Reefer trucking is essential for California companies that sell perishable food products and other goods that require refrigeration in transit. After evaluating top Reefer trucking companies on factors like cost, dependability, safety, and customer satisfaction, Ramsey Express Trucking, Inc. ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Check out our other recommendations for the best Reefer trucking companies to ensure your products arrive fresh and secure.
Top Reefer Trucking Companies in California
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 California. Every California 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 California for your commercial shipping needs.
Ramsey Express Trucking, Inc.
618 Mccloy Ave, Stockton, CA, 95203- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Ramsey Express Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 786097) is a reputable trucking company based in California. Known for offering a range of services, their fleet includes 10 trucks that specialize in carrying various types of cargo such as agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and general freight. Established operations include dry bulk commodities and full truckload (FTL) services. They maintain active authority and a commendable safety record, showing no reported crash injuries or fatalities, which underscores their commitment to safe transportation.
Additionally, Ramsey Express provides insurance for cargo and supports commercial shipments with features like direct deposit, paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. The company also offers specialized delivery options with reefer and dry van services and supports local driving jobs with guaranteed home time, making them a versatile partner for various shipping needs. Their fleet demonstrates a modern touch with an average age of five years, ensuring reliable and up-to-date vehicles for cargo transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $638,000
- Miles driven: 434,460
Viper Transportation, Inc.
5375 Clayton Road, Concord, CA, 94521- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Coal coke
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Viper Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 1509528) is a versatile trucking company based in California. Their fleet size ranges from 11 to 25 vehicles, focusing on the efficient delivery of various cargo like agricultural supplies, beverages, construction materials, fresh produce, and general freight. The company supports full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services, ensuring flexibility for clients. With safety ratings showcasing minimal issues and an operation count of zero crash injuries, Viper Transportation emphasizes safety and reliability.
Viper Transportation offers several benefits to clients including regional driving services, dedicated routes, and team driving opportunities. They handle specialized cargo such as refrigerated food, metal materials, and intermodal containers. Shippers can also take advantage of services like direct deposit, life insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. The company’s commitment to quality service is backed by its professional drivers and modern fleet with an average age of three years.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.68
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.89
- Controlled substances: 0.04
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 15
- Revenue: $1,824,000
- Miles driven: 500,000
Green Valley Transport
4160 Suisun Valley Road #107, Fairfield, CA, 94534- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Liquids & gases
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Water well
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Green Valley Transport (DOT: 2315220) is a reliable freight trucking company operating in California. Despite its small fleet size of 4 trucks and 8 trailers, the company manages to offer a range of services including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and partial truckload options. They specialize in handling diverse cargo such as agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, construction items, fresh produce, machinery, oilfield equipment, and general freight.
Green Valley Transport provides several commercial shipping benefits, including a sign-on bonus, direct deposit, and health, dental, and vision insurance for drivers. With a commendable fleet average age of 3 years and a focus on general driver safety, they ensure minimal risks in operations. The company also offers dedicated routes and guaranteed home time which can be particularly appealing for long-haul drivers aiming for a balanced work-life dynamic.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.4
- Hours-of-service compliance: 2.48
- Vehicle maintenance: 10.21
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 3
- Revenue: $348,000
- Miles driven: 205,000
J&M Mendoza Express
24020 Myers Ave, Moreno Valley, CA, 92553- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
J&M Mendoza Express (DOT: 1079289) is a proficient trucking company offering an array of services in California. With a focus on interstate operations, their fleet includes dry vans and refrigeration units specializing in the transportation of diverse cargo such as agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, machinery, and refrigerated foods, including fresh produce and meats. Their reputation is underscored by favorable reviews and commendable online ratings.
Emphasizing efficiency, J&M Mendoza Express supports both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, ensuring flexibility for various shipping demands. They boast a strong safety record and provide amenities like direct deposit for their employees. With health, dental, vision insurance, and disability insurance available, they offer comprehensive support for their team, enhancing their commitment to reliable and secure commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 3.5
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 2
- Miles driven: 107,445
Quik Pick Express
23610 S Banning BLVD, Carson, CA, 90745- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: N/A
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Quik Pick Express (DOT: 1189566) is a reputable trucking company that has been operating since 1988 in California. They possess a fleet of over 98 trucks alongside a variety of trailers, including dry vans and box trucks, and specialize in full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and partial truckload shipping. Quik Pick Express handles diverse cargo types such as beverages, building materials, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, and paper products.
With an active USDOT status and a satisfactory safety rating, Quik Pick Express emphasizes general freight transportation and parcel delivery. The company offers health insurance, paid time off, and direct deposit options for its employees. Additionally, Quik Pick Express supports last mile delivery services and ensures a wide coverage with both interstate and local drivers to cater to various commercial shipment needs efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.95
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 63
- Revenue: $7,225,000
- Miles driven: 858,004
World Oil Transportation
1850 Coffee Road, Bakersfield, CA, 93308- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
Cargo Types
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
World Oil Transportation (DOT: 563987) is a versatile trucking company based in California that excels in the transportation of liquids and gases. Leveraging a strong fleet of 62 trucks and 62 power units, the company maintains robust full truckload and dry van services. Known for its high standards, they provide specialization in hauling hazardous materials, ensuring your cargo is in expert hands.
World Oil Transportation offers various support services including regional driving opportunities and team driving, facilitating efficient and timely deliveries. Their commitment to driver welfare is evident through benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan. With a consistent reputation across multiple rating platforms, they demonstrate a balanced focus on both safety and customer satisfaction, standing out as a reliable choice for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.52
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 1
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 52
- Revenue: $41,878,000
- Miles driven: 2,019,344
Legacy Transportation Services, Inc.
935 Mclaughlin Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95122- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Legacy Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 2043462) is a reputable trucking company operating since 1990 in California. Boasting a fleet of 95 trucks and specializing in various types of cargo such as chemicals, intermodal containers, and machinery, they cater to a wide range of commercial needs. Known for their satisfactory safety rating and relatively modern fleet age of 3 years, Legacy Transportation Services prioritizes the safety and reliability of their operations.
Legacy Transportation Services offers a range of trucking services, including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and partial truckload shipments. They provide dedicated routes and regional driving opportunities. The company is equipped to handle specialized cargo types that include hazardous materials, dry van, and flatbed services. Supporting their drivers and customers alike, they offer benefits like health and dental insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, making them a strong candidate for businesses looking for a reliable and comprehensive logistics partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.05
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.19
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 80
- Revenue: $27,563,000
- Miles driven: 2,715,297
Hercules Worldwide
2507 Medford St, Los Angeles, CA, 90033- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Hercules Worldwide (DOT: 1685249) is a California-based trucking company operating since 2008 with a reputable presence in the transportation industry. With a fleet size of over 50 vehicles that includes box trucks and dry vans, they specialize in transporting household goods and parcels. Hercules Worldwide offers a range of shipping services such as full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL), and they ensure guaranteed home time for their drivers.
Hercules Worldwide is dedicated to supporting commercial shipments with services tailored to businesses needing reliable transport solutions. The company provides health, dental, life, and vision insurance, as well as sign-on and safety bonuses for employees. Their commitment to professional driver support and well-maintained fleet, which averages 3 years in age, makes them a strong contender for businesses looking for dependable shipping partners to transport their products within and beyond California.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 17.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $7,225,000
- Miles driven: 550,000
Unis Transportation, LLC
6800 Valley View St, Buena Park, CA, 90620- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Unis Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2247083) is a reputable trucking company founded in 1989, operating out of California. Renowned for their commitment to service, they specialize in the transportation of general freight and intermodal containers. With a fleet that includes reefer and dry van trailers, they effectively manage full and partial truckloads, ensuring versatile shipping options for various cargo needs.
Uni’s Transportation, LLC offers special support for commercial shipments including health, dental, and vision insurance for their drivers, ensuring a dedicated and well-cared-for team. Their services are bolstered by a range of benefits such as guaranteed home time and paid time off. Business owners can rely on Uni’s for efficient, safe, and reliable transportation solutions tailored to meet their shipping requirements.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 1.25
- 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: 15
- Revenue: $1,058,000
- Miles driven: 1
ALL Service Handling
9749 Bellegrave Ave, Riverside, CA, 92509- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Auto carrier
- Conestoga
- Container
- Step deck
- Hopper bottom
- Lowboy
- Oversized
- Pneumatic
- Power only
- Sprinter van
- Tanker
- Dump trailer
- Hot shot
- B-train semi
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Alcohol-insured
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
ALL Service Handling (DOT: 2525963) is a prominent trucking company based in California. Despite having operated for over 10 years, ALL Service Handling does not disclose its exact year of establishment. They are well-regarded for their diversified services, including full and partial truckloads, reefer, and cross-border transportation. The company boasts impressive customer ratings with a Google rating of 4.5 and a BBB rating of 5.0. They specialize in transporting building materials and have a reliable fleet age of just over two years.
Commercial shippers can benefit from their extensive support services, such as dedicated routes, expedited and team driving, and less-than-truckload options. The company also offers specialized driver services including hazmat, intermodal, flatbed, and oversized load transportation. Additionally, ALL Service Handling promotes a supportive work environment with robust benefits such as health insurance, company uniforms, and ongoing training and development programs. For businesses seeking dependable and versatile freight solutions, ALL Service Handling stands out as a comprehensive choice.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.25
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Drivers: 4
- Revenue: $260,000
- Miles driven: 200,000
How Safety Ratings Work in California
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 California Reefer Trucking Company for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in California, here are some tips on what to look for in Reefer trucking company for your refrigerated shipments:
- Temperature-control capabilities: Choose a carrier that provides precise temperature monitoring and control to ensure your products stay within safe temperature ranges throughout the journey.
- Specialized Reefer options: Look for companies with a variety of Reefer trailer sizes and configurations to accommodate different loads and product requirements.
- Driver experience and training: Experienced drivers trained in handling Reefer loads can help prevent temperature fluctuations and ensure safe, timely deliveries.
- Tracking tools: Carriers with GPS and real-time monitoring tools keep you informed on the location and condition of your shipment.
- Fleet maintenance: Well-maintained reefer trucks minimize the risk of breakdowns that could compromise the quality of your products.
- Customer support: A company with a reputation for customer service and dedicated logistics and freight management teams will be better able to handle any changes or issues with your shipment.
- Safety record and compliance: Check a company’s CSA score to make sure they have a history of safe transport and are compliant with industry regulations.
FAQs: California Reefer Trucking Companies
What products are best transported by truck in California?
The products that are best transported by truck in the U.S. include commodities like:
- Building materials
- Food and beverages
- Furniture
- Clothing
- Electronics
What is Reefer shipping, and when is it needed for businesses in California?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In California, businesses that ship food, pharmaceuticals, flowers, and other perishables rely on Reefer shipping to ensure product quality and prevent spoilage or damage during transit.
How does Reefer shipping protect temperature-sensitive goods?
Reefer shipping protects temperature-sensitive goods by utilizing trucks equipped with refrigeration units that can maintain specific temperature settings. By controlling the climate inside the trailer, Reefer shipping reduces the risk of spoilage and extends product shelf life during transport.
