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10 Best Flatbed Trucking Companies in Texas

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

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 Texas Flatbed trucking companies and found Wrist Usa Houston, Inc. to be the top pick.

But Wrist Usa Houston, Inc. isn’t your only option in Texas. Explore our other top recommendations for Flatbed trucking companies so you can compare cost and services.

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 Texas. Every Texas 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 Texas for your commercial shipping needs.

Wrist Usa Houston, Inc.

4129 Greenshadow Dr Suite 200, Pasadena, TX, 77503
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Chemicals
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Produce
  • General
  • Liquids & gases
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Utility tools, parts & equipment
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Drayage

Wrist Usa Houston, Inc. (DOT: 963185) is a reputable trucking company operating in Texas. Specializing in a variety of freight categories, they handle cargo including beverages, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, machinery, meat, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and refrigerated foods. With a fleet size ranging from 20 to 49 trucks, they offer partial and full truckload services, as well as expedited and regional driving opportunities.

Wrist Usa Houston, Inc. also provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous material handling, drayage services, and tanker operations. Business owners can benefit from additional services like sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, and various insurance options such as health, dental, and life insurance. The company has a robust safety program, ongoing training and development, and maintains a satisfactory safety rating to ensure reliability and safety in transportation.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.92
  • Driver fitness: 0.06
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.14
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 26
  • Revenue: $58,128,000
  • Miles driven: 1,057,200

First Choice Transport, LLC

1346 Markum Ranch Rd, Fort Worth, TX, 76126
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • General
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery

First Choice Transport, LLC (DOT: 951560) is a reputable trucking company with a satisfactory safety rating, primarily operating within the transportation industry. With a fleet of 50+ modern trucks averaging five years in age, the company specializes in offering various services such as full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), reefer, tanker, and general freight transportation. They are adept at handling various types of cargo, including beverages, building materials, general freight, and paper products.

This company provides special support for commercial shipments by offering dry van, box truck, and flatbed services, ensuring your products are transported safely and efficiently. First Choice Transport also provides comprehensive employee benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their moderate unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores, underscoring a balanced focus on maintaining safety while delivering reliable transport solutions for business owners.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 2.35
  • Driver fitness: 0.13
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.2
  • Vehicle maintenance: 1.98
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 50
  • Revenue: $24,107,000
  • Miles driven: 4,904,727

Newkirk Logistics, Inc.

1061 Texan Trail Suite 100, Grapevine, TX, 76051
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • General
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Newkirk Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 1735105) is an active freight trucking company in Texas. Specializing in logistics, they operate a fleet of 100 trucks with 200 trailers, handling various cargo types such as beverages, dry bulk commodities, general freight, paper products, and USPS mail. They offer services like reefer, flatbed, full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload, making them a versatile choice for different shipping needs.

Newkirk Logistics Inc. provides robust support for commercial shipments, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance for drivers, along with a retirement plan. Their operation focuses on interstate freight with a dedication to safety and vehicle maintenance. Despite their operational breadth and strong reputation, they do not handle hazardous materials or offer specialized driving programs. With a Google rating of 4.5 and an Indeed rating of 4.2, they stand out as a reliable trucking partner for business owners.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 8
  • Unsafe driving: 1.17
  • Driver fitness: 0.35
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 1.37
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.26
  • Controlled substances: 0.17
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 140
  • Revenue: $1,031,000
  • Miles driven: 6,281,594

RIG Runner

24955 Interstate 45 North Suite 300, The Woodlands, TX, 77380
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Oilfield equipment

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery

RIG Runner (DOT: 1014498) is a reputable trucking company specializing in the transportation of diverse cargo types, such as building materials, machinery, metal coils, and oilfield equipment. They manage an extensive fleet of 495 trucks and 990 trailers, ensuring efficiency across their operations.

They offer services such as reefer, full truckload, partial truckload, flatbed, dry van, and tanker shipments, making them a versatile choice for various commercial needs. Additionally, RIG Runner provides supportive benefits including health, dental, life insurance, and retirement plans, reflecting their commitment to employee welfare. Their satisfactory safety rating and proactive safety measures further reinforce their reliability as a trusted freight carrier for business owners.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 22
  • Unsafe driving: 0.15
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.36
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.27
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 6

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 423
  • Miles driven: 16,700,000

Gefran Cargo

2202 113th Street Suite 114, Grand Prairie, TX, 75050
  • Fleet age: 2 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Farm supplies
  • Produce
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Gefran Cargo (DOT: 1655728) is a Texas-based trucking company handling a diverse range of cargo since it started operations. They specialize in general freight, fresh produce, metal sheets/coils/rolls, and building materials. Catering to various commercial needs, they offer full and partial truckload services with an active fleet of 27 trucks and 54 total power units.

Gefran Cargo supports commercial shipments by providing interstate carrier operations and maintaining active insurance coverage. They prioritize driver well-being with paid time off and health insurance. Despite moderate vehicle maintenance scores, they hold a solid reputation with high ratings on Google and Indeed. Business owners seeking reliable transport services will find Gefran Cargo well-equipped to handle their shipping needs efficiently.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 4.66
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.78
  • Vehicle maintenance: 7.65
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 26
  • Miles driven: 955,927

Transshipping Transportation, LLC

2305 Cielo Encantado, Laredo, TX, 78045
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Chemicals
  • Coal coke
  • Construction equipment
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Lumber
  • Metal materials
  • Utility tools, parts & equipment
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border

Transshipping Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2477218) is a reputable trucking company known for its diverse range of services, catering to businesses seeking reliable freight solutions. Operating with a small yet efficient fleet of 3 trucks and various trailers, they offer full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services across interstate routes. They have a notable capacity for carrying general freight, dry bulk commodities, and specialty cargo such as coal/coke, building materials, chemicals, grain, feed, hay, paper products, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls.

Transshipping Transportation emphasizes trust and safety with a satisfactory safety rating and impeccable records of no crash injuries or fatalities. They provide advanced reefer services and tanker transportation, ensuring temperature-controlled and liquid goods are handled expertly. Further enhancing their appeal, the company offers comprehensive employee benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Businesses focused on commercial shipments can expect reliable and professional service from Transshipping Transportation, LLC.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.66
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 3.42
  • Vehicle maintenance: 8.8
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 3
  • Revenue: $246,000
  • Miles driven: 205,000

Sunset Transportation

3726 Quail Meadow Dr, Missouri City, TX, 77459
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Farm supplies
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Sunset Transportation (DOT: 1389237) operates as a versatile trucking company based in Texas. Specializing in various services, they offer full truckload (FTL), partial truckload (PTL), and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping options. Their fleet, consisting of 7 trucks and 14 trailers, handles diverse cargo such as agricultural supplies, building materials, general freight, intermodal containers, lumber, machinery, and paper products.

Sunset Transportation provides a range of driver benefits, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Safety and training are prioritized with ongoing training and development programs. Additionally, they offer specialized support for dry van and flatbed shipments, making them a reliable choice for business owners seeking efficient and versatile transportation solutions.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 30.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 8
  • Miles driven: 3,111

Diverse Transportation

466 Aledo Creeks Rd E, Fort Worth, TX, 76126
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • Farm supplies
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Oilfield equipment
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

Diverse Transportation (DOT: 1728333) is a dynamic trucking company based in Texas. They specialize in full truckload (FTL) services and handle a wide range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, construction items, and machinery. Their fleet, consisting of dry vans and flatbeds, is complemented by intermodal container capabilities, making them versatile in various shipping needs.

Diverse Transportation offers several notable driver benefits like sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, and employee health and dental insurance. They also support team driving opportunities, ensuring quicker deliveries. Safety and operational excellence are prioritized with ongoing training development programs. With comprehensive coverage and a dedication to customer satisfaction, they are well-suited for business owners looking for reliable commercial shipment services.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 13.14
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 3
  • Revenue: $203,000
  • Miles driven: 195,503

Circle Bar A, Inc.

27035 Campbellton Road, San Antonio, TX, 78264
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Chemicals
  • Construction equipment
  • Farm supplies
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Intermodal containers
  • Liquids & gases
  • Livestock
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles
  • Oilfield equipment

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Circle Bar A, Inc. (DOT: 1937828) is a modestly sized trucking company based in Texas, managing a fleet of around 44 trucks and operating since 2009. They excel in providing full truckload services and ensure direct deposit for ease of transactions. Their cargo portfolio includes a vast range of materials such as agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, livestock, machinery, intermodal containers, and motor vehicles.

Circle Bar A, Inc. stands out by offering comprehensive health insurance and paid time off, emphasizing their commitment to employee welfare. Their trucking services are backed by a Google rating of 4.5, highlighting a reliable reputation. If you’re seeking a dedicated partner for general freight and specialized cargo like grain, hay, logs, poles, beams, metal sheets, and oilfield equipment, Circle Bar A, Inc. is a well-rounded option for your commercial shipment needs.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.93
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 2.73
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.46
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 28
  • Revenue: $895,000
  • Miles driven: 1,950,221

D.X. Xpress, Inc.

8208 Camino Colombia, Laredo, TX, 78045
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Last-mile delivery

D.X. Xpress, Inc. (DOT: 2128019) is a reputable trucking company headquartered in Texas, known for its robust fleet of 448 trucks and 896 trailers. They handle general freight, dry van shipments, and partial truckloads, with a specific focus on interstate operations. Established more than a decade ago, the company has gained an impressive Google rating of 4.5 and maintains positive reviews on Indeed and Glassdoor.

D.X. Xpress provides special support for commercial shipments, including comprehensive health insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, and paid time off for their drivers. The company also includes regional and local drivers alongside over-the-road (OTR) drivers. With an active USDOT status and a strong emphasis on safety and maintenance, D.X. Xpress stands out as a reliable choice for business owners looking to ship their products efficiently. They serve a variety of industries and ensure timely and secure cargo delivery.

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Safety

  • Crashes: 21
  • Unsafe driving: 2.03
  • Driver fitness: 0.16
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.34
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.85
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 2

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 552
  • Revenue: $80,283,000
  • Miles driven: 38,800,000

How Safety Ratings Work in Texas

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 Texas Flatbed Trucking Company for Your Shipments

If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Texas, 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 Texas 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: Texas 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 Texas?

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.


Mike Marshall