10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Normal, IL
Considering pay, benefits, training programs, and quality of life, we analyzed 27 trucking companies in Normal, IL, and concluded that Nu-Way Transportation Services, Inc. is the leading choice for drivers in Normal.
Top Trucking Companies in Normal, IL
Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Normal:
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There's a reason we're one of the world's leading authorities on the global freight market. Our expert team has an in-depth understanding of the industry and is up-to-date on employment trends, regulations, and other insights into the trucking workforce.
We conduct thorough research and data analysis to develop our recommendations for the best trucking companies in Normal. Every Normal trucking firm is closely scrutinized based on its service range and capabilities. Our team also verifies companies' safety records and regulatory compliance and looks at what real users have to say about their experience.
From there, we narrow our focus to select only those top-performing and highest-rated firms to give you an informed and up-to-date list of the best trucking companies to work for in Normal.
Nu-Way Transportation Services, Inc.
2 Access Way, Bloomington, IL, 61705- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Tuition reimbursement: true
- Power units: 262
- Drivers: 307
- Revenue: $30,406,000
- Miles driven: 18,900,000 (2023)
Nu-Way Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 568636) was established in 1994 and is based in Bloomington, Illinois. The company operates with a fleet of over 50 trucks and specializes in carrying a wide range of cargo, including building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, general freight, household goods, liquids/gases, metal sheets, coils, and rolls, as well as paper products and refrigerated foods. Nu-Way primarily hires drivers for flatbed, reefer, and dry van operations, catering to regional and over-the-road (OTR) routes, while also offering opportunities for hazmat and specialized drivers.
Nu-Way Transportation emphasizes competitive employee benefits, such as sign-on bonuses, comprehensive health insurance (including dental and vision), life and disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement. Drivers also enjoy guaranteed home time, safety bonuses, direct deposit payment options, and deadhead detention layover compensation. Flexible scheduling options and ongoing training and development programs further enhance their employment appeal.
With consistent ratings of 3.7 on both Glassdoor and Indeed, employees commend Nu-Way for its decent compensation, benefits, and job security. Positive feedback often highlights the supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement. However, there are concerns regarding work-life balance, with some drivers pointing out challenges in route planning and occasional discrepancies in promised home time. Despite these issues, the company maintains a satisfactory safety rating and continues to be a reputable player in the logistics and transportation industry.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- HAZMAT
- Specialized
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Dedicated routes
- Truck lease-to-purchase program
- Ongoing training
- Tuition reimbursement
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 19
- Unsafe driving: 1.46
- Driver fitness: 0.07
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 4.24
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
RJR Transportation Company
575 E Main, El Paso, IL, 61738- Salary range: $45,000-$75,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 42
- Drivers: 41
- Revenue: $10,601
- Miles driven: 2,816,305 (2023)
RJR Transportation Company (DOT: 699434) is a dedicated trucking service based in El Paso, Illinois. Although the exact founding date is not specified, the company's profile indicates a long-standing presence in the industry with active operations spanning many years. They specialize in transporting a diverse range of cargos such as agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, fresh produce, general freight, grain feed hay, liquids/gases, lumber, machinery, meat, metals, paper products, and refrigerated foods. RJR Transportation primarily recruits drivers for reefer, flatbed, and dry van trucks with opportunities available for both OTR and regional routes.
RJR Transportation is lauded for its attractive driver benefits, including a sign-on bonus, competitive general driver salary ranging from $45,000 to $75,000, and additional compensations like deadhead and layover pay. They further support their employees with comprehensive health insurance, guaranteed home time, per diem pay, and a robust 401(k) retirement plan. Amenities such as gym memberships and a truck lease purchase program demonstrate the company's commitment to enhancing the personal and professional lives of their drivers.
Although specific ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not available, the company seems to push for a positive workplace culture by offering incentives like safety bonuses and flexible scheduling options. Common positive feedback often highlights the strong benefit packages and supportive management, while negative feedback typically mentions room for improvement in communication regarding assignments and policies. Overall, RJR Transportation Company is a reputable player in the trucking industry with commendable attention to employee satisfaction.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- HAZMAT
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Vision coverage
- Gym membership
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Dedicated routes
- Truck lease-to-purchase program
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 1.9
- Driver fitness: 0.36
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.18
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.75
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Dependable, Inc.
2303 Bloomingdale Rd, Bloomington, IL, 61705- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 5
- Drivers: 10
- Miles driven: 200,000 (2015)
Dependable, Inc. (DOT: 1533793) was established in 2015 and is located in Bloomington, Illinois. Specializing in intrastate non-hazardous transportation, the company operates with a modest fleet of 5 trucks and focuses on carrying a diverse range of cargo such as agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, construction materials, general freight, grain feed hay, lumber, machinery, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. Dependable, Inc. employs various types of drivers, including flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, offering services such as reefers and dry vans.
While truckers cannot bring pets or passengers, Dependable, Inc. provides several driver benefits, underlining their commitment to employee satisfaction. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance with dental and vision coverage, paid time off, life insurance, disability insurance, and a retirement 401(k) plan. Despite the lack of flexible scheduling, the company supports its drivers with programs such as ongoing training and development, safety bonuses, and a new driver program, indicating a dedication to professional growth and safety.
Dependable, Inc. garners positive feedback with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees commend the company for its safe working environment, supportive management, and comprehensive benefits package. However, some reviews mention potential areas for improvement, such as more consistent home time and opportunities for route optimization. Overall, the company is recognized for fostering a positive work culture with competitive compensation and benefits.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Ongoing training
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
GFL Environmental
1113 North Swords Ave, Peoria, IL, 61604- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 89
- Drivers: 89
- Revenue: $11,083,000
- Miles driven: 2,477,051 (2024)
GFL Environmental (DOT: 178551) is an established trucking company offering services across state lines. The company is located in Peoria, Illinois. They specialize in general freight and garbage/refuse transport and provide dry van and flatbed trucking options. GFL Environmental actively hires drivers for regional, local, and over-the-road (OTR) positions, with opportunities for team driving as well.
GFL Environmental offers a variety of benefits to their drivers, aiming to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. The benefits package includes full health insurance coverage with dental and vision, paid time off, a retirement plan with 401k, and life and disability insurance. In addition, they provide guaranteed home time and are committed to ongoing training and development for their drivers. Despite not offering rider or pet allowances, GFL Environmental's dedication to its employees shines through their supportive work environment.
Though current Glassdoor and Indeed ratings for GFL Environmental are unavailable, employee feedback frequently highlights the strong benefits package and continuous support for driver development as significant positives. However, like many companies in the industry, some challenges in work-life balance have been noted, although GFL’s policy on guaranteed home time seeks to address this concern. Overall, the company is viewed favorably for its focus on employee well-being and safety, as reflected in its satisfactory safety rating.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Team
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- Ongoing training
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 5
- Unsafe driving: 0.06
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.83
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
Winkler Meats, Inc.
2822 S W Washington St, Peoria, IL, 61602- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 295,930 (2022)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Winkler Meats, Inc. (DOT: 330914) is a reputable trucking company located in Peoria, Illinois. The company specializes in the distribution of various cargo types, including commodities dry bulk, meat, paper products, and refrigerated food. Winkler Meats primarily employs over-the-road (OTR) drivers and local drivers, with a focus on reefer drivers. The company operates with a satisfactory safety rating and is actively engaged in interstate transport activities.
Winkler Meats, Inc. takes great care of its drivers by offering an array of beneficial packages. Employees enjoy extensive health benefits that include health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, along with retirement plans such as 401(k). The company also provides paid time off to its drivers, reinforcing its commitment to employee satisfaction and well-being. Though the company does not offer sign-on bonuses or a truck lease purchase program, its competitive salary range of $45,000 to $55,000 offers a stable income to its drivers.
With a Glassdoor and Indeed rating of 4.0, Winkler Meats, Inc. has maintained a solid reputation among its workforce. Drivers commend the company for its comprehensive benefits and supportive work environment. Positive feedback often highlights the consistent pay and favorable insurance options. However, some employees have noted the absence of flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time as areas for improvement. Overall, Winkler Meats maintains an efficient and accommodating workplace, keeping the satisfaction of its drivers as a top priority.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
J Hawk, Inc.Orporated
1717 W Candletree Drive Suitec, Peoria, IL, 61614- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 5,000 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
J Hawk Incorporated (DOT: 1216922) is based in Peoria, Illinois. The company is involved in the transportation of various cargo types, including building materials, general freight, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. With an active status since its foundation, J Hawk, Inc. primarily operates using dry van trucks, catering to full truckload services across interstate routes. They focus on hiring flatbed and reefer drivers who are part of their single-driver operations, rather than team or specialized drivers.
J Hawk, Inc. provides a well-rounded benefits package for their drivers, which includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan. Although they do not offer sign-on bonuses or guaranteed home time, they aim to attract drivers with competitive salaries, which range between $45,000 and $55,000. The firm emphasizes a straightforward compensation structure without additional perks like direct deposit or paid CDL training.
On Indeed, J Hawk, Inc. boasts a solid rating of 4.2, while on Glassdoor, it maintains a commendable rating of 4.0. Employees have often commended the company for its robust benefits and supportive working environment. However, some reviews reflect concerns over the lack of flexible scheduling and potential organizational improvements. Overall, the firm is recognized for fostering a supportive workplace, despite some areas needing attention.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Clark Transportation, Inc.
100 Madigan Drive, Lincoln, IL, 62656- Routes: interstate
- Tuition reimbursement: true
- Power units: 63
- Drivers: 64
- Revenue: $753
- Miles driven: 5,830,571 (2024)
Clark Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 170143) was established in 2019 and operates out of Lincoln, Illinois. Known for its efficient logistics, the company specializes in transporting beverages, fresh produce, general freight, household items, meat, and refrigerated food. It primarily employs over-the-road (OTR), regional, and local drivers, ensuring that these cargo types are handled with care and professionalism.
Clark Transportation, Inc. offers its drivers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement. They ensure driver satisfaction by providing guaranteed home time, flexible scheduling, and providing fuel cards for convenience. Though they do not currently offer sign-on bonuses or company uniforms, their dedication to fostering a supportive work environment is evident.
Though specific ratings from Glassdoor and Indeed are unavailable, feedback from employees highlights positive work culture and competitive pay as significant advantages of working at Clark Transportation, Inc. Common themes in employee reviews commend the supportive management team and the opportunity for growth within the company. However, some critiques mention the potential for long hours and the challenges of meeting tight delivery schedules. Despite these challenges, the company's commitment to safety and driver benefits continues to make it a respected name in the industry.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- 401(k)
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Dedicated routes
- Tuition reimbursement
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 13
- Unsafe driving: 4.26
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.69
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.07
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
BNS Express Transportation
1914 S Griswold St, Peoria, IL, 61605- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 1 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
BNS Express Transportation (USDOT: 659893) is a longstanding trucking company operating since its establishment over 27 years ago in Peoria, Illinois. Specializing in the transportation of construction materials and general freight, BNS Express Transportation utilizes dry vans and flatbed trucks. Although the company primarily hires local and regional drivers, opportunities exist for over-the-road (OTR) routes, primarily without the need for team driving.
One of the appealing aspects of working with BNS Express Transportation is their commitment to driver welfare. They offer comprehensive health insurance that includes dental and vision coverage, as well as paid time off to ensure a balanced work-life approach. Although sign-on bonuses and certain financial incentives like pay advances are not highlighted, the company facilitates direct deposit for their employees.
BNS Express Transportation garners a solid employee satisfaction score with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees have praised the company for its supportive work environment and health benefits. However, some critiques point to the lack of guaranteed home time and limited flexibility in scheduling as areas needing improvement. Overall, BNS Express Transportation is viewed positively for its steady employment and attention to driver needs.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- PTO
- Rider & pet allowances
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
WNL Transportation, LLC
404 West Northtown Rd Suite B, Normal, IL, 61761- Salary range: $45,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 85
- Drivers: 51
- Revenue: $7,737,000
- Miles driven: 4,491,088 (2023)
WNL Transportation, LLC (DOT: 1659681) is based in Normal, Illinois. Although the exact founding date is not specified, WNL has established itself as an active player in the transportation industry. The company operates full truckload and less-than-truckload services, specializing in carrying a variety of cargo including general freight, agricultural supplies, beverages, chemicals, liquids/gases, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They predominantly hire team drivers and offer opportunities for over-the-road (OTR) and regional drivers.
WNL Transportation provides a solid benefits package for its drivers which includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and disability insurance. While they do not offer sign-on bonuses or a truck lease purchase program, they do have ongoing training and development programs and a new driver program to help their drivers advance professionally.
Though specific employee review scores from Indeed or Glassdoor are not available, the company's satisfactory safety rating and existence on carriersource suggest a focus on maintaining operational standards. Common positive feedback often highlights the comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities at WNL, while the primary negative remarks tend to focus on the lack of guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling. Nonetheless, their emphasis on team driving opportunities provides ample work for drivers looking to capitalize on available routes.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Team
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Ongoing training
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.22
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.03
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Wheatley Truckinig
510 Woodrig Rd, Bloomington, IL, 61704- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 16
- Drivers: 15
- Miles driven: 1,000,000 (2024)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Wheatley Truckinig (DOT: 318822) is a trucking company based in Bloomington, Illinois. The company operates a total of 16 trucks and 32 trailers, providing services mainly in interstate operations. Although the specific founding date is unavailable, the company is active and carries a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, garbage and refuse, general freight, grain feed and hay, metal sheets, coils, rolls, and paper products. They primarily hire drivers for over-the-road routes, local deliveries, and team driving opportunities, with a current fleet of 15 drivers on interstate routes.
Wheatley Truckinig offers an appealing range of driver benefits, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, and a sign-on bonus. Despite having no guaranteed home time or support for pets and passengers, the company provides opportunities for team driving services, which can be advantageous for some drivers. Wheatley Truckinig does not offer a 401(k) retirement plan, ongoing training, or flexible scheduling, but they maintain a commitment to their employees through direct deposit payments. The company's Google rating is an impressive 4.5.
Employee reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed generally highlight a positive working environment, with an overall rating of 4.0 on both platforms. Employees appreciate the fair compensation, job security, and professional environment that Wheatley Truckinig offers. However, some critiques highlight areas for improvement, such as better work-life balance and more comprehensive benefits packages. The most common negative feedback is related to the desire for more home time guarantees and streamlined route assignments. Despite these concerns, the company maintains its positive reputation among drivers.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Team
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- PTO
- Sign-on bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.53
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.75
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
What To Look for in Normal Trucking Companies
Your choice of trucking company in Normal, IL, can shape your long-term career success and happiness. Keep these crucial considerations in mind as you evaluate local trucking employers in Normal:
- Pay range & career growth: A competitive starting salary is a plus, but also consider your long-term trajectory. The best Normal trucking companies offer ongoing education, pay raises tied to training, and structured promotion ladders with performance rewards.
- Benefits: Go beyond the essentials like health insurance and retirement savings. Perks such as stock options, deadhead pay, and lease-to-buy opportunities often indicate a company’s dedication to its workforce.
- Culture: Choose Normal employers that encourage work-life balance by offering pet and rider allowances or time off on weekends.
- Employee feedback: Look for organizations with a strong reputation among employees, backed by positive reviews and a history of treating staff well.
Types of Driving Jobs Available
There are multiple driving positions available at Normal trucking companies based on your preferences and prior experience:
- Long-haul: This is a great option for drivers who like being on the road longer and traveling further, sometimes across the country.
- Regional: If you’d rather stay a little closer to home, regional driving positions allow for travel throughout Illinois and surrounding states while still staying relatively close to home.
- Local: Local truckers drive consistent routes each day in and around Normal.
- Specialized: Specialized trucking positions include driving tankers, dry vans, and refrigerated trucks within Normal's diverse freight industry.
How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals
To find the right trucking company in Normal for your career goals, remember to:
- Make a list of what matters most. Decide whether higher earnings, strong benefits, flexible schedules, or varied routes are your top priorities so you can focus on companies that align with your needs.
- Look at local companies. Research trucking companies in Normal, Illinois, and compare their pay rates, perks, and standing within the trucking community.
- Get input from drivers. Talk to drivers in Normal for firsthand insights, and read unbiased reviews on job boards like Glassdoor or Indeed.
- Think about your career goals. For newcomers, CDL sponsorship and structured training might be most important. For long-term careers, seek employers in Normal with promotion opportunities, strong benefits, and policies that support work-life balance.
How To Apply
Want to begin your trucking journey in Normal? Here’s how to get started with the top employers:
- Update your resume. Emphasize your truck driving history, certifications, and any local industry-specific skills.
- Research companies. Explore their career portals to find current job postings and get a feel for their work environment in Normal.
- Submit your application. Apply through the company’s official channels or major job boards like Glassdoor and Indeed.
- Follow up. Contact the hiring team after submission to confirm they received your application and to express your interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions truck drivers have when considering trucking companies in Normal:
Is a truck driving career worth it in Normal?
A truck driving career in Normal can be highly rewarding, especially with the growing demand for freight movers in the area. Drivers can earn competitive wages, enjoy job security, and find plenty of opportunities for career growth in the local trucking industry.
Which company in Normal offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?
Nu-Way Transportation Services, Inc. is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
What type of driving jobs are most available in Normal?
Most trucking companies in Normal are hiring for regional and local driving positions, with some also offering specialized roles for more experienced drivers.
What is the best trucking company for new drivers in Normal?
Nu-Way Transportation Services, Inc. is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Normal.