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 Kay’s Trucking, Inc. to be the best LTL trucking company in Connecticut.
Top LTL Trucking Companies in Connecticut
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 Connecticut. Every Connecticut 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 Connecticut for your commercial shipping needs.
Kay’s Trucking, Inc.
297 Pleasant Valley Road, South Windsor, CT, 6074- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Hazardous materials
Kay’s Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 102032) is a well-regarded freight carrier operating since 1961 in Connecticut. This small-sized company is known for its focus on specialized services such as flatbed, reefer, dry van, and tanker transportation. They are equipped to handle various types of cargo, including building materials, construction supplies, general freight, household goods, and large machinery.
Kay’s Trucking distinguishes itself by providing special support for commercial shipments involving hazardous materials, underscoring their commitment to safety with a commendable safety rating and no reported crash injuries. Business owners can benefit from their dedicated routes and managed transportation services. The company further enhances its appeal with robust employee benefits, including health and dental insurance, safety bonuses, and flexible scheduling, which contribute to a professional and reliable workforce. Kay’s Trucking is an active interstate operator with a satisfactory safety record and modern fleet management.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 14.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $2,310
- Miles driven: 50,000
William B Meyer, Inc.
255 Long Beach BLVD, Stratford, CT, 6615- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Box truck
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
William B Meyer, Inc. (DOT: 17847) is a well-established trucking company in Connecticut, with a long history dating back to 1915. Specializing in logistics, relocation, and workplace solutions, they offer comprehensive freight services including the transportation of general freight, household goods, and large machinery. This company is known for its dedicated routes and provides specialized support with trained hazmat drivers, ensuring safe handling of hazardous materials.
The company’s fleet size falls between 50 to 99 corporate-only vehicles, with a total fleet size of 176, demonstrating a robust capacity for commercial shipments. They operate interstate, and support services such as managed transportation, owner-operator opportunities, and drop trailer logistics. Additionally, William B Meyer, Inc. invests in the welfare of their drivers by offering flexible scheduling, safety bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement. Their emphasis on safety is highlighted by a satisfactory safety rating and zero reported crash injuries or fatalities.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.04
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.21
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 96
- Revenue: $91,078,000
- Miles driven: 1,236,985
Manchester Transport
51 Bissell St, Manchester, CT, 6040- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Refrigerated food
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Manchester Transport (DOT: 252367) has been serving various transportation needs since 1973 with a satisfactory safety rating. Their diverse offerings include transportation of general freight, liquids/gases, refrigerated foods, and water well components. The company operates a fleet of 7 trucks and 14 trailers, including refrigerated and dry vans, ensuring they can accommodate a variety of cargo.
By providing specialized support such as dedicated routes and team drivers services, Manchester Transport ensures dependable service for commercial shipments. They also handle hazardous materials and offer managed transportation solutions. Additional services include sign-on bonuses, ongoing training programs, and comprehensive benefits such as health and dental insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid time off, making them an attractive logistics partner for businesses.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.75
- Driver fitness: 0.18
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $1,018
- Miles driven: 251,359
Anthony Augliera, Inc.Orporated
158 Commerce Street, East Haven, CT, 6512- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 18 months
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Lift-gate
- Hazardous materials
Anthony Augliera, Incorporated (DOT: 57994) is a prominent trucking company based in Connecticut, boasting a rich history since its establishment in 1910. With a focus on versatility, the company effectively handles a range of cargo, including general freight, household goods, and motor vehicles. Their fleet, consisting of more than 50 trucks, includes dry vans, flatbed, and reefer trailers which are critical in ensuring efficient cargo transport.
The company is well-equipped to manage interstate operations with a strong emphasis on safety, evidenced by their satisfactory safety rating. Anthony Augliera offers services like hazardous materials handling, which highlights their specialized capabilities in commercial shipping. Employee benefits are robust, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement plans. Their commitment to staff is mirrored in offerings such as sign-on, safety, and referral bonuses, positioning Anthony Augliera as a reliable partner for businesses seeking dependable transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 4.4
- Driver fitness: 3.31
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.26
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 9
- Revenue: $6,967
- Miles driven: 100,000
D.W. Transport & Leasing, Inc.
140 Route 32, N Franklin, CT, 6254- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Trash
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
D.W. Transport & Leasing, Inc. (DOT: 264428) is a Connecticut-based trucking company established in 1982. They manage a versatile fleet of over 50 vehicles with an average age of 3 years, providing tailored freight services, especially for general freight and U.S. mail. Their expertise extends to handling specialized cargo such as garbage and refuse, further supported by their capabilities in pneumatic and tanker operations.
The company is renowned for its employee benefits including health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 401k retirement plan, which attract and retain skilled drivers. Offering dedicated routes, direct deposits, and flexible scheduling, D.W. Transport also supports owner operators and promotes its robust lease purchase program. Their services cater to both local and interstate businesses, emphasizing safety and efficiency with a satisfactory safety rating and no crash fatalities reported.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 6.74
- Driver fitness: 0.36
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
- Vehicle maintenance: 14.52
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 39
- Revenue: $31,998
- Miles driven: 2,169,282
Nova Express
570 Mat Street, Naugatuck, CT, 6770- Fleet age: 5 years
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Power only
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Nova Express (DOT: 788061) is a Connecticut-based trucking company actively serving customers with a diverse range of cargo needs. With a fleet of 10 trucks, they specialize in transporting general freight, refrigerated foods, and dry bulk commodities. They are well-regarded for handling construction materials, farm supplies, and US mail, ensuring reliable service for various industries.
Nova Express offers services that support commercial shipments across borders, and their team driving service caters to businesses requiring expedited delivery. The company emphasizes safety, boasting zero crash injuries or fatalities. With options like driver referral bonuses and flexible scheduling, Nova Express is committed to efficient and dependable freight transportation 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: 9
- Miles driven: 1
How Safety Ratings Work in Connecticut
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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut?
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 Connecticut businesses. LTL is ideal for companies seeking cost-effective solutions for frequent, smaller-scale deliveries.
How does LTL shipping differ from FTL shipping for Connecticut?
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 Connecticut, 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 Connecticut?
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 Connecticut 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
