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 Premier Logistics Solutions to be the best LTL trucking company in South Carolina.
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.
Top LTL Trucking Companies in South Carolina
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 South Carolina. Every South Carolina 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 South Carolina for your commercial shipping needs.
Premier Logistics Solutions
904 Commerce Circle, Hanahan, SC, 29410- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Lumber
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Premier Logistics Solutions (DOT: 1220227) is a well-established trucking company based in South Carolina, founded in 1912. With a fleet size of 50+, they offer diverse services including reefer and tanker capabilities, and handle various cargo such as chemicals, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, motor vehicles, and paper products. Despite their longevity, they maintain a modern fleet and have a satisfactory safety rating.
Premier Logistics Solutions provides specialized support for commercial shipments, offering services like cross-docking, managed transportation, dedicated routes, and team driving. They also have a strong focus on driver welfare with benefits such as a sign-on bonus, paid CDL training, health insurance, and guaranteed home time, making them a reliable choice for businesses in need of comprehensive trucking and logistics solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.45
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 12.88
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 17
- Revenue: $14,114
- Miles driven: 598,308
Total Transportation Services
7225 Cross County Road, Charleston, SC, 29418- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Cross-docking
Total Transportation Services (DOT: 1345451) is a seasoned trucking company based in South Carolina, operational since 1989. This company boasts a diverse fleet of vehicles including box trucks, flatbeds, and tankers specifically suited for a range of cargo such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, and machinery. With a fleet size of 1 to 10 trucks and 54 drivers, Total Transportation Services has a notable presence in the transport of intermodal containers and refrigerated foods, offering comprehensive services for complex shipping needs.
Total Transportation Services provides specialized support for commercial shipments, highlighted by dedicated routes, cross-docking, and expedited services. They also have a strong focus on driver wellbeing, offering health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside a robust retirement plan and paid time off. With a satisfactory safety rating and a suite of driver incentives such as sign-on bonuses and guaranteed home time, Total Transportation Services stands out as a reliable partner for business owners looking to ship their products securely and efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 54
- Revenue: $1,057
- Miles driven: 276,249
Paper Logistics, Inc.
100 South Harris Road, Piedmont, SC, 29673- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
Paper Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 863563) is a versatile trucking company that specializes in a wide range of freight services, ensuring reliability and efficiency in commercial shipments. Established in South Carolina, their fleet size ranges between one and ten trucks, and they manage a diverse array of cargo, including beverages, chemicals, construction materials, grain, feed hay, intermodal containers, general freight, and paper products. They utilize dry vans and flatbeds, making them suitable for numerous transportation needs from standard freight to specialized items.
Paper Logistics, Inc. offers dedicated routes, regional driving opportunities, and cross-border services, making them a prime choice for business owners with varied shipping requirements. They have a strong emphasis on driver fitness and safety, with commendable records showing no crash injuries or fatalities. Employees benefit from health and dental insurance, paid time off, performance-based bonuses such as sign-on and driver referral bonuses, and ongoing training and development programs. Their commitment to high service standards and safety makes them a reputable partner in freight transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.52
- Driver fitness: 0.3
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.44
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.56
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Revenue: $329
- Miles driven: 1,860,500
Kupel Transport, LLC
281 Quail Creek Rd, Inman, SC, 29349- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Step deck
- Dump trailer
- Cross-border
- Hazardous materials
Kupel Transport, LLC (DOT: 1440888) is a newly established trucking company in South Carolina since 2023. They are equipped to handle a wide variety of cargo, from agricultural supplies and construction materials to fresh produce, household goods, machinery, and even hazardous materials. The company also provides specialized services, such as drop trailers and box trucks, aligning with their commitment to versatile and customizable transport solutions.
Kupel Transport, LLC stands out with its strong support for commercial shipments, offering dedicated routes, guaranteed home time, and regional driver options. Business owners will appreciate their additional perks like sign-on bonuses, health insurance, and paid CDL training. Despite their young age, Kupel Transport is committed to safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction, making them a reliable partner for shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.81
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.33
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.26
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 26
- Revenue: $1,630
- Miles driven: 1,318,728
Palmetto State Transportation, LLC
1050 Park West BLVD, Greenville, SC, 29611- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Palmetto State Transportation, LLC (DOT: 536919) is a reputable trucking company established in 1991 in South Carolina. This company has a fleet of over 80 trucks and 50+ trailers that transport a diverse range of goods, including beverages, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, liquids/gases, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They are known for providing dedicated routes and expedited services, demonstrating their commitment to timely and reliable deliveries.
Palmetto State Transportation offers specialized support for commercial shippers, including hazardous materials handling, ensuring that sensitive cargo is transported safely. They also provide various driver benefits such as sign-on bonuses, health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan, ensuring driver satisfaction and retention. Additionally, their safety measures are reflected in their satisfactory safety rating and ongoing training development programs, making them a trusted choice for business owners seeking dependable transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 10
- Unsafe driving: 3.21
- Driver fitness: 0.15
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.61
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 11
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 90
- Revenue: $20,208,000
- Miles driven: 8,122,159
Smith Trucking, Inc.
5605 Vance Rd, Bowman, SC, 29018- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- Lumber
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Smith Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 264036) has been a reputable figure in the South Carolina trucking industry since 1983. Boasting a fleet of over 70 trucks and 140 trailers, this company specializes in transporting a diverse array of cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, and oversized loads. Their services include power-only, flatbed, dry van, and lowboy transport, ensuring versatility for various freight needs. Additionally, Smith Trucking supports cross-border shipping, hazardous materials, and container shipments, catering to both local and interstate commercial clients.
Smith Trucking also offers several specialized services designed to support commercial shipments. Clients can benefit from dedicated routes, managed transportation, and cross-docking capabilities for efficient logistics solutions. The fleet is maintained at a high safety standard, reflected by satisfactory safety ratings and moderate violation scores. With perks like sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, and comprehensive health insurance, Smith Trucking is dedicated to providing reliable service while prioritizing the well-being of its drivers and customers.
Safety
- Crashes: 12
- Unsafe driving: 2.07
- Driver fitness: 0.18
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.27
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 61
- Revenue: $7,122
- Miles driven: 4,192,079
Plumley Trucking, Inc.
210 Tucapau Road, Duncan, SC, 29334- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Cross-border
Plumley Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1053808) is a reputable trucking company offering a range of transportation services. Established in South Carolina, they maintain an active fleet of 43 trucks and specialize in hauling general freight along with agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, construction materials, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, machinery, large objects, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and oilfield equipment. Their diverse cargo capabilities make them a versatile choice for businesses seeking reliable shipping solutions.
Plumley Trucking Inc. provides dedicated routes and supports owner-operator partnerships, with a commitment to safety as reflected by their satisfactory safety rating. They offer paid CDL training and a truck lease-purchase program, enhancing opportunities for new and experienced drivers. The company also extends services such as dry van and flatbed trucking, ensuring comprehensive support for various commercial shipment needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.04
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.23
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.17
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 31
- Revenue: $991,000
- Miles driven: 3,375,274
Acme Logistics, Inc.
327 A West Phillips Rd, Greer, SC, 29650- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Oversized
- Tanker
- B-train semi
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Hazardous materials
Acme Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 489319) has been a reliable trucking service provider since 1963 in South Carolina. The company offers specialized services including dedicated routes, hazardous materials transport, and cross-border shipments. Acme Logistics prides itself on handling a diverse range of cargo such as general freight, paper products, and U.S. mail, supported by a well-maintained fleet of 33 trucks and 66 trailers.
Acme Logistics provides several commercial shipping supports, including direct deposit, sign-on bonuses, and a robust health insurance plan. Drivers benefit from paid CDL training, per diem payments, and rider or pet allowances. The company also ensures guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling, making it a conducive working environment. Acme Logistics takes safety seriously, holding a satisfactory rating and offering roadside assistance programs to its drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 2.13
- Driver fitness: 0.55
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.58
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.14
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 19
- Revenue: $662
- Miles driven: 1,521,839
B W Mitchum Trucking Co, Inc.
237 Farmington Road, Summerville, SC, 29486- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Dump trailer
- Alcohol-insured
B W Mitchum Trucking Co, Inc. (DOT: 391855) is a well-regarded trucking company established in 1965, nestled in South Carolina. This company manages a considerable fleet size of over 450 vehicles and is known for shipping a diverse range of cargo including fresh produce, general freight, intermodal containers, meat, metal sheets, coils, and rolls, paper products, and refrigerated foods. Their dedication to providing reliable trucking services is complemented by their satisfactory safety rating.
B W Mitchum Trucking Co, Inc. offers special support for commercial shipments, including dedicated routes, regional drivers, and owner-operator opportunities. Further enhancing their commitment to their workforce, they provide health and life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement plan (401k). Businesses looking for a trucking partner can count on B W Mitchum Trucking Co for flexibility, reliability, and a strong support system for ensuring successful deliveries.
Safety
- Crashes: 17
- Unsafe driving: 1.02
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.32
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 200
- Revenue: $9,409,000
- Miles driven: 12,100,000
Williams Trucking, Inc.
711 Produce Lane Suite 305c, West Columbia, SC, 29172- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Lift-gate
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Williams Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 776954) is a reputable freight trucking company operating in South Carolina. The company, established in 1959, handles a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, grain feed hay, household goods, meat, and paper products. Their fleet includes dry vans and flatbeds, emphasizing flexibility and versatility in handling different types of goods.
Williams Trucking provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials and refrigerated foods, and offers various driver incentives such as sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, and paid time off. The company prioritizes health and safety with benefits like health insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan. Additionally, they maintain a focus on fuel cards and ongoing training and development programs, enhancing their commitment to efficient and reliable service.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.96
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 6
- Revenue: $355
- Miles driven: 366,249
How Safety Ratings Work in South Carolina
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 South Carolina LTL Trucking Company 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.
South Carolina LTL Trucking Companies FAQs
What is LTL and how can it benefit my business in South Carolina?
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 South Carolina businesses. LTL is ideal for companies seeking cost-effective solutions for frequent, smaller-scale deliveries.
How does LTL shipping differ from FTL shipping for South Carolina?
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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina?
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 South Carolina that sell packaged goods, electronics, furniture, and automotive parts.
