For businesses in Minnesota with trailers ready to go, power only trucking companies provide the necessary hauling power without the need for a dedicated truck fleet. We’ve analyzed power only carriers in Minnesota based on services, affordability, and reliability, and Ats, Inc. rose to the top as the best choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective shipping solution.
Power Only Shipping Services & Transport in Minnesota
Explore our other top recommended power only trucking companies to find the right fit for your business’ needs and budget.
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 Minnesota. Every Minnesota 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 Minnesota for your commercial shipping needs.
Ats, Inc.
725 Opportunity Drive, Saint Cloud, MN, 56301- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Hopper bottom
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Consolidation
- Hazardous materials
Ats, Inc. (DOT: 606920) is a versatile trucking company providing services across the interstate sector from Minnesota. With a fleet of 499 trucks and 998 trailers, they manage various types of cargo, such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk, household goods, intermodal containers, and paper products. Their specialized offerings include tanker and flatbed transport, hazmat shipments, and full truckload service, catering to diverse commercial shipping needs.
Ats, Inc. excels in driver support with incentives like paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and an array of benefits, such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance. They also ensure work-life balance with flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time. The company maintains a satisfactory safety rating despite past incidents and promotes sustainability through its relatively young fleet, averaging two years. With a broad array of services and a solid reputation, Ats, Inc. is a reliable partner for businesses seeking robust freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 58
- Unsafe driving: 1.69
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.23
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.31
- Controlled substances: 0.03
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 398
- Revenue: $485
- Miles driven: 44,200,000
T.A. Dedicated, Inc.
1715 Yankee Doodle Rd Ste 100, Eagan, MN, 55121- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Auto carrier
- Oversized
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
T.A. Dedicated, Inc. (DOT: 183949) is a reputable trucking company based in Minnesota, established in 2022. Specializing in a range of cargo, they cater to transportation needs including beverages, building materials, chemicals, paper products, and US mail. T.A. Dedicated offers various services such as refrigerated trailers and power-only transportation, ensuring versatile and reliable shipping solutions for business owners.
The company provides specialized support for commercial shipments, including cross-border services and intermodal container handling. T.A. Dedicated fosters driver support with benefits like paid CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and safety bonuses. Their emphasis on safety is marked by a satisfactory safety rating and ongoing training programs. With a fleet of 996 trucks and 1164 drivers, T.A. Dedicated is well-equipped to offer dedicated routes and guaranteed home time, making them a strong contender for businesses seeking dependable freight solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 79
- Unsafe driving: 1.25
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.11
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 26
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 1164
- Miles driven: 90,800,000
D&E Transport, LLC
4141 150th St Nw, Clearwater, MN, 55320- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Container
- Power only
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
D&E Transport, LLC (DOT: 600140) is a competitive trucking company based in Minnesota, renowned for its extensive service offerings and emphasis on reliable transportation. With a total fleet size of 364 and a focus on interstate operations, they provide specialized services such as dry bulk commodities, fresh produce transportation, and general freight. Their cargo portfolio includes agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, oilfield equipment, and intermodal containers, highlighting their versatility in handling various goods.
D&E Transport is committed to supporting commercial shipments with features like power-only transport, roadside assistance, and flexible scheduling. They offer valuable incentives such as sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, and guaranteed home time, ensuring driver satisfaction and retention. With a satisfactory safety rating and robust vehicle maintenance scores, D&E Transport delivers dependable service along dedicated routes, making them a strong contender for businesses looking to ship products efficiently and safely.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 2.67
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.65
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 179
- Revenue: $691
- Miles driven: 19,400,000
Wille Transport, Inc.
521 West Highway #2, Cohasset, MN, 55721- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Container
- Step deck
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Drayage
- Hazardous materials
Wille Transport, Inc. (DOT: 191404) is a Minnesota-based carrier established in 1972, offering specialized freight services across a range of cargo types, including building materials, fragile paper products, and oversized oilfield equipment. They are known for their commitment to excellence, boasting trucks that average three years in age and a satisfactory safety rating.
Wille Transport provides dedicated routes, power-only shipments, and tanker services, supported by a team of qualified drivers. They offer unique support for commercial shipments, such as automated direct deposits and guaranteed home time for drivers. With a commendable Google rating of 4.7 and consistently high scores on platforms like Indeed, they have carved out a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. Wille Transport is an ideal choice for business owners seeking a dependable partner for interstate commercial shipping needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.43
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.42
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.76
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 34
- Revenue: $3,408
- Miles driven: 2,708,704
Admiral Merchants
215 South 11th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55403- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Step deck
- Power only
- Hot shot
Admiral Merchants (DOT: 124813) has been a reputable force in the Minnesota trucking industry since 1929. They manage an impressive fleet of 450 trucks and 575 trailers, including specialized equipment such as flatbeds, step decks, and intermodal containers, ensuring a versatile shipping capability. With a focus on transporting general freight, building materials, machinery, and agricultural supplies, Admiral Merchants supports various industries with efficiency.
Admiral Merchants offers essential trucking services, including hot shot delivery and power-only options, meeting diverse shipment needs. Particularly adept at handling large machinery and oilfield equipment, they provide specialized support for commercial shipments. Benefits like health insurance and a retirement 401k plan demonstrate a commitment to their team while maintaining a history of safety with a satisfactory safety rating. Business owners seeking reliable logistics partners will find Admiral Merchants a seasoned contender that combines tradition with tailored service.
Safety
- Crashes: 28
- Unsafe driving: 1.63
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.2
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.18
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 475
- Revenue: $15,121,000
- Miles driven: 33,400,000
T J Potter Trucking, Inc.
13000 Sherburne Ave, Becker, MN, 55308- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Auto carrier
- Step deck
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Power only
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Alcohol-insured
T J Potter Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 303391) is a reputable trucking company established in 1984 in Minnesota. With a fleet of 90 trucks and an age of only 3 years, the company emphasizes modern equipment and reliability. They offer a range of services including power-only trucking, dry van, flatbed, step deck, lowboy, and driveaway/tow-away. T J Potter specializes in transporting various types of cargo such as agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and oilfield equipment, catering to diverse shipping needs.
They provide exceptional support for commercial shipments with features such as cross-border service, guaranteed home time, and heavy-haul capabilities. The company also offers per diem payments and a competitive driver salary range between $65,000-$75,000. Their commitment to safety is reflected in their satisfactory safety rating and robust driver training programs. T J Potter stands out for its dedication to flexible scheduling, health insurance, and retirement benefits, making it a favorable choice for business owners seeking reliable and efficient freight services.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 1.8
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.56
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.69
- Controlled substances: 0.05
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 71
- Revenue: $13,172
- Miles driven: 5,039,569
Polman Transfer, Inc.
63425 Hwy 10 West, Wadena, MN, 56482- Fleet size: 50+
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Lumber
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Flatbed
- Power only
- Cross-border
Polman Transfer, Inc. (DOT: 116195) is a reputable trucking company operating with an active USDOT status. With a fleet size of 124 and 62 power units, they specialize in carrying a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, commodities dry bulk, fresh produce, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, meat, and refrigerated foods. Their services are designed to support business needs through interstate carrier operations and owner-operator opportunities.
Polman Transfer, Inc. provides additional value with services such as power-only transport, flatbed trucks, and a drop trailer program. They emphasize driver support with benefits like direct deposit, health and dental insurance, and paid time off. The company also offers significant incentives like sign-on bonuses and safety bonuses, ensuring that their clients receive reliable service and their employees are well-supported. With a satisfactory safety rating and flexible scheduling options, they are a strong choice for businesses requiring dependable and efficient freight services.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 52
- Revenue: $15,587,000
- Miles driven: 3,820,319
Baarts Trucking, Inc.
333 S 4th Ave E, Truman, MN, 56088- Fleet size: 50+
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Step deck
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
Baarts Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 125600) has been operating since 1967 in Minnesota, providing a range of trucking services. The company manages a fleet of 52 vehicles and 26 trucks, emphasizing diverse cargo transportation options such as auto carriers, refrigerated foods, building materials, meat, and general freight. They also handle machinery, large objects, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and intermodal containers, underscoring their versatility in shipment capabilities.
Baarts Trucking offers specialized support services, including tanker transport and pneumatic capabilities. Their fleet is equipped with step deck and dump trailers to accommodate various cargo demands. Despite having reported some accidents, their safety scores are moderate, supported by a satisfactory safety rating. This makes Baarts Trucking a viable option for businesses seeking reliable shipping solutions with an emphasis on safety and diverse cargo handling.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.89
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.67
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.03
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $6,276
- Miles driven: 2,617,657
Dart Transit Company
800 Lone Oak Road, Eagan, MN, 55121- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Power only
- Consolidation
Dart Transit Company (DOT: 75525) is a venerable freight carrier based in Minnesota, operating since 1934. With a robust fleet of over 970 trucks and 1,942 power units, the company primarily handles general freight, beverages, building materials, paper products, and intermodal containers. Dart enhances its service offerings with power-only options, owner-operator opportunities, and dedicated routes.
The company provides significant commercial shipping support, including managed transportation, a truck lease purchase program, and guaranteed home time for drivers. Alongside a satisfactory safety rating, Dart offers competitive benefits such as health insurance, vision, dental coverage, and paid time off to maintain a dedicated driver workforce of 855. Despite having reported crash incidents, the company emphasizes safety and professional development to enhance its operations.
Safety
- Crashes: 97
- Unsafe driving: 1.72
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 855
- Revenue: $64,649
- Miles driven: 97,200,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Minnesota
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 Power Only Trucking Company in Minnesota for Your Shipments
Whether you operate a distribution center, manufacturing business, or retail operation in Minnesota, here are some key factors to consider when picking the best power only trucking company to haul your trailers:
- Trailer compatibility: The carrier’s tractors will need to be compatible with your trailer types, particularly if your cargo requires specialized connections or handling.
- Availability and flexibility: Look for Minnesota Power Only carriers with the flexibility to handle your schedule. This is especially important for businesses that have high-volume or seasonal shipping needs that require additional capacity.
- Coverage area: Choose a Power Only carrier in Minnesota with experience in your preferred shipping lanes, whether you require regional, national, or cross-border transportation.
- Driver experience: Experienced drivers are crucial for managing a variety of trailer types and ensuring your loads are handled professionally.
- Fleet maintenance: A well-maintained fleet reduces the risk of breakdowns or delays.
- Tracking and communication: Minnesota carriers offering real-time tracking and reliable communication make it easy to monitor your shipment’s progress.
- Insurance and liability coverage: If you’re shipping hazardous or fragile materials, make sure the Power Only carrier’s insurance covers high-value or sensitive loads.
- Pricing transparency: Look for clear and upfront pricing without hidden fees, so you can manage costs effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
- Safety record: A history of safe transportation reinforces a carrier’s commitment to protecting your cargo and ensuring smooth transit, especially with high-stakes shipments.
FAQs
What are the main advantages of Power Only trucking for Minnesota businesses with multiple locations?
Power Only trucking provides a cost-effective shipping solution for businesses. With Power Only shipping, you can move trailers between sites without haveing to invest in your own tractor fleet. It also makes managing regional distribution and warehousing easier and more efficient.
What types of loads are suitable for Power Only trucking?
Power Only is suitable for a wide range of loads, including dry van, reefer, and flatbed trailers.Power Only is a good option for businesses that need the flexibility to move various cargo types, including high-volume shipments and oversized loads.
Can power-only services support seasonal or high-demand periods?
Yes, many power-only providers offer flexible, on-demand services to support seasonal peaks or high-demand periods. This flexibility gives businesses in Minnesota the ability to scale up operations as needed without investing in additional trucks.
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
- LTL Shipping Services
- Parcel Delivery Shipping Services
- Pneumatic Shipping Services
- Power-Only Shipping Services
- Reefer Shipping Services
- Tanker Shipping Services
