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Power Only Shipping Services & Transport in Rhode Island (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

For businesses in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island based on services, affordability, and reliability, and Patriot Hauling Co rose to the top as the best choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective shipping solution.

Power Only Shipping Services & Transport in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island. Every Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island for your commercial shipping needs.

Patriot Hauling Co

2208 Plainfield Pike, Johnston, RI, 2919
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $2,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • General
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Alcohol-insured
  • Drayage
  • Hazardous materials

Patriot Hauling Co (DOT: 751284) is a dynamic trucking company based in Rhode Island, established in 1998. Operating a fleet of 235 trucks, Patriot specializes in transporting building materials, general freight, machinery, and metal such as sheets, coils, and rolls. Known for its reliable flatbed and lowboy services, the company offers specialized support for oversized shipments and hazardous materials, ensuring safety and efficiency in every haul.

Patriot Hauling Co offers several commercial shipping services, including power-only, tanker, and managed transportation solutions, with an emphasis on direct customer interaction. They support regional and over-the-road (OTR) driving opportunities and provide valuable employee benefits like health insurance, ongoing training programs, and a supportive work environment. As they uphold a satisfactory safety rating, business owners can rely on Patriot Hauling for efficient and secure logistical support.

Safety

  • Crashes: 6
  • Unsafe driving: 0.57
  • Driver fitness: 0.12
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.52
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.07
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 75
  • Revenue: $13,955,000
  • Miles driven: 1,844,658
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UNI Trans Transportation, LLC

16 Countryside Drive, Johnston, RI, 2919
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Auto carrier
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Tanker
  • Hot shot
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Drayage
  • Hazardous materials

UNI Trans Transportation, LLC (DOT: 1009270) is an active carrier with a satisfactory safety rating, providing standout trucking services from Rhode Island. Their extensive capability includes tanker, flatbed, and dry van services, with a specialization in handling building materials and construction equipment. They have a total fleet size of 26, including vehicles for oversized loads and sprinter vans.

UNI Trans excels in offering specialized support for commercial shipments with their power-only and hot shot services. They maintain flexibility with regional and dedicated routes, and their team drivers offer expedited service, beneficial for urgent cargo needs. Their attractive conditions include a sign-on bonus, comprehensive insurance options, and guaranteed home time for drivers, ensuring reliability and efficiency in freight management.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 2.23
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.88
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 13
  • Miles driven: 681,722
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T C L, Inc.

2032 Plainfield Pike, Cranston, RI, 2921
  • Fleet size: 20 to 49
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Refrigerated food

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border
  • Hazardous materials

T C L, Inc. (DOT: 639590) is a reputable trucking company known for its diverse offerings in Rhode Island. The company specializes in handling a variety of cargo types, including refrigerated foods, beverages, and intermodal containers. With a fleet sized between 20 to 49 vehicles, T C L, Inc. provides services such as power-only and flatbed trucking, catering to both regional and interstate markets.

The company stands out for its commercial shipment support, particularly its capability to transport hazardous materials and oversized loads. They also offer flexible scheduling, regional driving opportunities, and direct deposit for drivers. Benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off and a retirement plan, make T C L, Inc. an attractive option for professional drivers seeking competitive pay and a supportive work environment.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 1.33
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
  • Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 12
  • Revenue: $3,793
  • Miles driven: 57,186
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N & D Transportation Company, Inc.

100 Industrial Drive, North Smithfield, RI, 2896
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed
  • Container
  • Power only
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Consolidation
  • Hazardous materials

N & D Transportation Company, Inc. (DOT: 473696) is a versatile trucking company operating with a fleet of 58 units, including dry vans and flatbeds, primarily based in Rhode Island. Specializing in general freight, they offer reliable power-only services and manage container shipments, showcasing their proficiency in a range of transportation forms. Their cross-border capabilities further expand their service reach and make them an attractive partner for businesses looking for comprehensive logistics solutions.

Additionally, N & D Transportation Company provides specialized support for commercial shipping, such as the transportation of hazardous materials and efficient tanker operations. Committed to employee welfare, they offer benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan and ongoing training programs. Their satisfactory safety rating and flexible scheduling also add to their appeal for businesses seeking a dependable logistics partner.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.1
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.27
  • Vehicle maintenance: 0.38
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 28
  • Revenue: $5,186
  • Miles driven: 937,223
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Offshore Express, Inc.

26 West Shannock Road, Shannock, RI, 2875
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 2 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Liquids & gases

Truck Types

  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Auto carrier
  • Container
  • Power only
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Consolidation
  • Hazardous materials

Offshore Express, Inc. (DOT: 671080) is a proficient trucking company based in Rhode Island, catering to diverse transportation needs with a fleet size of 18 vehicles. They specialize in the transportation of dry bulk commodities and liquids or gases, supported by their capability to manage tanker and container cargo. The company also offers power-only services, ideal for clients with their own trailers who need just the power unit for shipment.

Offshore Express, Inc. ensures a high level of service with dedicated routes, flexible scheduling, and guaranteed home time for drivers. They offer enticing driver benefits, including sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, safety bonuses, and a comprehensive health insurance package. Their focus on hazardous materials transportation highlights special expertise in handling sensitive cargo, supported by a satisfactory safety rating. With ongoing training programs and a proactive safety culture, they are a reliable option for businesses looking to engage a trusted commercial shipment partner.

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: 1

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 8
  • Revenue: $176
  • Miles driven: 314,102
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Coop Enterprises, Inc.

54 Skunk Hill Road, Hope Valley, RI, 2832
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Trash
  • General
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Container
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Hot shot
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Hazardous materials

Coop Enterprises, Inc. (DOT: 661182) is a Rhode Island-based trucking company that actively operates with a fleet of 7 trucks and provides extensive interstate carrier services. The company is notable for its ability to transport various types of cargo including garbage, refuse, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and large machinery. Established for over a decade, Coop Enterprises specializes in power-only and flatbed services, ensuring flexibility and reliability for diverse shipping needs.

Offering specialized support for commercial shipments, Coop Enterprises prioritizes safety and efficiency with a record of zero crash injuries. They are equipped to handle hazardous materials and promote team driving opportunities with comprehensive employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as roadside assistance programs. The company’s dedication to sustainable and professional service positions it as a competitive choice for business owners seeking dependable trucking 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: 5
  • Revenue: $308
  • Miles driven: 148,343
Compare Rates

How Safety Ratings Work in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island for Your Shipments

Whether you operate a distribution center, manufacturing business, or retail operation in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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: Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island the ability to scale up operations as needed without investing in additional trucks.

Other Types of Transport Options for Your Shipments


Mike Marshall