Reefer trucking is essential for Illinois companies that sell perishable food products and other goods that require refrigeration in transit. After evaluating top Reefer shipping services on factors like cost, dependability, safety, and customer satisfaction, United Shippers, Inc. ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Illinois
Check out our top recommendations for the best reefer trucking companies to ensure your products arrive fresh and secure.
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 Illinois. Every Illinois 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 Illinois for your commercial shipping needs.
United Shippers, Inc.
3000 W 36th St, Chicago, IL, 60632- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Oilfield equipment
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
United Shippers, Inc. (DOT: 3352333) is a prominent trucking company that operates actively across interstate routes in Illinois. Known for its diverse service offerings, they excel in handling various types of freight, including agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, chemicals, and general freight. With a fleet of 66 trucks and 132 trailers, United Shippers offers full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload services, accommodating a wide range of cargo needs.
United Shippers emphasizes driver support with comprehensive benefits such as health and life insurance, paid CDL training, and guaranteed home time. Specializing in dry bulk commodities and tanker services, the company ensures high safety standards with competitive performance ratings. Despite a few reported incidents, their low unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores reflect their safety commitment, making them a reliable choice for commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 1.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.02
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.58
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 70
- Miles driven: 2,697,196
G.T. Worldwide Transport
18342 West Creek Drive, Tinley Park, IL, 60477- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
G.T. Worldwide Transport (DOT: 1907589) is a versatile Illinois-based trucking company excelling in freight transportation. With a fleet ranging from 1 to 10 trucks, they specialize in full truckload, less than truckload, and parcel services. The company handles a variety of cargo, including building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction equipment, motor vehicles, large machinery, and intermodal containers, offering tailored shipping solutions for diverse needs.
G.T. Worldwide Transport provides comprehensive service support for commercial shipments, ensuring safe and reliable delivery with a focus on driver fitness and vehicle maintenance. They offer health and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan (401k) to support their workforce. Despite having a few reported crash incidents, their proactive approach to safety is reflected in reasonable unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores. With active authorization and competent drivers, G.T. Worldwide Transport is equipped for effective and efficient transportation of goods across distances.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.69
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.37
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.2
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 58
- Revenue: $866,000
- Miles driven: 4,309,151
Southern Palm Transport
4840 Jeffory Street, Springfield, IL, 62703- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Livestock feed
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Southern Palm Transport (DOT: 874456) operates as a versatile trucking company, known for a fleet size of 1 to 10 trucks and a focus on interstate carrier operations. They provide a range of services including full truckload, partial truckload, refrigerated transport, and dry van services. The company specializes in transporting commodities such as agricultural products, fresh produce, grain, and farm supplies, ensuring reliable and varied cargo shipping options for their clients.
Southern Palm Transport stands out by offering team driving opportunities and support for commercial shipments with general freight expertise. They prioritize driver welfare, with benefits like health and dental insurance, paid time off, and guaranteed home time. While their safety and maintenance scores indicate a strong commitment to safety, they also offer training and development programs, reflecting their dedication to both operational excellence and employee growth.
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: 10
- Miles driven: 411,026
Prima Express, Inc.
2221 Maple Rd, Joliet, IL, 60432- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- General
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Prima Express, Inc. (DOT: 1313194) is a reputable trucking company based in Illinois, offering a robust selection of services tailored to meet diverse freight needs. Established for over 19 years, Prima Express operates a fleet of 162 trucks and specializes in full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Their capabilities include dry van and flatbed transport, making them well-suited for handling building materials, household goods, and paper products. The company maintains a satisfactory safety rating and emphasizes professional service delivery.
Prima Express provides local and regional delivery options, supported by experienced drivers for efficient and reliable service. The company accommodates various freight types, including construction materials and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. Notably, health and vision insurance are part of their employee benefits package, reinforcing their commitment to staff welfare. With a total fleet size of 324 and a focus on general freight and utilities, Prima Express is positioned as a reliable partner for businesses seeking dependable trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 25
- Unsafe driving: 4.22
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.82
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.08
- Controlled substances: 0.06
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 145
- Revenue: $518,000
- Miles driven: 12,700,000
M.S. Us, Inc.
636 Pratt Ave N, Schaumburg, IL, 60193- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
M.S. Us, Inc. (DOT: 2335821) is a versatile trucking company based in Illinois, catering to a diverse range of freight needs. With a fleet size of 68 trucks and drivers skilled in full and partial truckloads, their services include refrigerated transportation for perishables like fresh produce and meat, as well as general freight and chemicals. M.S. Us, Inc. demonstrates reliability and adaptability with their dedicated routes and efficient dry van service.
The company provides comprehensive support for commercial shipments, evidenced by their dedication to safety with a low unsafe driving score of 2.85 and ongoing training programs for drivers. Benefits such as health, dental, vision insurance, and 401(k) plans further enhance their appeal. Despite a few reported crash incidents, M.S. Us, Inc.’s commitment to safe transportation and employee satisfaction makes them a solid choice for businesses seeking dependable logistics partners.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 2.85
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.29
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.81
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 8
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 34
- Revenue: $512,000
- Miles driven: 3,189,668
Niko Logistics
4255 Westbrook Drive Suite 221, Aurora, IL, 60504- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Construction equipment
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Niko Logistics (DOT: 3246954) is a reputable logistics and transportation company based in Illinois. Operating since 2009, they offer a range of services including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and flatbed services. Specializing in the transportation of general freight, machinery, metal sheets, and construction materials, Niko Logistics ensures safe and reliable shipment for varied cargo types.
Niko Logistics stands out with its commitment to driver welfare, offering health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits. They provide direct deposit services and a retirement plan (401k), and guarantee home time for drivers. With an active fleet of 63 trucks and a total fleet size of 126, they prioritize safety and professionalism in their operations. Niko Logistics is known for carrying US Mail and services local routes, making it a dependable choice for business owners seeking efficient commercial shipment solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 10
- Unsafe driving: 2.75
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.36
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.95
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 95
- Miles driven: 7,100,000
Drew Transport Services, LLC
2648 West 50th Street, Chicago, IL, 60632- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Drew Transport Services, LLC (DOT: 1064226) is a dynamic trucking company with an impressive fleet of 145 trucks, serving clients across interstate routes. They specialize in handling a wide array of cargo, including dry bulk commodities, construction materials, general freight, motor vehicles, and liquids/gases. Their services include full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipments, leveraging dry van and reefer trailers to accommodate diverse shipping needs.
Drew Transport emphasizes safety and maintains a moderate record in safe driving and vehicle maintenance. Although they encountered 16 crashes with one fatality, their commitment to safety is underscored by driver fitness and controlled substance scores. The company also supports its team with benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and direct deposit, ensuring their workforce is well-cared for. Businesses seeking reliable and versatile trucking solutions will find Drew Transport to be a capable partner.
Safety
- Crashes: 16
- Unsafe driving: 0.54
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.35
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 102
- Revenue: $1,278,000
- Miles driven: 8,497,287
BB8 Freight Co
409 W Algonquin Rd, Mount Prospect, IL, 60056- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- Produce
- General
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
BB8 Freight Co (DOT: 3106861) is a dynamic trucking company established in 2018 and based in Illinois. They efficiently manage a fleet of 45 trucks and focus on providing a range of reliable freight services. Notably, BB8 Freight Co specializes in handling agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods. Their ability to transport general freight and execute full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments positions them as a versatile choice in the logistics sector.
BB8 Freight Co offers valuable services such as team driving opportunities and guaranteed home time to enhance service dependability and driver satisfaction. Business owners seeking comprehensive transportation solutions will find BB8 Freight Co to be a company that underlines industry safety standards while fostering driver development and growth. Their excellent communication and support systems are evident through their direct deposit, health insurance, and retirement plan offerings for drivers.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 4.78
- Driver fitness: 0.3
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.45
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.47
- Controlled substances: 0.33
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 45
- Revenue: $767,000
- Miles driven: 4,005,620
Buffalo Group Transport Limited
800 W Central Rd Ste 127, Mount Prospect, IL, 60056- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Produce
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Buffalo Group Transport Limited (DOT: 1171316) is a versatile and active freight carrier based in Illinois. While the exact founding year is unclear, the company manages an impressive fleet of 35 trucks, specializing in refrigerated freight transportation. They handle a wide variety of cargo, including beverages, fresh produce, meat, metal sheets, building materials, and intermodal containers, offering comprehensive solutions for diverse commercial shipping needs.
The company emphasizes less-than-truckload and full-truckload services, ensuring tailored and efficient delivery options. Buffalo Group Transport Limited also provides health, dental, and vision insurance benefits, which complement their ongoing training and development programs. Their safety record is respectable, with no recent crash fatalities reported. Business owners seeking a reliable and dedicated freight partner will find Buffalo Group Transport a capable and committed choice for their logistics needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 1.49
- Driver fitness: 0.47
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 9.26
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 35
- Miles driven: 854,345
Transport One
1800 Centerpoint Way, Joliet, IL, 60436- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Transport One (DOT: 1389156) is a prominent trucking company based in Illinois, known for carrying general freight, intermodal containers, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and refrigerated food. Operating with a modern fleet of 61 trucks, Transport One offers a range of services including full truckload, partial truckload, and less-than-truckload shipping options to cater to diverse transportation needs.
Transport One excels in providing reliable service with flexible scheduling and dedicated routes, ensuring timely deliveries for commercial clients. The company supports its operations with amenities such as driver referral bonuses, guaranteed home time, and ongoing training programs. With a strong emphasis on safety and efficiency, Transport One is well-equipped to handle the logistics of moving products, ensuring customer satisfaction with each shipment.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 0.97
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.59
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.21
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 62
- Revenue: $529,000
- Miles driven: 5,350,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Illinois
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 Reefer Trucking Company in Illinois for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Illinois, 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
What products are best transported by truck in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Illinois, 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.
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
- Tanker Shipping Services
