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 Minnesota and found that Atlas Specialized Transport, Inc. leads the way for seamless multi-modal transportation.
Intermodal Shipping Services & Transport in Minnesota
Check out our full list of the best Minnesota 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 Minnesota. Every Minnesota 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 Minnesota for your commercial shipping needs.
Atlas Specialized Transport, Inc.
8425 213th Street West, Lakeville, MN, 55044- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Atlas Specialized Transport, Inc. (DOT: 386122) is a dynamic freight carrier operating across interstate routes, offering comprehensive trucking solutions from its base in Minnesota. Established with a fleet size of 32, including 16 trucks, the company specializes in handling intermodal containers, building materials, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, and large objects. Their efficient service is supported by flatbed and dry van transportation, providing tailored and reliable full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) options for diverse shipping needs.
The company prioritizes safety, holding a Satisfactory safety rating, and boasts advanced fleet maintenance practices. In addition to logistical services, Atlas Specialized Transport offers attractive employee benefits like health, dental, and life insurance, a retirement 401(k) plan, and paid time off—fostering a committed workforce. Atlas is well-suited for businesses seeking dependable partners for their commercial shipments, backed by their notable Google rating of 4.5.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.31
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.94
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Revenue: $1,293,000
- Miles driven: 1,059,528
Calhoun Truck Lines
9845 West 74th Street, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Calhoun Truck Lines (DOT: 764739) is a vibrant trucking company established in 2021, offering effective logistic solutions across Minnesota. Specializing in intermodal containers, they provide full and partial truckload services tailored to various business needs. The company prioritizes operational efficiency with a fleet of 141 trucks attending to local and regional deliveries, ensuring safe and prompt service.
Calhoun Truck Lines has garnered positive ratings with a 4.5 stars on Google and an overall Satisfactory safety rating, emphasizing their commitment to client satisfaction and safety. Offering dry van services and flatbeds, they cater to a diverse range of cargo. With perks such as health insurance and paid time off for employees, they maintain an efficient and motivated workforce, suitable for businesses seeking reliable shipping partners for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 1.26
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.15
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 8
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 140
- Revenue: $306,000
- Miles driven: 8,661,784
Mainstream Transportation, Inc.
800 Lone Oak Road, Eagan, MN, 55121- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
Mainstream Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 391543) is a reputable trucking company based in Minnesota. Founded with a focus on general freight services, they boast a fleet of over 50 trucks and provide full truckload and less-than-truckload solutions. Their expertise includes the transportation of building materials, paper products, and intermodal containers, making them a versatile choice for businesses looking for dependable logistics support.
Mainstream Transportation prioritizes safety, maintaining a “Satisfactory” safety rating, and offering comprehensive employee benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance. Despite a few reported crashes, their emphasis on vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices ensures reliable service. With a workforce of 58 interstate drivers and the capability to handle diverse cargo, they are well-equipped to meet the demands of commercial shipments efficiently and effectively.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.68
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.33
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.29
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 58
- Revenue: $19,642,000
- Miles driven: 4,054,081
Ats, Inc.
725 Opportunity Drive, Saint Cloud, MN, 56301- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Hopper bottom
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
Ats, Inc. (DOT: 606920) is a versatile trucking company providing services across the interstate sector from Minnesota. With a fleet of 499 trucks and 998 trailers, they manage various types of cargo, such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk, household goods, intermodal containers, and paper products. Their specialized offerings include tanker and flatbed transport, hazmat shipments, and full truckload service, catering to diverse commercial shipping needs.
Ats, Inc. excels in driver support with incentives like paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and an array of benefits, such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance. They also ensure work-life balance with flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time. The company maintains a satisfactory safety rating despite past incidents and promotes sustainability through its relatively young fleet, averaging two years. With a broad array of services and a solid reputation, Ats, Inc. is a reliable partner for businesses seeking robust freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 58
- Unsafe driving: 1.69
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.23
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.31
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 398
- Revenue: $485
- Miles driven: 44,200,000
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc.
5739 Old Hwy 61, Duluth, MN, 55810- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 593718) is a versatile trucking company operating in the transport industry, with a substantial fleet of 285 trucks and an active status as a carrier and broker. Specializing in the interstate transportation of a diverse range of cargo, they handle building materials, coal/coke, construction equipment, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, logs, lumber, machinery, and metal sheets. With a competent fleet age averaging three years, the company commits to excellent services supporting various freight needs.
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. offers an array of services tailored to commercial clients, including specialized driver availability and managed transportation. They provide flexible scheduling, dedicated routes, and full truckload services, facilitating efficient cargo delivery. The company prioritizes driver benefits and training, offering paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and safety bonuses. Kivi Bros’s emphasis on professional driver development and a sizeable workforce of over 290 skilled drivers enhance their reputation for reliable and efficient transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 29
- Unsafe driving: 1.78
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.72
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 290
- Revenue: $16,434
- Miles driven: 26,900,000
Taylor Truck Line, Inc.
801 Hwy 3 N, Northfield, MN, 55057- Fleet size: 50+
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Hazardous materials
Taylor Truck Line, Inc. (DOT: 124500) is a reputable trucking company founded in 1957, headquartered in Minnesota. With a fleet of over 800 trucks, Taylor Truck Line specializes in transporting a wide variety of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, construction goods, metal sheets, machinery, and US Mail. Their services include dry van, flatbed, and intermodal container transport, catering to both interstate and cross-border shipments.
Taylor Truck Line supports commercial shipments with dedicated routes and offers regional driving opportunities, ensuring timely and efficient delivery. The company is noteworthy for handling hazardous materials and providing services such as team driver options and cross-border logistics. Despite reported crash incidents, Taylor Truck Line maintains a satisfactory safety rating. Their focus on health insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan underscores a commitment to employee wellbeing.
Safety
- Crashes: 43
- Unsafe driving: 2.21
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.16
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 345
- Revenue: $64,763,000
- Miles driven: 37,500,000
T.A. Dedicated, Inc.
1715 Yankee Doodle Rd Ste 100, Eagan, MN, 55121- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Auto carrier
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
T.A. Dedicated, Inc. (DOT: 183949) is a reputable trucking company based in Minnesota, established in 2022. Specializing in a range of cargo, they cater to transportation needs including beverages, building materials, chemicals, paper products, and US mail. T.A. Dedicated offers various services such as refrigerated trailers and power-only transportation, ensuring versatile and reliable shipping solutions for business owners.
The company provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including cross-border services and intermodal container handling. T.A. Dedicated fosters driver support with benefits like paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and safety bonuses. Their emphasis on safety is marked by a satisfactory safety rating and ongoing training programs. With a fleet of 996 trucks and 1164 drivers, T.A. Dedicated is well-equipped to offer dedicated routes and guaranteed home time, making them a strong contender for businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 79
- Unsafe driving: 1.25
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.11
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 26
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1164
- Miles driven: 90,800,000
D&E Transport, LLC
4141 150th St Nw, Clearwater, MN, 55320- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Power only
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
D&E Transport, LLC (DOT: 600140) is a competitive trucking company based in Minnesota, renowned for its extensive service offerings and emphasis on reliable transportation. With a total fleet size of 364 and a focus on interstate operations, they provide specialized services such as dry bulk commodities, fresh produce transportation, and general freight. Their cargo portfolio includes agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, oilfield equipment, and intermodal containers, highlighting their versatility in handling various goods.
D&E Transport is committed to supporting commercial shipments with features like power-only transport, roadside assistance, and flexible scheduling. They offer valuable incentives such as sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, and guaranteed home time, ensuring driver satisfaction and retention. With a satisfactory safety rating and robust vehicle maintenance scores, D&E Transport delivers dependable service along dedicated routes, making them a strong contender for businesses looking to ship products efficiently and safely.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 2.67
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.65
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 179
- Revenue: $691
- Miles driven: 19,400,000
Wille Transport, Inc.
521 West Highway #2, Cohasset, MN, 55721- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 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
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Wille Transport, Inc. (DOT: 191404) is a Minnesota-based carrier established in 1972, offering specialized freight services across a range of cargo types, including building materials, fragile paper products, and oversized oilfield equipment. They are known for their commitment to excellence, boasting trucks that average three years in age and a satisfactory safety rating.
Wille Transport provides dedicated routes, power-only shipments, and tanker services, supported by a team of qualified drivers. They offer unique support for commercial shipments, such as automated direct deposits and guaranteed home time for drivers. With a commendable Google rating of 4.7 and consistently high scores on platforms like Indeed, they have carved out a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. Wille Transport is an ideal choice for business owners seeking a dependable partner for interstate commercial shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.43
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.76
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 34
- Revenue: $3,408
- Miles driven: 2,708,704
Admiral Merchants
215 South 11th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55403- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Power only
- Hot shot
Admiral Merchants (DOT: 124813) has been a reputable force in the Minnesota trucking industry since 1929. They manage an impressive fleet of 450 trucks and 575 trailers, including specialized equipment such as flatbeds, step decks, and intermodal containers, ensuring a versatile shipping capability. With a focus on transporting general freight, building materials, machinery, and agricultural supplies, Admiral Merchants supports various industries with efficiency.
Admiral Merchants offers essential trucking services, including hot shot delivery and power-only options, meeting diverse shipment needs. Particularly adept at handling large machinery and oilfield equipment, they provide specialized support for commercial shipments. Benefits like health insurance and a retirement 401k plan demonstrate a commitment to their team while maintaining a history of safety with a satisfactory safety rating. Business owners seeking reliable logistics partners will find Admiral Merchants a seasoned contender that combines tradition with tailored service.
Safety
- Crashes: 28
- Unsafe driving: 1.63
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.2
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.18
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 475
- Revenue: $15,121,000
- Miles driven: 33,400,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Minnesota
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 Minnesota for Your Shipments
Intermodal trucking is ideal for Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota provider skilled in navigating customs and regulatory requirements.
- Intermodal experience: Minnesota 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 Minnesota businesses coordinate Intermodal shipping?
Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
When selecting Minnesota 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
