Intermodal trucking companies offer cost-effective and flexible solutions for businesses looking to streamline shipping. We reviewed factors like pricing, customer satisfaction, and service offerings for Intermodal carriers in Kentucky and found that Lifeline Transportation, Inc. leads the way for seamless multi-modal transportation.
Intermodal Shipping Services & Transport in Kentucky
Check out our full list of the best Kentucky Intermodal carrriers to optimize your supply chain.
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.
Lifeline Transportation, Inc.
6301 Geil Lane, Louisville, KY, 40219- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Lifeline Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 471777) is an active trucking company based in Kentucky. They offer comprehensive transportation services, including full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) transportation. The company specializes in transporting a wide range of cargo such as beverages, building materials, chemicals, paper products, and dry bulk commodities. Lifeline Transportation also accommodates general freight and intermodal containers, making it a versatile choice for various shipping needs.
Lifeline Transportation is noted for its satisfactory safety rating and a fleet of modern vehicles with an average age of just two years. The company provides valuable benefits for employees, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan. They support their team with guaranteed home time, sign-on bonuses, and deadhead, detention, and layover compensation, ensuring that their drivers are supported and satisfied on the road.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: intrastate hazardous
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $699,000
- Miles driven: 562,641
Mercer Transportation Co, Inc.
1128 W Main St, Louisville, KY, 40203- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
Mercer Transportation Co, Inc. (DOT: 154712) is a reputable trucking service company established in 1977, headquartered in Kentucky. They operate a substantial fleet, with a total of 1,939 trucks and over 3,878 total fleet size. The company excels in transporting a diverse range of cargo, including building materials, machinery, motor vehicles, and oilfield equipment, using specialized services like flatbed and step deck trailers. They maintain a satisfactory safety rating ensuring dependable service for business owners.
Mercer Transportation focuses on commercial shipping with robust support for hazardous materials and oversized loads, enhancing their appeal to businesses handling complex freight. Additional services such as dedicated routes, guaranteed home time for drivers, and flexible scheduling demonstrate their commitment to operational efficiency. With an emphasis on safety and driver well-being, Mercer offers sign-on bonuses and ongoing training programs. They are known for their comprehensive managed transportation solutions, bolstered by regional and OTR driving opportunities.
Safety
- Crashes: 168
- Unsafe driving: 2.09
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.87
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 17
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 2066
- Revenue: $46,567,000
- Miles driven: 161,000,000
Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC
335 E Yusen Drive, Georgetown, KY, 40324- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Power only
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC (DOT: 554279) is a diverse trucking company operating primarily in Kentucky with a total fleet size of 208. As a carrier and broker, they provide a range of specialized services, including hazardous materials transportation, dry van, reefer, and flatbed services. Cargo carried includes agricultural supplies, chemicals, fresh produce, and building materials, showcasing their capacity to handle diverse freight requirements.
Phoenix Transportation offers cross-border and intermodal transportation solutions, ensuring smooth logistics for international and domestic clients. Comprehensive support for commercial shipments is evident with drop trailer service, expedited options, and a focus on general freight. The company promotes a positive work environment with benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Known for a satisfactory safety rating, Phoenix Transportation strives for operational excellence and flexible solutions tailored to business needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 3.01
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 104
- Revenue: $1,101,000
- Miles driven: 7,240,246
Kentucky Container Service, Inc.
6301 Geil Lane, Louisville, KY, 40219- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Container
- Drayage
Kentucky Container Service, Inc. (DOT: 215501) is a reputable logistics and transportation carrier established in 1970, operating primarily within the interstate realm. Their services include carrying a diverse range of cargo like beverages, building materials, chemicals, and paper products. With a fleet of 94 trucks and 188 total power units, Kentucky Container Service, Inc. is well-equipped to handle various shipping needs.
The company offers support for dry bulk commodities and drayage services, making them suitable for specialized commercial shipments. Despite not offering some employee benefits like a 401k or tuition reimbursement, they provide perks such as health insurance and paid time off. With a satisfactory safety rating and zero crash fatalities, they maintain a focus on safe operations. Their commitment to handling intermodal containers and general freight further enhances their capability in managing efficient and reliable freight transportation for business owners.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.67
- Driver fitness: 0.11
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.93
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 85
- Revenue: $932,000
- Miles driven: 3,316,939
Product Distribution Company
3925 Produce Road, Louisville, KY, 40218- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
Product Distribution Company (DOT: 230522) is an active trucking carrier based in Kentucky, known for its flexibility and dedication to customer satisfaction with an active presence in interstate operations. Featuring a fleet of 95 trucks predominantly consisting of flatbeds and dry vans, they specialize in general freight, intermodal containers, and paper products. The company prides itself on a satisfactory safety rating and emphasizes efficiency and reliability in their logistics services.
Business owners can benefit from their specialized support, including managed transportation and cross-border capabilities. With a robust team of 90 drivers, they offer regional, local, and over-the-road (OTR) services. The company’s dedication routes, expedited hauling with flatbed drivers, and specialized hazardous materials handling position them as a trusted partner for businesses across diverse industries. Additionally, they offer a range of employee benefits such as health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing training programs, which contribute to their stability and dependable service.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 1.55
- Driver fitness: 0.1
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.02
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.1
- Controlled substances: 0.04
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 90
- Revenue: $3,027
- Miles driven: 7,115,663
Bluegrass Dedicated, LLC
350 Scottys Way, Bowling Green, KY, 42101- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
Bluegrass Dedicated, LLC (DOT: 2159714) is a reputable trucking company operating actively in the transportation sector. Their expansive fleet includes 98 trucks and specializes in full truckload services. The company efficiently handles a diverse range of cargo, such as agricultural supplies, building materials, fresh produce, general freight, intermodal containers, metal sheets, and paper products.
Bluegrass Dedicated, LLC is committed to providing exceptional commercial shipping support through dedicated routes that ensure timely delivery of goods. Citing their notable record of safety and moderate maintenance standards, the company demonstrates a keen focus on reliability. They prioritize employee welfare by offering health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with a retirement 401(k) plan. With a total workforce of 96 drivers, they provide opportunities for dedicated and OTR drivers, ensuring consistent service across interstate networks.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.46
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.86
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 96
- Miles driven: 5,550,000
Usher Transport, Inc.
3801 Shanks Lane, Louisville, KY, 40256- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Tanker
- Cross-border
Usher Transport, Inc. (DOT: 105257) is a Kentucky-based trucking company that has been actively operating since 2014. With a fleet size ranging from 11 to 25 trucks and a total of 572 vehicles, they focus on reliable tank truck solutions. They provide services that include transportation of chemicals, dry bulk commodities, general freight, intermodal containers, and liquids and gases. Usher Transport is well-equipped with tanker vehicles, flatbeds, and dry vans to handle a diverse range of cargo needs effectively.
Usher Transport takes pride in its dedicated routes and regional driver services while crossing borders to extend their reach. They emphasize ongoing training development programs to maintain a satisfactory safety rating. The company operates on an interstate level and supports owner-operators, providing flexible logistics options for both local and long-haul shipments. Their tailored approach ensures an efficient solution for various shipping needs, making them a preferred partner for business owners seeking robust shipping capabilities.
Safety
- Crashes: 23
- Unsafe driving: 0.68
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.54
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 12
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 257
- Revenue: $932,000
- Miles driven: 14,900,000
Louisville Cartage Company, Inc.
3101 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY, 40216- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Louisville Cartage Company, Inc. (DOT: 257540) is a reputable freight trucking company based in Kentucky, established in 1974. The company efficiently handles a variety of cargo, with expertise in transporting liquefied gases, chemicals, paper products, intermodal containers, and large machinery. Despite being a smaller operation with 11 to 25 trucks and 19 drivers, they specialize in carrying dry bulk commodities and excel in general freight services.
Louisville Cartage Company focuses on interstate operations, evidencing a commitment to broad-reaching logistics solutions. They offer health insurance as a significant employee benefit, enhancing workforce stability. The safety of their operations is underscored by a “Satisfactory” safety rating and minimal unsafe driving scores. With the ability to manage specialized cargo types, they are an adept choice for businesses needing reliable shipping services.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.78
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 19
- Revenue: $1,223,000
- Miles driven: 979,844
I O Trucking, LLC
2608 Lucca Pl, Lexington, KY, 40509- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
I O Trucking, LLC (DOT: 854178) is a relatively young trucking company, established in 2021, based in Kentucky. Their fleet consists of 4 trucks, specializing in a diverse range of cargo, including fresh produce, refrigerated foods, beverages, and intermodal containers. Notably, they offer full truckload (FTL) services, ensuring that shipments are treated with priority. With a satisfactory safety rating, I O Trucking emphasizes reliable and efficient transportation solutions.
The company’s operations are enhanced by team driving opportunities, which bolster their capacity for long-haul shipments. They offer health benefits including life, dental, and vision coverage, along with a retirement plan. Though small in size, their dedication to service is reflected in their Google rating of 4.5. I O Trucking positions itself as a competent choice for businesses seeking customized and attentive logistics solutions for their commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 6.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.58
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $441,000
- Miles driven: 57,349
RWI Transportation, LLC
1538 Alexandria Pike, Fort Thomas, KY, 41075- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Cross-border
- Drayage
RWI Transportation, LLC (DOT: 105263) provides specialized interstate freight transportation services primarily focusing on refrigerated cargo. Established in Kentucky, the company operates with a fleet of 17 trucks, offering tailored solutions for shipping fresh produce, meat, paper products, and intermodal containers. The company emphasizes personalized service with features like regional drivers, dedicated routes, and flexible scheduling to meet diverse client needs.
RWI Transportation is noted for its attention to driver welfare, offering benefits such as health, dental, and life insurance, along with per diem payments and safety bonuses. They accommodate owner-operators and provide opportunities for over-the-road and dedicated drivers, ensuring efficient cargo delivery nationwide. Despite having a satisfactory safety rating and no reported crash injuries, they maintain competitive service levels. This makes RWI Transportation a reliable choice for business owners seeking dependable refrigerated transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.81
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.19
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Miles driven: 1,372,816
How Safety Ratings Work in Kentucky
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) 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 Intermodal Trucking Company in Kentucky for Your Shipments
Intermodal trucking is ideal for Kentucky businesses looking to combine multiple transportation modes.
Here’s what to consider when selecting a carrier:
- Container options: Verify that the carrier provides containers compatible with your cargo type and shipping needs, from standard to high-capacity units.
- Cost-effectiveness: Intermodal shipping can be a cost-saving option, so look for Kentucky providers with competitive rates and balance affordability with quality service.
- Network reach: Choose a company with strong connections across rail, sea, and road modes for smooth transitions and cost-effective shipping.
- Customs and regulatory compliance: For cross-border shipments, choose a Kentucky provider skilled in navigating customs and regulatory requirements.
- Intermodal experience: Kentucky carriers experienced in Intermodal logistics ensure efficient transfers between modes and reduces delays and handling issues.
- Tracking tools: Select companies with tracking technology to provide continuous visibility of your shipment’s status across different transit stages.
FAQs
What types of goods are best-suited for Intermodal shipping?
Intermodal shipping is ideal for durable, non-perishable goods like electronics, machinery, and retail products.Intermodal shipping can be an affordable solution for businesses looking for efficient — but not urgent — long-distance transport.
How do Kentucky businesses coordinate Intermodal shipping?
Kentucky businesses can coordinate Intermodal shipping by working with a carrier experienced in managing multi-modal logistics. Intermodal trucking companies with established partnerships across transportation modes ensure smooth transitions and help reduce delays.
What are the key considerations for choosing Intermodal shipping providers in Kentucky?
When selecting Kentucky providers specialized in Intermodal transport, the most important factors to consider are their network reach, container options, and tracking capabilities. Providers with advanced logistics technology and a good track record for on-time delivery are ideal for efficient Intermodal shipping.
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
- Flatbed Shipping Services
- Hot Shot Shipping Services
- LTL Shipping Services
- Parcel Delivery Shipping Services
- Pneumatic Shipping Services
- Power-Only Shipping Services
- Reefer Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services
