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Intermodal Shipping Services & Transport in Rhode Island (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

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 Rhode Island and found that United Distribution System, Inc. leads the way for seamless multi-modal transportation.

Intermodal Shipping Services & Transport in Rhode Island

Check out our full list of the best Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island. Every Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island for your commercial shipping needs.

United Distribution System, Inc.

150 Lavan Street, Warwick, RI, 2888
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • General
  • Intermodal containers

Truck Types

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

United Distribution System, Inc. (DOT: 272532) is a Rhode Island-based trucking company known for its commitment to providing comprehensive transportation services. With a focus on general freight and intermodal containers, they cater to diverse shipping needs. Established within the last few decades, United Distribution has a small but efficient fleet size of four and ensures their fleet remains modern with an average fleet age of five years.

United Distribution excels in full and partial truckload services, accommodating both regional and local shipments. They prioritize their drivers with incentives such as sign-on bonuses, health insurance, paid time off, and guaranteed home time, reflecting their dedication to employee satisfaction. Their approach also extends to providing less than truckload (LTL) services, ensuring flexible and cost-effective solutions for businesses. Customers benefit from reliable and safe service, highlighted by their strong safety record with zero reported crash injuries or fatalities.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 2.5
  • Vehicle maintenance: 10.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 4
  • Revenue: $1,948,000
  • Miles driven: 156,000
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R Mello Trucking

18 Peace Street, Middletown, RI, 2842
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Coal coke
  • Construction equipment
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Farm supplies
  • Produce
  • Trash
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Intermodal containers
  • Liquids & gases
  • Livestock
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Mobile homes
  • Vehicles
  • Oilfield equipment
  • Utility tools, parts & equipment
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products
  • Water well

Truck Types

  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Container
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Drayage

R Mello Trucking (DOT: 486534) specializes in interstate transport, offering an array of services to meet diverse cargo needs. Established in Rhode Island, the company boasts a fleet of 6 units, with expertise in hauling agricultural supplies, building materials, refrigerated foods, and dry bulk commodities. Their operations also include transporting construction materials, fresh produce, and oilfield equipment, highlighting their capacity to handle a wide range of heavy and specialized freight.

R Mello Trucking takes pride in providing dedicated routes and team driving services, ensuring timely and efficient deliveries. They also support commercial shipments with advanced features like lift gates and expedited services. Offering safety bonuses, direct deposit, 401(k) retirement plans, and flexible scheduling, they demonstrate a commitment to driver well-being and satisfaction. With an unblemished safety record and robust support for team drivers, R Mello Trucking stands out as a reliable choice for business owners seeking dependable freight solutions.

Safety

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

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 4
  • Revenue: $295
  • Miles driven: 36,000
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T C L, Inc.

2032 Plainfield Pike, Cranston, RI, 2921
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Refrigerated food

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border
  • Hazardous materials

T C L, Inc. (DOT: 639590) is a reputable trucking company known for its diverse offerings in Rhode Island. The company specializes in handling a variety of cargo types, including refrigerated foods, beverages, and intermodal containers. With a fleet sized between 20 to 49 vehicles, T C L, Inc. provides services such as power-only and flatbed trucking, catering to both regional and interstate markets.

The company stands out for its commercial shipment support, particularly its capability to transport hazardous materials and oversized loads. They also offer flexible scheduling, regional driving opportunities, and direct deposit for drivers. Benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off and a retirement plan, make T C L, Inc. an attractive option for professional drivers seeking competitive pay and a supportive work environment.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 1.33
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
  • Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 12
  • Revenue: $3,793
  • Miles driven: 57,186
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Osjl Trucking, LLC

375 Commerce Park Road, North Kingstown, RI, 2852
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products


Osjl Trucking, LLC (DOT: 225798) is a reputable freight trucking company established in 1977 in Rhode Island. With a fleet size of 812, which includes over 60 trucks, they specialize in handling diverse cargo types such as beverages, general freight, intermodal containers, paper products, and refrigerated foods, catering especially to the retail industry.

Osjl Trucking, LLC prioritizes safety, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating and reporting minimal crash incidents. Although they do not advertise specialized commercial support such as dedicated routes or expedited drivers, the company efficiently manages a large volume of cargo through interstate operations. Despite the competitive logistics space, their emphasis on core freight services positions them as a reliable carrier for businesses in need of consistent shipping solutions within and beyond Rhode Island.

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 1.3
  • Driver fitness: 0.09
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.11
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.28
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 71
  • Revenue: $7,486,000
  • Miles driven: 4,383,683
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DBT Services

102 Atlantic Avenue, Providence, RI, 2907
  • Fleet age: 3 years

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles

Truck Types

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

DBT Services (DOT: 696277) is a Rhode Island-based trucking company known for its highly flexible and efficient freight solutions. Despite operating modestly with just 2 power units, DBT Services specializes in both full and partial truckload shipments, focusing on carrying essential cargo like building materials, intermodal containers, motor vehicles, and general freight. They utilize a range of equipment, including dry vans and flatbeds, ensuring versatile and reliable service for diverse logistic needs.

Commercial clients benefit from DBT Services’ commitment to employee satisfaction, as evidenced by their comprehensive health and dental insurance, life insurance, and retirement plans. While they focus on general freight, the company also supports drive/tow away operations, ensuring products reach their destinations seamlessly. With an “Active” USDOT status and safety features including ongoing training and development programs, DBT Services stands out by balancing cost-effective transport services with a customer-centric approach, making them a preferred choice for businesses in need of dependable logistics.

Safety

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

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 29,000
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CVS Health

1 Cvs Drive, Woonsocket, RI, 2895
  • Insurance: $5,000,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Chemicals
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products


CVS Health (DOT: 612151) is a Rhode Island-based trucking company established in 2023. As part of CVS Health, they manage a significant fleet of 335 trucks with 670 total fleet units, focusing on delivering general freight across interstate operations. The company specializes in handling a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, chemicals, intermodal containers, paper products, and refrigerated foods.

CVS Health Trucking Company offers unique support tailored to commercial shipments, ensuring reliable service for business owners. They prioritize the well-being of their workforce, offering health benefits, retirement plans, and ongoing training programs. Flexible scheduling and disability insurance enhance their employee offerings. Despite having reported crash incidents, including injuries, the company maintains a commitment to responsible operations and is proactive in driver fitness and hours of service management.

Safety

  • Crashes: 20
  • Unsafe driving: 0.88
  • Driver fitness: 0.04
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.51
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 204
  • Revenue: $1,779,000
  • Miles driven: 14,700,000
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Certified Towing, Inc.

30 Devil’s Foot Road, North Kingstown, RI, 2852
  • Insurance: $1,000,000

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Liquids & gases
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles


Certified Towing, Inc. (DOT: 363635) is a trucking company that offers a variety of services to meet diverse shipping needs. Operating a fleet of 4 trucks and 8 total fleet size, the company specializes in transporting general freight, building materials, machinery, and intermodal containers. Their expertise extends to drive/tow away services and handling liquids/gases, making them versatile for a range of cargo requirements.

They operate with an active common carrier authority and prioritize safety, with a track record of zero crash injuries or fatalities. The company supports interstate operations, catering to business owners looking for reliable transportation across state lines. Certified Towing, Inc. is an ideal choice for those needing efficient and safe logistics solutions in Rhode Island, promising quality service without compromising safety.

Safety

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

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 3
  • Revenue: $162
  • Miles driven: 1,000
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Mclaughlin & Moran

40 Slater Rd, Cranston, RI, 2920
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 3 years

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • General
  • Intermodal containers

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed

Mclaughlin & Moran (DOT: 3457770) has been a key player in the Rhode Island trucking industry since 1936, operating as a robust carrier and intermodal equipment provider. Their fleet comprises 63 trucks and 165 trailers, offering a diverse range of services, including full truckload and less than truckload shipping. Specializing in general freight, intermodal containers, and beverages, they cater to a variety of business needs with a focus on reliable delivery and operational efficiency.

Known for their good reputation, bolstered by a 4.0 rating on Indeed, Mclaughlin & Moran emphasizes regional service delivery. They offer benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and maintain a commendable safety record with no reported crash injuries or fatalities. Their experienced flatbed and dry van drivers are dedicated to ensuring timely and safe transportation across intrastate non-hazardous routes, making them a trusted partner for business owners seeking reliable trucking solutions.

Safety

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

More Info

  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Drivers: 90
  • Revenue: $86,808,000
Compare Rates

Rhody Transportation & Warehousing, Inc.

600 Callahan Road, North Kingstown, RI, 2852
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Insurance: $750,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials


Rhody Transportation & Warehousing, Inc. (DOT: 50625) has been serving the Rhode Island area since 1977, specializing in the transportation of general freight, intermodal containers, machinery, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. With a fleet size of 50+ trucks and offering dedicated routes, they provide reliable service for various commercial needs. They excel in moving beverages and heavy equipment, catering to industries with diverse shipping requirements.

Despite a satisfactory safety rating and active authority status, Rhody Transportation focuses on safe interstate operations with a total of 23 trucks in service. The company is committed to efficient operations, covering over one million miles according to their 2024 report. While they do not offer services like hazardous materials handling or specialized insurance programs, their strong general freight capability and focus on property transportation make them a viable choice for businesses seeking dependable shipping partners.

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.23
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 13.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 24
  • Revenue: $2,511,000
  • Miles driven: 1,089,411
Compare Rates

L.S. Logistic, LLC

155 Park Ave Ste 24a, Cranston, RI, 2905
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Safety rating: Unsatisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General
  • Intermodal containers

Truck Types

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

L.S. Logistic, LLC (DOT: 3660788) is a Rhode Island-based logistics carrier specializing in versatile freight solutions. The company operates interstate with a fleet of dry vans, flatbeds, and intermodal containers, ensuring efficient handling of general freight. Their services include full truckload, partial truckload, less-than-truckload, and parcel shipping, offering flexibility to meet diverse shipping needs.

Even though they have an unsatisfactory safety rating, L.S. Logistic emphasizes employee benefits with health, dental, and life insurance, as well as paid time off. They handle commercial shipments using effective logistics tailored to customer requirements, making them a reliable option for business owners. The company offers consistent service across its operations with a focus on streamlined delivery solutions.

Safety

  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 4.74
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 23.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 4
  • Miles driven: 144,000
Compare Rates

How Safety Ratings Work in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island for Your Shipments

Intermodal trucking is ideal for Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island provider skilled in navigating customs and regulatory requirements.
  • Intermodal experience: Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island businesses coordinate Intermodal shipping?

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?

When selecting Rhode Island 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


Mike Marshall