Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Kentucky with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that Bluegrass Solutions, LLC is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Kentucky
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 Kentucky. Every Kentucky 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 Kentucky for your commercial shipping needs.
Bluegrass Solutions, LLC
2803 Georgetown Rd, Lexington, KY, 40511- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Bluegrass Solutions, LLC (DOT: 2132476) is a dynamic trucking company focused on providing exceptional freight services in Kentucky. They offer a range of trucking solutions with an emphasis on general freight transportation. Their services include full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipping, ensuring they can accommodate various shipping needs for the business sector.
Bluegrass Solutions specializes in transporting a diverse array of cargo, such as beverages, building materials, metal sheets, and paper products. They are equipped to handle large machinery, logs, poles, beams, and even U.S. mail, showcasing their versatility. The company prioritizes safety with moderate unsafe driving scores and offers benefits packages that include health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan for their employees.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.88
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.72
- Controlled substances: 0.15
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 15
- Miles driven: 1,197,071
Behlo Transport, Inc.
107 Lenoak Dr, Louisville, KY, 40214- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Behlo Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1569612) is a versatile trucking company operating in Kentucky with a focus on efficient interstate transportation. They specialize in full truckload services and handle a diverse range of cargo, including motor vehicles, building materials, and metal sheets. Their fleet includes flatbeds and dry vans, enabling them to transport large machinery, logs, and paper products effectively.
The company is committed to providing reliable shipping solutions with a modest fleet of five trucks and five drivers. Behlo Transport values employee benefits, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan. Despite having a few reported crash incidents, they maintain an active DOT status and prioritize safety with moderate scores in vehicle maintenance and pressure to maintain hours of service compliance. Business owners looking for a dedicated, service-oriented carrier will find Behlo Transport to be a capable partner for their shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 4.68
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.28
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $699,000
- Miles driven: 515,894
Lifeline Transportation, Inc.
6301 Geil Lane, Louisville, KY, 40219- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Lifeline Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 471777) is an active trucking company based in Kentucky. They offer comprehensive transportation services, including full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) transportation. The company specializes in transporting a wide range of cargo such as beverages, building materials, chemicals, paper products, and dry bulk commodities. Lifeline Transportation also accommodates general freight and intermodal containers, making it a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
Lifeline Transportation is noted for its satisfactory safety rating and a fleet of modern vehicles with an average age of just two years. The company provides valuable benefits for employees, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan. They support their team with guaranteed home time, sign-on bonuses, and deadhead, detention, and layover compensation, ensuring that their drivers are supported and satisfied on the road.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: intrastate hazardous
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $699,000
- Miles driven: 562,641
Greenline Express, Inc.
2352 Russellville Rd, Bowling Green, KY, 42101- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Greenline Express, Inc. (DOT: 1632617) is a dynamic trucking company that specializes in full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services across state lines. They handle a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural farm supplies, building materials, logs, poles, beams, lumber, metal sheets, coils rolls, and paper products. Focusing on modernized shipping options, they provide dry van and flatbed transport, catering to the unique needs of their clients.
Greenline Express is committed to offering a safe and reliable trucking experience, with a satisfactory safety rating and rigorous maintenance protocols. They provide comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance to their drivers, supporting a loyal and well-cared-for workforce. The company’s regional operations are supported by a dedicated team of 62 drivers, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of goods. With a fleet size of up to 10 trucks, Greenline Express guarantees quality service while maintaining a personal touch in commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 3.31
- Driver fitness: 0.71
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.23
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.11
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 62
- Revenue: $405,000
- Miles driven: 4,503,531
Thoroughbred Transportation, Inc.
11400 Plantside Drive, Louisville, KY, 40299- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Thoroughbred Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 427711) is a reputable freight company with a focus on general freight and dry bulk commodities. Operating as a carrier with active authority, they maintain a fleet of 37 trucks, emphasizing full and partial truckload services. Established trucking solutions are provided across state lines with a satisfactory safety rating, underscoring their commitment to reliable and secure transportation.
Thoroughbred Transportation supports businesses with specialized flatbed services, ideal for transporting heavy or oversized cargo. They offer a robust employee benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance, as well as paid time off and a retirement plan. Although crash incidents have occurred, their vehicle maintenance and driver fitness standards indicate a proactive stance on safety. With a general driver salary range between $50,000 to $60,000, they ensure competitive compensation to attract and retain skilled personnel.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 4.43
- Driver fitness: 0.11
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 30
- Revenue: $2,209,000
- Miles driven: 1,580,000
O.N. Time Logistic, LLC
216 Century Street Suite 200, Bowling Green, KY, 42101- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
O.N. Time Logistic, LLC (DOT: 2116677) is a leading trucking company based in Kentucky. With a fleet of 65 trucks and a satisfactory safety rating, they are well-equipped to handle a variety of freight needs. Specializing in dry van and flatbed transportation, their cargo expertise includes general freight, fresh produce, paper products, and dry bulk commodities. They offer both full and less-than-truckload services, making them versatile for different business requirements.
O.N. Time Logistic, LLC provides extensive support for commercial shipments, including guaranteed home time for drivers and a commitment to ongoing training and development. Although they have experienced some crash incidents, they maintain an active authority and focus on safety. Their employee benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan, ensuring that their drivers are supported and motivated.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.84
- Driver fitness: 0.35
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.75
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 61
- Revenue: $203,000
- Miles driven: 4,175,000
Jeff Robards Construction, Inc.
4435 N Preston Highway, Shepherdsville, KY, 40165- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Hopper bottom
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Hot shot
- B-train semi
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Jeff Robards Construction, Inc. (DOT: 712634) is a versatile trucking company offering comprehensive transportation services across interstate operations. Established with a total fleet size of 46 and 23 trucks, they specialize in diverse cargo, including agricultural supplies, construction materials, dry bulk commodities, machinery, and metals. Their fleet capabilities are enhanced with flatbeds, tankers, dump trailers, and specialized equipment for oversized loads, making them adaptable to various shipping needs.
Jeff Robards Construction also emphasizes safety and employee benefits, offering programs such as ongoing training, health screenings, and insurance packages, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. They support commercial shipments with dedicated routes, cross-border operations, and services like cross-docking and intermodal transport. With a focus on driver welfare, they provide sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, and flexible scheduling options, appealing to drivers and businesses seeking reliable logistics partners. Despite having a single reported crash injury, their safety parameters indicate a strong emphasis on safety.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.3
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 57
- Miles driven: 126,000
Mercer Transportation Co, Inc.
1128 W Main St, Louisville, KY, 40203- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
Mercer Transportation Co, Inc. (DOT: 154712) is a reputable trucking service company established in 1977, headquartered in Kentucky. They operate a substantial fleet, with a total of 1,939 trucks and over 3,878 total fleet size. The company excels in transporting a diverse range of cargo, including building materials, machinery, motor vehicles, and oilfield equipment, using specialized services like flatbed and step deck trailers. They maintain a satisfactory safety rating ensuring dependable service for business owners.
Mercer Transportation focuses on commercial shipping with robust support for hazardous materials and oversized loads, enhancing their appeal to businesses handling complex freight. Additional services such as dedicated routes, guaranteed home time for drivers, and flexible scheduling demonstrate their commitment to operational efficiency. With an emphasis on safety and driver well-being, Mercer offers sign-on bonuses and ongoing training programs. They are known for their comprehensive managed transportation solutions, bolstered by regional and OTR driving opportunities.
Safety
- Crashes: 168
- Unsafe driving: 2.09
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.87
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 17
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 2066
- Revenue: $46,567,000
- Miles driven: 161,000,000
Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC
335 E Yusen Drive, Georgetown, KY, 40324- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Power only
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC (DOT: 554279) is a diverse trucking company operating primarily in Kentucky with a total fleet size of 208. As a carrier and broker, they provide a range of specialized services, including hazardous materials transportation, dry van, reefer, and flatbed services. Cargo carried includes agricultural supplies, chemicals, fresh produce, and building materials, showcasing their capacity to handle diverse freight requirements.
Phoenix Transportation offers cross-border and intermodal transportation solutions, ensuring smooth logistics for international and domestic clients. Comprehensive support for commercial shipments is evident with drop trailer service, expedited options, and a focus on general freight. The company promotes a positive work environment with benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Known for a satisfactory safety rating, Phoenix Transportation strives for operational excellence and flexible solutions tailored to business needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 3.01
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 104
- Revenue: $1,101,000
- Miles driven: 7,240,246
BGB Trucking, Inc.
50 Industrial Park Rd, Eddyville, KY, 42038- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Hopper bottom
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Consolidation
BGB Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 774366) is a reputable Kentucky-based carrier with an active authority status. Operating a modern fleet with an average age of just 3 years, they excel in transporting a diverse range of cargo such as beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, general freight, grain, and paper products. BGB Trucking focuses on interstate operations with a commendable fleet size of 114 and employs over 40 interstate drivers.
BGB Trucking stands out with several specialized services including reefer and tanker driving, flatbed hauling, and dry van deliveries. They also offer power-only and managed transportation services, ensuring flexibility for their clients. The company provides attractive benefits like health and dental insurance, paid CDL training, safety bonuses, and pay advances, catering to the needs of business owners seeking reliable and efficient logistics solutions. Although they report some crash incidents, their safety ratings are satisfactory, underscoring their commitment to secure and dependable transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 2.51
- Driver fitness: 0.21
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.05
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 53
- Revenue: $8,611
- Miles driven: 5,740,127
How Safety Ratings Work in Kentucky
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 Kentucky
Here’s what Kentuckybusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Kentucky 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 Kentucky
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Kentucky, 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
