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 Kentucky flatbed trucking companies and found Valor, LLC to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Kentucky
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 Kentucky. Every Kentucky 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 Kentucky for your commercial shipping needs.
Valor, LLC
1200 Alsop Ln, Owensboro, KY, 42303- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Valor, LLC (DOT: 912967) is a dynamic trucking company situated in Kentucky, offering seasoned interstate shipping solutions with an active USDOT status. They manage a modern fleet of 18 trucks and 10 trailers, focusing primarily on delivering general freight, chemicals, and liquids/gases. Founded with a commitment to safety and efficiency, Valor maintains an impressive array of services, including full truckload and less-than-truckload options, refrigerated services (reefer), and dry van transport.
Valor is dedicated to supporting shippers with competitive edges like guaranteed home time for drivers and a robust health, dental, and life insurance package. The company also extends bonuses for safety, incentivizing a high-standard driving environment. With optional direct deposit and a 401(k) retirement plan, Valor supports its employees and reflects its customer-centric operational ethos, ensuring reliable shipment aids such as flatbed transport and team driver services.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.85
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.89
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 22
- Revenue: $13,462,000
- Miles driven: 460,832
Euro Truck Lane, Inc.
11613 Vista Club Dr, Louisville, KY, 40291- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Euro Truck Lane, Inc. (DOT: 1448384) is an active freight company in Kentucky, focusing on providing efficient trucking services. They operate with a modest fleet of 5 trucks, primarily offering full truckload, less-than-truckload, and general freight services. Specializing in the transportation of beverages, household goods, liquids/gases, and paper products, Euro Truck Lane, Inc. adapts to varying business needs with a strong emphasis on service reliability.
Committed to supporting commercial shipments, the company offers reefer and flatbed options with services extending to OTR (over-the-road) driving. They prioritize employee well-being by offering benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with safety bonuses. Their focus on utility and flexibility, coupled with a google rating of 4.5, positions Euro Truck Lane, Inc. as a viable logistic partner for businesses seeking dependable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.85
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 10.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Miles driven: 79,000
Bluegrass Solutions, LLC
2803 Georgetown Rd, Lexington, KY, 40511- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Bluegrass Solutions, LLC (DOT: 2132476) is a dynamic trucking company focused on providing exceptional freight services in Kentucky. They offer a range of trucking solutions with an emphasis on general freight transportation. Their services include full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipping, ensuring they can accommodate various shipping needs for the business sector.
Bluegrass Solutions specializes in transporting a diverse array of cargo, such as beverages, building materials, metal sheets, and paper products. They are equipped to handle large machinery, logs, poles, beams, and even U.S. mail, showcasing their versatility. The company prioritizes safety with moderate unsafe driving scores and offers benefits packages that include health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan for their employees.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.88
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.24
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.72
- Controlled substances: 0.15
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 15
- Miles driven: 1,197,071
Fister Distribution, Inc.
2335 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, KY, 40509- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Fister Distribution, Inc. (DOT: 527307) is a trucking company based in Kentucky, specializing in full truckload and less than truckload transport. With a fleet of 27 trucks, they efficiently handle general freight transport, serving interstate routes. Fister Distribution is particularly known for its capacity to manage freight using dry van and flatbed methods, making them versatile in their cargo capabilities.
While operating with a satisfactory safety rating, the company is committed to providing reliable transport solutions tailored to their clients’ needs. They focus on over-the-road services supported by their experienced team of 20 drivers. Although Fister Distribution does not offer specialized services like hazardous materials transportation, their dedication is evident in offering health insurance and paid time off to their employees, enhancing job satisfaction and stability within the workforce.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.47
- Driver fitness: 0.37
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.73
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 20
- Revenue: $546,000
- Miles driven: 2,826,100
Central Expedite, LLC
1211 Woodhurst Street, Bowling Green, KY, 42104- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
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Central Expedite, LLC (DOT: 2256997) is an active logistics and transportation company based in Kentucky. With a fleet consisting of 35 trucks, they provide robust trucking services since their inception. Specializing in transporting beverages, household goods, metals, and paper products, Central Expedite offers a variety of cargo options. They support full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments, ensuring flexibility for diverse business needs.
Central Expedite is committed to driver well-being and safety, offering benefits such as health, dental, life, and vision insurance, alongside a 401(k) retirement plan. They also emphasize ongoing training and development programs for their drivers. Despite having recorded crash incidents, their moderate vehicle maintenance and unsafe driving scores indicate a priority on safety management. Their extensive experience and array of services make them a considerable choice for business owners seeking reliable freight solutions.
“`Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 5.33
- Driver fitness: 0.21
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.65
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.02
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 34
- Miles driven: 2,200,000
THE Peregrine Transportation Company, LLC
11405 Park Road Suite 100, Louisville, KY, 40223- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Lumber
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
THE Peregrine Transportation Company, LLC (DOT: 2151709) is a reputable trucking and brokerage company based in Kentucky, operating since 1994. With a fleet primarily consisting of dry vans and flatbeds, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Notably, their cargo capabilities include building materials, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and metal products such as sheets, coils, and rolls.
The company underscores its dedication to employee welfare with offerings like health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and a retirement plan (401k). While they have experienced recent crashes without injuries or fatalities, their safety practices, along with guaranteed home time for drivers, contribute to a supportive work environment. Professional drivers benefit from guaranteed home time and the possibility to participate in team driving services, emphasizing their commitment to reliable and efficient transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.58
- Driver fitness: 0.24
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.36
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.46
- Controlled substances: 0.24
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $10,577,000
- Miles driven: 1,955,658
Vincent Fister, Inc.
2305 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, KY, 40509- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Trash
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Vincent Fister, Inc. (DOT: 63040) is a reputable trucking company established in 1953 and based in Kentucky. Specializing in dry van and flatbed transportation, the company effectively handles diverse cargo types, including household goods and garbage/refuse. Vincent Fister, Inc. operates a fleet of 9 trucks and 18 trailers to serve its clients’ intrastate non-hazardous hauling needs.
The company offers both full and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, ensuring flexibility and logistical efficiency for businesses of various sizes. Vincent Fister, Inc. emphasizes employee satisfaction with benefits such as health insurance, direct deposit, and paid time off. While their safety records show low unsafe driving scores, highlighting a strong focus on operational safety, they maintain an active status as a broker and carrier with sufficient insurance coverage to protect their operations. With excellent ratings on Google and Indeed, Vincent Fister, Inc. is a reliable choice for companies seeking comprehensive trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.8
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.85
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $3,413,000
- Miles driven: 68,752
Ball & Ball Trucking, Inc.
2305 Ralph Ave, Louisville, KY, 40143- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Ball & Ball Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 430486) is an active trucking carrier based in Kentucky with a fleet size of 10 trucks, providing reliable interstate transportation services since its establishment. The company carries general freight, supported by services in less than truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) capacities. Specialized in flatbed and dry van operations, Ball & Ball Trucking caters to various freight needs with skilled drivers and a satisfactory safety rating.
With a commitment to driver welfare, they offer competitive salaries ranging from $50,000-$60,000 a year, health and dental insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Emphasizing safety, the company maintains a moderate vehicle maintenance score of 1.46. Despite the small fleet size, Ball & Ball Trucking ensures dependable and efficient cargo transport, making it an essential partner for businesses requiring consistent freight movement.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.23
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.46
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $233,000
- Miles driven: 210,000
Behlo Transport, Inc.
107 Lenoak Dr, Louisville, KY, 40214- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Behlo Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1569612) is a versatile trucking company operating in Kentucky with a focus on efficient interstate transportation. They specialize in full truckload services and handle a diverse range of cargo, including motor vehicles, building materials, and metal sheets. Their fleet includes flatbeds and dry vans, enabling them to transport large machinery, logs, and paper products effectively.
The company is committed to providing reliable shipping solutions with a modest fleet of five trucks and five drivers. Behlo Transport values employee benefits, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan. Despite having a few reported crash incidents, they maintain an active DOT status and prioritize safety with moderate scores in vehicle maintenance and pressure to maintain hours of service compliance. Business owners looking for a dedicated, service-oriented carrier will find Behlo Transport to be a capable partner for their shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 4.68
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.28
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $699,000
- Miles driven: 515,894
PBS Transport, LLC
4601 Jennings Lane, Louisville, KY, 40218- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
PBS Transport, LLC (DOT: 2495558) is an established trucking company based in Kentucky, operational since 2017. They specialize in interstate freight movement with a fleet comprising 27 trucks and 107 trailers. PBS Transport provides comprehensive full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. Their cargo capabilities include agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, building materials, fresh produce, meat, paper products, and the transportation of U.S. mail.
PBS Transport is committed to delivering reliability and value for businesses through their dedicated services. With a notable Google rating of 4.5, they assure quality service while also providing health, dental, and vision insurance to their workforce. Enhanced by the assurance of an active insurance cargo file, their logistic operations are fortified for secure freight management. Business owners seeking efficient transport solutions will find PBS Transport’s expertise in general and refrigerated freight shipment particularly advantageous. Despite having faced some crash-related incidents, they maintain active safety measures.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 3.03
- Driver fitness: 0.14
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.57
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.4
- Controlled substances: 0.16
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 15
- Revenue: $3,976,000
- Miles driven: 1,958,150
How Safety Ratings Work in Kentucky
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 Kentucky Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
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
