Selecting an LTL (Less-than-Truckload) carrier that offers superior service can significantly enhance your logistics operations. The following carriers have distinguished themselves through industry accolades, performance metrics, and customer satisfaction in 2024:
1. Daylight Transport
Founded in 1977, Daylight Transport secured the top position in the Mastio & Co.’s 2024 value and loyalty survey, based on feedback from over 1,600 shippers. Known for its speed and reliability, Daylight Transport excels in expedited services and boasts one of the lowest damage rates in the industry. Their efficiency and customer-first approach have earned them top honors this year.
- Pricing: Known for offering competitive rates, especially on expedited shipments, with prices often slightly below industry averages.
- Claims Reputation: Boasts one of the lowest claims rates in the industry, making them highly reliable for damage-free deliveries.
2. Old Dominion Freight Line
Founded in 1934, Old Dominion Freight Line unsurprisingly ranked as the top national LTL carrier in the 2024 FreightWaves survey. They achieved a remarkable 99% on-time delivery rate and 99.7% claim-free service. With numerous awards, including the Quest for Quality Award in the LTL sector, Old Dominion is a leader in reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Pricing: Old Dominion’s rates are considered premium, but their higher cost is justified by their exceptional service quality.
- Claims Reputation: Their 99.7% claim-free rate places them as one of the most trusted carriers for damage-free shipments.
3. Estes Express Lines
Founded in 1931, Estes Express Lines continues to rank among the top LTL carriers, earning recognition for its comprehensive freight services and outstanding safety record. With over 90 years in the industry, Estes prides itself on its 98% on-time delivery rate and a claims ratio among the lowest in the market. Their excellence in service has garnered them several industry awards, including repeated wins in the Logistics Management Quest for Quality Awards.
- Pricing: Estes offers competitive pricing with moderate rates, making them an affordable option without sacrificing service.
- Claims Reputation: Known for a low claims ratio, Estes consistently ranks among the best for resolving claims quickly and fairly
4. XPO Logistics
Founded in 2000, XPO Logistics, a global leader, ranks high due to its advanced technology and comprehensive service offerings. In 2024, XPO’s investment in real-time tracking and data-driven logistics earned it a top spot in performance rankings. XPO handles 4.6 billion shipments annually and provides 99% U.S. ZIP code coverage, making it a major player in the LTL industry. Their focus on technology has also won them multiple innovation awards.
- Pricing: XPO’s pricing is competitive for larger shippers, offering volume-based discounts that can be significantly lower than industry averages.
- Claims Reputation: XPO has a solid reputation for minimizing claims, with strong technological support to track and manage shipments.
5. Saia Inc.
Founded in 1924, Saia is recognized for its consistent performance and safety record, boasting a 97% on-time delivery rate and one of the industry’s lowest claims ratios. Saia has received accolades such as the Mastio Quality Award, placing it among the top 5 in service excellence this year. They continue to be a trusted name for shippers who prioritize reliability.
- Pricing: Their pricing is generally in line with industry averages, with some regional discounts available, particularly in the southeastern U.S.
- Claims Reputation: Saia is highly regarded for its efficient claims resolution process, earning them repeat business from satisfied customers.
6. ABF Freight
Founded in 1923, ABF Freight remains a strong contender in the LTL space, known for its extensive network and focus on long-haul efficiency. Ranked seventh by revenue in the 2024 Transport Topics report, ABF Freight has won numerous industry awards, including the Safety Excellence Award for its outstanding safety performance. Their investments in fleet technology and driver training have solidified their position as a top-tier LTL provider.
- Pricing: ABF’s pricing is competitive for long-haul and specialized shipments, offering rates that are generally lower than industry averages.
- Claims Reputation: ABF is praised for its low claims rate and quick resolution times, making it a reliable choice for complex shipping needs.
7. R+L Carriers
Founded in 1965, R+L Carriers, with its extensive national network, has risen in the rankings thanks to its exceptional customer service and claims management. Known for its flexibility, R+L Carriers is often praised for its ability to handle unique freight needs. They hold several certifications, including the SmartWay Partner Certification, for their commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
- Pricing: Offers some of the most competitive rates in the industry, especially for regional shipments.
- Claims Reputation: R+L has a strong reputation for low damage rates and quick claims resolution, making it a top choice for sensitive shipments.
8. Southeastern Freight Lines
Founded in 1950, Southeastern Freight Lines has consistently ranked in the top 10 due to its stellar next-day delivery services and 99.35% on-time rate. Having received over 500 quality awards, including recognition from Mastio & Co., Southeastern excels in regional coverage and customer service. Their specialized services and operational excellence make them a top choice in the southeastern U.S.
- Pricing: Southeastern’s pricing is on par with industry averages, though they offer excellent value for next-day services.
- Claims Reputation: With over 500 quality awards, Southeastern is known for a very low claims ratio and excellent customer service.
9. Averitt Express
Founded in 1969, Averitt Express continues to provide top-notch LTL services with a strong emphasis on reliability and customer satisfaction. Averitt boasts a 98% on-time delivery rate and less than 0.3% claims ratio. In addition, they have been recognized for their commitment to sustainability, holding the SmartWay Certification for their eco-friendly operations.
- Pricing: Averitt’s rates are competitive and often lower than industry averages, particularly for temperature-controlled and expedited services.
- Claims Reputation: Their low claims ratio is a testament to their careful handling of goods, making them a top choice for sensitive shipments
10. Central Transport
Founded in 1932, Central Transport is known for its technological innovations and wide national network. They were ranked 11th by revenue in the Transport Topics 2024 report, and their recent investments in digital tracking systems have improved service visibility and operational efficiency. Central Transport remains a cost-effective and reliable choice for LTL shipping.
- Pricing: Known for offering cost-effective rates, Central Transport’s prices are generally below industry averages, especially for digital-first customers.
- Claims Reputation: While their pricing is competitive, they also maintain a solid reputation for resolving claims quickly and efficiently
How Our Company Stands Out:
At BHX Logistics, we are a member of the GlobalTranz LTL Network, offering access to all the top-performing carriers listed above, including 70 more carriers. GlobalTranz is the second-largest LTL network in the U.S. With over $4.5 billion in volume, we negotiate top-tier rates while ensuring you benefit from the best service and reliability in the industry. As a family-owned business, BHX builds long-term relationships with a focus on transparency and commitment to our customers’ success.