What Are Small Trucking Companies in the USA?
Small trucking companies in the USA are typically defined as carriers operating 20 or fewer trucks, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA, 2023). These businesses form the backbone of regional freight movement, representing approximately 91% of all registered motor carriers in the United States.
Industry Definition: The American Trucking Associations classifies small trucking companies as those with annual revenues under $27.5 million and fewer than 100 employees (ATA, 2023).
Why Choose Small Trucking Companies?
Small trucking companies offer distinct advantages in service flexibility and specialized expertise that larger fleets often cannot match. A 2023 study by Transport Topics revealed that shippers working with small carriers reported 28% higher satisfaction rates for specialized freight needs.
Key Benefits of Small Trucking Companies
- Personalized service: Direct access to decision-makers
- Niche specialization: Expertise in specific freight types (hazmat, refrigerated, etc.)
- Flexible scheduling: Ability to accommodate urgent shipments
- Regional knowledge: Deep understanding of local routes and regulations
Top Small Trucking Companies in the USA
The best small trucking companies combine reliability with specialized services, according to the 2024 Fleet Owner rankings. These carriers excel in specific market segments while maintaining exceptional safety records.
Notable Small Trucking Companies by Specialty
| Company | Headquarters | Specialization | Fleet Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marten Transport | Mondovi, WI | Refrigerated and expedited | 1,800 trucks |
| Boyd Bros. Transportation | Clayton, AL | Flatbed and specialized | 900 trucks |
| Dupre Logistics | Lafayette, LA | Energy and chemical transport | 600 trucks |
| PAM Transport | Tontitown, AR | Dry van and dedicated | 1,400 trucks |
How to Find Small Trucking Companies Hiring
Job seekers can connect with small trucking companies through multiple channels, including specialized job boards and industry associations. The Truckload Carriers Association reports that small fleets hired 15% more drivers in 2023 than larger carriers.
Best Job Search Resources
- Industry-specific boards: TruckersReport.com, CDLjobs.com
- Association listings: OOIDA (Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association)
- Regional job fairs: State trucking association events
- Direct outreach: Contacting local carriers via FMCSA’s SAFER System
Comprehensive List of Small Trucking Companies in the USA
Several authoritative sources maintain updated directories of small trucking companies across all 50 states. The Department of Transportation’s SAFER website provides the most complete registry of authorized carriers.
Top Sources for Company Directories
| Resource | Data Provided | Search Filters |
|---|---|---|
| FMCSA SAFER System | All active motor carriers | By state, fleet size, operating authority |
| Transportation Intermediaries Association | Vetted small carriers | By service area and equipment type |
| State Trucking Associations | Local carrier members | Regional and specialized carriers |
Naming Conventions in the Trucking Industry
Trucking company names often reflect their operational focus or geographic roots, with many incorporating industry terms like “logistics,” “transport,” or regional identifiers. Analysis of FMCSA data shows the most common naming patterns include:
Popular Naming Trends
- Geographic markers: “Midwest,” “Southern,” “Pacific”
- Service indicators: “Express,” “Dedicated,” “Specialized”
- Founder names: Family names combined with “Transport” or “Trucking”
- Values-based: “Reliable,” “Integrity,” “Premier”
The Vital Role of Small Trucking Companies
Small trucking companies move 72% of all less-than-truckload (LTL) freight in America, according to recent ATA research. These businesses are particularly crucial for:
- Serving rural communities and agricultural regions
- Providing final-mile delivery solutions
- Maintaining supply chain resilience during disruptions
- Offering entry points for new drivers and entrepreneurs
FAQs
What qualifies as a small trucking company?
In the U.S., small trucking companies are generally defined as those operating 20 or fewer trucks, though some classifications extend this to carriers with up to 100 employees or under $30 million in annual revenue.
How can I verify a small trucking company’s credentials?
Use the FMCSA’s SAFER System to check:
- Operating authority status
- Safety rating
- Insurance coverage
- Inspection history
What are the best states for small trucking companies?
Texas, California, and Florida have the highest concentration of small carriers due to:
- Strong regional economies
- Major port access
- Favorable tax structures
How do small trucking companies compete with large fleets?
Small carriers compete through:
- Niche specialization
- Personalized customer service
- Regional expertise
- Flexible operations
Further Reading
- American Trucking Associations – Industry reports
- FMCSA – Carrier data and regulations
- Truckload Carriers Association – Small fleet resources
- OOIDA – Owner-operator information
