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 Washington flatbed trucking companies and found CMS Relocation & Logistics to be the top pick.
Flatbed Shipping Services & Transport in Washington
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 Washington. Every Washington 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 Washington for your commercial shipping needs.
CMS Relocation & Logistics
21620 88th Place South, Kent, WA, 98031- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
CMS Relocation & Logistics (DOT: 505087) is a prominent logistics provider in Washington, known for its comprehensive service offerings in the trucking industry. They cater to various cargo types, including building materials, general freight, household goods, intermodal containers, and large machinery objects. Their operations span interstate routes with a fleet of 27 trucks and 35 drivers, ensuring a robust logistical capability to meet diverse shipping needs.
They offer multiple services such as full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and dry van transportation. Though they do not handle hazardous materials, they excel in providing reliable and efficient freight solutions for commercial clients. CMS Relocation & Logistics is backed by a satisfactory safety rating and offers health and dental insurance, paid time off, and vision coverage, reflecting their commitment to employee welfare and customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.66
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 35
- Revenue: $791,000
- Miles driven: 81,987
K Track Logistics, LLC
27531 156th Ave Se, Kent, WA, 98042- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Mobile homes
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
K Track Logistics, LLC (DOT: 3172598) is an active logistics carrier operating in Washington with a fleet of 50 trucks and 100 trailers. The company focuses on full truckload services, dry van, reefer, and flatbed transportation. They are capable of handling a diverse array of cargo, including agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods.
The company offers local and over-the-road driving opportunities, ensuring flexible shipment solutions to meet client needs. K Track Logistics prioritizes safety, boasting zero crash injuries or fatalities. They offer essential employee benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off. Though they do not provide specialized driving services like heavy haul or hazardous materials, their proficiency in general freight, intermodal containers, and oilfield equipment signals robust support for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 50
- Revenue: $6,561,000
- Miles driven: 96,059
Tcamelot, LLC
724 W Smith St Ste 2, Kent, WA, 98032- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Tcamelot, LLC (DOT: 2260222) is a versatile trucking service provider launched in 2012 in Washington. The company operates a fleet of 12 vehicles, with a primary focus on full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. Tcamelot’s cargo capabilities include a variety of goods such as beverages, building materials, paper products, and intermodal containers. Their commitment to customer service ensures shipments are handled efficiently and reliably.
Tcamelot, LLC emphasizes safety and operational effectiveness, maintaining an active authority common with interstate operations. The company offers health benefits, including dental insurance and paid time off, for its drivers. Despite having reported one tow-away crash, their safety metrics display focused efforts in ensuring their operations adhere to safety standards. Overall, Tcamelot caters to businesses that require dependable shipping solutions, especially within the general freight and refrigerated food sectors.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 8.06
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.56
- Vehicle maintenance: 10.47
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $262,000
- Miles driven: 336,076
Mercer Trucking Company, Inc.
N 1414 Fancher, Spokane Valley, WA, 99212- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Mercer Trucking Company, Inc. (DOT: 27479) is a recognized carrier specializing in interstate freight operations. While the exact year of establishment is unclear, Mercer Trucking is well-regarded with a solid Google rating of 4.5 and offers a fleet consisting of 13 trucks and a total fleet size of 26. Key services include full truckload (FTL) shipping, less-than-truckload (LTL) options, and specialized flatbed and dry van services. They excel in transporting agricultural products, construction materials, intermodal containers, and heavy machinery.
Mercer Trucking emphasizes employee benefits, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan. While they maintain a satisfactory safety rating and low incident rates, they show a commitment to providing efficient and reliable services. Though they do not have extensive hazardous material capabilities, their focus on diverse cargo ranges, including grain, farm supplies, metal products, and logs, positions them as a versatile partner for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 2.04
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.66
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.71
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 13
- Revenue: $9,786,000
- Miles driven: 846,170
R.E. Powell Dist. General Transport Co. Don Thomas Petroleum
1060 Jadwin Ave Suite 150, Richland, WA, 99352- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
R.E. Powell Dist. General Transport Co. Don Thomas Petroleum (DOT: 65033) is a thriving trucking company established in 1935, serving the transportation industry from Washington. Their fleet boasts 163 power units and 227 trailers, including dry vans and tankers, with a total of 143 drivers, emphasizing flexible and reliable full truckload and less-than-truckload services. R.E. Powell offers safe and efficient transport for liquids, gases, and general freight, showcasing its expertise in handling delicate cargos efficiently.
Committed to driver welfare, they provide comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with retirement plans like 401(k). Though not offering sign-on bonuses, their employee-focused policies include paid time off and direct deposit, which help attract and retain skilled drivers. With a satisfactory safety rating and a commitment to safety and maintenance, R.E. Powell represents a strong choice for businesses relying on dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 0.29
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 14
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 143
- Revenue: $273,603,000
- Miles driven: 4,213,161
THE Odom Corporation
11400 Se 8th Street Ste 300, Bellevue, WA, 98004- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
THE Odom Corporation (DOT: 372783) is a highly regarded trucking company that has been operating since 1932 in the transportation and logistics industry. With a fleet of 470 vehicles, they specialize in delivering beverages and paper products, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation with their advanced equipment, including dry vans and flatbeds. Their commitment to safety is demonstrated by a satisfactory safety rating and relatively low unsafe driving scores.
The Odom Corporation provides a full suite of services such as partial and full truckload shipping, team driving, and dedicated routes. They cater to the needs of business owners by offering special support like safety and sign-on bonuses, as well as comprehensive benefits that include health, dental, and vision insurance. The company also prioritizes driver wellbeing through paid time off and ongoing training programs, while maintaining competitive salaries between $60,000 and $70,000.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.13
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.73
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 180
- Miles driven: 2,242,760
Blair Trucking, LLC
3486 N Glade Road, Pasco, WA, 99301- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Blair Trucking, LLC (DOT: 976535) is a versatile freight trucking company based in Washington. They specialize in various shipping services, offering full truckload, less-than-truckload, and partial truckload options. Blair Trucking handles a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, and general freight. Their fleet includes flatbeds and dry vans, catering to specific commercial needs, and they employ a skilled team of interstate drivers.
This company offers significant support features for commercial shipments, such as guaranteed home time, health and life insurance, and a retirement plan. Known for their commitment to safety, Blair Trucking maintains a moderate vehicle maintenance score and emphasizes driver fitness. With competitive salaries averaging between $45,000 and $55,000, Blair Trucking stands out by providing support like paid time off and safety bonuses, enhancing their appeal to business owners seeking reliable shipping partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.45
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 11
- Miles driven: 785,302
Produce Supply Express, Inc.
4411 S Grove Rd, Spokane, WA, 99224- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Produce Supply Express, Inc. (DOT: 236189) is a dynamic trucking company operating as a broker and carrier with a focus on refrigerated and general freight transport across Washington. Despite its fleet size being modest, with 34 trucks and 42 drivers, the company specializes in carrying fresh produce, beverages, and refrigerated foods. Its emphasis on full and partial truckloads underscores its commitment to flexible shipping solutions.
The company stands out with offerings like guaranteed home time, paid CDL training, and comprehensive insurance packages, including health and life insurance. With a satisfactory safety rating and fleet maintenance focus, Produce Supply Express is dedicated to dependable service. Business owners can expect dedicated routes and professional driver support, ensuring top-tier service for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.5
- Driver fitness: 0.31
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.39
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.07
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 42
- Revenue: $588,000
- Miles driven: 3,336,827
Harold Lemay Enterprises, Inc.
4111 192nd St E, Tacoma, WA, 98446- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Harold Lemay Enterprises, Inc. (DOT: 545444) is an established trucking company based in Washington. With a fleet of 377 trucks and 754 total fleet size, they offer extensive transportation services, including full truckload and less than truckload shipping options. Specializing in commodities such as dry bulk and general freight, they efficiently handle diverse cargo types, including intermodal containers and metal sheets.
Harold Lemay Enterprises is known for its regional and local drivers, with a strong reputation reflected in glassdoor and google ratings of 4.0 and 4.5 respectively. Despite a few reported crashes, their safety rating remains satisfactory. The company provides essential employee benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance along with retirement plans. Business owners can rely on Harold Lemay for dependable, comprehensive freight services and commercial shipment support while ensuring safety and reliability.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 283
- Revenue: $502,000
- Miles driven: 63,800,000
Larsen Transfer Co
220 Wellhouse Loop, Richland, WA, 99352- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Larsen Transfer Co (DOT: 26510) operates in Washington and is a reputable freight carrier under the umbrella of Tri City United Inc. The company is particularly known for transporting household goods and offers both full truckload and less-than-truckload services. They are equipped with a fleet that includes flatbed and dry van trucks, emphasizing their versatility in handling various types of shipments.
Larsen Transfer Co ensures reliable service through local and over-the-road drivers, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating. With employee benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan, they demonstrate a commitment to their workforce. The company operates with an emphasis on safety, reflected in zero crash fatalities and a satisfactory safety rating. Business owners can rely on their experienced team for efficient logistics solutions tailored to meet commercial shipment needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.13
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.25
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $899,000
- Miles driven: 85,678
How Safety Ratings Work in Washington
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 Washington Shipments
If you run a construction company, manufacturing business, or industrial operation in Washington, 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 Washington 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 Washington?
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