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 Apex Transportation, Inc. to be the best LTL trucking company in Colorado.
Top LTL Trucking Companies in Colorado
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 Colorado. Every Colorado 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 Colorado for your commercial shipping needs.
Apex Transportation, Inc.
9800 Alton Way, Henderson, CO, 80640- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- 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
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Hot shot
- B-train semi
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Apex Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 652182) is a premier trucking company based in Colorado, boasting a fleet of over 500 trucks. They specialize in a vast array of cargo types including fresh produce, refrigerated foods, building materials, metal products, and more. Apex Transportation offers a wealth of services such as refrigerated transport (reefer), flatbed, and step deck, catering not only to basic freight needs but also to more specialized cargo like hazardous materials and oversized loads.
The company places a significant emphasis on safety, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating and comprehensive insurance coverage. Apex Transportation supports business owners with dedicated routes, team driving opportunities, and expedited services, ensuring timely and efficient delivery. They also provide extensive employee benefits, including paid CDL training and health insurance, making them a standout choice for businesses seeking reliable and well-supported shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 0.3
- Driver fitness: 0.11
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.72
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 43
- Revenue: $15,493,000
- Miles driven: 2,024,733
Associated Corporation
4833 South Front St Unit B295, Castle Rock, CO, 80104- Fleet age: 3 years
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
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
Associated Corporation (DOT: 1161729) is an established logistics provider operating out of Colorado. They offer extensive trucking solutions including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload services, catering to a variety of industries. Their fleet is equipped for the transportation of intermodal containers, machinery, and large objects. With innovative services like refrigerated (reefer) transportation and specialized driving teams, they ensure prompt and efficient delivery.
Known for their comprehensive support for commercial shipments, Associated Corporation provides specialized services such as cross-docking and managed transportation. They are adept in handling hazardous materials, oversized cargo, and containers, catering to diverse customer needs. Employee welfare is a priority, highlighted by benefits such as health, dental, and life insurance, paid CDL training, and a lease-purchase program for trucks. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their zero crash fatalities and maintained safety standards.
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: 1
Cast Transportation,, Inc..
9850 Havana St, Henderson, CO, 80640- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Hazardous materials
Cast Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 29793) is a reputable trucking company that has been operating since 1948 in Colorado. With a substantial fleet size of 480 and 67 trucks, they specialize in handling a wide variety of cargo, including building materials, construction equipment, intermodal containers, and large machinery. As a carrier with a satisfactory safety rating and a focus on hazardous materials and oversized loads, their services are especially suited for businesses in need of specialized transport solutions.
Cast Transportation, Inc. offers a diverse range of services tailored to commercial clients, including flatbed and tanker solutions, as well as reliable last-mile delivery. They prioritize driver welfare with benefits like health and dental insurance, paid time off, and 401(k) retirement plans, ensuring quality service across their operations. With a reliable track record and dedication to maintaining high safety standards, Cast Transportation is an excellent choice for businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.56
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 57
- Revenue: $22,133,000
- Miles driven: 3,376,769
Coors Transportation Company
5101 York Street, Whenridge, CO, 80216- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Coors Transportation Company (DOT: 44876) offers comprehensive trucking services dedicated to meeting a wide range of shipping needs across Colorado. Renowned for handling various types of cargo, their operations cover the transport of beverages, chemicals, garbage/refuse, grain, and paper products, among others. With a solid transport history and an array of freight capacities, they extend specialized support through reefer, flatbed, and dry van services, catering to both intermodal and hazardous materials transport.
Coors Transportation Company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction through flexible services such as team driving opportunities, dedicated routes, and guaranteed home time for drivers. Safety and development are keystones of their operations, evidenced by ongoing training programs, safety bonuses, and an up-to-date fleet, showcasing a commendable average fleet age of three years. Their comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, combined with competitive pay, set them apart in the industry.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 150
- Revenue: $6,010,000
- Miles driven: 1,000,000
ARY Brothers Trucking, Inc.
839 Mackenzie Ave, Canon City, CO, 81212- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
ARY Brothers Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 148397) is a versatile carrier based in Colorado, known for its diverse freight capabilities and effective logistics since its establishment. The company operates a fleet of over 50 trucks, including flatbeds and dry vans, handling a wide range of cargo such as construction materials, machinery, liquids, and gases. ARY Brothers specializes in offering dedicated routes and regional driving opportunities, emphasizing commitment and reliability in their services.
The company provides valuable services like team driving and drayage, supported by a satisfactory safety rating. They cater to specialized cargo needs, including hazardous materials, with a focus on safety, offering reefer drivers for temperature-controlled freight. With benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and guaranteed home time for drivers, ARY Brothers Trucking maintains a strong employee-centric approach, ensuring high-quality service for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.22
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 21
- Revenue: $13,523
- Miles driven: 1,010,680
How Safety Ratings Work in Colorado
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 Colorado 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 Colorado?
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 Colorado businesses. LTL is ideal for companies seeking cost-effective solutions for frequent, smaller-scale deliveries.
How does LTL shipping differ from FTL shipping for Colorado?
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 Colorado, 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 Colorado?
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 Colorado 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
