We reviewed and ranked 10 dry van trucking companies in Wisconsin based on pricing, customer feedback, services, and safety, and found Tidewater Trucking Co to be the number-one choice for businesses looking for secure and reliable shipping solutions for electronics, furniture, packaged foods, and other retail items.
Dry Van Shipping Services & Transport in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin. Every Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin for your commercial shipping needs.
Tidewater Trucking Co
611 S 28th Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53215- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Tidewater Trucking Co (DOT: 104249) is an experienced trucking company established in 1934, specializing in various types of cargo, including chemicals, dry bulk commodities, and general freight. With a fleet of over 313 trucks, they predominantly offer full truckload and less-than-truckload services, ensuring versatility in shipping solutions. Their fleet also includes flatbed trailers, catering to diverse freight requirements.
Tidewater Trucking Co operates with a safety rating of “Satisfactory” and places a strong emphasis on driver and vehicle performance. They provide health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance for employees, alongside a retirement plan and paid time off. Despite facing challenges with unsafe driving scores, they are committed to service excellence and maintaining a robust fleet, ideal for business owners seeking reliable commercial shipping support.
Safety
- Crashes: 41
- Unsafe driving: 1.48
- Driver fitness: 0.11
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.24
- Controlled substances: 0.04
- Hazardous materials violations: 19
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 254
- Revenue: $10,408,000
- Miles driven: 14,600,000
Lighthouse Trucking
6523 46th Street, Kenosha, WI, 53144- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Lighthouse Trucking (DOT: 1256847) operates out of Wisconsin, boasting expertise in transporting refrigerated foods, fresh produce, and beverages. With a fleet size of 84 vehicles, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Despite a modest size, they maintain commendable service delivery, evident by their 4.2 rating on Indeed and a 4.0 rating on Yelp.
Lighthouse Trucking provides regional driving opportunities and offers essential benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan. Although they don’t specifically offer numerous driver bonuses or extensive training programs, their service focus on fresh produce and refrigerated items highlights their strength in handling sensitive and time-critical cargo efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.22
- Driver fitness: 1.21
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.26
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 41
- Revenue: $758,000
- Miles driven: 1,803,050
Arrow Specialized Carriers, Inc.
12400 Wilmot Road, Kenosha, WI, 53142- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Arrow Specialized Carriers, Inc. (DOT: 340270) is a dynamic trucking company with a reputation for versatile transportation services in Wisconsin. They specialize in full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. Arrow prides itself on its ability to handle diverse cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction equipment, general freight, and intermodal containers.
This carrier operates a modern fleet of 39 trucks, maintaining an average fleet age of 3 years, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency and safety. With 32 skilled drivers, they emphasize safety, as reflected in their satisfactory safety rating. Arrow offers benefits such as health, dental, life, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) plan and paid time off, showcasing their dedication to driver welfare. With a safety compliance focus and comprehensive service offerings, Arrow Specialized Carriers stands out as a reliable partner for businesses seeking dependable transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.82
- Driver fitness: 0.21
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.27
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 32
- Revenue: $10,921,000
- Miles driven: 1,673,948
River City Transport, LLC
945 Short St, Eau Claire, WI, 54701- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
River City Transport, LLC (DOT: 235686) is an active Wisconsin-based freight trucking company, distinguished by its fleet of 40 trucks and notable safety record. Specializing in flatbed and dry van transport, they handle a variety of cargo including building materials, coal/coke, and large machinery. River City Transport demonstrates flexibility in shipment services with offerings in full truckload, partial truckload, and less than truckload transport, displaying their ability to adapt to diverse shipping needs.
Though relatively new, River City Transport ensures a satisfactory safety rating, reinforcing its commitment to efficient and secure shipments. Despite the absence of certain employee benefits, the company offers paid time off and health insurance, along with a competitive salary range of $50,000-$70,000 for drivers. With a presence on CarrierSource and robust interstate operation, River City Transport positions itself as a reliable partner for business owners seeking dedicated shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 4.08
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.08
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 41
- Revenue: $10,741,000
- Miles driven: 2,048,473
Zizzos Trucking Company, Inc.
3000 Sheridan Road, Kenosha, WI, 53140- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Zizzos Trucking Company, Inc. (DOT: 325701) is an active interstate freight carrier known for its strong commitment to the trucking industry, with a satisfactory safety rating. While the exact year of establishment isn’t specified, Zizzos specializes in transporting a range of goods, including building materials, coal, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, and more. They offer services across a fleet of 21 trucks, with their primary focus on flatbed and dry van transport.
Zizzos Trucking stands out with their offerings of full truckload and less-than-truckload services, catering to diverse logistical needs. They take pride in having regional and over-the-road drivers, ensuring flexibility in operations. Notable support includes health, dental, and vision insurance benefits, which highlights their commitment to employee well-being. Their safety practices are reinforced by zero reported crash injuries or fatalities, underscoring a priority for secure and reliable transportation solutions for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.8
- Driver fitness: 0.58
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 10.66
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 22
- Revenue: $583,000
- Miles driven: 1,451,000
Performance Freight Systems, Inc.
2040 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Performance Freight Systems, Inc. (DOT: 401278) was established in 1990 and is a reputable freight transportation company based in Wisconsin. Specializing in interstate operations, the company boasts a fleet size of over 50 trucks and 22 power units dedicated to full truckload and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. Performance Freight is proficient in carrying a variety of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, grain, feed, hay, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and paper products.
The company excels in team driving opportunities and regional driver services, ensuring efficient and reliable deliveries. Performance Freight is committed to high safety standards with a satisfactory safety rating. Commercial clients benefit from services like refrigerated (reefer) transport, although the company does not handle hazardous materials. Additional employee benefits include health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with retirement plans and paid time off, making it an appealing choice for potential drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.18
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.37
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 29
- Revenue: $14,286,000
- Miles driven: 1,636,270
Blue Northern Distributing, LLC
5640 Old Town Hall Rd, Eau Claire, WI, 54701- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Blue Northern Distributing, LLC (DOT: 1120339) is an active trucking company known for its satisfactory safety and service in Wisconsin. Operating with a fleet of 34, they specialize in full truckload services, often handling fresh produce, meat, refrigerated foods, and general freight. They have a strong commitment to safety, evidenced by zero crash fatalities and satisfactory safety ratings.
Offering dry van and flatbed services, Blue Northern provides customized support for commercial shipments. The company underlines its dedication to employee benefits, with health insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Despite three reported tow-away crashes, the company maintains commendable vehicle safety standards, focusing on delivering reliable shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 4.04
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.54
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 36
- Revenue: $1,068,000
- Miles driven: 1,173,473
Schneider Transport, Inc.
3101 South Packerland Drive, Green Bay, WI, 54313- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Schneider Transport, Inc. (DOT: 46596) is a reputable trucking company founded in 1935, operating primarily in Wisconsin. With a fleet size of over 100 vehicles, Schneider Transport offers a diverse range of shipping services including full truckload, partial truckload, less than truckload, and dry van transportation. They specialize in handling agricultural and farm supplies, refrigerated foods, hazardous materials, machinery, and chemicals.
Schneider Transport provides several advantages for commercial shipments, such as dedicated routes, cross-border services, and a strong focus on safety with Satisfactory ratings. They offer extensive support to their drivers, with benefits like sign-on bonuses, ongoing training programs, and health insurance. Their capability to haul general freight, fresh produce, and industrial materials makes them a versatile choice for businesses looking for reliable and comprehensive freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.04
- 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: 5
- Revenue: $592,788,000
- Miles driven: 451,000
THE Mcr Group, LLC
7301 W Calumet Rd, Milwaukee, WI, 53223- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
THE Mcr Group, LLC (DOT: 1525983) is a dynamic freight trucking company established in Wisconsin in 2016. Specializing in both full and partial truckload services, they handle a diverse range of cargo including building materials, construction goods, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and large machinery. With a focus on non-hazardous intrastate operations, they offer reliable dry van and flatbed transportation options across the region.
Notably, THE Mcr Group, LLC emphasizes safety with a record of zero crash injuries or fatalities. They support businesses with local driver services and a modern fleet of 65 trucks. While they don’t offer specialized drivers or hazardous material transport, they provide valued employee benefits such as health, dental, and life insurance, paid time off, and direct deposit. With a strong presence on Carriersource, they are well-equipped to manage time-critical shipments effectively.
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: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 24
- Miles driven: 750,000
Larson Transportation, LLC
3920 Kennedy Road Suite 110, Janesville, WI, 53546- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $3,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Larson Transportation, LLC (DOT: 826500) is a reputable trucking company based in Wisconsin, noted for its reliability and diverse cargo capabilities. With a fleet of around 45 trucks and offering services since its USDOT status became active, they handle building materials, general freight, metal sheets/coils/rolls, and paper products. Specializing in full truckload, partial truckload, and dedicated routes, they ensure efficient transportation solutions.
Larson Transportation provides team driving opportunities, fostering expedited service and consistent delivery schedules. They offer competitive benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement 401(k) plan, and a safety bonus. Their average fleet age is about 3 years, indicating a modern and well-maintained set of vehicles. Business owners looking for dependable shipping with special commercial support will find Larson Transportation an excellent choice for their logistics needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.17
- Driver fitness: 0.22
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.43
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 39
- Revenue: $3,041,000
- Miles driven: 2,882,359
How Safety Ratings Work in Wisconsin
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 Van Trucking Company for Your Wisconsin Shipments
Here are a few key factors to keep in mind when deciding on a Dry Van carrier in Wisconsin:
- Trailer size and capacity: Use a company with a wide range of Dry Van sizes to match your load requirements.
- Fleet Ccndition: Choose carriers with well-maintained trailers to reduce the risk of damage or delays during transit.
- Reliable shipment tracking: Wisconsin companies with GPS tracking provide real-time updates on the status and location of your shipments.
- Safety and delivery history: Look for a Dry Van provider with a solid track record in safe handling and timely deliveries for added peace of mind.
- Flexible shipping options: If you want a Dry Van carrier that can adapt as your business grows, go with one that can accommodate both short- and long-haul routes. This will ensure they can handle your shipments should your distribution needs change.
FAQs
What types of goods are best suited for Dry Van shipping?
Retail items that need protection from the elements — like electronics, packaged food, clothing, and furniture — are best suited for Dry Van shipping.
How does Dry Van shipping protect cargo in transit?
Dry Van shipping protects cargo in transit by using fully enclosed trailers that keep items from being damaged by weather conditions, road debris, and other environmental factors.
What are common dimensions for Dry Van trailers in Wisconsin?
Dry Van trailers in Wisconsin are typically 53 feet in length, though some carriers offer 48-foot options for smaller loads.
Other Types of Transport Options for Your Shipments
Depending on the types of products your business retails or manufactures, you may have several shipping options to choose from.
- Hopper Bottom Shipping Services
- Beverage Shipping Services
- Box Truck Shipping Services
- Drayage Shipping Services
- Dry Bulk 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
