including agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, and refrigerated foods. They are noted for their team driving opportunities, regional, local, and dedicated routes, and strong support for owner-operators.
CRST provides extensive commercial shipment services, such as cross-docking, intermodal containers, and heavy haul transport. Businesses benefit from specialized driver services, expedited drivers, and comprehensive support like roadside assistance programs and truck lease purchase options. Additionally, with safety ratings like ‘Satisfactory’, CRST demonstrates a commitment to reliable and secure transport solutions. Their total fleet size includes a substantial 4,608 trucks, catering to diverse shipping needs with flexible options like dry van and container services.
Safety
- Crashes: 388
- Unsafe driving: 1.09
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.91
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5463
- Revenue: $42,100,000
- Miles driven: 441,000,000
Simon’s Trucking
920 Simon Drive, Farley, IA, 52046- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 100% late model
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Livestock
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Simon’s Trucking (DOT: 164492) is a seasoned trucking company, founded in 1946, specializing in the transportation of diverse cargo such as beverages, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, and livestock. Equipped with a fleet of 135 trucks, Simon’s Trucking supports interstate operations with modern vehicles. Their service offerings include power-only, cross-border, and dry van transport, showcasing their capability in handling varied shipments with efficiency.
The company stands out by offering specialized support such as hazardous material transport, specialized driving programs, and reliable cross-docking solutions. Simon’s Trucking provides significant employee benefits, including health insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, safety bonuses, and tuition reimbursement, illustrating their focus on employee satisfaction and development. Business owners seeking dependable and versatile transportation services will find Simon’s Trucking a strong partner for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 1.56
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.96
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 100
- Revenue: $6,115,000
- Miles driven: 9,970,239
Green Products
16902 290th St, Conrad, IA, 50621- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Box truck
- Container
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Drayage
Green Products (DOT: 171388) is a distinguished trucking company founded in 1947, primarily serving the agricultural processing and transportation industry in Iowa. The company provides a range of specialized freight services, including reefer, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and refrigerated foods. With a fleet of 58 trucks and 135 trailers, Green Products handles various cargo types such as agricultural supplies, beverages, fresh produce, grain feed hay, meat, and paper products.
Green Products offers notable commercial shipment support, including dedicated routes, team driver services, and a robust managed transportation system. Emphasizing employee satisfaction, they provide comprehensive benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement plans. Their commitment to safety is evident with ongoing training programs and satisfactory safety ratings. Green Products ensures client satisfaction through flexibility, reliable freight handling, and efficient logistics solutions for both interstate and local deliveries.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 2.18
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.18
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.07
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 58
- Revenue: $94,318,000
- Miles driven: 4,618,458
Ruan Transportation Management Systems
666 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50309- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
Ruan Transportation Management Systems (DOT: 55787) is a distinguished trucking company with expansive operations that handle a wide range of freight, including beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, metals, and refrigerated foods. Boasting a fleet of 2,980 trucks and 6,667 trailers, Ruan is well-equipped to meet diverse shipping needs. The company emphasizes its power-only and flatbed services, and offers specialized support such as reefer and tanker drivers, ensuring efficient and safe transport of sensitive and hazardous materials.
Ruan prioritizes customer satisfaction through guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling. Their strategic cross-border capabilities, diverse cargo handling, and managed transportation services make them a reliable partner for businesses seeking efficient freight solutions. Ranked highly by employees, Ruan provides various benefits, including health insurance, 401(k) plans, and paid CDL training, showcasing their commitment to employee welfare and service excellence. With safety as a forefront priority, Ruan maintains a satisfactory safety rating and active authority status.
Safety
- Crashes: 218
- Unsafe driving: 0.68
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.06
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.92
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 21
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3612
- Revenue: $2,035,000
- Miles driven: 284,000,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Iowa
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 Iowa
Here’s what Iowabusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Iowa 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 Iowa?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Iowa 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 Iowa?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Iowa 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 Iowa?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Iowa 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 Iowa
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Iowa, 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
