If you’re in the business of manufacturing construction materials, machinery, or other heavy load items, flatbed carriers are the most efficient way to get your products where they need to go. We looked at areas like pricing, safety, fleet size, and customer feedback for leading Iowa flatbed trucking companies and found Quest Liner to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Iowa
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 Iowa. Every Iowa 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 Iowa for your commercial shipping needs.
Quest Liner
2099 Southpark Ct Ste 1, Dubuque, IA, 52003- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Cross-border
Quest Liner (DOT: 1609038) is a prominent transportation company specializing in the interstate carriage of various goods, including chemicals and dry bulk commodities. They boast a fleet size of over 600 vehicles, supported by 307 highly skilled drivers. Quest Liner offers full and partial truckload services and excels in handling liquid and gaseous cargoes, which is complemented by their fleet of tankers and dry vans.
This company’s commitment to safety is underscored by their focus on maintaining a well-rehearsed fleet averaging five years in age. Quest Liner provides comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside retirement plans. They also ensure their drivers have the support they need through direct deposit and paid time off. Noteworthy is their capacity to support cross-border shipments, making Quest Liner a robust choice for business owners seeking a reliable logistics partner with an extensive array of services.
Safety
- Crashes: 22
- Unsafe driving: 1.5
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.31
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 15
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 307
- Revenue: $20,938,000
- Miles driven: 22,700,000
DHL Freight
1909 E 17th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50316- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
DHL Freight (DOT: 1996747) is a prominent trucking company operating in Iowa as both a broker and carrier, with a total fleet size of 604 vehicles, including 302 trucks. They offer an array of services such as full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), parcel, and dedicated routes. Their service specialization includes carrying a variety of cargo, such as agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, and metal sheets.
DHL Freight distinguishes itself with strong commitments to team driving opportunities, guaranteed home time, and ongoing training development programs. They provide comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Special support is offered for commercial shipments through refrigerated (reefer) and intermodal container services. Known for their satisfactory safety rating and cross-border capabilities, DHL Freight is an ideal partner for businesses seeking reliable and supportive logistics services.
Safety
- Crashes: 24
- Unsafe driving: 1.46
- Driver fitness: 0.14
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.04
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 277
- Miles driven: 18,600,000
West Side Transport, Inc.
11801 6th St Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
West Side Transport, Inc. (DOT: 165881) is a reputable freight trucking company based in Iowa. With a fleet size of over 1000 trucks, the company specializes in full and partial truckload services, leveraging reefer and flatbed options. Founded as an active carrier, they have carved a niche in transporting building materials, paper products, and general freight. Their commitment to safety is reflected in a satisfactory safety rating despite experiences of crash incidents.
West Side Transport places a strong emphasis on employee benefits, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, along with retirement plans and guaranteed home time. They provide dedicated and team driver services, ensuring timely delivery and robust customer support. Their operations span interstate commerce and focus on providing quality logistics solutions for businesses looking to ship their products efficiently and reliably.
Safety
- Crashes: 43
- Unsafe driving: 1.33
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.13
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.54
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 567
- Revenue: $107,398,000
- Miles driven: 47,300,000
Dedicated Transportation Systems, LLC
915 Floral Lane, Davenport, IA, 52802- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Dedicated Transportation Systems, LLC (DOT: 514689) is a reputable trucking company based in Iowa, known for its flexible freight solutions. With a fleet of 85 trucks, they provide a range of services including full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and parcel deliveries. Specializing in general freight, their offerings include dry van and box truck services, catering to varying client needs with a focus on reliable and efficient transportation.
Dedicated Transportation Systems places a strong emphasis on driver support, offering regional, local, and over-the-road (OTR) positions. Key benefits include health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with life insurance and 401(k) retirement plans. Safety is a priority, demonstrated by average vehicle maintenance scores and ongoing safety bonuses. This carrier prides itself on its outstanding customer service and is an active entity under US DOT regulations, proving itself as a commendable choice for businesses seeking dependable logistics partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 3.06
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.44
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.93
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 75
- Revenue: $1,194,000
- Miles driven: 5,064,552
Farr Transport, Inc.
2930 J Industrial Park Road, Iowa City, IA, 52240- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Farr Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1054945) is a reputable trucking company based in Iowa. They have a fleet of 24 vehicles and 12 dedicated interstate drivers. Although the company’s exact founding year is unavailable, their firm is known for efficient and consistent service. Farr Transport specializes in full and partial truckload shipping, focusing on general freight, including meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. Their dedication to dry van and flatbed driving services highlights their flexibility in handling diverse cargo needs.
Farr Transport offers regional and local driving services, showcasing their capacity to cater to both small and large business needs across the state and beyond. They emphasize employee welfare, offering health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with a retirement plan, paid time off, and guaranteed home time, making them an attractive choice for both customers and employees. Despite some safety concerns with a modest unsafe driving record, their focus on essential services makes them a strong contender in the trucking industry.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 5.83
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.33
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $2,486,000
- Miles driven: 553,389
Transportation Express, Inc.
224 S Bell Ave, Ames, IA, 50010- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Transportation Express, Inc. (DOT: 401811) is a versatile trucking company operating with a satisfactory safety rating. Specializing in dry bulk commodities and general freight, they efficiently handle a variety of cargo such as chemicals, grain, feed, hay, liquids, and gases. They provide full and less-than-truckload services, catering to both large and small freight needs across interstate routes.
With a fleet size of 85, including 28 trucks, Transportation Express offers multiple benefits to its employees, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan and paid time off. Despite having reported crashes, their safety scores suggest a balanced approach to vehicle maintenance and driver conduct. The company stands out in providing comprehensive service for business owners looking for reliable and efficient shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.81
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.81
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $641,000
- Miles driven: 2,990,000
Waterloo Warehousing And Service Company, Inc.
324 Duryea St, Waterloo, IA, 50701- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Waterloo Warehousing And Service Company, Inc. (DOT: 445156) is a reputable logistics and warehousing company founded in 1983, operating primarily in Iowa. With a fleet of 30 trucks and 54 trailers, they specialize in intrastate operations, offering a range of trucking services including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), partial truckload, flatbed, and dry van transport. The company carries various types of cargo such as chemicals, machinery, large objects, and general freight.
Waterloo Warehousing stands out with its commitment to employee benefits, providing health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off. They emphasize safety, maintaining a favorable record with zero crash fatalities. Despite its smaller fleet size, the company supports local, regional, and over-the-road drivers, ensuring a flexible and comprehensive service to meet diverse business shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.48
- Driver fitness: 0.83
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate hazardous
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $1,395,000
- Miles driven: 425,000
Contract Transport, Inc.
1440 Vermont, Des Moines, IA, 50314- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Contract Transport, Inc. (DOT: 165826) is a reputable trucking company founded in 1963 in Iowa, known for its reliable transportation services. The company operates a fleet of over 65 trucks and excels in offering both full and less-than-truckload services. Specializing in general freight and U.S. mail, the company demonstrates a commitment to handling a variety of cargo types efficiently.
Contract Transport supports commercial shipping needs with features like team driving opportunities and a robust fleet of reefer trucks for temperature-sensitive goods. Clients benefit from competitive advantages, including a sign-on bonus and comprehensive health, dental, and disability insurance plans, highlighting their focus on driver welfare. With an “Active” status and a satisfactory safety rating, the company ensures dependable service while maintaining moderate safety and maintenance scores.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.49
- Driver fitness: 0.28
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.46
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.4
- Controlled substances: 0.12
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 65
- Revenue: $15,822,000
- Miles driven: 3,900,000
J D Double M Trucking, Inc.
1125 Lew Ross Rd, Council Bluffs, IA, 51501- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
J D Double M Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 544027) provides reliable trucking services as both a broker and carrier, operating actively with 24 trucks and a total fleet size of 48. Specializing in transporting dry van, flatbed, and less than truckload shipments, they effectively carry a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, fresh produce, meat, and paper products. Their services are supported by a competent team of 24 over-the-road drivers.
J D Double M Trucking, Inc. is known for handling dry bulk commodities and general freight, ensuring trustworthy interstate operations across the nation. The company prioritizes employee well-being by offering benefits such as health and dental insurance, along with paid time off. Despite reported crashes, their safety efforts are evident through a moderate driving score, and they leverage up-to-date vehicle maintenance practices. Business owners can expect a dependable partner focused on efficiently transporting goods with professionalism and care.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.18
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 24
- Revenue: $2,370,000
- Miles driven: 2,034,294
D.W. Trucking, LLC
1208 S Dayton Pl, Ames, IA, 50010- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
D.W. Trucking, LLC (DOT: 437649) operates as a dedicated carrier specializing in full and partial truckloads with a focus on large machinery and construction materials. Although the company does not offer services for private cargo or hazardous materials, they ensure safe interstate operations with a fleet of durable dry vans and flatbed trailers.
D.W. Trucking provides support to its drivers through comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, coupled with paid time off. The company’s safety records show no crash injuries or fatalities, highlighting their commitment to maintaining high standards of vehicle maintenance and driver fitness. With competitive driver salaries ranging from $45,000 to $55,000, D.W. Trucking positions itself as a reliable choice for businesses seeking professional and efficient shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.0
- Driver fitness: 5.5
- 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: 10,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Iowa
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA’s) 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 Flatbed Trucking Company for Your Iowa Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Iowa, it’s important to consider the following before selecting a Flatbed trucking company:
- Specialized Flatbed options: Some companies offer specialized Flatbed vehicles like stretch or double-drop trailers that may be necessary for extra-long or heavy loads.
- Fleet Condition and maintenance: Choose a company that prioritizes fleet upkeep, as well-maintained trucks reduce the risk of delays and improve safety for your shipments.
- Weather-resistant protection: Flatbed carriers have an open deck, which make them ideal for loading and unloading bulky items. But open transport means exposure to the elements, so for more sensitive equipment or materials, look for carriers that provide tarping and other weather-protection services to safeguard cargo during transport.
- Experience with permits and regulations: Ensure the company is knowledgeable about handling oversize load permits, escort vehicles, and other regulatory requirements specific to Flatbed shipments.
- Load size and weight limits: Flatbed carriers have different weight and size capacities, so choose a company that can accommodate your cargo dimensions and meets Iowa regulations.
- Geographic coverage: You’ll want to confirm that a carrier provides routes in your required shipping areas to ensure timely delivery.
- Tracking and communication: Carriers with advanced tracking technology and responsive communication help provide real-time updates on your shipment’s status.
- Driver experience and training: Experienced drivers are essential for safe and efficient flatbed transport, especially for complex hauls or challenging routes. Find out what basic and ongoing training a carrier requires.
- Insurance coverage: Confirm that the company’s insurance policies cover the value of your cargo, especially for high-value or heavy-duty loads.
- Customer reviews and reputation: Look for a company with positive consumer feedback, specifically from Flatbed customers.
FAQs
What types of shipments are best-suited for Flatbed shipping?
Shipments that require specialized handling or unique configurations — such as oversized, heavy, or oddly-shaped items — are best-suited for Flatbed shipping. Industries like construction and manufacturing often use Flatbed shipping for transporting machinery, raw materials, or equipment. Flatbed trucks have an open deck, making them particularly useful for products that cannot fit within the confines of standard trailers.
How can Flatbed shipping benefit my business in Iowa?
Flatbed shipping can benefit your business by providing flexible transport options for loads that may not fit on more conventional trucks. They allow for easier loading and unloading, which in turn reduces handling time and potential damage for oversized or delicate items.
What are the biggest factors I should consider when choosing a Flatbed shipping provider?
Some of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a Flatbed shipping provider include experience with that transport type. Companies that have double-drop trailers and protective tarps are likely well-versed in Flatbed shipments. It’s also important to choose a company with skilled drivers and a well-kept fleet. You can review a company’s FMCSA score to check for safety violations and see maintenance records.
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
- Dry Van 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
