FreightWaves Ratings cuts through the noise of freight technology product reviews to make you a smarter buyer

10 Best Tanker Trucking Companies in Michigan

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Transporting liquids and hazardous materials requires the right Tanker trucking company to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards. After analyzing safety records, pricing data, and customer reviews for all Michigan Tanker carriers, we recommend General Trucking, Inc..

Discover some other top-rated Tanker trucking companies to find the best fit for your business’s specific shipping requirements and budget.

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.

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 Michigan-based trucking company established in 2006. Known for its reliable service, the company operates a fleet of 65 trucks and specializes in a variety of freight types, including dry bulk commodities and general freight. With a satisfactory safety rating, the company also offers tanker and flatbed services. General Trucking, Inc. demonstrates a commitment to driver welfare, providing health insurance, dental insurance, and a solid retirement plan (401k).

Commercial clients will appreciate specific services like full truckload, reefer trailers, and less-than-truckload options. The company is particularly supportive of long-haul and regional drivers, offering benefits such as sign-on bonuses, paid time off, and guaranteed home time. With a commendable Google rating of 4.5, General Trucking, Inc. stands out as a trusted partner for businesses looking to transport their products efficiently and safely.

Get Quote

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

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 renowned logistics and trucking company operating primarily as both a broker and carrier. With a fleet size of nearly 10,000 trucks and trailers, XPO Logistics Freight specializes in hauling various types of cargo, including chemicals, general freight, and liquids/gases. They have notable support for hazardous materials and refrigerated (“reefer”) services, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of specialized cargo.

XPO Logistics Freight offers a range of comprehensive services tailored to commercial shipments. These include partial and full truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), intermodal, and drayage services, enhancing flexibility for different shipping needs. Additionally, the company provides attractive features for drivers and customers alike, such as sign-on bonuses, paid CDL training, guaranteed home time, health insurance, and ongoing training and development programs. Their focus on safety and extensive service options makes them a strong candidate for businesses seeking reliable and versatile transportation solutions.

Get Quote

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

XPO Logistics Freight Canada, Inc.

2211 Old Earhart Road, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $5,000,000

Cargo Types

  • Chemicals
  • General
  • Liquids & gases

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Hazardous materials

XPO Logistics Freight Canada, Inc. (DOT: 838885) is a prominent and active carrier within the logistics and supply chain industry. Despite its relatively small fleet of 1 to 10 trucks, the company handles a significant volume of interstate shipments and covers a range of cargo including chemicals, general freight, and liquids/gases. They offer specialized services such as tanker and dry van transportation, full and less-than-truckload options, and dedicated routes, ensuring comprehensive solutions for various shipping needs.

Designed to support commercial shipments effectively, XPO Logistics Freight Canada provides key amenities such as direct deposit, paid CDL training, and ongoing training development programs for their drivers. Commercial shippers benefit from perks like team driving opportunities, hazmat transportation, and robust safety measures indicated by their low unsafe driving score of 0.13. Additional support for their clients includes pay advances, per diem payments, health insurance, and life insurance, making them a reliable and well-rounded choice for businesses seeking efficient transportation services.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 9
  • Unsafe driving: 0.13
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.11
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 177
  • Revenue: $1,179,000
  • Miles driven: 6,937,242

D P Z Trucking, Inc.

33028 Lynx St, Westland, MI, 48185
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $750,000

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Produce
  • General
  • Meat
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker

D P Z Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1214906) is a well-rounded transportation company operating in Michigan. With over 20 years in the business, they offer comprehensive trucking services including less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) shipments. Their fleet of 26 vehicles and 13 trucks handle a variety of cargo, such as beverages, fresh produce, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food, ensuring they meet diverse shipping needs.

D P Z Trucking supports commercial shipments with dedicated routes, reefer, and tanker services. They provide essential driver benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as paid time off and retirement plans. The company’s commitment to quality service is reflected in their solid online ratings, with a 4.2 score on Indeed and a 4.5 rating on Google.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 1
  • Unsafe driving: 2.27
  • Driver fitness: 0.11
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 1.61
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.5
  • Controlled substances: 1.15
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 11
  • Revenue: $706,000
  • Miles driven: 1,033,575

Michigan Transport, Inc.

560 Fordson Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48217
  • Fleet size: 1 to 10
  • Fleet age: 5 years
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • General

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Cross-border

Michigan Transport, Inc. (DOT: 480306) is a comprehensive trucking company that primarily handles general freight and operates nine trucks. Offering flexibility through partial and full truckload services, the company supports a range of shipping needs. Their fleet includes reefer and dry van trucks, making them well-suited for maintaining the condition of various cargo types during transport.

For businesses looking for specialized support, Michigan Transport provides dedicated drivers, team driving opportunities, and regional, local, and interstate operations. Additional perks include guaranteed home time and a range of driver benefits such as sign-on bonuses, health insurance, and paid time off. With a satisfactory safety rating and a strong emphasis on safety-related bonuses, Michigan Transport is a reliable choice for commercial shipments.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 3.75
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.04
  • Vehicle maintenance: 16.18
  • Controlled substances: 0.41
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 8
  • Revenue: $1,176,000
  • Miles driven: 120,000

DAY & Ross Usa, Inc.

69096 Powell Rd, Armada, MI, 48005
  • Fleet age: 3 years
  • Insurance: $5,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Chemicals
  • Produce
  • General
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Meat
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Conestoga
  • Step deck
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Alcohol-insured
  • Drayage
  • Cross-docking
  • Hazardous materials

DAY & Ross Usa, Inc. (DOT: 163299) is a seasoned trucking company based in Michigan, offering a comprehensive range of services since its inception. their fleet of 234 trucks enables smooth carriage of diverse cargo including beverages, building materials, chemicals, fresh produce, general freight, household goods, machinery large objects, meat, metal sheets coils rolls, paper products, and refrigerated food. They excel in specialized services such as reefer, flatbed, tanker, and lowboy transportation, catering to challenging and diverse shipping requirements.

The company provides substantial support for commercial shipments, including sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, safety bonuses, pay advances, per diem payments, and tuition reimbursement for employees. Their dedication to safety and driver wellness is reflected in services like roadside assistance programs, health insurance, life insurance, and guaranteed home time. Additionally, DAY & Ross Usa, Inc. offer managed transportation services, cross-docking, and dedicated routes, ensuring seamless and efficient freight handling for business owners.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 12
  • Unsafe driving: 0.72
  • Driver fitness: 0.03
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.82
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 1

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 269
  • Miles driven: 7,912,241

Michaud Trucking, Inc.Orperated

816 S Van Buren Street, Kingsford, MI, 49802
  • Fleet size: 11 to 25
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Beverages
  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • Dry bulk commodities
  • Farm supplies
  • General
  • Livestock feed
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Refrigerated food
  • Paper products
  • Water well

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

Michaud Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 169140) is a reputable trucking company based in Michigan. Their diverse fleet comprises 20 trucks and offers a wide range of services, including reefer, hazmat, dry van, and dry bulk commodities transport. Known for handling various cargo types such as agricultural supplies, building materials, machinery, and more, they prioritize reliability and efficiency in their operations. Their fleet size is between 11 to 25, with 18 drivers dedicated to interstate deliveries.

Michaud Trucking, Inc. is particularly supportive of commercial shipments, providing specialized equipment like Conestoga, lowboy, and hopper bottom trailers. They offer services such as cross-docking and managed transportation, ensuring seamless logistics for business owners. Dedicated to employee welfare, they provide benefits like health insurance, dental coverage, and a retirement plan. Their active participation in ensuring driver safety and ongoing training contributes to their satisfactory safety rating.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 4
  • Unsafe driving: 2.96
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.35
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.88
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 18
  • Revenue: $4,060
  • Miles driven: 1,879,660

Modular Transportation Co

393 Mart Street, Wyoming, MI, 49548
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Construction equipment
  • General
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Auto carrier
  • Conestoga
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Pneumatic
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Tanker
  • Hot shot

Modular Transportation Co (DOT: 75827) is a versatile trucking company with over 175 drivers and 181 trucks in their fleet. They operate primarily in the interstate sector. Established 18342 days ago, the company specializes in transporting a wide variety of cargo, including building materials, construction supplies, machinery, intermodal containers, and motor vehicles. They offer unique services such as flatbed, dry van, reefer, tanker, hot shot, and specialized driving solutions to meet diverse logistical needs.

Modular Transportation Co provides dedicated routes, guaranteeing timely and efficient shipments. They also ensure driver safety and satisfaction through comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits, along with disability insurance and a retirement plan (401k). With additional services like deadhead, detention, and layover compensation, Modular Transportation Co stands out as a reliable partner for commercial shipments, ensuring both high-quality service and strong support for their drivers and customers.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 11
  • Unsafe driving: 1.76
  • Driver fitness: 0.03
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.17
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.8
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 175
  • Revenue: $16,060,000
  • Miles driven: 11,900,000

Stone Transport

3495 Hack Road, Saginaw, MI, 48601
  • Fleet size: 50+
  • Insurance: $1,000,000
  • Safety rating: Satisfactory

Cargo Types

  • Building materials
  • Coal coke
  • Construction equipment
  • Produce
  • Trash
  • General
  • Liquids & gases
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles
  • Oilfield equipment
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Auto carrier
  • Conestoga
  • Container
  • Step deck
  • Lowboy
  • Oversized
  • Power only
  • Sprinter van
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Cross-border
  • Hazardous materials

Stone Transport (DOT: 300960) is a reputable transportation and logistics company with a robust fleet of over 247 trucks and 494 total power units. They offer a range of specialized services, including refrigerated (“reefer”) trailers, Conestoga trailers, and power-only services. Established to handle a variety of cargo types, they transport building materials, coal/coke, construction materials, fresh produce, garbage/refuse, liquids/gases, machinery, metal sheets, poles, beams, lumber, and oilfield equipment.

Stone Transport is particularly adept at managing hazardous materials and oversized loads, demonstrating their capability to support complex commercial shipments. They offer health and dental insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement plan (401k), ensuring comprehensive employee support. With a focus on safety, Stone Transport has a “Satisfactory” safety rating, making them a reliable partner for businesses in need of dependable transportation solutions.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 32
  • Unsafe driving: 1.61
  • Driver fitness: 0.09
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.09
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.95
  • Controlled substances: 0.01
  • Hazardous materials violations: 1

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 329
  • Revenue: $59,011,000
  • Miles driven: 12,600,000

Smith Trucking, Inc.

7150 Silberhorn Hwy, Blissfield, MI, 49228
  • 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
  • Intermodal containers
  • Lumber
  • Machinery & large objects
  • Metal materials
  • Vehicles
  • Utility tools, parts & equipment
  • Paper products

Truck Types

  • Dry van
  • Reefer
  • Flatbed
  • Box truck
  • Auto carrier
  • Hopper bottom
  • Lowboy
  • Power only
  • Tanker
  • Last-mile delivery
  • Lift-gate
  • Cross-border
  • Drayage

Smith Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 602541) is a reputable trucking company that has been operating since 2015 in Michigan. They specialize in carrying a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, construction materials, dry bulk commodities, grain feed hay, lumber, large machinery, and motor vehicles. Their fleet includes dry vans, tankers, hoppers, and lowboys, demonstrating versatility in handling various shipping needs.

Smith Trucking offers dedicated routes and regional driving opportunities, making them an attractive choice for business owners requiring reliable and consistent shipping services. They provide essential commercial support, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan, per diem payments, paid time off, and ongoing training and development programs. Their commitment to driver satisfaction is evident with benefits like guaranteed home time, truck lease purchase programs, direct deposit, and referral bonuses. With a safety rating of “Satisfactory,” Smith Trucking ensures your cargo is in capable hands.

Get Quote

Safety

  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 2.07
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.85
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0

More Info

  • Routes: interstate
  • Drivers: 24
  • Revenue: $111
  • Miles driven: 1,612,701

How Safety Ratings Work in Michigan

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA’s) 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 Michigan Tanker Trucking Company for Your Shipments

A reputable Tanker trucking company is essential for safely transporting liquids or hazardous materials for your manufacturing company, agricultural business, or chemical distribution center in Michigan.

Here are some important factors to consider:

  • Tank type and capacity: Choose a Michigancompany with the appropriate Tanker types for your specific cargo, whether it’s for chemicals, food-grade liquids, or petroleum products.
  • Safety and compliance: Look for Tanker carriers with strong FMCSA safety scores, particularly in terms of low hazardous materials violations and crashes. Make sure they also have a positive record of vehicle maintenance. A well-maintained fleet reduces the risk of leaks, spills, or breakdowns, which is particularly important when transporting chemicals or flammable materials.
  • Equipment options: Some liquids require specialized Tanker trucks, such as pressurized or insulated tanks.
  • Environmental and spill-prevention practices: Using a Michigan carrier committed to environmental safety practices will likely lower the risk of spills and ensure responsible handling of hazardous materials.
  • Experienced drivers: Certified drivers are essential for handling complex Tanker loads, especially when transporting sensitive or hazardous materials.
  • Insurance: Verify that the carrier has robust insurance coverage, especially if you’re transporting high-value or hazardous liquids.
  • Customer support: Reliable customer service is particularly important when you are shipping specialized or hazardous shipments. Find a Tanker carrier in Michigan with real-time tracking tools and a designated logistics support team.

FAQs: Michigan Tanker Trucking Companies

What is Tanker shipping, and when is it necessary for businesses in Michigan?

Tanker shipping is the transport of liquids, gasses, or bulk chemicals using specialized trucks that maintain safety and containment standards. For businesses in Michigan, tanker shipping is essential for safely moving substances like fuels, food-grade liquids, or industrial chemicals that require secure, leak-proof transportation to prevent contamination and ensure regulatory compliance.

What safety considerations are involved in Tanker shipping?

The safety considerations involved in Tanker shipping include strict compliance with regulations on handling, loading, and transporting hazardous materials to prevent spills and leaks. Michigan businesses that ship chemicals or flammable substances must work with carriers that follow FMCSA hazardous materials guidelines. Proper driver training, equipment maintenance, and cargo containment are also crucial for safe and secure tanker transportation.

What factors should you consider when hiring a Tanker trucking company in Michigan?

When hiring a Tanker trucking company, Michigan businesses should consider the provider’s experience with specific cargo types, such as food-grade, chemical, or fuel transport. Companies with well-maintained fleets and experienced, certified drivers ensure safe handling and compliance with regulations.


Mike Marshall