Reefer trucking is essential for Michigan 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, XPO Logistics Freight, Inc. ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Michigan
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 Michigan. Every Michigan 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 Michigan for your commercial shipping needs.
XPO Logistics Freight, Inc.
2211 Old Earhart Road, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Container
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
- Consolidation
- Drayage
- Cross-docking
- Hazardous materials
XPO Logistics Freight, Inc. (DOT: 241829) is a leading freight trucking company based in Michigan, with a solid reputation in logistics. They manage a diverse fleet to efficiently transport a wide range of cargo, including chemicals, general freight, and liquids/gases. XPO Logistics offers specialized services such as less-than-truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), and reefer trucks, catering to various shipping needs.
Additionally, XPO Logistics provides a host of commercial supports, including team driving, expedited shipping, and cross-docking, ensuring timely deliveries and operational efficiency. They prioritize driver safety and welfare, offering comprehensive benefits like health insurance, paid CDL training, flexible scheduling, and ongoing training programs. With a satisfactory safety rating and a strong presence in interstate operations, XPO Logistics stands as a dependable partner for businesses seeking reliable trucking solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 733
- Unsafe driving: 0.51
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.07
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.53
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 218
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 12806
- Revenue: $1,179,000
- Miles driven: 687,000,000
Select 1 Transport
1749 Northwood, Troy, MI, 48084- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Vehicles
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
Select 1 Transport (DOT: 673525) has been a reputable interstate trucking company for over two decades. With a modern fleet and a rock-solid safety rating, the company is focused on delivering general freight and motor vehicles. They provide full truckload and less-than-truckload services, appealing to businesses needing reliable transportation solutions.
Select 1 Transport offers dedicated routes and regional drivers for clients needing specialized services. They prioritize employee benefits, offering health, dental, vision, and life insurance, which underscores their commitment to driver satisfaction. The company employs a fleet comprising dry vans and flatbeds, and provides advanced logistical support to ensure on-time deliveries. The provision of driver referral bonuses and ongoing training programs displays their dedication to safety and workforce development.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.67
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.48
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 57
- Revenue: $543,000
- Miles driven: 3,154,090
Magic Transportation Company, Inc.
5757 Clay Avenue Sw, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548- 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
- Livestock feed
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Vehicles
- Oilfield equipment
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
Magic Transportation Company, Inc. (DOT: 813455) is a dynamic and well-regarded trucking enterprise based in Michigan since 2003. Specializing in both dry bulk commodities and general freight, they provide reliable full truckload and less-than-truckload services. Their fleet, consisting of modern trucks on average only three years old, efficiently handles a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural supplies, machinery, building materials, and paper products, all while maintaining a solid safety record.
Magic Transportation distinguishes itself by offering team driving services, ensuring timely deliveries and a broader service range. With an emphasis on employee well-being, they offer health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan. Noteworthy for their adherence to safety, their drivers receive ongoing training, illustrating their commitment to enhanced service quality and operational excellence. Their satisfactory safety rating and modern fleet make them a dependable choice for businesses seeking comprehensive logistic solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.86
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 16
- Miles driven: 801,567
O & I Transport, Inc.
4343 Wyoming Ave, Dearborn, MI, 48126- Fleet size: 20 to 49
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
O & I Transport, Inc. (DOT: 321844) is a reputable freight trucking company operating from Michigan. With a fleet size of over 200 power units and a satisfactory safety rating, they offer comprehensive trucking services, including team driving and partial and full truckload capabilities. Specializing in transporting logs, poles, beams, lumber, and machinery, they provide efficient solutions for heavy and large object logistics needs.
O & I Transport’s commitment to quality service is underscored by their team driver programs, which ensure timely and reliable delivery. They offer safety bonuses, guaranteed home time, and several employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Their substantial annual mileage and active authority highlight their extensive reach and operational capability, making them a strong partner for businesses seeking dependable transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 15
- Unsafe driving: 1.03
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.45
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.39
- Controlled substances: 0.05
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 195
- Revenue: $5,880,000
- Miles driven: 11,900,000
Ray’s Transport, Inc.
22077 Mound, Warren, MI, 48091- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Dry bulk commodities
- Produce
- Trash
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Ray’s Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1638845) operates in Michigan as a prominent logistics provider known for its broad array of services since its inception. They specialize in full and partial truckload shipments, leveraging a modern fleet of dry vans and flatbeds to ensure versatile transport solutions. Their expertise extends to handling a diverse range of cargo, including fresh produce, beverages, meat, paper products, refrigerated foods, general freight, and US mail, showcasing their capability to meet varied shipping needs.
With a reputation bolstered by a satisfactory safety rating and team driving services, Ray’s Transport, Inc. delivers reliable shipping solutions across interstate routes. They support commercial shipments with essential features such as guaranteed home time, ongoing training programs, and a new driver program. Furthermore, the company offers favorable employment benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement 401(k) plan, making them a trusted partner for companies seeking a comprehensive and customer-centric trucking service.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.18
- Driver fitness: 0.1
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.11
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.73
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 4
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 50
- Revenue: $884,000
- Miles driven: 2,740,381
Voyager Express, Inc.
4111 Central St, Detroit, MI, 48210- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Intermodal containers
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Voyager Express, Inc. (DOT: 1974009) is a versatile freight trucking company, boasting a fleet of 164 trucks with a focus on flexibility and reliability. They offer full and partial truckload services, alongside less-than-truckload options. Specializing in transporting general freight and intermodal containers, Voyager Express caters to a range of clients with varying shipping needs. Their vehicles are equipped to handle different cargo types, including dry vans and flatbeds, offering efficient solutions for businesses in need of transport services.
Voyager Express provides significant support for commercial shipments, with regional and over-the-road drivers ensuring timely deliveries. The company emphasizes driver welfare, offering health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, alongside 401k retirement plans and paid time off. Despite operations in a challenging environment with reported crashes, Voyager Express maintains a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction, as reflected in their moderate vehicle maintenance scores.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 1.12
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.16
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.92
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 151
- Revenue: $3,003,000
- Miles driven: 7,231,637
Load One, LLC
13221 Inkster Rd, Taylor, MI, 48180- Fleet age: 2 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Chemicals
- General
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Load One, LLC (DOT: 1112473) is a versatile trucking company operating since 2003 in Michigan. They handle a wide range of cargo, including machinery, building materials, chemicals, and paper products, with a solid reputation in the industry evidenced by favorable ratings on platforms like Google and Indeed.
Load One specializes in full truckload services and offers dry van transportation, making it well-suited for businesses requiring comprehensive freight solutions. Notably, the company provides health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits, highlighting a commitment to employee well-being. Despite an average safety record, Load One is focused on maintaining a satisfactory safety rating, ensuring timely and secure delivery of goods. Their modern fleet is equipped for handling general freight and specialized items such as metal sheets, coils, and rolls, supporting a diverse clientele with specific commercial needs.
Safety
- Crashes: 17
- Unsafe driving: 0.29
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.2
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.33
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 541
- Revenue: $715,000
- Miles driven: 35,200,000
West Ua Transport, Inc.
13195 East 8 Mile Road, Warren, MI, 48089- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- General
- Meat
- Refrigerated food
- Paper products
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
West Ua Transport, Inc. (DOT: 2163401) is a dynamic trucking company recognized in Michigan for its reliable freight services. Although the company’s establishment year is unreported, it operates with a fleet of 61 trucks and focuses on delivering a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food. Their full truckload and less-than-truckload services cater to various shipping needs, ensuring that clients receive efficient and timely deliveries.
West Ua Transport emphasizes safety with a significant track record and offers comprehensive insurance coverage to secure shipments. Additionally, the company provides several employee benefits, such as health insurance and paid time off, contributing to low employee turnover and consistent service quality. Although they do not offer specialized or hazardous material transport, their operation remains robust in managing standard freight types across interstate routes. West Ua Transport stands out as a practical choice for businesses needing dependable transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 3.82
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 6.71
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 56
- Revenue: $1,232,000
- Miles driven: 6,431,400
General Trucking, Inc.
24121 Mound Rd, Warren, MI, 48091- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
General Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1556061) is a reputable trucking provider founded in 2006, offering a range of freight services primarily in dry bulk commodities and general freight. With a fleet of 65 trucks, they specialize in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, catering to diverse shipping needs. Their reefer and flatbed capabilities ensure they can handle a variety of cargo, keeping shipments secure and efficient.
This Michigan-based company stands out with satisfactory safety ratings, providing added assurance for businesses. General Trucking, Inc. offers valuable support for commercial shipments, including pay bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and paid time off for their drivers. Their focus on employee well-being and competitive salaries ranging from $60,000 to $70,000 ensure consistent, quality service. Businesses can rely on General Trucking, Inc. for safe, timely, and professional transportation solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.69
- Driver fitness: 0.08
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.44
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 2
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 65
- Revenue: $2,875,000
- Miles driven: 4,150,821
Tkms, LLC
1780 Highwood E, Pontiac, MI, 48340- Fleet size: 50+
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
- Safety rating: Conditional
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Trash
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Tkms, LLC (DOT: 907719) operates a robust trucking fleet in Michigan with a focus on providing comprehensive freight services. Although the founding year is unknown, it has garnered positive reviews with a solid Google rating of 4.5 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Tkms specializes in full truckload and less-than-truckload services, utilizing dry vans and flatbeds to transport building materials, construction supplies, and garbage.
The company supports team drivers and offers substantial employee benefits, including sign-on and safety bonuses, health insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Despite a conditional safety rating, Tkms maintains an active operational status, ensuring that it meets the needs of businesses requiring reliable interstate transportation. Their workforce enjoys paid time off, dental and vision coverage, and competitive salary packages ranging from $55,000 to $65,000 annually, without the headache of handling hazardous materials.
Safety
- Crashes: 17
- Unsafe driving: 1.83
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.16
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 57
- Revenue: $14,250,000
- Miles driven: 2,638,711
How Safety Ratings Work in Michigan
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 Michigan for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Michigan, 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 Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Michigan, 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
