Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Tennessee with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that Velocity International Group, LLC is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Tennessee
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 Tennessee. Every Tennessee 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 Tennessee for your commercial shipping needs.
Velocity International Group, LLC
800 Airpark Commerce Drive Ste 808, Nashville, TN, 37217- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Velocity International Group, LLC (DOT: 2821282) is an active and versatile trucking company located in Tennessee. With a fleet consisting of six trucks, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, efficiently handling diverse cargo, including beverages, building materials, and a variety of dry bulk commodities. Their operations extend across interstate routes, and they are adept at managing a range of shipments, accommodating complex transportation needs with their reefer, dry van, and general freight services.
Velocity International Group emphasizes safety and reliability, boasting an excellent record with zero crash injuries or fatalities. They provide robust support for commercial shipments, including benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance for employees. Their services are supported by experienced over-the-road and regional drivers, ensuring consistent and dependable delivery, making them a trustworthy choice for business owners seeking efficient freight transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.75
- Driver fitness: 1.86
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Miles driven: 285,000
Specialized Transport Solutions
128 Holiday Court Suite 113, Franklin, TN, 37067- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Specialized Transport Solutions (DOT: 2516354) is a reputable trucking company with a medium-sized fleet of 102 vehicles based in Tennessee. They offer a broad range of transport solutions, including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. The company is equipped to handle a diverse array of cargo such as beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, meat, paper products, refrigerated foods, and liquids/gases.
The company emphasizes safety and reliability and has implemented a robust driver support system, including ongoing training and development programs, guaranteed home time, and various bonuses. Though safety scores indicate room for improvement, their offerings such as tanker, reefer, and flatbed services make them highly adaptable to varying business needs. Specialized Transport Solutions stands out in the competitive market with a strong focus on regional and dedicated routes, appealing to businesses seeking consistent and specialized freight services.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 3.27
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.84
- Controlled substances: 0.08
- Hazardous materials violations: 14
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 39
- Revenue: $880,000
- Miles driven: 3,678,405
Gaiain Trcuking, Inc.
2571 Willowbranch Dr, Nashville, TN, 37217- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Gaiain Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2906595) is an active and reliable carrier operating in Tennessee, with a focus on full truckload services. They specialize in transporting a wide range of goods, including agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods. Known for carrying diverse cargo types, such as coal/coke, grain feed hay, meat, paper products, and oilfield equipment, Gaiain Trucking is equipped to meet the varied needs of businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Despite having a relatively small fleet of 14 vehicles and 7 trucks, Gaiain Trucking maintains strong safety standards with zero crash fatalities and injuries reported. The company provides health insurance and paid time off to its employees, demonstrating a commitment to workforce welfare. Suitable for businesses seeking full truckload services, Gaiain also facilitates less-than-truckload shipping tailored to diverse commercial requirements, emphasizing safety and efficient service delivery.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.9
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.33
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $672,000
- Miles driven: 800,000
Mason Transport Company, LLC
301 South Perimeter Park Drive Suite 100, Nashville, TN, 37211- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Mason Transport Company, LLC (DOT: 2575962) is a reputable trucking company offering diverse shipping solutions within the transportation industry. With a fleet of 18 trucks, the company specializes in handling general freight, fresh produce, building materials, and paper products. Known for its dry van and flatbed services, Mason Transport Company ensures efficient full and partial truckload shipments tailored to meet specific business needs.
Operating since DOT registration, Mason Transport provides reliable interstate transport services with a strong focus on safety, backed by moderate driving and maintenance scores. The company manages a mileage coverage of 1,500,000 miles annually and offers benefits such as health insurance and paid time off for its 18 drivers. Committed to excellent service, Mason has a strong presence on carrier platforms and consistently upholds its common authority status. They maintain active communication through email, ensuring seamless coordination and customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 2.08
- Driver fitness: 0.47
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.69
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 18
- Miles driven: 1,500,000
Kenco Logistic Services
2001 Riverside Drive, Chattanooga, TN, 37406- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
Kenco Logistic Services (DOT: 886667) is a prominent transportation carrier known for its robust operations across state lines. With a total fleet size of 330 vehicles, Kenco is equipped to handle various types of cargo, including building materials, commodities, dry bulk, general freight, and logs. They offer specialized logistic services like flatbed and box truck operations, showing a commitment to meeting diverse freight needs.
Kenco Logistic Services emphasizes customer satisfaction through their dedicated routes, partial and full truckload services, and efficient less-than-truckload solutions. They provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off to ensure their workforce remains motivated and skilled. Clients benefit from the company’s focus on reliability and flexible scheduling. Kenco supports commercial shipments thoroughly, promising guaranteed home time, ongoing training development, and a comprehensive insurance coverage to ensure peace of mind.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 0.66
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.08
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 228
- Revenue: $722,000
- Miles driven: 6,557,875
U.S. Xpress
4080 Jenkins Rd, Chattanooga, TN, 37421- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 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
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
U.S. Xpress (DOT: 303024) is a prominent trucking company based in Tennessee, established in 1985, with a robust fleet of over 11,000 vehicles. Known for its commitment to diverse service offerings, U.S. Xpress excels in transporting various cargo types, including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, fresh produce, and machinery. The company is well-equipped for specialized shipments, with provisions for hazardous materials and tanker services, making them a versatile choice for complex logistical needs.
U.S. Xpress offers notable support for commercial shipments, including team driving opportunities, dedicated routes, and cross-border capabilities. They provide a comprehensive range of benefits to their drivers, such as health insurance, paid CDL training, safety bonuses, and a retirement plan. The company’s emphasis on safety and training programs ensures reliable and efficient service, backed by a satisfactory safety rating. With a commitment to driver satisfaction and comprehensive shipping solutions, U.S. Xpress is a leading option for businesses seeking dependable freight transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 568
- Unsafe driving: 2.18
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.07
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 15
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6509
- Revenue: $13,034,000
- Miles driven: 518,000,000
HFC Trucking
225 B Hwy 69 N, Paris, TN, 38242- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- 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
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
HFC Trucking (DOT: 128646), operating under the legal name Henry Farmers Cooperative, is a trucking company based in Tennessee specializing in agriculture and various types of cargo. The company manages a moderately sized fleet and caters to a diverse array of cargo, including fresh produce, building materials, refrigerated foods, and chemicals. With a focus on agricultural and farm supplies, HFC Trucking is well-equipped, offering services such as refrigerated transport and flatbed trucking.
The company is known for its attention to detail, providing specialized services like hazardous materials handling and cross-border shipping. Offering benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and a comprehensive roadside assistance program, HFC Trucking ensures reliability and support for commercial shipments. They also maintain a competitive edge by offering driver referral bonuses and ongoing training and development programs, indicating a strong commitment to both safety and employee satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.21
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.4
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $103,842,000
- Miles driven: 1,571,315
Green Valley Transportation Corp
608 Simmons Road Ste B, Knoxville, TN, 37932- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
Green Valley Transportation Corp (DOT: 434067) is an active trucking company based in Tennessee with a fleet of 36 trucks and a satisfactory safety rating. They specialize in handling a wide array of cargo types, including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, and large machinery. The company is well-equipped for oversize loads and heavy haul operations, offering services with dry vans, reefers, tankers, and flatbeds.
Green Valley Transportation Corp provides various services to support commercial shipments, such as direct deposit, flexible scheduling, rider or pet allowances, and paid CDL training. They offer specialized support for general freight and intermodal containers, ensuring reliable and efficient logistics. With a dedicated focus on keeping drivers satisfied, they also provide health, dental, and vision insurance, along with guaranteed home time and disability insurance. This commitment to service and employee well-being makes them a versatile partner for businesses looking to transport goods safely and effectively.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.37
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.84
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 54
- Revenue: $363
- Miles driven: 1,795,109
OLD South Freight Service, Inc.
7544 Hwy 41 A, Cedar Hill, TN, 37032- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Auto carrier
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Hazardous materials
OLD South Freight Service, Inc. (DOT: 201752) is a reputable trucking company operating primarily with a carrier operation described as interstate. They have been in the industry for over 50 years, offering specialized freight services, including flatbed trucking and carrying various types of cargo such as building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, and metals. Their fleet consists of flatbeds, dry vans, and lowboy trailers, enabling them to handle oversized and construction-related shipments with efficiency.
OLD South Freight Service, Inc. provides crucial commercial shipment support by offering hazardous materials transportation and refrigerated goods services. They prioritize the well-being of their employees with benefits like health, dental, and life insurance, and they also provide per diem payments, direct deposit, and a retirement plan. The company is highly regarded for maintaining a safety rating of “Satisfactory” and offers guarantees like home time and flexible scheduling to meet the needs of drivers and customers alike.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 2.09
- Driver fitness: 0.26
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.16
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 96
- Revenue: $1,709,000
- Miles driven: 3,134,817
JIT – Ex, LLC
3344 Cazassa Rd, Memphis, TN, 38116- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
JIT – Ex, LLC (DOT: 974027) is a versatile trucking company with a substantial fleet of 214 trucks. They excel in transporting a variety of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, grain, lumber, intermodal containers, and metal sheets. JIT – Ex is committed to offering power-only services and specializes in handling hazardous materials and dry bulk commodities, making them a reliable choice for diverse shipping needs.
JIT – Ex provides comprehensive commercial support, featuring cross-docking and drayage services as well as a strong focus on both general freight and building materials. Their drivers benefit from a range of employee incentives, including sign-on bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans. The company places an emphasis on safety, as indicated by their satisfactory safety rating and moderate vehicle maintenance scores. With flexible scheduling and local driver opportunities, JIT – Ex stands out as a dedicated partner in the logistics industry.
Safety
- Crashes: 23
- Unsafe driving: 1.76
- Driver fitness: 0.19
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.4
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.51
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 278
- Revenue: $3,163
- Miles driven: 17,700,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Tennessee
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 Tennessee
Here’s what Tennesseebusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Tennessee 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 Tennessee
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Tennessee, 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
