Looking for the top 20 freight companies? Check out our list of leading truckload freight companies with website links for your business needs.
Are you looking for the top freight companies in the industry? With the plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your business needs.
In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about freight companies, including a list of the top 10 freight forwarders, how they were ranked, and a breakdown of full truckload vs less-than-truckload. We will also include the top 10 LTL and top 20 truckload freight companies with their website links for easy reference. Let’s dive in!
- What Exactly is a Freight Company?
- Is a Broker the Same Thing as a Carrier?
- Full Truckload vs Less-Than-Truckload
- List of Top 10 Freight Forwarders
- How Were These Forwarders Ranked?
- How to Rank the Best Freight Forwarding Services for Your Business
- Top 10 LTL Freight Companies & Their Website Links
- Top 20 Truckload Freight Companies & their website links
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Exactly is a Freight Company?
A freight company is a service provider that specializes in the transportation of goods from one location to another. These companies can offer a variety of transportation modes, including air, sea, rail, and road.
A freight company is a business that specializes in the transportation of goods. Freight companies may offer a variety of shipping services, such as ground, air, and sea transportation. These companies may also provide additional services, such as customs clearance and warehousing.
How Does a Freight Company Work?
Freight companies operate by receiving shipments from businesses and transporting them to their intended destinations. The process typically begins with a business contacting a freight company to request a shipping quote. The freight company will then provide an estimate based on the size, weight, and destination of the shipment.
Once the business agrees to the shipping quote, the freight company will arrange for the shipment to be picked up from the business location. From there, the shipment will be transported to the freight company’s distribution center, where it will be sorted and loaded onto a truck or other mode of transportation.
The freight company will then transport the shipment to its final destination, either through its own transportation network or by contracting with other shipping companies. The shipment will be tracked throughout the shipping process to ensure it arrives at its destination on time and in good condition.
Why Use a Freight Company?
Freight companies provide businesses with a number of benefits when it comes to shipping goods. Some of the key advantages of using a freight company include:
- Expertise: Freight companies are experts in the transportation of goods and have a deep understanding of the logistics involved in shipping.
- Efficiency: Freight companies have established transportation networks and processes that allow them to efficiently move goods from one location to another.
- Cost-Effective: Freight companies can often provide businesses with lower shipping rates than they would be able to obtain on their own due to their transportation volume and bargaining power.
- Customization: Freight companies can provide businesses with a range of shipping options to meet their specific needs, including expedited shipping, specialized equipment, and temperature-controlled shipping.
| Reasons to Use a Freight Company | Description |
|---|---|
| Global Reach | Freight companies have established networks to reach customers worldwide. |
| Cost-Effective | Freight companies offer cost-effective shipping options for businesses of all sizes. |
| Expertise | Freight companies have industry expertise and knowledge to navigate complex shipping regulations. |
| Time-Saving | Freight companies handle all shipping and logistics, saving businesses valuable time. |
| Risk Management | Freight companies offer insurance and risk management services to protect businesses from losses. |
Conclusion
A freight company is a valuable resource for businesses looking to ship goods. With their expertise, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customization options, freight companies can help businesses streamline their shipping processes and get their products to their destinations on time and in good condition.
Is a Broker the Same Thing as a Carrier?
No, a freight broker is not the same thing as a carrier. A broker acts as a middleman between shippers and carriers and helps to match a shipper’s transportation needs with a carrier’s services. A carrier is responsible for physically transporting the goods and owns the equipment used for transportation.
Full Truckload vs Less-Than-Truckload
Full truckload (FTL) refers to the transportation of goods that require a full truckload to ship. Less-than-truckload (LTL) refers to the transportation of goods that do not require a full truckload and are typically consolidated with other shippers’ goods.
List of Top 10 Freight Forwarders
| Freight Forwarder | Website | Description |
|---|---|---|
| DHL Supply Chain | https://www.dhl.com/ | Global logistics provider offering air, ocean, and road freight services, as well as contract logistics and supply chain solutions. |
| Kuehne + Nagel | https://www.kuehne-nagel.com/ | Offers a range of logistics services including sea, air, and overland freight, as well as contract logistics solutions. |
| DB Schenker | https://www.dbschenker.com/ | Provides integrated logistics solutions for air, ocean, and land transport, as well as contract logistics and supply chain management. |
| Expeditors | https://www.expeditors.com/ | Offers global logistics services including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and project logistics. |
| Panalpina | https://www.panalpina.com/ | Provides supply chain solutions including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and warehousing and distribution services. |
| DSV | https://www.dsv.com/ | Global logistics company offering air and sea freight, as well as contract logistics and road transport services. |
| UPS Supply Chain Solutions | https://www.ups.com/us/en/supply-chain-solutions.page | Provides a range of logistics services including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and warehousing and distribution. |
| Nippon Express | https://www.nipponexpress.com/ | Japanese logistics company offering air and ocean freight, land transport, and logistics solutions. |
| CEVA Logistics | https://www.cevalogistics.com/ | Provides end-to-end logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and ground transport. |
| Agility | https://www.agility.com/en/homepage/ | Offers integrated logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and project logistics. |
| Sinotrans | http://www.sinotrans.com/ | Chinese logistics company offering air and ocean freight, as well as road and rail transport services. |
| Geodis | https://geodis.com/ | Provides a range of logistics services including air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and supply chain management. |
| C.H. Robinson | https://www.chrobinson.com/ | Offers global logistics services including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and project logistics. |
| Hellmann Worldwide Logistics | https://www.hellmann.com/en/global-home/ | Provides logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, road transport, and contract logistics. |
| Yusen Logistics | https://www.yusen-logistics.com/en/ | Offers air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and transport services for a range of industries. |
| Bolloré Logistics | https://www.bollore-logistics.com/ | Provides logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and contract logistics services. |
| Damco | https://www.damco.com/en | Offers a range of logistics services including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, and supply chain management. |
| Kerry Logistics | https://www.kerrylogistics.com/ | Provides logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and supply chain management. |
| Ceva | https://www.cevalogistics.com/ | Provides end-to-end logistics solutions including air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and ground transport. |
| Sankyu | https://www.sankyu.co.jp/english/ | Japanese logistics company offering air and ocean freight, land transport, and logistics solutions. |
How Were These Forwarders Ranked?
These forwarders were ranked based on various factors, including revenue, global presence, and customer satisfaction ratings.
As a business owner, choosing a reliable freight forwarder can be a daunting task. With so many options available, how can you be sure that you’re selecting the best one for your needs? One way to simplify the process is to look at industry rankings.
So, how are freight forwarders ranked? There are several organizations that compile annual rankings based on various factors, such as revenue, shipment volume, and market share. Here are a few examples:
1. Armstrong & Associates
Armstrong & Associates is a consulting firm that specializes in logistics and supply chain management. They publish an annual list of the top 25 global freight forwarders, based on their net revenue for the previous year. The rankings are based on data obtained through surveys, financial reports, and other sources.
2. Transport Topics
Transport Topics is a news organization that covers the transportation industry. They publish an annual list of the top 50 global freight carriers, based on their revenue for the previous year. The rankings are based on data obtained through surveys and financial reports.
3. International Transport Forum
The International Transport Forum is an intergovernmental organization that focuses on transportation policy. They publish an annual report called “Transport Outlook”, which includes rankings of the top 30 global freight forwarders based on their market share.
4. Journal of Commerce
The Journal of Commerce is a news organization that covers the shipping and logistics industry. They publish an annual list of the top 40 global freight forwarders, based on their container volume for the previous year. The rankings are based on data obtained through surveys and financial reports.
It’s important to note that these rankings are just one factor to consider when selecting a freight forwarder. Other factors, such as their experience in your industry, their customer service, and their pricing, should also be taken into account.
In conclusion, rankings can be a useful tool when choosing a freight forwarder. By understanding how these rankings are compiled and what factors are considered, you can make an informed decision and find a partner that meets your needs.
How to Rank the Best Freight Forwarding Services for Your Business
When choosing the best freight forwarding services for your business, consider factors such as transportation modes, service areas, rates, and customer service. Conduct research, read reviews, and ask for referrals from trusted sources to make an informed decision.
Top 10 LTL Freight Companies & Their Website Links
| LTL Freight Company | Website Link | Description |
|---|---|---|
| FedEx Freight | https://www.fedex.com/en-us/home.html | Offers reliable LTL freight services with a nationwide network and a range of customizable options for businesses of all sizes. |
| XPO Logistics | https://www.xpo.com/ | A top-ranked LTL carrier with a comprehensive network of over 290 service centers and a range of technology-driven solutions. |
| UPS Freight | https://www.ups.com/us/en/services/freight.page | Provides reliable LTL freight services with a focus on flexibility, speed, and efficiency, backed by UPS’s global network. |
| Old Dominion Freight Line | https://www.odfl.com/ | A leading LTL carrier with a strong commitment to on-time delivery, quality customer service, and cutting-edge technology. |
| YRC Freight | https://yrc.com/ | Offers flexible LTL freight services with a range of transportation options, backed by a strong network of terminals and a fleet of modern equipment. |
| Saia LTL Freight | https://www.saia.com/ | Provides efficient and cost-effective LTL freight services with a focus on reliability, speed, and security. |
| Estes Express Lines | https://www.estes-express.com/ | Offers a wide range of LTL freight services, including guaranteed and expedited options, and a network of over 230 terminals across the US. |
| ABF Freight | https://www.abf.com/ | A reliable and flexible LTL carrier with a strong focus on customer service and a wide range of transportation options. |
| Central Transport | https://www.centraltransport.com/ | Provides LTL freight services with a focus on technology and innovation, including real-time tracking and visibility. |
| R+L Carriers | https://rlcarriers.com/ | A trusted LTL carrier with a nationwide network of service centers and a range of customizable freight solutions. |
| New Penn | https://www.newpenn.com/ | Offers reliable and flexible LTL freight services with a strong focus on technology and innovation, including a proprietary shipment tracking system. |
| Southeastern Freight Lines | https://www.sefl.com/ | Provides efficient and cost-effective LTL freight services with a strong emphasis on quality customer service and on-time delivery. |
| Holland | https://www.hollandregional.com/ | A reliable and flexible LTL carrier with a focus on technology, including real-time tracking and visibility for customers. |
| AAA Cooper Transportation | https://www.aaacooper.com/ | Offers comprehensive LTL freight services with a focus on flexibility and personalized solutions for businesses of all sizes. |
| Pitt Ohio | https://pittohio.com/ | Provides reliable and efficient LTL freight services with a strong emphasis on technology, including a proprietary shipment tracking system. |
| Dayton Freight | https://www.daytonfreight.com/ | A trusted LTL carrier with a focus on quality customer service and on-time delivery, backed by a network of over 60 service centers. |
| Averitt Express | https://www.averittexpress.com/ | Provides flexible and customized LTL freight services with a strong focus on technology and innovation, including real-time tracking and visibility. |
| Reddaway | https://www.reddawayregional.com/ | Offers a comprehensive range of LTL freight services with a strong emphasis on reliability, security, and speed. |
| Southeastern Freight Lines | https://www.sefl.com/ | Provides efficient and cost-effective LTL freight services with a strong emphasis on quality customer service and on-time delivery. |
| Ward Transport and Logistics | https://www.wardtlc.com/ | A trusted LTL carrier |
Top 20 Truckload Freight Companies & their website links
Truckload freight companies are an essential part of the supply chain industry. These companies are responsible for transporting goods across the country efficiently and safely. Here are the top 20 truckload freight companies and their website links:
| Company Name | Website Link | Description |
|---|---|---|
| XPO Logistics | https://www.xpo.com/ | Offers transportation and logistics services, including truckload and less-than-truckload transportation, intermodal services, and supply chain solutions. |
| J.B. Hunt | https://www.jbhunt.com/ | Provides transportation and logistics services across North America, including dedicated contract carriage, intermodal transportation, and truckload transportation. |
| Schneider National | https://www.schneider.com/ | Offers a range of transportation and logistics services, including truckload, intermodal, and specialized transportation, as well as supply chain management and brokerage services. |
| Werner Enterprises | https://www.werner.com/ | Provides transportation and logistics services, including truckload, intermodal, and logistics management services for customers in North America and Asia. |
| Swift Transportation | https://www.swifttrans.com/ | Offers a wide range of transportation services, including truckload, dedicated, and intermodal transportation, as well as logistics and brokerage services. |
| YRC Worldwide | https://yrcw.com/ | Provides a range of transportation and logistics services, including less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics solutions across North America. |
| C.H. Robinson | https://www.chrobinson.com/ | Offers a range of transportation and logistics services, including truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal transportation, as well as global air and ocean freight forwarding services. |
| Landstar System | https://www.landstar.com/ | Provides a range of transportation and logistics services, including truckload, less-than-truckload, and expedited transportation, as well as intermodal and international services. |
| Old Dominion Freight Line | https://www.odfl.com/ | Provides less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics services across North America, with a focus on regional and national coverage. |
| Crete Carrier | https://cretecarrier.com/ | Offers transportation and logistics services, including truckload, dedicated, and refrigerated transportation, as well as logistics and brokerage services. |
| Knight Transportation | https://www.knighttrans.com/ | Provides a range of transportation and logistics services, including truckload, intermodal, and dedicated transportation, as well as logistics management and brokerage services. |
| FedEx Freight | https://www.fedex.com/en-us/freight/home.html | Offers a range of less-than-truckload and other freight transportation services across North America and globally, with a focus on speed and reliability. |
| Conway | https://conway.com/ | Provides a range of transportation and logistics services, including truckload, less-than-truckload, and logistics solutions across North America and globally. |
| Estes Express Lines | https://www.estes-express.com/ | Offers less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics services across North America, with a focus on on-time service and reliability. |
| Saia | https://www.saia.com/ | Provides less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics services across North America, with a focus on regional and national coverage. |
| R+L Carriers | https://rlcarriers.com/ | Offers less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics services across North America, with a focus on on-time delivery and customer service. |
| ABF Freight | https://www.abf.com/ | Provides less-than-truckload, truckload, and logistics services across North America, with a focus on customizable solutions and customer service. |
| Averitt Express | https://www.averittexpress.com/ | Offers transportation and logistics services, including less-than-truckload, truckload, and dedicated |
These companies offer various services such as temperature-controlled transportation, intermodal, and cross-border shipping. When choosing a truckload freight company, it’s important to consider factors such as reliability, safety record, and customer service. By selecting one of these top 20 companies, you can be confident in the quality of service you’ll receive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the largest freight forwarder in the world?
DHL is the largest freight forwarder in the world, with a market share of 13.4% and a revenue of over $35 billion in 2020.
Which country is best for freight forwarding?
China is currently the world’s leading freight forwarder, accounting for 15% of global exports and having a well-developed logistics infrastructure.
What are the largest logistics transport companies?
The largest logistics transport companies include UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Maersk, which operate globally and have a wide range of logistics and transportation services.
What are freight vs logistics companies?
Freight companies are typically involved in the movement and transportation of goods, while logistics companies provide a wider range of services, including supply chain management, inventory management, and warehousing, in addition to transportation services.
