Reefer trucking is essential for Tennessee 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, Parman Transportation, LLC ranks as the leading choice for moving temperature-sensitive freight.
Reefer Shipping Services & Transport in Tennessee
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 Tennessee. Every Tennessee 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 Tennessee for your commercial shipping needs.
Parman Transportation, LLC
7101 Cockrill Bend BLVD, Nashville, TN, 37209- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 4 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- General
- Liquids & gases
- Machinery & large objects
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Parman Transportation, LLC (DOT: 2307427) is an active freight carrier and shipper based in Tennessee. With a fleet size ranging from 1 to 10 trucks and operating a total of 61 trucks and 184 trailers, Parman Transportation is equipped to handle various types of cargo. Specializing in general freight, liquids and gases, and large machinery, they offer diverse services including full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipments, supported by their tanker and dry van capabilities.
Despite having a smaller fleet, Parman Transportation provides a range of benefits and services designed to support business operations. They prioritize the safety of their operations as indicated by low unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores. The company offers substantial employee benefits such as health, vision, dental, and life insurance, along with a retirement plan and guaranteed home time. Their focus on flexible and reliable service makes them a competitive choice for business owners seeking quality transport solutions.
Safety
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 0.45
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.54
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 10
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 81
- Revenue: $189,184,000
- Miles driven: 2,254,982
Kenco Logistic Services
2001 Riverside Drive, Chattanooga, TN, 37406- Fleet size: 50-99 Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $2,000,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Dry bulk commodities
- General
- Lumber
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Box truck
- Last-mile delivery
- Lift-gate
- Cross-border
Kenco Logistic Services (DOT: 886667) is a prominent transportation carrier known for its robust operations across state lines. With a total fleet size of 330 vehicles, Kenco is equipped to handle various types of cargo, including building materials, commodities, dry bulk, general freight, and logs. They offer specialized logistic services like flatbed and box truck operations, showing a commitment to meeting diverse freight needs.
Kenco Logistic Services emphasizes customer satisfaction through their dedicated routes, partial and full truckload services, and efficient less-than-truckload solutions. They provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off to ensure their workforce remains motivated and skilled. Clients benefit from the company’s focus on reliability and flexible scheduling. Kenco supports commercial shipments thoroughly, promising guaranteed home time, ongoing training development, and a comprehensive insurance coverage to ensure peace of mind.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 0.66
- Driver fitness: 0.04
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.1
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.08
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 228
- Revenue: $722,000
- Miles driven: 6,557,875
Comercia Logistics
200 Threet Industrial Rd Suite 110, Smyrna, TN, 37167- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Beverages
- Produce
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Last-mile delivery
Comercia Logistics (DOT: 2895662) is an established logistics service provider specializing in comprehensive freight solutions, operating with a fleet of 25 trucks and 50 trailers. They handle various cargo types, including beverages, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods, showcasing their capability to transport temperature-sensitive items efficiently. Offering both full and partial truckload services, Comercia Logistics caters to businesses with flexible shipping requirements.
The company provides special support for commercial shipments through dedicated routes and team driving opportunities, ensuring timely and reliable deliveries. They emphasize driver welfare with health insurance, paid CDL training, and ongoing training programs. With a reputable Google rating of 4.5 and an emphasis on safety and consistency, Comercia Logistics positions itself as a dependable partner for businesses seeking efficient and reliable freight transport services. Their active authority status underscores their commitment to meeting industry standards and delivering superior service.
Safety
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 2.01
- Driver fitness: 0.66
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.3
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.22
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $961,000
- Miles driven: 1,519,000
Atomic Transport, LLC
1301 Riverfront Parkway, Chattanooga, TN, 37402- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Trash
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
- Cross-border
Atomic Transport, LLC (DOT: 2496911) is a reliable trucking company established in 2010, operating primarily in interstate transportation. They maintain an active DOT status with a fleet of up to 948 vehicles and provide comprehensive service coverage across the country. Specializing in flatbed and dry van transport, Atomic Transport is trusted for delivering a variety of cargo including garbage/refuse and liquids/gases, ensuring prompt and efficient services for businesses with diverse needs.
This company supports less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipments, catering to commercial clients requiring flexible solutions. Atomic Transport is dedicated to safe operations, displaying moderate safety scores, and has taken measures to enhance driver welfare, including offering health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a retirement plan. Although they reported both crash injuries and fatalities, their ongoing commitment to safety and service makes them a considerable choice for business owners looking to ship their products efficiently.
Safety
- Crashes: 37
- Unsafe driving: 0.55
- Driver fitness: 0.13
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.59
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 424
- Revenue: $2,173,000
- Miles driven: 23,200,000
M.S. Logistics, LLC
1100 Visco Dr, Nashville, TN, 37210- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $750,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- General
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
M.S. Logistics, LLC (DOT: 1106826) is a respected trucking carrier based in Tennessee, operational since 1967. Focused on general freight transportation, it utilizes a modern fleet of 50 trucks and 100 trailers to manage full and less-than-truckload shipments. The company offers flatbed and dry van services, handling cargo such as metal sheets, coils, and rolls with efficiency.
M.S. Logistics is known for its commitment to quality and safety, boasting satisfactory safety ratings and modern vehicles averaging five years in age. They provide health, dental, and vision insurance, which can be appealing incentives to potential employees. While they do not specialize in hazardous materials or refrigerated foods, their operational structure ensures reliable freight solutions across interstate routes. The company’s strong reputation, backed by solid user ratings, makes it a noteworthy choice for businesses seeking dependable transportation services.
Safety
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 0.1
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.1
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 40
- Revenue: $1,119,000
- Miles driven: 3,777,059
Continental Expedited Services, Inc.
2718 Union Hall Rd, Clarksville, TN, 37040- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- General
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
Continental Expedited Services, Inc. (DOT: 1709412) is an active freight trucking company based in Tennessee. The company boasts a fleet of 41 trucks and specializes in full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services, catering primarily to the transportation of chemicals and general freight. They are proficient in handling refrigerated (reefer) cargo, which is an added advantage for businesses in need of maintaining product temperature integrity during transit.
Continental Expedited Services, Inc. is committed to safety and efficiency, as reflected in their reasonable unsafe driving and vehicle maintenance scores. The company supports interstate operations, making them suitable for long-haul shipments across state lines. They offer driver benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, ensuring a motivated and dedicated workforce ready to meet varying freight demands. Business owners seeking reliable trucking solutions will find their focus on direct transport and expedited driver services appealing for time-sensitive cargo deliveries.
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 1.6
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.94
- Controlled substances: 0.04
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 42
- Miles driven: 3,832,623
TRI Star Transport, LLC
1720 Ed Temple Boulevard, Nashville, TN, 37208- Fleet size: 1 to 10
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
Cargo Types
- Construction equipment
- General
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
TRI Star Transport, LLC (DOT: 907272) operates as a reputable trucking company based in Tennessee. They boast a diverse fleet capable of carrying general freight, construction materials, and liquids/gases. Offering flexible shipping solutions, TRI Star delivers services like full truckload (FTL), partial truckload (PTL), and less than truckload (LTL), catering to various business needs. The company is known for ensuring cargo safety during transit with refrigerated (reefer) capabilities, allowing the secure shipment of temperature-sensitive goods.
Their commitment to customer service is evident with dedicated support for commercial shipments, including regional and over-the-road drivers, as well as team driver services. Despite a modest fleet of 185 vehicles, TRI Star places a strong emphasis on driver well-being, providing benefits like health and dental insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off. With safety as a priority, their driving practices feature low violation scores, demonstrating a commitment to reliable and secure service for business owners seeking trustworthy transportation.
Safety
- Crashes: 9
- Unsafe driving: 0.55
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.79
- Controlled substances: 0.05
- Hazardous materials violations: 19
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 185
- Revenue: $3,343,000
- Miles driven: 5,330,018
Temperature Controlled Express, Inc.
1236 Antioch Pike, Nashville, TN, 37211- Fleet size: 11 to 25
- Fleet age: 5 years
- Insurance: $1,000,000
Cargo Types
- Produce
- General
- Refrigerated food
Truck Types
- Reefer
- Last-mile delivery
Temperature Controlled Express, Inc. (DOT: 716474) is a reputable trucking company based in Tennessee, known for its reliable shipping services. They offer full-truckload, less-than-truckload, and parcel delivery, effectively handling fresh produce, general freight, and refrigerated foods. With a fleet size of 96, including 48 total trucks and drivers, the company ensures efficient interstate operations for their clients.
Operating as both a broker and carrier, Temperature Controlled Express prides itself on providing temperature-sensitive cargo transport, particularly in their specialty areas, such as fresh produce and refrigerated goods. Although the company reported some crash incidents, it provides essential driver benefits like health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside a retirement 401k plan. Their focus includes team driving opportunities and guaranteed home time for drivers, placing strong emphasis on employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 0.68
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.2
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.8
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 48
- Revenue: $1,343,000
- Miles driven: 2,446,419
Highway Transport
10024 Investment Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37932- Fleet size: 100+ Corp Only
- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $5,000,000
- Safety rating: Satisfactory
Cargo Types
- Chemicals
- Intermodal containers
- Liquids & gases
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Highway Transport (DOT: 41216) is a reputable trucking company based in Tennessee, focusing on efficient and reliable transportation services. With a substantial fleet size of 998 vehicles and established services in interstate operations, they handle specialized cargo such as chemicals, intermodal containers, and liquids/gases. Their commitment to safety and service quality is reflected in their satisfactory safety ratings and a strong emphasis on driver fitness and vehicle maintenance.
Highway Transport is equipped to offer full truckload and less-than-truckload services, catering to varied shipping needs. They provide valuable support for commercial shipping, including strategizing dedicated routes and reefer services for temperature-sensitive cargo. With comprehensive employee benefits, such as health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a 401k retirement plan, this company ensures driver satisfaction and stability. Despite reported incidents, their focus remains on delivering high-quality transport solutions, making them a formidable choice for business owners seeking dependable shipping services.
Safety
- Crashes: 35
- Unsafe driving: 0.92
- Driver fitness: 0.06
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.46
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 28
More Info
- Routes: interstate
- Drivers: 425
- Revenue: $8,129,000
- Miles driven: 33,700,000
Pinkerton Transportation, LLC
110 Sheffield Pl, Franklin, TN, 37067- Fleet age: 3 years
- Insurance: $750,000
Cargo Types
- Building materials
- Construction equipment
- Farm supplies
- General
- Livestock feed
- Intermodal containers
- Lumber
- Machinery & large objects
- Metal materials
Truck Types
- Dry van
- Reefer
- Flatbed
- Last-mile delivery
Pinkerton Transportation, LLC (DOT: 1552379) is a carrier company known for its reliable full truckload and less than truckload (LTL) services. Specializing in transporting agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and more, Pinkerton caters to a wide array of commercial needs, including intermodal containers and general freight. The company prides itself on offering dry van and flatbed services, ensuring versatility in handling various types of cargo efficiently.
Pinkerton operates interstate, emphasizing safety with its zero recorded crash injuries or fatalities. They provide valuable driver benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan. Though their fleet consists of one truck and two trailers, they maintain a positive reputation reflected in a high Google rating of 4.5. The company also offers paid time off and over-the-road (OTR) driving options, making them a dependable choice for business owners seeking quality shipping services.
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: 1
- Miles driven: 110,000
How Safety Ratings Work in Tennessee
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 Tennessee for Your Shipments
Whether you manage a food, pharmaceutical, or retail operation in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Reefer shipping is commercial transport via refrigerated trucks and trailers that maintain controlled temperatures for products that are sensitive to heat or cold. In Tennessee, 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
