Trucking Companies in Iowa
Iowa is home to a thriving trucking industry, with numerous companies providing transportation and logistics services across the state and beyond. From large national carriers to smaller regional operators, there is no shortage of options for businesses and individuals in need of reliable freight services.
Many of these trucking companies have been in business for several decades and have established themselves as reliable and trusted partners for businesses in Iowa and across the United States. Some of the top trucking companies in Iowa include Schuster Co., Gray Transportation, and Keane Thummel Trucking.
Key Players in Iowa’s Trucking Industry
Iowa’s trucking industry is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, providing jobs and transporting goods throughout the region. Here are some of the key players in the industry:
Schuster Co
One of the top freight companies in Iowa is Schuster Co., which has been serving the industry for over 60 years. Schuster is a highly regarded and widely recognized company, specializing in refrigerated trucking and product shipment. They have a reputation for providing exceptional service and maintaining a fleet of well-maintained trucks and equipment.
With a focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Schuster Co. offers a range of services including LTL and hazmat shipping.
TanTara Transportation
Another notable company is TanTara Transportation, a family-owned business that has been operating for over 40 years. TanTara prides itself on its commitment to the community, as well as its ability to provide customized solutions for each customer’s unique needs.
Sutton Transport, Inc.
Sutton Transport, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business that specializes in providing overnight LTL services to businesses throughout Iowa. The company was founded in 1979 and has since grown to become one of the largest trucking companies in the state.
Sutton Transport, Inc. prides itself on its commitment to safety and customer service. The company has a fleet of over 350 trucks and 1,200 trailers, and its drivers are among the best in the industry. Sutton Transport, Inc. has been recognized as one of the best trucking companies in Iowa by FreightWaves Ratings.
CRST International, Inc.
CRST International, Inc. is a Cedar Rapids-based trucking company that provides a wide range of transportation services, including flatbed, refrigerated, and dry van trucking. The company was founded in 1955 and has grown to become one of the largest privately held trucking companies in the country.
CRST International, Inc. has a fleet of over 4,500 trucks and 8,500 trailers, and its drivers are among the most experienced in the industry. The company is committed to safety and has implemented a number of programs to ensure that its drivers are well-trained and equipped to handle any situation.
Ruan Transportation
Ruan Transportation Management Systems is a Des Moines-based trucking company that provides a wide range of transportation services, including bulk, flatbed, and refrigerated trucking. The company was founded in 1932 and has grown to become one of the largest privately held trucking companies in the country.
Ruan Transportation Management Systems has a fleet of over 3,000 trucks and 7,500 trailers, and its drivers are among the best in the industry. The company is committed to safety and has implemented a number of programs to ensure that its drivers are well-trained and equipped to handle any situation. Ruan Transportation Management Systems has been recognized as one of the best trucking companies in Iowa by FreightWaves Ratings.
Decker Truck Line
Decker Truck Line is another leading trucking company in Iowa, with a reputation for meeting high customer expectations and retaining top-notch drivers. Based in Fort Dodge, Decker has been serving the industry since 1931 and has grown into a large-scale operation with state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on safety and professionalism.
Gray Transportation
Gray Transportation is a family-owned business that takes care of its employees and offers competitive pay for drivers interested in the freight hauling business. They serve 48 states and have a reputation for providing reliable and efficient transportation services.
Keane Thummel Trucking
Keane Thummel Trucking is another top company in Iowa, offering a wide range of transportation services, including refrigerated, heavy haul, tanker, and flatbed. They have a large fleet of trucks and equipment and are known for their commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.
Economic Impact of Iowa Trucking Companies
Trucking companies play a significant role in the Iowa economy. According to the Iowa Motor Truck Association, there are trucking companies located in all 99 counties in the state. These companies transport over 78% of the total manufactured tonnage in the state, which amounts to almost 125 million tons per year or 341,235 tons per day. Over 70% of all Iowa communities are served exclusively by trucks.
The trucking industry in Iowa provides a significant number of jobs, with over 78,000 people employed in the industry. This includes truck drivers, mechanics, dispatchers, and administrative staff. The industry also indirectly supports many other jobs in related industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, and retail.
Trucking in Iowa also contributes to the state’s tax revenue in a big way.
In 2020, the industry paid over $1.2 billion in state and federal taxes. This revenue helps to fund critical infrastructure projects, such as road repairs and bridge maintenance, which are essential for the safe and efficient operation of the trucking industry.
Moreover, the trucking industry in Iowa pays well, with an average annual salary of $80,000 for truck drivers. This is higher than the average salary for all occupations in the state. The industry also provides opportunities for career advancement, with many trucking companies offering training programs and opportunities for drivers to become owner-operators.
In conclusion, the trucking industry is a vital component of the Iowa economy, providing jobs, tax revenue, and essential transportation services. The industry’s impact extends beyond the transportation of goods, supporting many other industries and contributing to the state’s overall economic growth.
Regulations and Compliance for OTR Trucking In Iowa
Iowa trucking companies must comply with local Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations to operate successfully. The Iowa Department of Transportation provides a comprehensive Truck Information Guide to help trucking companies navigate the state’s laws and regulations.
U.S. DOT Number
Iowa trucking companies must have a U.S. DOT number if they operate vehicles that weigh more than 10,000 pounds or transport hazardous materials. The U.S. DOT number is a unique identifier that is used to track safety information and compliance with federal regulations. Companies can apply for a U.S. DOT number online through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System.
Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Iowa trucking companies must ensure that their vehicles meet FMCSA safety regulations. Vehicles must undergo regular inspections, including pre-trip and post-trip inspections, to ensure that they are in good working order. The Iowa DOT provides a Vehicle Inspection Requirements guide that outlines the requirements for different types of vehicles.
Hazardous Materials
Trucking companies that transport hazardous materials must comply with additional regulations. The FMCSA requires that companies have a hazardous materials safety permit and follow strict guidelines for handling and transporting hazardous materials. The Iowa DOT provides a Hazardous Materials guide that outlines the requirements for transporting hazardous materials in Iowa.
Medical Certification Requirements
Iowa trucking companies must ensure that their drivers meet FMCSA medical certification requirements. Drivers must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner. The Iowa DOT provides a Medical Certification Requirements guide that outlines the requirements for medical certification.
Farm Drivers and Vehicles
Iowa transport companies that operate farm vehicles must comply with additional regulations. The FMCSA provides exemptions for certain farm vehicles and drivers, but companies must still ensure that their vehicles and drivers meet safety requirements. The Iowa DOT provides a Farm Drivers and Vehicles guide that outlines the requirements for farm vehicles and drivers in Iowa.
Future Trends in Iowa’s Trucking Industry
The trucking industry in Iowa is expected to continue experiencing growth in the coming years. Here are some of the future trends that are likely to shape the industry:
#1 – Increased Use of Technology
Technology is rapidly changing the trucking industry, and Iowa companies are no exception. Many companies are adopting new technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and compliance. For example, Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are now mandatory for all commercial vehicles in the United States. ELDs automate the process of recording a driver’s hours of service, making it easier for companies to comply with regulations and for drivers to manage their schedules.
Additionally, companies are using telematics systems to monitor vehicle performance, track fuel consumption, and improve driver safety. These systems provide real-time data that can help companies optimize their operations and reduce costs.
#2 – Driver Shortages
Driver shortages continue to be a challenge for the trucking industry in Iowa and across the United States. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) estimates that the industry will need to hire nearly 1.1 million new drivers over the next decade to keep up with demand.
To address this issue, many companies are offering higher pay, better benefits, and more flexible schedules to attract and retain drivers. Additionally, some companies are investing in training programs to help new drivers obtain the necessary skills and certifications.
#3 – Environmental Sustainability
Environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important for companies in all industries, including trucking. Many Iowa trucking companies are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their environmental impact. For example, some companies are investing in alternative fuels, such as natural gas and electric power, to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
Other companies are implementing strategies to reduce waste and improve recycling. These efforts not only benefit the environment but can also help companies reduce costs and improve their bottom line.
Overall, the future of Iowa’s trucking industry looks promising, but companies will need to continue adapting to new trends and challenges to remain competitive. By embracing new technologies, addressing driver shortages, and prioritizing environmental sustainability, Iowa trucking companies can position themselves for success in the years ahead.
What are the Average Salaries for Truck Drivers in Iowa?
Truck driving is a popular profession in Iowa, and the state is home to many trucking companies that offer competitive salaries to their drivers. We have found a wide range of salaries for drivers in the state.
The average salary for a truck driver in Iowa is $81,463 per year, according to Indeed. This figure is higher than the national average of $60,175 per year. However, the average salary can vary depending on the company, location, and experience level of the driver.
According to Salary.com, the average salary for a truck driver in Iowa is $41,391 as of May 25, 2023. However, this figure can range from $36,433 to $47,051 depending on various factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years of experience.
Glassdoor estimates that the total pay for a truck driver in Iowa is $78,299 per year, with an average salary of $74,771 per year. This figure includes the estimated additional pay of $3,528 per year. The estimated total pay is based on salaries collected from users and represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from the proprietary Total Pay Estimate model.
In conclusion, the average salary for a truck driver in Iowa is higher than the national average, and it can vary depending on various factors such as the company, location, and experience level. It’s important for truck drivers to research different companies and consider the type of trucking they want to do to determine their potential salary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to become a truck driver in Iowa?
To become a truck driver in Iowa, you must meet certain requirements. First, you must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state and 21 years old to drive across state lines. You must also have a valid Iowa driver’s license and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) issued by the state.
To obtain a CDL, you must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test. You must also pass a medical examination and meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) physical requirements. Additionally, you must have a clean driving record and pass a background check.
Once you have obtained your CDL, you must continue to meet certain requirements to maintain your license. These include passing regular medical exams, complying with hours-of-service regulations, and adhering to all traffic laws and regulations.