Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in North Carolina with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that National Freight Operations is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in North Carolina
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 North Carolina. Every North Carolina 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 North Carolina for your commercial shipping needs.
National Freight Operations
525 Tryon Street Suite 1600, Charlotte, NC, 28202- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
National Freight Operations (DOT: 3361914) is a reputable freight trucking company founded in 2015 and based in North Carolina. They operate a fleet with 114 trucks of diverse types, including flatbed and dry van options. The company handles a wide range of cargo such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, and refrigerated foods. Notably, they offer services for hazardous materials and machinery, specializing in both full and partial truckloads, which is ideal for business owners needing flexible shipping solutions.
National Freight Operations provides specialized support for commercial shipments with a range of dedicated routes and regional, local, and inter-state driving options, ensuring reliable and timely deliveries. Their emphasis on safety and driver satisfaction is showcased by their zero crash reports, and they offer robust benefits like health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Business owners seeking comprehensive logistics solutions will appreciate their commitment to precision and professionalism.
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: 110
- Revenue: $1,052,000
- Miles driven: 4,322,244
American Mega Transportation, Inc.
12811 Harvest Time Court, Charlotte, NC, 28278- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Meat
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
American Mega Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 2845742) has been a prominent player in the North Carolina trucking industry since its establishment in 2016. They offer an array of essential trucking services including partial and full truckload options, specializing in the transportation of dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, building materials, and refrigerated foods. The company prides itself on reliable interstate operations and a commitment to safety, evidenced by a spotless crash record.
American Mega Transportation provides regional and local driving opportunities, with a focus on services like refrigerated food transportation and general freight. They maintain a fleet of modern trucks, averaging just three years in age. Alongside these robust logistics services, they appear to prioritize employee welfare by offering health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. Their emphasis on transporting a variety of materials makes them a dependable partner for business owners looking for a trustworthy and efficient shipping solution.
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: 5
- Revenue: $589,000
- Miles driven: 1,811,580
Stout Trucking, Inc.
3940 Liberty Road, Greensboro, NC, 27406- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Stout Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 230152) is a seasoned trucking company operating since 1946, based in North Carolina. With a fleet of over 50 trucks and an average fleet age of 5 years, Stout Trucking specializes in dry bulk commodities and dry van services, offering partial and full truckload shipments. Their services extend to handling other types of cargo, reflecting a commitment to versatility and customer satisfaction.
The company stands out with its team driving opportunities and emphasis on employee benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance, as well as safety bonuses. Stout Trucking prides itself on being an active interstate carrier with a satisfactory safety rating. They ensure competitive driver salaries and a supportive work environment, making them an attractive option for business owners seeking reliable and comprehensive trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.48
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 35
- Revenue: $8,937,000
- Miles driven: 3,117,243
N & V Trucking, Inc.
5909 Wessel Way, Raleigh, NC, 27610- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
N & V Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1747847) is a carrier operating actively in the trucking industry. With a focus on general freight, they specialize in both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. N & V Trucking handles a variety of cargo types, including dry bulk commodities, agricultural supplies, construction materials, fresh produce, and metal sheets or coils, among others. Their operations are primarily interstate, supporting extensive shipping needs for business clients.
The company emphasizes reliable service with their dedicated teams of over-the-road (OTR) and local drivers, utilizing a fleet of two trucks and a total fleet size of four. N & V Trucking does not offer specialized services like hazardous material transport or refrigerated goods. However, they provide benefits such as paid time off and health insurance, asserting their commitment to employee welfare and service quality for commercial shipments. With years of experience and a strong operational footprint, N & V Trucking is equipped to meet diverse freight demands.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.74
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.66
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Revenue: $688,000
- Miles driven: 140,000
Seven Tees, LLC
176 Folkstone, Mooresville, NC, 28117- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Seven Tees, LLC (DOT: 1337388) is a reputable trucking company operating with an active USDOT status. They specialize in interstate transportation, focusing on dry van and flatbed services. With a fleet maintaining a low average age of three years, Seven Tees, LLC is geared towards reliability and efficiency. The company offers full truckload (FTL) services and handles a range of cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, and general freight.
Despite being a smaller fleet with only two drivers and one truck, Seven Tees, LLC maintains excellent safety standards, boasting zero crash injuries or fatalities. They emphasize driver well-being and satisfaction by providing health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off. This attentive approach helps ensure they deliver commercial shipments smoothly and on time. Business owners seeking a dedicated carrier for essential freight services will find Seven Tees, LLC a dependable partner in North Carolina.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 2
- Miles driven: 26,000
O.N. Time Carrier
449 Somerset Way, Rocky Mount, NC, 27804- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Livestock
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
O.N. Time Carrier (DOT: 2643819) is a reputable trucking company based in North Carolina. They offer a diverse range of trucking services, primarily focusing on full truckload (FTL) shipments and refrigerated transport. The company is well-versed in handling various types of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, fresh produce, building materials, and general freight. Their emphasis on reliability makes them an ideal partner for businesses looking to ship products efficiently.
O.N. Time Carrier specializes in cross-state transportation, leveraging their expertise in transporting complex cargo like metal sheets, coils, and rolls efficiently. They also cater to livestock and meat shipments with meticulous care. Despite a small but efficient fleet, their services include dry van transport and ensuring the fresh arrival of refrigerated foods. With additional perks like sign-on bonuses and health insurance for drivers, O.N. Time Carrier stands out as a responsible and customer-focused carrier.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 5.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Miles driven: 149,128
Geoki Transport, LLC
8367 Hollister Hills Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27616- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Geoki Transport, LLC (DOT: 2811675) is a North Carolina-based trucking company that excels in interstate shipping with a specialization in refrigerated foods, fresh produce, and general freight. Despite having a relatively small fleet of 4 trucks and 4 drivers, they emphasize the reliable transport of essential goods such as meat, beverages, and dry bulk commodities.
Offering full truckload and less than truckload services, Geoki Transport, LLC is equipped to meet various shipping needs. They prioritize worker benefits, providing health insurance and paid time off, making them an appealing choice for drivers. While their safety scores and incident rates highlight the importance of maintaining rigorous safety protocols, their strong Google rating reflects customer satisfaction. Geoki Transport is committed to delivering dependable service with a focus on efficiency and safety.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 9.0
- Driver fitness: 0.66
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.06
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.92
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Miles driven: 254,700
D & L Trucking, Inc.
145 Sampson Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
D & L Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 148270) is an active trucking company based in North Carolina, operating since its establishment with a satisfactory safety rating. Specializing in general freight, chemicals, and dry bulk commodities, they leverage a fleet of 13 trucks and 26 total vehicles for full and less-than-truckload services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to logistics while having an average fleet age of 5 years.
Known for maintaining high safety and employee satisfaction standards, D & L Trucking offers benefits such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance, alongside safety and sign-on bonuses. Their fleet of flatbed and dry van trucks effectively caters to various freight requirements, and while not offering specialized services like refrigerated transport or hazardous materials, their robust operation remains well-regarded, boasting strong customer feedback with ratings on Indeed and Glassdoor at 4.2 and 4.0, respectively.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 3.38
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.21
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 13
- Revenue: $4,245,000
- Miles driven: 952,000
Blue Max Trucking, Inc.
1015 E Westinghouse BLVD, Charlotte, NC, 28273- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Blue Max Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 292091) has been serving the transportation industry since 1983, boasting a fleet of over 327 trucks and a well-rounded service offering. They provide Full Truckload (FTL), Less Than Truckload (LTL), and Partial Truckload services, with a particular expertise in handling commodities like dry bulk, construction materials, and large machinery.
Known for their satisfactory safety rating, Blue Max Trucking emphasizes competitive benefits such as health, dental, vision, life insurance, and a retirement plan. Their tanker and flatbed capabilities enhance versatility, while their regional and local driving services ensure dependable deliveries. The company prioritizes driver well-being with sign-on and safety bonuses, direct deposit, guaranteed home time, and paid time off, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking robust transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 29
- Unsafe driving: 0.26
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.94
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 345
- Revenue: $20,987,000
- Miles driven: 17,800,000
Apex Transit
3301 Rotary Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28269- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Apex Transit (DOT: 2348288) is an active carrier in the transportation industry, providing full-truckload and less-than-truckload services across interstate routes. They handle a diverse array of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, machinery, metal sheets, and paper products. The company’s fleet includes 71 trucks and offers a robust service framework that prioritizes customer needs.
Offering specialized support, Apex Transit utilizes reefer trailers, dry vans, and flatbeds to cater to various commercial shipment needs. With an average fleet age of 2 years, they ensure efficient and timely deliveries. The company prioritizes employee benefits, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan and guaranteed home time, positioning itself as an employee-focused organization. Apex Transit maintains a strong online presence with a 4.5 Google rating and a 4.1 Glassdoor rating, reflecting customer and employee satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 2.88
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.2
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.9
- Controlled substances: 0.13
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 75
- Revenue: $452,000
- Miles driven: 6,511,485
How Safety Ratings Work in North Carolina
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 North Carolina
Here’s what North Carolinabusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in North Carolina 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 North Carolina
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in North Carolina, 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
