For truck drivers, picking the right flatbed trucking company is an important decision that reflects on how successful or rather peaceful their hauling job will be. With so many options out there, making quick choices can bring unexpected challenges. Especially when dealing with flatbed shipments, finding experienced and trustworthy partners becomes important. As we enter 2024, a year with new challenges in trucking, our choice of flatbed trucking company matters more than before. There are many good options in the United States, but choosing the right one is important if you want to excel in your trucking career.

In this article, we will help you by listing the top 13 flatbed trucking companies in 2024 based on our personal research, reviews and more.

The Best 13 Flatbed Trucking Companies in 2024

Flatbed trucking companies are super important for moving your goods from point A to B. They're experts at carrying big, heavy, and odd-shaped goods. As we go into 2024, it's good to know which flatbed trucking companies are doing a great job so you can make the right decision to choose which company to work for. 

Let’s take a closer look at this list of top 13 companies known for being reliable, safe, and good with their employees.

1. Road Legends

Formerly known as MMJ Transportation Inc., Road Legends is a family-owned business known for its excellence and precision in transporting goods. Having said that, they have a range of trucks including flatbed trucks (that they also lease out to owner-operators). Road Legends uses flatbed trucks to move a variety of goods, such as dry bulk commodities, building materials, logs, poles, construction materials, general freight, and more. 

What sets them apart?

Road Legends is known for treating their truck drivers as family members and offering multiple benefits that set them apart from others. Their primary focus is building a safety culture, proper training, high-end and new-model trucks, and exceptional customer service for clients and employees. Choosing Road Legends as your flatbed trucking company to work with means going for reliability, professionalism, and commitment to delivering excellence towards their employees and customers. 

Pros:

• Modern fleet with up-to-date technology

• Diverse cargo opportunities to transport goods

• Known for exceptional benefits and treatment towards truck drivers

Cons:

• Variable working conditions based on cargo and location

2. Daseke, Inc.

Choosing Daseke, Inc. as your flatbed trucking partner opens the door to a giant in the industry. Daseke, Inc. has a great reputation globally and not just in the US. They have a range of trucks numbering around 4,500 trucks generally and 11,000 flatbed and specialized trailers. Their extensive million-square-foot industrial warehousing space adds to their capabilities, and a broad network of transportation partners means they can handle just about any project.

What sets them apart?

Daseke, Inc. is known for their international shipping services, making it a go-to for cross-border transportation—this means working with them will add value to your resume. Their specialization in handling defense-related cargo makes them a trusted partner for sensitive projects.

Pros:

• They operate in most parts of the US making them a good choice for all residents

• Earned a good reputation for quality and safety

• With thousands of trucks, you can choose the one that suits you the best

• Up-to-date equipment fleets 

Cons:

• Communication challenges can arise within the management

• Long hours away from home can be a problem for some truckers

3. Landstar System, Inc.

Landstar System, Inc. is a standout player known for its adaptability and specialized solutions for handling large cargo. This makes them an ideal choice for your trucking career if you want to excel in over-sized and heavy-haul transportation services. Their specialization extends to various trailers, including flatbeds, step-decks, double drops, extendables, multi-axles, steerables, and more.

What sets them apart?

Landstar System, Inc. offers a range of unique features that cater to different transportation needs thus you can choose the kind of trailer you want to drive. They're equipped for air freight, and they also handle international deliveries. With their diverse trailer fleet, they have the tools to manage various shipments for your diverse driver skills.

Pros:

• They provide rail intermodal solutions, adding a layer of versatility to their services and your resume

• Landstar is recognized for its reliability, which is vital in the transportation industry.

Cons:

• Even though they have a large fleet, you might be forced to drive the one that you don’t like

4. Anderson Trucking Service 

Choosing to work with Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) means opting for a company that prides itself on providing swift shipping solutions while catering to the logistics needs of businesses, regardless of their size. If you need speedy shipping, ATS is usually up to the task, offering a range of services such as dry van, flatbed, heavy haul, pad/blanket wrap shipping, breakbulk shipping, border-crossing freight services, and international service.

What sets them apart?

ATS has a diverse fleet of flatbeds, including 19-axle steerable trailers for handling heavy and large cargo. Advanced tracking services ensure your safety as a truck driver, and their equipment is modernized for efficiency.

Pros:

• ATS is known for its reliability, making them a dependable choice.

• They have specialized flatbeds for unique types of freight, allowing them to handle a variety of cargo.

Cons:

• ATS's fleet size is not the largest in the industry

5. PS Logistics 

PS Logistics operates a diverse fleet that excels in transporting unusual objects and equipment. They cater to various industries, from construction and oil and gas to steel, food, and moving. PS Logistics operates with a network of owner-operators and even offers a special lease-to-own option for drivers.

What sets them apart?

PS Logistics trailers are designed for flexible loading and enclosing freight, which is particularly useful for diverse cargo types. They provide bulk hauling services and built-in contingencies for all flatbed transports.

Pros:

• PS Logistics offers flatbed services across the entire country

• Their fleet includes a variety of trailers, allowing them to serve virtually every industry and handle different types of cargo

• They have specialized stretch trailers, temperature-controlled options, and more for versatile cargo transport

Cons:

• There may be potential communication challenges

6. Bennett Motor Express 

Bennett Motor Express is a flatbed trucking company with unique authorization to transport government-related freight. They provide services across the 48 states and offer reliable regional shipping solutions. Bennett Motor Express is recognized for its commitment to safe and dependable transportation and logistics services. They use automation to enhance their service and provide dedicated personal support.

What sets them apart?

Bennett Motor Express stands out for its government transportation services and expertise in wind energy transportation. They also facilitate international deliveries to Mexico, expanding their reach.

Pros:

• The company relies on experienced drivers who are well-versed in handling different types of cargo

• Bennett Motor Express offers services in various areas, ensuring they can meet a range of shipping needs

Cons:

• Not all of their fleets are equipped with modern equipment, potentially affecting efficiency and reliability

7. TMC Transportation

TMC Transportation is a mid-sized company and has built an excellent reputation in the industry. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, TMC's campus features state-of-the-art training and maintenance facilities. The company is employee-owned and offers an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).

What sets them apart?

TMC Transportation distinguishes itself with an advanced training facility, providing a platform for drivers to excel. They also engage in truck sales and provide a driver hospitality center. 

Pros:

• TMC Transportation has earned a great reputation, reflecting its commitment to high-quality service

• Their fleet is equipped with modern equipment, ensuring efficiency and reliability

Cons:

• TMC Transportation does not operate 19-axle trailers, Conestoga trailers, or stretch double-drop trailers

8. Mercer Transportation 

Mercer Transportation specializes in the efficient completion of regional deliveries. They are renowned for their quality service and a solid commitment to on-time delivery. As an irregular route carrier, Mercer Transportation covers all points across North America, from Mexico to Alaska and California to Newfoundland. However, it's important to note that Mercer Transportation does not handle freight involving odd objects or equipment that doesn't fit on a standard flatbed.

What sets them apart?

Mercer Transportation works with a network of independent contractors and independent sales agents, enhancing their flexibility and reach. They collaborate with diverse freight brokerages to broaden their service offerings.

Pros:

• They have a strong track record of reliable service

• Handles over 250,000 loads annually, showcasing a high volume of business, which can translate to consistent work opportunities for truck drivers

Cons:

• Their fleet has limitations when it comes to the types of flatbed trailers they can accommodate

9. Maverick USA 

Maverick USA is known for being extremely accommodating towards their drivers. They maintain one of the safest and most modern equipment fleets in the industry. Even in situations where time feels limited, Maverick USA can often schedule your freight at the last minute, ensuring timely delivery. Their shipping solutions encompass flatbed, dedicated, glass, marine, and brokerage services.

What sets them apart?

Maverick USA offers unique features that contribute to its reputation. They specialize in marine hauling and glass deliveries, reflecting their versatility in handling different types of cargo.

Pros:

• Maverick USA is equipped with the latest safety technology, ensuring secure transportation for truck drivers

• They have built a strong reputation in the industry, known for their dedication to service excellence

Cons:

• Their fleet has limitations for the variety of flatbed trailers available for different types of cargo

10. Melton Truck Lines

Melton Truck Lines is a well-established company and has built a strong reputation with their drivers over the years. Melton Truck Lines specializes in providing tailored solutions for specific flatbed trucking needs. 

What sets them apart?

Melton Truck Lines provides a $2,500 experienced driver supplemental pay and a $2,500 student driver supplemental pay, demonstrating their commitment to driver support and incentives.

Pros:

• With over 65 years in the industry, Melton Truck Lines brings a wealth of experience to their services

• They offer flatbed deliveries to both Canada and Mexico, expanding their reach

Cons:

• Their fleet may have limitations to the availability of flatbed trucks and trailer types available for different cargo needs.

11. United Vision Logistics

United Vision Logistics is a great flatbed trucking company to work with. They have a diverse and modern fleet, which includes extendable trailers, multi-axles, double drops, lowboys, steerables, winch trucks, gin pole trucks, perimeter trailers, and customized cranes. These features make them highly adaptable for various cargo needs.

What sets them apart?

United Vision Logistics distinguishes itself in the world of transportation with its remarkable fleet of trailers suitable for a wide range of cargo. What sets them apart is possessing a rare telescopic 9-axle trailer in the flatbed trucking industry. Beyond mere transportation, they offer project management services, delivering comprehensive shipping solutions to their customers

Pros:

• United Vision Logistics boasts many trailers, including extendable trailers, multi-axles, double drops, lowboys, steerables, winch trucks, gin pole trucks, perimeter trailers, and customized cranes. This extensive range makes them highly adaptable for transporting different types of cargo

• They are well-equipped to handle peculiar items, like unique construction equipment, showcasing their versatility 

Cons:

• With a vast network of more than 30,000 partner carriers, communication and coordination can sometimes be challenging

12. CRST Malone

CRST Malone, founded in 1955, is a trusted transportation company that operates across the United States. With over 100 field offices and a fleet of more than 1,600 trucks, they offer various solutions, from regular transit to time-sensitive delivery and coast-to-coast expeditions. As an independent contractor, CRST Malone helps owner-operators increase their earnings, reduce transportation costs, and enhance service quality through dedicated fleet operations.

What sets them apart?

They employ efficient electronic data interchange for seamless data exchange and communication between team members. Additionally, their real-time load tracking, facilitated through satellite technology, ensures transparency throughout the transportation process. 

Pros:

• CRST Malone provides a wide range of services, making them a go-to choice for various transportation needs

• Their expertise in hauling specialized cargo types sets them apart in the industry

Cons:

• CRST Malone's extensive network and diverse services may not be the ideal choice for highly specialized or oversized cargo that requires very specific handling

13. ACI Motor Freight Inc.

ACI Motor Freight Inc., established in 1980, primarily serves Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas, focusing on regional delivery and transportation services. They excel in overnight delivery, liftgate pickup, customs bonded services, vendor consolidation, and hazardous material transportation. ACI Motor Freight also offers weekend and holiday service, cross-dock loading, warehousing, storage equipment, GPS tracking, and detailed reporting and analysis.

What sets them apart?

ACI Motor Freight specializes in efficient overnight less-than-truckload (LTL) deliveries, making them a reliable choice for time-sensitive shipments. They accommodate early AM and weekend delivery requirements, providing flexibility for customers. Their expertise in handling hazardous materials is a crucial special feature, ensuring safe transportation.

Pros: 

• Their wide range of services, including weekend deliveries, cross-docking, warehousing, GPS tracking, and detailed reporting, covers various truck driver requirements

• The company's small yet detail-oriented team prioritizes drivers needs

Cons:

• The company primarily serves a specific region, which may not suit some truckers with broader geographical needs

• Their smaller size may impact their capacity to handle larger-scale transportation requirements

Choosing the Right Flatbed Trucking Company

Are you ready to make a choice? When it comes to picking the right trucking company for you, don't just rely on what people say. You need to do your own research to find the company that fits your needs. Here are some things to think about:

• Pay and payment: Does the company pay you well so you can reach your financial goals?

• Equipment: Do they have the right trailers for the job, and do they take good care of their trucks and trailers?

• Size and stability: How big is the company, and does it seem like they'll be around for a long time?

• Benefits: Do they offer good benefits, like health insurance and home time?

• Training: Do they train new drivers and provide ongoing training to help you get better at your job?

Make a list of what matters most to you. Look at the company's website, talk to their drivers, and ask lots of questions. 

Make A Wise Choice 

To sum it up, picking the right flatbed trucking company is a big deal for truck drivers. As we move towards the end of the 13 flatbed trucking companies, each company has its strengths and weaknesses, which means there's something for everyone. Whether you like staying close to home, going on long trips, or dealing with special cargo, you can find a company that suits your needs.

What's important is to think about what matters most to you. By understanding what each company offers, you can make a smart choice that fits you. So, do your research, think it through, and good luck.

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