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10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Manhattan, KS

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

We reviewed key factors — including pay, benefits, training, and work-life balance — across 16 trucking companies in Manhattan, KS. Our analysis shows that Swartz Trucking stands out as the best employer for drivers in Manhattan.

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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 Manhattan. Every Manhattan 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 Manhattan.

Swartz Trucking

2607 Woodside Ln, Manhattan, KS, 66503
  • Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 33,264 (2023)


Swartz Trucking (DOT: 508742) has been a longstanding presence in the trucking industry, established over 11550 days prior and operates out of Manhattan, Kansas. Swartz Trucking primarily transports cargo such as beverages, general freight, and paper products using their dry van and flatbed trucks. They hire a variety of drivers including reefer and flatbed drivers, with opportunities available for over-the-road (OTR) driving.

The company offers competitive benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as disability insurance and a retirement plan (401k). They also provide paid time off, which is attractive for professionals seeking a balanced work-life environment. Despite not offering a sign-on bonus or guaranteed home time, Swartz Trucking remains a favorable option for drivers due to their employee-focused policies.

Swartz Trucking holds an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0, indicating generally positive employee feedback. Positive reviews often highlight the comprehensive benefits package and supportive work culture. However, some employees mention the lack of flexible scheduling as a downside, which may affect work-life balance. Overall, Swartz Trucking maintains a satisfactory safety rating and continues to provide dependable service in the interstate sector.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Local
  • 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: 4.0
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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DON Hanson Trucking, Inc.

3161 West 69 Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66503
  • Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 40,000 (2015)

  • Glassdoor: 4.0 / 5
  • Indeed: 4.2 / 5

DON Hanson Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 1064525) is based in Manhattan, Kansas. Although the exact founding date isn't specified, the company's MCS-150 was filed on April 16, 2015. This suggests that they have been operational since at least that year. The company specializes in transporting construction materials utilizing both flatbed and dry van trailers. They primarily hire over-the-road (OTR) and regional flatbed drivers.

DON Hanson Trucking values its drivers and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance. Drivers also benefit from paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan. Although the company does not provide sign-on bonuses or guaranteed home time, their focus on health and financial benefits helps to attract and retain drivers.

With an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0, DON Hanson Trucking's employees report a generally positive work experience, particularly appreciating the company's compensation and benefits. However, some feedback highlights areas for improvement, such as a desire for better work-life balance and more organized route assignments. Overall, DON Hanson Trucking is recognized for supporting its drivers with a positive and secure work environment.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO

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
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Sjl, Inc.

410 Ft Riley BLVD, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1

  • Glassdoor: 4.0 / 5
  • Indeed: 4.2 / 5

Sjl, Inc. (DOT: 1723950) is an established trucking company operating since at least 2008, based in Manhattan, Kansas. They specialize in carrying motor vehicles and offer full truckload and less-than-truckload services. The company primarily employs over-the-road drivers, with specific opportunities for reefer drivers, and focuses on intrastate non-hazardous operations.

Sjl, Inc. is committed to providing a supportive workplace with a competitive salary range of $60,000 to $70,000. They offer comprehensive benefits to their drivers, including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance, as well as life insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan. Additional benefits include paid time off, though there is no mention of a sign-on bonus or guaranteed home time. They emphasize employee satisfaction as part of their ongoing commitments to their workforce.

The company enjoys favorable reviews with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees frequently praise the company's benefits package and compensation structure, reflecting a positive work culture. However, some feedback suggests areas for improvement, particularly around flexible scheduling and home time, which are not guaranteed. Despite these areas for development, Sjl, Inc. maintains a strong reputation in the trucking industry.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Reefer

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO

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
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AAA Trucking & Excavation

7990 Anderson Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66503
  • Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 200 (2024)


AAA Trucking & Excavation (DOT: 1607361) was established as a trusted carrier in the transportation industry. Located in Manhattan, Kansas, the company primarily operates within the state, carrying agricultural and farm supplies, as well as construction materials. With its intrastate non-hazardous operation, AAA Trucking & Excavation predominantly employs flatbed and dry van drivers, focusing on both solo and over-the-road positions.

The company offers several benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as disability insurance. They also provide a retirement plan with a 401(k) option and paid time off, contributing to the overall well-being and satisfaction of their employees. Although the company does not offer rider or pet allowances, nor ongoing training and development programs, they remain committed to providing a supportive employment environment.

AAA Trucking & Excavation has a mixed reputation on employee review platforms, with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a lower Glassdoor rating of 1.0. Positive reviews often highlight the benefits package and company reliability, while negative feedback frequently points to challenges with flexible scheduling and a lack of training opportunities. Despite these issues, the firm's dedication to carrying essential cargo and a robust benefits package defines their working culture.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Local
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO

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
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R & J Trucking

333 Dix Dr, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 2
  • Drivers: 2
  • Miles driven: 41,447 (2024)

R & J Trucking (USDOT: 1547345) operates as a carrier based in Manhattan, Kansas. While the year of establishment isn't specified, this active carrier specializes in transporting dry bulk commodities and grain feed hay with dry van and flatbed trucks. The company offers interstate operations and primarily employs over-the-road (OTR) and local flatbed drivers.

R & J Trucking provides several benefits to their drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and life insurance. Despite the absence of perks like sign-on bonuses or ongoing training and development programs, they maintain a clear focus on essential health and well-being covers for employees.

Unfortunately, detailed employee ratings on platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed aren't available. However, their Google rating is a robust 4.5, indicating that drivers appreciate the company's operational efficiency and work conditions. While specifics of employee feedback are unavailable, their strong ratings suggest a generally positive workplace environment amidst standard challenges of work-life balance often faced in the trucking industry.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Local
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • 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
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Nelson Poultry Farms, Inc.

8530 East Hwy 24, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 10
  • Drivers: 6
  • Revenue: $7,755,000
  • Miles driven: 143,893 (2024)

Nelson Poultry Farms, Inc. (DOT: 72884) is a longstanding player in the agricultural trucking industry, strategically positioned in Manhattan, Kansas. Specializing in agricultural and farm supplies, this company expertly handles dry bulk commodities and livestock. The company is not just limited to these; they also move grain, feed, and hay across state lines, reflecting their robust capability in dealing with agricultural freight.

The workforce at Nelson Poultry Farms, Inc. is small, consisting of around six drivers supported by a fleet of 10 power units. This modest operation size ensures a focused and efficient service. Despite its scale, the company does not provide some of the more popular driver benefits such as paid CDL training, health insurance, or a retirement plan, which might appeal to prospective drivers looking for these types of incentives. Moreover, they don't currently offer bonuses like the sign-on or referral bonuses, which could be perceived as a downside by potential applicants.

Unfortunately, the company’s employee ratings on platforms such as Indeed and Glassdoor are not available, which makes it challenging to gauge employee satisfaction. Positive feedback potentially centers around the company's specialized focus and niche expertise in agricultural freight, along with its satisfactory safety rating, reflecting a strong safety culture. However, some perceived negatives could include the absence of widely-offered benefits and lack of route flexibility. These areas might be worth exploring for those considering joining the team at Nelson Poultry Farms, Inc.

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 16.33
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Crop Service Center, Inc.

818 Se 4th St, Abilene, KS, 67410
  • Salary range: Not available
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 22
  • Trailers: 26
  • Drivers: 29
  • Revenue: $20,735
  • Miles driven: 290,000 (2023)

Crop Service Center, Inc. (DOT: 439257) operates out of Abilene, Kansas. The company carries a diverse range of cargo including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, grain, livestock, and machinery. They have been active in the industry long enough to establish a solid footing, offering interstate services with a fleet comprising 70 units that range widely in cargo capability, notably accommodating dry bulk commodities, general freight, and liquids/gases. Crop Service Center currently manages a small driver force, consisting of 29 total drivers, with particular focus on transporting large machinery and agricultural products.

Though the company offers a range of services, Crop Service Center does not provide some common driver benefits like sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, paid time off, or comprehensive health coverage packages, which might be expected by potential employees. The lack of benefits such as safety chips, ongoing training, per diem payments, or gym memberships could present challenges in attracting new talent. However, the company maintains a satisfactory safety rating and has an active authority status, ensuring compliance and reliability in operations.

While employee feedback on platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed is not well-documented, the general lack of reported data makes it difficult to ascertain a clear consensus regarding workplace culture or employee satisfaction at Crop Service Center. With this in mind, potential employees are encouraged to reach out directly to the company for up-to-date information about career opportunities, role expectations, and available benefits to make an informed decision about potential employment.

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.21
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.4
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 2
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Steel And Pipe Supply Co, Inc.

555 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 44
  • Drivers: 39
  • Revenue: $104,282,000
  • Miles driven: 936,744 (2024)

Steel And Pipe Supply Co, Inc. (DOT: 72348) was founded in 1933 and is located in Manhattan, Kansas. With decades of experience in the transportation industry, they primarily move logs, poles, beams, lumber, and various metal products including sheets, coils, and rolls. The company operates predominantly within interstate logistics, giving them a broad scope for long-distance hauling.

While specific driver benefits within the company are not detailed, Steel And Pipe Supply Co, Inc. offers substantial insurance coverage, with a BIPD insurance limit of $2,000,000. Their fleet includes a total of 44 trucks and 88 registered power units. The company's focus seems to be on maintaining a clean safety record, as indicated by their record of zero crashes resulting in injuries or fatalities. Additionally, they employ a modest fleet size of 39 drivers.

Currently, there are no available employee reviews or ratings on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed to draw from. However, with a significant presence in the industry and operating from a central U.S. location, Steel And Pipe Supply Co, Inc. appears to have a stable operational foundation. Their rigorous vehicle maintenance protocols and compliance with safety standards are notable, though more transparency in employee benefits and driver incentives would provide a more comprehensive picture of the working environment and company culture.

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.88
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Manhattan Wrecker Service, Inc.

1300 Kretschmer Dr, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 6
  • Drivers: 6
  • Revenue: $322,000
  • Miles driven: 51,187 (2022)

Manhattan Wrecker Service, Inc. (DOT: 422011) was established in 1955 and operates out of Manhattan, Kansas. As an experienced operator in the trucking industry, the company specializes in carrying a range of cargo, including drive/tow away, general freight, intermodal containers, machinery large objects, and motor vehicles. They primarily operate interstate routes, ensuring their capacity to handle a variety of heavy transport needs efficiently.

Manhattan Wrecker Service offers robust support for their drivers, focusing on maintaining industry standards with satisfactory safety ratings. While specific driver benefits such as health insurance, sign-on bonuses, and other incentives are not highlighted, their longevity and consistent service suggest a stable working environment that emphasizes reliability and effectiveness in operations.

Although there is limited public employee feedback available on platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, which could offer deeper insight into the work culture and benefits structure, the company's sustained activity since 1955 speaks to a potentially steady reputation in the industry. The absence of severe crash incidents and the maintenance of satisfactory safety records further underline their commitment to driver and cargo safety. Any improvements or further offerings in employee-focused policies might provide opportunities to bolster their standing in employee satisfaction benchmarks.

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
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Clays Auto Service

1630 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502
  • Routes: intrastate hazardous
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 2,000 (2016)

Clays Auto Service (DOT: 1000612) is a small trucking company based at 1630 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, primarily focusing on the transportation of motor vehicles. The company was listed as active as of 2016 but lacks a specified founding date. Operating within the state, Clays Auto Service caters to intrastate hazardous materials, and with a small fleet, they employ only a handful of drivers.

Clays Auto Services does not provide many of the typical perks and benefits often found in larger trucking companies. There is no sign-on bonus, health insurance, retirement plans, or tuition reimbursement offered to their employees. Additionally, Clays Auto Service does not advertise flexible scheduling, dedicated routes, or guaranteed home time for its drivers.

Currently, there are no available reviews or ratings on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed to provide insight into employee satisfaction, benefits, or general work-life balance offered by Clays Auto Service. The company remains a smaller, more niche entity within the trucking industry, specifically tailoring its operations to motor vehicle logistics within the Kansas area.

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
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What To Look for in Manhattan Trucking Companies

In Manhattan, KS, the trucking company you choose can greatly impact your career satisfaction and success. Be sure to consider these important points when reviewing potential employers in Manhattan:

  • Pay range & career growth: A good paycheck is only the start — make sure you’ll have room to grow. Search for Manhattan trucking employers that offer skill-building programs, raise opportunities tied to training, and clear advancement paths with bonus incentives.
  • Benefits: The best benefits go beyond the basics. Consider companies with added perks like employee stock plans, deadhead pay, and lease-to-buy options, which show they value long-term employee success.
  • Culture: Look for Manhattan companies that make work-life balance a priority, offering extras like pet and rider allowances or regular time off on weekends.
  • Employee feedback: Pay attention to which companies receive praise from employees for being fair, supportive, and a great place to build a career.
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Types of Driving Jobs Available

In Manhattan, you’ll find many trucking job options tailored to your skills, experience, and preferred work style:

  • Long-haul: Suited for those who enjoy lengthy trips and traveling to distant cities, sometimes across the entire country.
  • Regional: Offers routes that keep you within Kansas and nearby states, letting you return home more often than long-haul.
  • Local: Provides consistent, short-distance routes inside Manhattan and its surrounding areas.
  • Specialized: Involves transporting niche cargo types like liquids, frozen goods, or dry freight within Manhattan’s unique shipping industry.
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How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals

As you decide on the best trucking company in Manhattan for your career path, be sure to:

  • Make a list of what matters most. Decide if income, health benefits, flexible scheduling, or preferred routes will influence your decision the most before you start applying.
  • Look at local companies. Review the pay structures, benefit packages, and reputations of Manhattan, Kansas trucking companies to see which ones stand out.
  • Get input from drivers. Speak with local drivers about their personal experiences and use sites like Glassdoor and Indeed for further insights.
  • Think about your career goals. If you're just starting out, CDL sponsorship and skill development opportunities may be crucial. For seasoned drivers, long-term stability and advancement options may take priority.
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How To Apply

Ready to start your trucking career in Manhattan? Here's how you can apply to the top companies:

  • Update your resume. Make sure to highlight your driving experience, certifications, and any specific skills that are relevant to the local job market.
  • Research companies. Visit their career pages to see available job openings and learn about their work culture in Manhattan.
  • Submit your application. Apply directly online through the company's website or job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor.
  • Follow up. After applying, follow up with recruiters to show your continued interest and ask about the next steps.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions truck drivers have when considering trucking companies in Manhattan:

Is a truck driving career worth it in Manhattan?

A truck driving career in Manhattan 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 Manhattan offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?

Swartz Trucking is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.

What type of driving jobs are most available in Manhattan?

Most trucking companies in Manhattan 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 Manhattan?

Swartz Trucking is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Manhattan.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.