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 Pennsylvania Flatbed trucking companies and found Penske Logistics to be the top pick.
But Penske Logistics isn’t your only option in Pennsylvania. Explore our other top recommendations for Flatbed trucking companies so you can compare cost and services.
Top Flatbed Trucking Companies in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania. Every Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania for your commercial shipping needs.
Penske Logistics
2675 Morgantown Road, Reading, PA, 19607- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $7,500,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Drayage
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Penske Logistics (DOT: 268015) has been a cornerstone in the logistics industry since its establishment in 1969. As a large-scale operation encompassing more than 7,300 trucks and a workforce of over 27,000 employees, this company is well-equipped to handle a variety of cargo, including chemicals, general freight, intermodal containers, metal sheets and coils, refrigerated foods, and tankers. Highlighting their commitment to efficiency and reliability, Penske Logistics offers key services such as reefer, full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), dry van, intermodal, and drayage solutions.
Penske Logistics provides specialized support for commercial shipments, with services including managed transportation, roadside assistance, and ongoing training and development programs. Their drivers benefit from comprehensive health insurance, safety bonuses, retirement plans, and competitive salary ranges, ensuring top-tier service for their commercial clients. The company’s reputation for safety and reliability is further underscored by its satisfactory safety rating and advanced fleet age of just two years.
“`Safety
- Crashes: 462
- Unsafe driving: 0.87
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.34
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 14
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8798
- Revenue: $117,379,000
- Miles driven: 476,000,000
Patrick Trucking Services, Inc.
4000 Birchwood Circle Ste 401, Bethlehem, PA, 18020- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Patrick Trucking Services, Inc. (DOT: 1707230) is an active interstate carrier in Pennsylvania, boasting a satisfactory safety rating. Established in 2006, the company commands a fleet of 24 vehicles, including 12 trucks and multiple trailers, to handle a diverse array of cargo. Specializing in general freight and refrigerated foods, Patrick Trucking Services ensures timely and reliable transportation of fresh produce, building materials, construction supplies, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls.
Patrick Trucking Services excels in providing full truckload shipping and last-mile delivery solutions. They also display a commitment to employee welfare, offering benefits such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a robust 401(k) retirement plan. Patrons can rely on their experienced team drivers for regional and over-the-road routes, emphasizing both operational efficiency and cargo safety.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.93
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.74
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.53
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $632,000
- Miles driven: 1,095,600
Kane Logistics, LLC
3 Stauffer Industrial Park, Scranton, PA, 18501- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Kane Logistics, LLC (DOT: 38161) is an active carrier and shipper logistics company based in Pennsylvania, with a commendable safety rating described as satisfactory. Operating a fleet size of 77 trucks and 385 trailers, they cater to a diverse range of freight transportation needs, including partial and full truckload services. Kane Logistics is equipped to handle various types of cargo such as beverages, general freight, intermodal containers, liquids/gases, and paper products, making them a versatile choice for businesses with different shipping requirements.
Kane Logistics distinguishes itself by offering essential services for commercial shipments, including refrigerated (reefer) transportation and dry van shipping. Special support services include team driving opportunities and guaranteed home time for drivers, reflecting their commitment to driver satisfaction and operational efficiency. With strong Google, Glassdoor, and Indeed ratings, Kane Logistics emphasizes customer and employee satisfaction, ensuring quality service and support for commercial clients.
Safety
- Crashes: 10
- Unsafe driving: 1.61
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.3
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 115
- Revenue: $6,109,000
- Miles driven: 6,478,587
Shawnee Trucking Pa, Inc.
1760 Rohrerstown Rd, Lancaster, PA, 17601- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Shawnee Trucking Pa, Inc. (DOT: 1342517) offers comprehensive freight trucking services in Pennsylvania. Established with a fleet of 70 vehicles and a dedicated team of 63 drivers, Shawnee Trucking specializes in both full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments. They transport a diverse array of cargo, including building materials, construction items, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, logs, poles, beams, lumber, paper products, and US mail, making them a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
Shawnee Trucking stands out by providing solid support for commercial shipments, featuring services like dry van and flatbed transportation. With active interstate operations and a strong safety record, they are a reliable partner for businesses. The company values its workforce, offering benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, ensuring they maintain a professional and motivated team to handle your shipping requirements efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.83
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 63
- Revenue: $14,000,000
- Miles driven: 1,414,797
E Schneider Sons, Inc.
616 656 Sumner Avenue, Allentown, PA, 18102- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
E Schneider Sons, Inc. (DOT: 10478) has been a cornerstone of the Pennsylvania trucking industry since 1902. With a fleet size ranging between 20 to 49 vehicles, E Schneider Sons Inc. offers specialized transportation services including flatbed, box truck, and dry van capabilities. The company excels in handling commodities like dry bulk and large machinery objects, ensuring reliable service for businesses with unique transportation needs.
E Schneider Sons, Inc. stands out by providing essential support for commercial shipments. They cater to both full truckload and less-than-truckload requirements and offer local, regional, and over-the-road driving options. Additionally, they support their workforce with attractive benefits such as health, dental, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. The company also emphasizes safety with a satisfactory safety rating and ensures well-maintained vehicles. Business owners can rely on their efficient and dependable services for their shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.2
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.66
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 8
- Revenue: $27,396,000
- Miles driven: 300,000
Primo Trucking, Inc.
2100 Hoover Avenue, Allentown, PA, 18109- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Primo Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1046534) is a reputable trucking company established in 1991 in Pennsylvania. Known for their diverse capabilities, they specialize in transporting a variety of cargo, including beverages, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food. Their fleet, comprising 29 trucks and 58 trailers, showcases their ability to handle both full truckload and less than truckload shipments efficiently.
Primo Trucking, Inc. provides substantial support for commercial shipments, particularly with their team driving services and regional drivers, which ensure timely and reliable deliveries. Additionally, they offer several employee benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, making them an attractive option for qualified drivers. With an ongoing commitment to training and development programs, Primo Trucking, Inc. upholds high standards in transportation and customer service.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.36
- Driver fitness: 0.1
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.57
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 35
- Revenue: $10,971,000
- Miles driven: 2,328,949
JTC Transport, LLC
170 Walnut Rd, Reading, PA, 19606- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
JTC Transport, LLC (DOT: 2305601) is a reputable trucking company based in Pennsylvania, known for offering a diverse range of services since its inception. Beyond their well-maintained fleet of 6 trucks, the company provides full truckload, less than truckload (LTL), regional, and over-the-road (OTR) driving opportunities. As reflected in their high Google rating of 4.5, JTC Transport has earned the trust of their clients through reliable and efficient service.
JTC Transport specializes in handling various types of cargo including agricultural and farm supplies, fresh produce, building materials, machinery, metal products, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They also offer team driving services and provide essential employee benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. The company is dedicated to supporting commercial shipment needs with ongoing training and development programs, ensuring safe and timely deliveries.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.55
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $572,000
- Miles driven: 691,321
Uncle Rus Transportation, LLC
624 Alder Street, Scranton, PA, 18505- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Uncle Rus Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2875481) is a dedicated freight trucking company operating in Pennsylvania. Specializing in a variety of cargo types, they handle building materials, drive/tow away, fresh produce, general freight, machinery large objects, meat, metal: sheets coils rolls, motor vehicles, refrigerated food, and US mail. With a fleet of 14 trucks and the capability to manage full truckload and partial truckload shipments, they offer reliable and diverse transportation solutions.
Uncle Rus Transportation offers special support for commercial shipments, including reefer, dry van, and box truck services, ensuring versatility in handling different types of freight. Moreover, they provide robust benefits like health, dental, vision, and life insurance, and prioritize driver well-being with paid time off. Their solid reputation, with a 4.5 star rating on Google and 4.3 on Glassdoor, underscores their commitment to quality service and employee satisfaction. This company stands out with their comprehensive service offerings and strong emphasis on customer and driver satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.9
- Driver fitness: 1.23
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 14
- Revenue: $225,000
- Miles driven: 814,546
J L Cruz Transportation, LLC
193a W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19120- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
J L Cruz Transportation, LLC (DOT: 717427) is an active Pennsylvania-based freight trucking company specializing in a variety of cargo since its establishment. Their services include full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, catering to both broad and specific needs of clients with reliable dry van and flatbed trucking options.
J L Cruz Transportation, LLC handles a diverse range of cargo such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, general freight, and refrigerated foods. They provide strong support for commercial shipments, including the transportation of heavy machinery and automobiles, ensuring your products reach their destination safely. Despite reporting one crash incident, they maintain satisfactory safety ratings and prioritize reliable service for their customers.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.54
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 5
- Miles driven: 62,876
KLI – Astima
733 Davis Street, Scranton, PA, 18508- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
KLI – Astima (DOT: 916066) is a trucking company specializing in the transportation of fresh produce, general freight, and paper products. Based in Pennsylvania, KLI – Astima operates a fleet of 10 trucks and offers a range of services including reefer logistics, full truckload, dry van, less-than-truckload (LTL), and tanker transportation.
Despite having a relatively small fleet, the company is known for its robust support for commercial shipments. They provide regional and OTR driving opportunities and emphasize driver welfare with benefits such as paid CDL training, health insurance, life insurance, dental, and vision coverage. With a satisfactory safety rating and low violation scores, KLI – Astima upholds a strong commitment to service quality and reliability.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.3
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.74
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.63
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12
- Miles driven: 1,201,654
How Safety Ratings Work in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania Flatbed Trucking Company for Your Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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: Pennsylvania Flatbed Trucking Companies
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 Pennsylvania?
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.
