Reefer trucking is essential for Indiana 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, Classic Transport, Inc. ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Indiana
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 Indiana. Every Indiana 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 Indiana for your commercial shipping needs.
Classic Transport, Inc.
57806 County Road 3 South, Elkhart, IN, 46517- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
Classic Transport, Inc. (DOT: 547497) is an active freight transportation company based in Indiana, boasting a satisfactory safety rating. With a substantial fleet of 165 trucks, they specialize in handling general freight, drive/tow away, and motor vehicles. Their services include full truckload and less than truckload, with capabilities in refrigerated transport (reefer) and dry van operations.
The company supports regional, local, and over-the-road driving opportunities, highlighting their flexibility in shipment scopes. They prioritize driver welfare, offering benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside retirement plan options. Though they do not cater to hazardous materials or oversized loads, their commitment to safety and ongoing training programs ensures reliable service for business logistics. Classic Transport excels in team driver services and maintains a consistent level of professionalism in commercial shipments.
Safety
- Crashes: 7
- Unsafe driving: 0.7
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.7
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.62
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 339
- Revenue: $1,202,000
- Miles driven: 18,000,000
Morris Trucking Corporation
3201 Erie Canal Rd, Terre Haute, IN, 47802- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Morris Trucking Corporation (DOT: 72602) is an active and reputable trucking company primarily operating in Indiana. They specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, utilizing a fleet of modern vehicles suited for transporting beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and paper products. Their fleet includes dry vans and flatbeds, supporting a wide range of transportation needs for various industries.
In addition to their specialized cargo capabilities, Morris Trucking Corporation places a strong emphasis on compliance and safety, boasting satisfactory safety ratings. They provide regional, local, and over-the-road driving options, catering to a variety of logistical requirements. Notably, they ensure their employees receive robust benefits, including health, dental, vision insurance, and retirement plans, demonstrating their commitment to both customer service and employee well-being.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.57
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.16
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 20
- Revenue: $8,490,000
- Miles driven: 1,709,285
Ktl, Inc.
1526 E Greyhound Pass, Carmel, IN, 46032- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Ktl, Inc. (DOT: 2352168) stands as a reputable freight carrier in Indiana, known for its satisfactory safety standards and diverse logistics services. The company’s operations focus on Interstate transportation, providing an array of specialized services including full truckload (FTL), dry van, and less-than-truckload (LTL) options. Ktl, Inc. capably handles a wide variety of cargo such as fresh produce, beverages, chemicals, metal sheets, and rolls, ensuring secure and efficient delivery.
Though the company is relatively new, Ktl, Inc. has established a strong standing on Carriersource. They offer competitive compensation packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and provide paid time off for their drivers. While they prioritize driver safety, evidenced by a satisfactory safety rating, Ktl, Inc. also meets industry standards with investments in driver fitness and vehicle maintenance, making them a reliable choice for businesses seeking comprehensive logistics solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 13
- Unsafe driving: 4.3
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.75
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.64
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 110
- Revenue: $1,012,000
- Miles driven: 6,833,085
Mervis Transportation, LLC
1350 College Ave, Terre Haute, IN, 47802- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Trash
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
Mervis Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2342490) is a dedicated freight carrier operating with a fleet of 14 trucks in Indiana. The company specializes in handling dry bulk commodities, construction materials, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and general freight. Their services include full and partial truckload as well as dry van transport, catering primarily to businesses with varied cargo needs. Mervis Transportation is recognized for its efficiency in handling general freight across state lines.
In terms of support, Mervis Transportation offers a range of benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a retirement 401k plan and paid time off. Despite having a recent crash history, their driving safety scores remain commendably low. The company is committed to maintaining a reliable reputation with a Google rating of 4.5 and ensures ongoing operations with active DOT status.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.15
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.77
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 7
- Revenue: $574,000
- Miles driven: 526,591
KEY Carrier
3709 Broadway Ste 29, Gary, IN, 46409- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Metal materials
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
KEY Carrier (DOT: 2941667) is a reputable freight trucking company in Indiana, known for offering a wide range of reliable trucking services. They provide services including full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), and refrigerated transport, and they have a focus on carrying diverse cargo types such as beverages, fresh produce, meat, metal sheets, and paper products.
KEY Carrier offers significant support for commercial shipments, with dedicated routes and regional and over-the-road (OTR) driving opportunities. Their commitment to safety is evident from their moderate unsafe driving score. The company supports their team with benefits like sign-on bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and paid CDL training, enhancing their appeal to potential drivers and business partners alike. Their fleet management includes promoting flexible scheduling and providing guaranteed home time, aimed at ensuring both driver satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.47
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.53
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 65
- Miles driven: 4,730,000
Interstate Delaware & South
2460 N Graham, Indianapolis, IN, 46218- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- Farm supplies
- General
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Interstate Delaware & South (DOT: 2305691) is a well-regarded trucking company established in 1946 in Indiana, known for its experience in transporting diverse cargo. With a fleet size ranging from 11 to 25 trucks and specializing in dry van and flatbed services, they handle a variety of materials including agricultural supplies, building materials, and oilfield equipment. Their focus on safe and reliable transport is reflected in their satisfactory safety rating.
Interstate Delaware & South offers dedicated routes, full and partial truckloads, as well as expedited and cross-border shipments. They provide tanker services for liquids and gases, ensuring tailored support for commercial shipments. Despite a few reported crash injuries, their overall safety performance remains commendable. The company is also committed to employee satisfaction with health, vision, and dental insurance options, paid time off, and retirement plans, making them a comprehensive choice for businesses seeking efficient shipping solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 1.56
- Driver fitness: 1.38
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.12
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $2,257,000
- Miles driven: 1,339,008
Prime Transport, Inc.
4640 Green Court, Elkhart, IN, 46516- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Hazardous materials
Prime Transport, Inc. (DOT: 327540) offers a versatile range of trucking services, making it a compelling choice for business owners. With a relatively small fleet of 66 vehicles, the company specializes in full truckload, partial truckload, and less than truckload services. Prime Transport efficiently handles cargo like general freight, household goods, and machinery, emphasizing adaptability for diverse shipping needs. Their well-maintained fleet, featuring reefer, tanker, and flatbed trucks, ensures safe and secure transportation for a wide variety of goods.
Prime Transport distinguishes itself with specialized support for commercial shipments, including hazardous materials and cross-border services. The company provides several employee benefits, such as health, dental, and vision insurance, well-rounded driver incentives, and ongoing training and development programs. Their focus on safety and professional growth contributes to a strong team of qualified drivers, making Prime Transport a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable and comprehensive trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 1.87
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.55
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.04
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 33
- Revenue: $1,471,000
- Miles driven: 2,188,370
E.Q. Logistics
55169 County Road 3, Elkhart, IN, 46514- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
E.Q. Logistics (DOT: 12312) is a reputable logistics and freight carrier established in 1913 in Indiana. Specializing in diverse cargo transportation, they adeptly handle building materials, machinery, large objects, paper products, and general freight. E.Q. Logistics offers a mix of services including full and less-than-truckload shipments, ensuring flexibility for businesses with varying shipment sizes. Their fleet, which includes 26 units and 13 trucks, is well-equipped for dry van and flatbed operations.
E.Q. Logistics supports commercial shipments with reliable regional driver options and a satisfactory safety rating, reflecting their commitment to safe operations. Additionally, they provide essential employee benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with ongoing training and development programs. A satisfactory vehicle maintenance score underscores their commitment to keeping their fleet in optimal condition, making them a trustworthy partner for businesses seeking robust transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.13
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 10
- Revenue: $6,567,000
- Miles driven: 290,450
K & B Transport, Inc.
57510 County Road 3 South, Elkhart, IN, 46517- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
K & B Transport, Inc. (DOT: 75914) is a dynamic freight trucking company operating in Indiana with an impressive total fleet size of 120 units. Although their year of establishment is not specified, they have made a mark in the industry by offering a variety of services. They specialize in handling general freight, drive/tow-away, and household goods, and are equipped to handle both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments with efficiency.
K & B Transport emphasizes safety, maintaining a satisfactory safety rating, despite reporting crash incidents. The company provides numerous employee benefits, including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan. Their focus on team driving opportunities ensures that shipments are handled by qualified, well-compensated drivers, contributing to reliable service and customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 8
- Unsafe driving: 3.64
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.5
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.34
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 60
- Revenue: $1,456,000
- Miles driven: 4,328,018
Hmd, LLC
1350 Texas St, Gary, IN, 46402- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Utility tools, parts & equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Hmd, LLC (DOT: 3050833) is a prominent trucking company based in Indiana, known for offering a wide range of freight services. Operating interstate with a fleet of 83 trucks, they specialize in full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), dry bulk commodities, and flatbed operations. The company also handles a diverse array of cargo, including building materials, construction supplies, and paper products, demonstrating its flexibility and capability to accommodate various shipping needs.
Hmd, LLC provides valuable perks to its drivers, such as sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, and comprehensive health benefits, including dental and vision coverage, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. With an established history and a moderate safety record, the company emphasizes on-time delivery and a driver-focused culture, making it a reliable choice for businesses seeking secure transport of materials. The company is actively involved in the trucking industry, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high operational standards.
Safety
- Crashes: 15
- Unsafe driving: 2.98
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.6
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 83
- Miles driven: 14,000,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Indiana
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 Indiana for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Indiana, 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 Indiana?
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 Indiana?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Indiana, 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
