The right LTL — or “less-than-truckload” — carrier can help save on freight costs and provide flexible shipping solutions. After evaluating key factors like cost, customer satisfaction, service offerings, and safety ratings, we found Empire Transport to be the best LTL trucking company in Arizona.
Top LTL Trucking Companies in Arizona
Shipping needs vary by company and product, so check out our other top picks for LTL for-hire carriers to see which one works best for your business.
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 Arizona. Every Arizona 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 Arizona for your commercial shipping needs.
Empire Transport
1725 S Country Club Drive, Mesa, AZ, 85210- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $7,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Hopper bottom
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Hot shot
- B-train semi
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Empire Transport (DOT: 44064) is a reputable trucking company established in 1950, located in Arizona. With a fleet size of over 1,430 vehicles, Empire Transport specializes in a diverse range of cargo, including construction materials, liquids/gases, and large machinery. The company utilizes various trailers such as reefers, dump trailers, and flatbeds, all managed with a focus on reliability and safety, as evidenced by their satisfactory safety rating.
Empire Transport offers specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials handling and cross-border services. Additionally, the company provides numerous benefits, making it appealing for drivers, such as health insurance, paid CDL training, and a 401(k) retirement plan. They also ensure excellent employee satisfaction through flexible scheduling, ongoing training, and a dedicated driver program. Business owners will find their comprehensive transport solutions ideal for managing complex logistical needs efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 13
- Unsafe driving: 0.07
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.01
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.1
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 810
- Revenue: $1,232,673,000
- Miles driven: 13,600,000
Knight Transportation, Inc.
2002 West Wahalla Lane, Phoenix, AZ, 85027- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Knight Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 428823) has been a reliable trucking company in Arizona since 1990. Operating a substantial fleet of over 3,200 trucks and 6,400 pieces of equipment, they excel in transporting diverse cargo, including fresh produce, intermodal containers, and paper products. With a strong emphasis on safety, the company reports a satisfactory safety rating. Knight Transportation supports various industry needs by offering specialized services such as reefer, dry van, tanker, and flatbed transportation.
Knight Transportation stands out in the commercial shipping sector by providing significant support for its drivers, including team drivers service and dedicated routes to optimize delivery efficiency. They offer numerous benefits like paid CDL training, flexible scheduling, and a robust safety bonus program, ensuring well-maintained and competent drivers. Furthermore, their commitment to commercial partnerships is highlighted by their management in drayage, power-only freight, and cross-border operations. This extensive service portfolio makes Knight Transportation a preferred choice for businesses seeking reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 168
- Unsafe driving: 1.51
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.38
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.22
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3200
- Revenue: $31,983
- Miles driven: 240,000,000
Fastruckingcom, LLC
1411 S 47th Ave Ste 140, Phoenix, AZ, 85043- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Conestoga
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Fastruckingcom, LLC (DOT: 978498) is a dynamic trucking company that operates primarily in interstate freight transportation across Arizona. They provide specialized services such as refrigerated truck (reefer) transport, hazardous materials handling, and conestoga flatbed operations. Their expertise includes carrying a wide range of cargo, including beverages, chemicals, intermodal containers, liquids, gases, and paper products, which positions them as a versatile partner for various industries.
Fastruckingcom, LLC offers several benefits for businesses, including dedicated routes, team driving services, and managed transportation, indicating a commitment to reliable and efficient shipping solutions. They provide valuable support for their drivers, such as paid CDL training, direct deposit, health insurance, and retirement plans, ensuring a motivated workforce. With a satisfactory safety rating and a modern fleet, Fastruckingcom, LLC is well-equipped to meet the demands of commercial shipments, offering features like cross-border services and the option to transport US Mail.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.07
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.74
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 67
- Miles driven: 2,123,532
Overley’s Est 1959
18616 S Lindsay Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85297- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Overley’s Est 1959 (DOT: 756336) is a reputable Arizona-based trucking company known for its wide array of services and robust cargo handling. With a fleet of 23 trucks and capabilities to manage both dry bulk commodities and hazardous materials, Overley’s excels in transporting diverse freight including building materials, machinery, and liquids. They offer specialized services such as hot shot, drayage, and oversized transport, catering to various business needs.
Overley’s prioritizes driver support with programs like paid CDL training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive insurance benefits. Their safety record is commendable, with zero crash fatalities and a satisfactory safety rating. Available services include cross-border shipments and power-only logistics, making them a versatile choice for companies seeking reliable and secure freight solutions. Their commitment to safety and employee welfare underscores their dedication to quality service.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.3
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.45
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 41
- Revenue: $506
- Miles driven: 836,180
Ursa Logistics
20860 N Tatum BLVD Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ, 85050- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- General
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Ursa Logistics (DOT: 732175) is a dynamic trucking company based in Arizona, offering a robust range of services designed to meet diverse cargo needs. With a fleet size of 592 and total trucks numbering 296, they specialize in handling general freight, beverages, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and US mail. Their commitment to quality service encompasses both regional and dedicated routes, supported by a team of 300 drivers to ensure efficient transportation solutions.
Committed to commercial excellence, Ursa Logistics provides specialized drivers, cross-docking services, and cross-border operations, supporting complex logistical demands. Their offerings include managed transportation, flexible scheduling, and ongoing training and development programs, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction. Supporting safety and reliability, they hold a satisfactory safety rating, underscoring their focus on delivering effective and professional trucking services to meet business needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 27
- Unsafe driving: 1.19
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.49
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.62
- Controlled substances: 0.01
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 300
- Miles driven: 28,000,000
Duncan & Son Lines, Inc.
23860 W Us Hwy 85, Buckeye, AZ, 85326- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: late model
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Lowboy
- Power only
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Duncan & Son Lines, Inc. (DOT: 44035) is a reputable logistics company founded in 1943, offering reliable trucking services in Arizona and beyond. They operate a fleet of over 574 vehicles, including late-model trucks and trailers, specializing in transporting building materials, chemicals, general freight, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, paper products, and refrigerated foods. The company provides power-only, flatbed, and dump trailer services to meet diverse shipping needs.
With a focus on specialized support, Duncan & Son Lines offers dedicated routes, hazmat transportation, and cross-border shipping, ensuring seamless logistical operations for their clients. The company emphasizes employee benefits, offering health insurance, retirement plans, and safety bonuses. Duncan & Son Lines is committed to safety with a “Satisfactory” safety rating and provides ongoing training and development programs to maintain high standards in commercial shipment handling.
Safety
- Crashes: 14
- Unsafe driving: 1.09
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.18
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.55
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 5
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 240
- Revenue: $33,589,000
- Miles driven: 24,700,000
Legend Transportation
811 S 59th Ave, Phoenix, AZ, 85043- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
Legend Transportation (DOT: 1419483) is a reputable trucking company established in 1996 with a notable presence across interstate operations. With a fleet of 950 trucks and total power units of the same count, Legend Transportation specializes in the transportation of a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, general freight, liquids/gases, paper products, and refrigerated foods.
Legend Transportation offers services such as dry van, reefer, and box truck options, supported by capabilities like last-mile delivery and cross-border shipping. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their satisfactory safety rating, and they maintain a relatively modern fleet with an average age of 3 years. The company also employs regional and local drivers, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in their service offerings, making them an attractive choice for business owners seeking reliable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 38
- Unsafe driving: 1.25
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.76
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 9
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 900
- Revenue: $19,386
- Miles driven: 45,000,000
B J Cecil Trucking, Inc.
5550 S Hospital Dr, Globe, AZ, 85501- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
B J Cecil Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 118390) specializes in hazardous materials transportation and general freight services. Established with a focus on safety, they maintain a fleet with an average age of just 2 years, offering services like flatbed transport, dry van, and tanker shipments. Known for handling diverse cargo such as chemicals, dry bulk commodities, and intermodal containers, B J Cecil Trucking supports both regional and interstate operations.
B J Cecil stands out with its commitment to driver welfare, offering benefits including health, dental insurance, and a retirement plan. Although the company facilitates dedicated routes and flexible scheduling, it also ensures guaranteed home time for its drivers. Emphasizing ongoing training and development, the company presents itself as a reliable partner for businesses seeking safe and efficient freight transport solutions across Arizona and beyond.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.5
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.45
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 44
- Revenue: $9,344,000
- Miles driven: 3,293,402
Amado Trucking, Inc.
1430 N Mariposa Rd, Nogales, AZ, 85621- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Amado Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 241605) is an active carrier based in Arizona, catering to a wide array of transport needs. The company specializes in handling general freight and has expertise in transporting fresh produce, meats, and beverages. With a fleet size of 35 trucks, they ensure timely and efficient deliveries, covering a variety of cargo including intermodal containers, building materials, paper products, and farm supplies.
Amado Trucking places a strong emphasis on safety, evidenced by their satisfactory safety rating. They cater to heavy haul requirements and transport liquids and gases to support complex shipping needs. Although the company does not offer team driving or specialized training programs, their expansive service offerings and broad cargo range make them a competent choice for business owners seeking reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.91
- Driver fitness: 0.24
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.08
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 28
- Revenue: $1,739,000
- Miles driven: 2,500,000
Cti, Inc.
11885 N Rillito Village Trail, Marana, AZ, 85653- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Coal coke
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Cti, Inc. (DOT: 139548) is a seasoned trucking company established in 1930, operating with a strong fleet of 275 trucks and 573 trailers, offering robust interstate service across Arizona. They specialize in transporting a diverse range of cargo, including chemicals, coal, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and intermodal containers. Their services include reefer, dry van, and tanker hauling, catering to various industry needs.
Cti, Inc. provides comprehensive support for commercial shipments, including dedicated routes and team driving opportunities. They offer notable employee benefits such as paid CDL training, health insurance, and safety bonuses. With a satisfactory safety rating and a focus on expedited, regional, and local deliveries, Cti, Inc. demonstrates a commitment to efficiency and safety in freight transportation. Their support for commercial shipping is strengthened by flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time, appealing to drivers and businesses alike.
Safety
- Crashes: 14
- Unsafe driving: 0.8
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.2
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 239
- Revenue: $17,409,000
- Miles driven: 17,100,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Arizona
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 LTL Trucking Company in Arizona for Your Shipments
Whether you’re a small business or a larger operation, finding the best LTL trucking company ultimately comes down to a few key factors:
- Freight volume and shipment size: LTL carriers typically handle shipments of more than 150 pounds and less than 15,000 pounds. Choose a carrier that accommodates smaller loads and offers options for varying freight volumes.
- Frequency of shipments: Find a carrier with the capacity to handle your regular and peak season demands but that also has a variety of truck types to allow for flexibility in case your volume increases or needs change.
- Service areas: Ensure the carrier’s network covers your most common shipping destinations effectively, whether for local, regional, or national deliveries.
- Delivery speed: Look for carriers that offer multiple transit times, such as standard and expedited LTL services, so you can balance delivery speed with cost according to each shipment’s urgency.
- Technology and tracking tools: Companies with real-time shipment tracking, digital document handling, and other logistics tools provide a layer of transparency that should provide you with some peace of mind during the shipping process.
- Customer support: Choose a company with a responsive customer service team experienced in handling LTL freight issues, including tracking updates, claims, and scheduling changes.
- Safety and reliability: Consider carriers with strong safety records and modern fleets. Check for certifications and safety programs that reflect the company’s commitment to secure and efficient freight handling.
- Pricing and transparency: Review pricing structures to avoid hidden fees. Choose carriers that provide upfront quotes and a transparent cost breakdown to help manage your shipping budget effectively.
FAQs
What is LTL and how can it benefit my business in Arizona?
LTL — or less-than-truckload — shipping allows businesses to share truck space with other shipments, paying only for the portion they use. That increased efficiency means reduced shipping costs for Arizona businesses. LTL is ideal for companies seeking cost-effective solutions for frequent, smaller-scale deliveries.
How does LTL shipping differ from FTL shipping for Arizona?
LTL involves combining multiple shipments from different businesses to fill a truck, while FTL (full truckload) shipping dedicates an entire truck to a single shipment. For small businesses in Arizona, LTL is likely more affordable and it allows you to send smaller shipments on a more frequent basis. If you have large shipments or need quicker transit times, FTL is the more efficient shipping method.
What types of products are ideal for LTL shipping in Arizona?
LTL is best suited for smaller products that are durable, non-perishable, and not overly time-sensitive in terms of transit times. LTL is a popular freight shipping method for e-commerce businesses, manufacturers, and retailers in Arizona that sell packaged goods, electronics, furniture, and automotive parts.
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
- Intermodal Shipping Services
- Parcel Delivery Shipping Services
- Pneumatic Shipping Services
- Power-Only Shipping Services
- Reefer Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services