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 W W Rowland Trucking Company, LLC to be the best LTL trucking company in Texas.
Top LTL Trucking Companies in Texas
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 Texas. Every Texas 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 Texas for your commercial shipping needs.
W W Rowland Trucking Company, LLC
10000 Wallisville Road, Houston, TX, 77013- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Step deck
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
W W Rowland Trucking Company, LLC (DOT: 213641) is a well-regarded trucking carrier established in 1971 with a robust fleet of over 170 trucks based in Texas. The company stands out for its diversity in cargo handling, including refrigerated foods, chemicals, metal sheets, coils, rolls, construction materials, and more. They also specialize in transporting fresh produce and oilfield equipment, setting them apart as a versatile choice for businesses with varied shipping needs.
W W Rowland provides extensive service options such as reefer, flatbed, and tanker trucking, supporting specialized and regional drivers. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reinforced through dedicated routes and cross-border services. The company offers commercial shipping support with programs like truck lease purchase and paid CDL training, emphasizing driver development and retention. Additionally, their safety ratings indicate a focus on maintaining safe operations, making them a reliable partner for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 0.91
- Driver fitness: 0.05
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.15
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 170
- Revenue: $12,360,000
- Miles driven: 7,531,431
Hearn Trucking, LLC
7600 Interstate 20 West, Weatherford, TX, 76088- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Livestock
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Hearn Trucking, LLC (DOT: 944902) is a reputable freight carrier operating actively across interstate routes. Catering to diverse cargo needs, they specialize in transporting agricultural supplies, construction materials, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, and more. Maintaining a modern fleet with an average age of just two years, they provide various services including refrigerated (reefer) trucking, dry van, flatbed, and tanker transportation, making them highly adaptable for different shipping requirements.
Notably, Hearn Trucking offers specialized services for commercial shipments, such as hazardous materials handling with zero violations reported, and team driving options. They emphasize safety with a “Satisfactory” rating and support their drivers with benefits like health insurance, direct deposit, sign-on bonuses, and flexible scheduling. This combination of comprehensive service offerings and driver support highlights Hearn Trucking as a reliable partner for business owners seeking efficient and specialized freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.68
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.58
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 43
- Revenue: $808
- Miles driven: 3,720,500
TRI Star Freight System, Inc.
5407 Mesa Drive, Houston, TX, 77028- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Oversized
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
TRI Star Freight System, Inc. (DOT: 325836) has been operating since 1987, establishing itself as a reputable trucking company in Texas. With a fleet size of over 50 trucks and a strong focus on general freight, they handle a wide variety of cargo, including chemicals, household goods, beverages, and intermodal containers. They are particularly skilled in managing hazardous materials and oilfield equipment, demonstrating their ability to handle specialized transportation needs.
The company provides regional driving services and is actively engaged in interstate operations, enhancing their logistical capabilities. TRI Star offers a range of commercial shipment support, including flatbed and dry van transport, along with drayage services. They implement rigorous safety practices, evidenced by their satisfactory safety rating, and offer benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, making them a reliable choice for business owners seeking comprehensive freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 10
- Unsafe driving: 2.13
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.63
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.88
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 140
- Revenue: $7,132
- Miles driven: 6,789,348
Hazel’s Expedited Freight
2009 Mckenzie Dr #110, Carrollton, TX, 75006- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
Hazel’s Expedited Freight (DOT: 213831) has been an active force in the Texas trucking industry since 1977, distinguishing itself with a range of comprehensive services and a solid reputation for safety. With a sizable fleet of 132 trucks, Hazel’s specializes in transporting diverse cargo types such as building materials, chemicals, commodities like dry bulk, and more. They employ various trailer types, including flatbed and dry van, catering to a variety of freight needs.
Dedicated to commercial excellence, Hazel’s provides specialized support for hazardous materials, ensuring safe and timely shipments. The company supports independent owner-operators and offers amenities like deadhead, detention, and layover compensation. Business owners benefit from their focus on multi-regional and local deliveries, supplemented by dedicated routes and flexible scheduling options, all backed by a satisfactory safety rating.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 0.13
- Driver fitness: 0.16
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.43
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.41
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 5
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 102
- Revenue: $2,924,000
- Miles driven: 2,889,028
Royal Freight Lp
407 West Sioux Road, Pharr, TX, 78577- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Tanker
- Cross-border
Royal Freight Lp (DOT: 959806) is a dynamic freight transportation company known for its diverse cargo services in Texas. Operating a fleet of over 235 trucks and 470 trailers, they handle a wide array of cargo including fresh produce, building materials, chemicals, and oilfield equipment. Their specialization includes dry van, flatbed, reefer, and tanker logistics, offering dedicated routes and reliable local and cross-border transportation solutions.
The company provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including managed transportation and logistics solutions. Royal Freight emphasizes safety and training with programs for driver development and offers comprehensive benefits including health, dental insurance, and a retirement plan. Their commitment to quality service is reflected in effective team driving opportunities and guaranteed home time for drivers, ensuring satisfaction for both their clients and workforce. With a satisfactory safety rating, Royal Freight Lp stands out as a professional and capable partner for businesses seeking top-tier freight transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 23
- Unsafe driving: 2.75
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.27
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.63
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 215
- Revenue: $18,303,000
- Miles driven: 18,700,000
Enterprise Transportation Company
1100 Louisiana St, Houston, TX, 77002- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Pneumatic
- Hot shot
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
Enterprise Transportation Company (DOT: 115179) is an active and reputable trucking company in Texas. Operating interstate with a fleet of 458 trucks, they offer comprehensive services including general freight, chemicals, and oilfield equipment transportation. The company excels in handling specialized cargo such as machinery, large objects, and liquids/gases, supported by their advanced cargo tank and carrier operations.
Enterprise Transportation stands out with its team driving service, owner-operator opportunities, and dedicated routes. Commercial clients benefit from perks like cross-docking services, expedited shipments, and full truckload options. Their commitment to safety is backed by a satisfactory safety rating and health insurance benefits. Additionally, bonuses like sign-on and referral, as well as a truck lease program, underscore their focus on employee satisfaction. Flexible scheduling, ongoing training, and a range of insurance offerings make Enterprise Transportation an attractive choice for business owners seeking reliable shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 27
- Unsafe driving: 0.19
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.3
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 8
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 306
- Miles driven: 19,800,000
J. H. Walker Trucking
11404 Hempstead Rd, Houston, TX, 77092- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: exclusive of trailers
- Insurance: $7,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Box truck
- Conestoga
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Hazardous materials
J. H. Walker Trucking (DOT: 231407) has been a reputable player in the trucking industry since 1981, specializing in oilfield trucking and delivery services. With a fleet size of 326, they are equipped to handle a variety of cargos including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, oilfield equipment, and oversized loads. Their commitment to safety is demonstrated by offering an extensive training and development program for drivers, and maintaining a satisfactory safety rating.
The company provides specialized support for commercial shipments with dedicated routes, regional and local drivers, and flatbed and hazmat drivers. They ensure flexibility with services like conestoga, lowboy, and step-deck transportation. J. H. Walker Trucking supports their drivers with incentives such as paid CDL training, safety bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including per diem payments and a retirement plan. They actively engage in freight brokerage operations and uphold strong service standards in both interstate and intrastate operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 0.46
- Driver fitness: 0.17
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.55
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 160
- Revenue: $6,867,000
- Miles driven: 6,759,930
Cheetah Transportation Systems, LLC
11900 Wallisville Rd, Houston, TX, 77013- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Hot shot
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Cheetah Transportation Systems, LLC (DOT: 728400) is a Texas-based carrier offering diverse freight solutions since its inception. Known for handling various cargo types such as building materials, chemicals, liquids/gases, lumber, oilfield equipment, and paper products, Cheetah Transportation excels in providing specialized services with a fleet of 128 vehicles. Emphasizing safety and efficiency, the company offers team driving opportunities, has a low unsafe driving score of 0.17, and ensures guaranteed home time for their drivers.
Dedicated to commercial shipments, Cheetah Transportation provides specialized services including hazardous materials transport, drayage, and oversized cargo handling. The company supports its drivers with benefits such as sign-on bonuses, health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Equipped with both flatbed and reefer capabilities, they offer flexible scheduling and maintain a younger fleet, averaging four years in age. Cheetah Transportation is committed to safe and reliable service, making it an ideal partner for businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.17
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.31
- Controlled substances: 0.13
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 108
- Miles driven: 3,632,214
Southwestern Motor Transport, Inc.
4600 Goldfield, San Antonio, TX, 78218- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Oilfield equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
Southwestern Motor Transport, Inc. (DOT: 136555) has been a prominent player in the trucking industry since 1930, offering reliable freight solutions across Texas and beyond. With a commendable fleet age of just three years, they specialize in transporting general freight, beverages, building materials, oilfield equipment, and paper products. Their commitment to efficiency is demonstrated through features like regional and local drivers, dry van services, and flatbeds, ensuring versatile solutions for diverse cargo needs.
Southwestern Motor Transport provides exemplary support for commercial shipments with services such as cross-border transport and drayage. They also ensure driver satisfaction and safety with benefits like paid CDL training, health insurance, and comprehensive bonuses, including safety and driver referral incentives. With a satisfactory safety rating and committed to guaranteed home time for drivers, they remain a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable shipping services.
Safety
- Crashes: 17
- Unsafe driving: 0.22
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.01
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.69
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 301
- Revenue: $31,846
- Miles driven: 18,100,000
Sysco Usa Ii, LLC
1390 Enclave Parkway, Houston, TX, 77077- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Chemicals
- Produce
- Liquids & gases
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Cross-docking
Sysco Usa Ii, LLC (DOT: 165699) is a Texas-based trucking company established in 2016, renowned for its expertise in handling a diverse range of cargo. Their services include refrigerated transport, focusing on transporting fresh produce, beverages, meat, paper products, and chemicals. With a substantial fleet of 371 trucks and an average fleet age of just 2 years, Sysco Usa Ii emphasizes reliability and efficiency in logistics solutions.
Specializing in both team driving services and managed transportation, Sysco Usa Ii provides guaranteed home time for its drivers and offers driver-oriented benefits, such as team driver opportunities, direct deposits, and comprehensive insurance packages, including health, vision, and dental. Their fleet is equipped with cross-docking capabilities and the company prides itself on maintaining a satisfactory safety rating. They extend their reach beyond national borders, offering cross-border services, ensuring comprehensive support for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 18
- Unsafe driving: 0.53
- Driver fitness: 0.22
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.31
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 379
- Miles driven: 12,700,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Texas
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 Texas 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 Texas?
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 Texas businesses. LTL is ideal for companies seeking cost-effective solutions for frequent, smaller-scale deliveries.
How does LTL shipping differ from FTL shipping for Texas?
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 Texas, 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 Texas?
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 Texas 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
