Transporting dry bulk materials requires specialized trucking services that ensure safety and efficiency. After reviewing 10 dry bulk carriers in Virginia with a focus on affordability, safety, and customer service, we found that James River Carriers, LLC is your top choice.
Dry Bulk Shipping Services & Transport in Virginia
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 Virginia. Every Virginia 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 Virginia for your commercial shipping needs.
James River Carriers, LLC
2227 Station Rd, Richmond, VA, 23234- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
James River Carriers, LLC (DOT: 3113083) is a prominent trucking company established in 2023, based in Virginia. Specializing in full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, they efficiently manage a diverse range of cargo, ensuring timely delivery. Their fleet is equipped to handle general freight, dry bulk commodities, flatbed, dry van, and refrigerated foods, supporting various industries from construction to fresh produce logistics.
James River Carriers prioritizes safety and reliability with an admirable insurance cap of $1,000,000 and maintains an active DOT status. They offer regional driving opportunities with over-the-road (OTR) coverage. Further, they provide competitive benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside paid time off and retirement plans. With attention to both commercial cargo and driver satisfaction, James River Carriers is a trusted choice for business owners seeking comprehensive transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 11
- Unsafe driving: 0.83
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 112
- Miles driven: 18,600,000
Interchange Express, Inc.
1346 Pleasants Drive Ste 6, Harrisonburg, VA, 22801- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Interchange Express, Inc. (DOT: 1693886) is a Virginia-based freight trucking company that has been operational since 1993. They boast a diverse fleet and are known for their ability to transport a wide array of cargos such as fresh produce, beverages, building materials, and general freight. Specializing in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, Interchange Express has cultivated a reputation for flexibility in handling various types of shipments, including refrigerated foods and dry bulk commodities.
The company’s focus is on interstate commercial shipments, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery of goods. With a fleet size of over 60 trucks and 120 total power units, Interchange Express maintains a modern and well-maintained fleet to meet clients’ shipping needs. Business owners can expect comprehensive transport solutions backed by a solid safety record, as reflected in their low driver violation scores. Health insurance and paid time off are also offered to their dedicated team of drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.72
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.49
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.29
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 71
- Revenue: $6,617,000
- Miles driven: 3,712,777
Augustus Trucking, Inc.
814 Victoria Boulevard, Hampton, VA, 23661- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Augustus Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1583548) is an active interstate freight carrier based in Virginia. The company excels in transporting a wide array of cargo, including beverages, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, meat, refrigerated foods, general freight, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and US Mail. They are equipped with a fleet that includes reefer and dry van trucks, emphasizing their strength in reefer transport services.
Augustus Trucking prides itself on offering flexible shipping options, including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload services. The company places a high value on driver welfare, providing comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with retirement plans. With guaranteed home time and competitive salary ranges between $45,000-$55,000, they maintain a focus on both employee satisfaction and efficient commercial shipments.
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: 1
- Miles driven: 63,632
Lawson Logistics, Inc.
807 Hollins Rd Ne, Roanoke, VA, 24012- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Lawson Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 1726666) is a reputable trucking company established in 1937, based in Virginia. With a fleet of 18, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, primarily transporting cargo such as general freight, building materials, paper products, and logs, poles, beams, and lumber. They handle dry bulk commodities and have capabilities for flatbed transport.
Lawson Logistics is committed to safety and employee wellbeing, offering comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance. They support interstate operations and ensure guaranteed home time for drivers. The company is focused on fostering professional growth with ongoing training and development programs. Business owners seeking a reliable and experienced partner for transporting a variety of goods will find Lawson Logistics a notable choice, backed by their long-standing industry presence and strategic service offerings.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.55
- 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: 9
- Revenue: $2,211,000
- Miles driven: 399,754
GPS Fleet Trucking, Inc.
5711 Grove Ave, Richmond, VA, 23226- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
GPS Fleet Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2528483) is a reputable freight carrier operating in Virginia, known for its comprehensive transportation services. Specializing in dry van and flatbed trucking, the company efficiently handles a diverse array of cargo, including beverages, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, and refrigerated foods. Although the company does not provide all services, its focus remains on ensuring reliable full and partial truckload transportation.
GPS Fleet Trucking offers significant support to businesses requiring consistent interstate delivery services. Despite its relatively compact fleet of five trucks, the company maintains active status and prioritizes vehicle safety. With a commendable vehicle maintenance record, GPS Fleet Trucking distinguishes itself as a dependable partner for businesses looking for reliable freight movement with minimal hassle.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.29
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $641,000
- Miles driven: 650,000
MMC Transport Of Virginia
5185 Benois Rd, Roanoke, VA, 24018- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
MMC Transport Of Virginia (DOT: 374973) is a seasoned trucking company established in 1886, boasting a rich history in the transportation industry. The company specializes in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, primarily handling dry bulk commodities such as grain, feed, and hay. Despite the absence of a dedicated flatbed division, MMC Transport provides an efficient fleet of 24 trucks that ensures seamless commercial shipments across state lines.
The company offers a range of employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with a reliable 401k retirement plan. Although MMC Transport doesn’t engage in hazardous materials transport, the focus on dry van and general freight ensures a diverse service offering for commercial clients. With an emphasis on safety, upheld by a spotless crash record and secure vehicle maintenance, MMC Transport Of Virginia stands as a reputable choice for business owners seeking reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- 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: 15
- Revenue: $44,076,000
- Miles driven: 862,745
United Cartage
715 Industrial Park Dr, Newport News, VA, 23608- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
United Cartage (DOT: 1852556) is an active trucking company based in Virginia, specializing in the transport of general freight and dry bulk commodities. Their versatile fleet includes dry vans and flatbed trucks for efficient cargo handling. Known for their consistent service, they maintain a fleet size of 20 to 49 vehicles, ensuring the capability to manage a diverse range of shipping needs, including paper products.
United Cartage offers a variety of services aimed at supporting commercial shipments. They provide full and partial truckload options tailored to the unique requirements of business clients. Despite a smaller operation, they emphasize safety, with a commitment to maintaining low crash rates. The company also offers employee benefits such as health, dental, vision insurance, and a retirement plan, positioning them as a reliable partner for long-term business relationships.
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: 6
- Revenue: $345,000
- Miles driven: 200,000
Black Tye Logistics
3541 N Crestline Dr, Virginia Beach, VA, 23464- 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
- Machinery & large objects
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Black Tye Logistics (DOT: 1334903) is an active freight and logistics company based in Virginia, known for offering a variety of trucking services across interstate routes. The company specializes in handling fresh produce and dry bulk commodities with refrigerated trucks and dry vans. Furthermore, their services include full truckload and less-than-truckload transportation, accommodating diverse cargo like agricultural supplies, beverages, construction materials, and general freight.
Their focus on comprehensive logistics solutions is evident through their fleet operations and the multitude of cargo types handled, including large machinery and intermodal containers. Black Tye Logistics ensures driver welfare with health and dental insurance, as well as paid time off and 401k retirement plans. Despite previous crashes, their safety record indicates zero injuries or fatalities, showcasing their commitment to safe and reliable transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.75
- Hours-of-service compliance: 5.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Miles driven: 353,337
RCS Logistics, LLC
3100 N Hopkins Rd, Richmond, VA, 23224- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
RCS Logistics, LLC (DOT: 1396876) is a Virginia-based carrier specializing in logistics services. With an active authority status, they focus on full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and general freight hauling. Despite having a small fleet size of three trucks and six trailers, they effectively carry a variety of cargo including dry bulk commodities, paper products, and refrigerated foods. Established with an emphasis on a seamless shipping experience, RCS Logistics provides reliable interstate operations.
RCS Logistics maintains a commitment to driver care with benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, promoting overall employee well-being. They operate under a high Google rating of 4.5, reflecting strong customer satisfaction. Their attention to safe driving and vehicle maintenance is demonstrated by a spotless crash and safety record, underscoring their commitment to secure and dependable transportation services. Though small, RCS Logistics is an agile carrier well-suited for businesses seeking specialized commercial support in freight logistics.
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
- Miles driven: 144,000
Kenam Services, LLC
900 Garden Tree Rd, Chesapeake, VA, 23322- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Trash
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Kenam Services, LLC (DOT: 2385597) is a trucking company located in Virginia, specializing in dry van and flatbed transport. Known for their reliable service, they handle a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, beverages, and paper products. Kenam Services efficiently manages both full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments, demonstrating flexibility in meeting the various needs of their clients.
Kenam Services prides itself on maintaining an active interstate operation, ensuring timely and safe delivery across state lines. With a small fleet of five trucks and a commendable Google rating of 4.5, they emphasize customer satisfaction. The company also provides essential benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and direct deposit for their employees. Business owners seeking dependable transportation solutions for a variety of goods will find Kenam Services to be a strong partner for their shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.8
- Driver fitness: 3.52
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.83
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $214,000
- Miles driven: 360,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Virginia
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 Virginia
Here’s what Virginiabusinesses moving loose, bulk commodities like sand, grain, or chemicals, should consider when looking for a Dry Bulk trucking company:
- Experience with bulk commodities: Virginia 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 Virginia?
Products most commonly shipped via Dry Bulk trucks include loose, unpackaged goods like grains, cement, sand, and minerals in specialized trailers. Businesses in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Safety in Dry Bulk shipping requires secure loading, proper weight distribution, and containment to avoid spills or hazards on the road. Virginia 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 Virginia?
While trucking is the most widely used commercial shipping method in Virginia 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 Virginia
If you are looking for other types of shipping and transport services in Virginia, 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
