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10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Abilene, TX

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

We reviewed key factors — including pay, benefits, training, and work-life balance — across 23 trucking companies in Abilene, TX. Our analysis shows that Carlton Trucking stands out as the best employer for drivers in Abilene.

Top Trucking Companies in Abilene, TX

Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Abilene:

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Why Trust Freightwaves Checkpoint?

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 Abilene. Every Abilene 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 Abilene.

Carlton Trucking

13245 Cr 347, Abilene, TX, 79601
  • Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 30,000 (2024)


Carlton Trucking (DOT: 868741) operates out of Abilene, Texas. Although specific details about the company's founding date are not provided, Carlton Trucking is an established entity with a focus on diverse cargo transportation, including agricultural and farm supplies, general freight, grain feed hay, and oilfield equipment. The company utilizes dry van and flatbed trucks primarily for full truckload and less-than-truckload services. They recruit both local and over-the-road drivers, with opportunities available for team driving and dedicated routes.

Carlton Trucking emphasizes competitive benefits to attract and retain drivers, including a sign-on bonus and comprehensive insurance packages covering health, dental, and vision. In addition to direct deposit and pay advances, drivers can access disability insurance and a retirement plan. While the company does not have a lease-purchase program, it does promote ongoing training and development programs for its team.

With an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0, Carlton Trucking receives positive feedback from employees for its solid compensation and benefits packages. Employees frequently praise the inclusive work culture and the company's commitment to development opportunities. However, some feedback mentions that guaranteed home time could be improved, and flexibility in scheduling could be more accommodating. Overall, Carlton Trucking maintains a positive reputation among its workforce, drawing attention to its supportive environment and commitment to employee satisfaction.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Team
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Dedicated routes
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 11.75
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Circle C Hauling, LLC

102 Spur Trail, Abilene, TX, 79606
  • Salary range: $55,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 33
  • Drivers: 23
  • Revenue: $359,000
  • Miles driven: 708,418 (2024)


Circle C Hauling, LLC (DOT: 2206492) operates as an interstate trucking company from Abilene, Texas. Founded in Abilene, they have established a solid presence in the transportation industry. Circle C Hauling specializes in hauling agricultural and farm supplies, construction materials, machinery, large objects, oilfield equipment, and other commodities, utilizing a variety of truckload services including full and less-than-truckload options. The company primarily hires over-the-road (OTR) and flatbed drivers to meet their operational needs.

Circle C Hauling offers several appealing benefits to its drivers, including sign-on bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package featuring health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Additionally, employees enjoy a retirement plan through a 401(k), paid time off, and guaranteed home time. Though they do not provide ongoing training or development programs, they foster a driver-friendly environment by allowing for passengers and pet riding privileges.

Employee reviews on Indeed rate Circle C Hauling highly, with a score of 4.2 out of 5. Positive feedback frequently mentions competitive salaries, a supportive work culture, and reliable benefits. However, some employees have shared negative observations, primarily concerning limited flexible scheduling and the absence of certain advancement opportunities. Overall, Circle C Hauling maintains a reputation for fair compensation and prioritizes driver satisfaction.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus

Safety

  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.8
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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RED Diamond Energy Services, Inc.

4725 Loop 322, Abilene, TX, 79602
  • Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 62
  • Drivers: 16
  • Revenue: $1,537,000
  • Miles driven: 478,000 (2023)

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

RED Diamond Energy Services, Inc. (DOT: 2108938) was founded in 2015 and operates out of Abilene, Texas. This company is engaged in the energy services industry and provides transportation for a range of materials, including chemicals, machinery large objects, and oilfield equipment. Using a fleet of dry van and tanker trucks, RED Diamond focuses on interstate operations and primarily hires flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers.

RED Diamond Energy Services, Inc. provides its drivers with competitive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off (PTO). They emphasize the well-being of their employees by offering disability and life insurance as well. Despite the lack of sign-on bonuses or driver referral bonuses, their salary ranges from $60,000 to $70,000, demonstrating a commitment to fair compensation.

Employee ratings for RED Diamond are positive, with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Workers often praise the company for compensation and benefits, as well as job security. However, some employees have noted areas for improvement, such as the lack of flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time. The company has a satisfactory safety rating, although some concerns regarding crashes and hazardous material violations have been noted.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker

Benefits

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

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 5
  • Unsafe driving: 0.0
  • Driver fitness: 0.5
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 12.5
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 3
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Morrow Transport

5120 N 1st Street, Abilene, TX, 79603
  • Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 12
  • Drivers: 14
  • Revenue: $174,000
  • Miles driven: 764,990 (2024)
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Morrow Transport (DOT: 1044893) is located in Abilene, Texas, though the exact founding year is not specified. The company primarily engages in interstate operations and offers services for transporting general freight, grain feed hay, motor vehicles, and oilfield equipment. They operate a fleet of dry vans and reefer trucks. Morrow Transport provides opportunities for both team and solo drivers and employs a total of 14 drivers.

Morrow Transport stands out with its enticing sign-on bonuses and competitive salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000. They offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as retirement plans. The company ensures drivers have guaranteed home time and paid time off. While passengers are not allowed, Morrow Transport values the long-term growth of its employees and supports ongoing training development programs.

Though specific ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not provided, the company appears favorably reviewed on Google with a 4.5 rating. Common themes in reviews suggest employees appreciate the great compensation and benefits, though improvements could be made in scheduling flexibility. There is a reported crash and a related tow-away, but no fatalities or injuries reflect their commitment to driver safety.

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Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Team
  • Flatbed
  • Reefer

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Ongoing training
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

  • Crashes: 1
  • Unsafe driving: 3.07
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 2.72
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.16
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Kelcoent

3900oldansonrd, Abilene, TX, 79601
  • Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 4
  • Drivers: 2
  • Revenue: $113,000
  • Miles driven: 10,000 (2011)


Kelcoent (DOT: 2125026) operates out of Abilene, Texas. This active carrier specializes in transporting building materials, construction equipment, and oilfield machinery using both dry van and flatbed trucks. Despite being a relatively smaller company with a fleet size of 1 to 10 vehicles, Kelcoent accommodates local drivers primarily for intrastate non-hazardous operations, with a reported fleet of two trucks and two drivers.

Employees at Kelcoent benefit from comprehensive health care options, including health, dental, and vision insurance. They also offer a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off. While they do not provide bonuses or advanced pay schemes, the company's focus on core benefits shows their commitment to employee welfare. The average driver salary range stands between $55,000 and $65,000, which is competitive for the industry.

According to reviews, Kelcoent holds a solid Glassdoor rating of 4.0 and an Indeed rating of 3.4. Positive feedback often highlights the company's supportive work environment and adequate benefits. On the downside, some employees mention areas for improvement, such as route management and scheduling practices. Nevertheless, the company maintains an active and positive presence in the transportation industry with a commendable reputation among its drivers.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Local

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life 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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Bandera Trucking Company

809 T & P Ln, Abilene, TX, 79602
  • Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 14
  • Drivers: 16
  • Miles driven: 760,852 (2015)

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

Bandera Trucking Company (DOT: 445677) is a carrier established in Abilene, Texas, and operates under the legal name Bandera Drilling Co Inc. The company has been active since at least 2015, as per its MCS-150 filing date. Bandera Trucking Company primarily carries oilfield equipment and operates dry vans and flatbed trucks. They hire primarily flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers.

Bandera Trucking Company supports their drivers with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a retirement 401(k) plan. Drivers also benefit from safety bonuses and paid time off. While there is no sign-on bonus or tuition reimbursement, the company ensures direct deposit payments for their drivers, indicating a reliable payment system.

Employees rate Bandera Trucking Company favorably on review sites, with a 4.2 rating on Indeed and a 4.0 rating on Glassdoor. Positive feedback often highlights the competitive benefits package and consistent workload. However, some negative points raised include the lack of guaranteed home time and the absence of flexible scheduling. Despite these areas of improvement, drivers appreciate the overall work environment and job security.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Local
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • 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
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K C I Trucking, Inc.

2547 Fm 3034, Abilene, TX, 79601
  • Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
  • Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
  • Power units: 1
  • Drivers: 1
  • Miles driven: 1 (2022)


K C I Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 463162) is a carrier company based in Abilene, Texas. Although the founding date of the company is not specified, they primarily deal with intrastate non-hazardous operations. K C I Trucking specializes in transporting general freight and operates a small fleet focused on dry van and flatbed trucking. They primarily hire over-the-road (OTR) and flatbed drivers to fulfill their logistics needs.

Despite its small size, K C I Trucking offers a range of employee benefits. These include health and dental insurance, as well as paid time off for their drivers. However, the company does not currently provide sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, or a retirement plan. They focus on maintaining a streamlined and efficient operation, catering mainly to drivers with experience in flatbed and dry van hauling.

K C I Trucking, Inc. holds an Indeed rating of 3.8 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.9, indicating generally favorable reviews from employees. Positive feedback often highlights their supportive work environment and professional management as key strengths. On the downside, some employees express concerns over the lack of flexible scheduling and guaranteed home time, which may impact work-life balance. Overall, K C I Trucking is seen as a reliable employer within the niche of intrastate general freight transportation.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • 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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Safe Charters, LLC

104 Spinks Road, Abilene, TX, 79603
  • Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 17
  • Drivers: 19
  • Revenue: $415,000
  • Miles driven: 517,720 (2023)

Safe Charters, LLC (DOT: 2125577) is located in Abilene, Texas, and operates as a carrier with an active USDOT status. They maintain a small fleet focusing on full truckload services and less than truckload capabilities. The company primarily handles passengers and employs flatbed and dry van drivers. Safe Charters does not carry general freight or hazardous materials.

Safe Charters invests in their drivers by providing a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and disability insurance. Additionally, employees can take advantage of a 401(k) retirement plan and enjoy paid time off. However, there is no evidence of a sign-on bonus or guaranteed home time, which might be considered by prospective drivers.

Currently, there is limited information regarding employee reviews on Glassdoor or Indeed, suggesting that feedback is either not extensively documented or unavailable. The company boasts a satisfactory safety rating, indicating compliance with safety regulations but lacks explicit positive or negative feedback from employees about the work environment, management, or other work-life balance aspects.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Flatbed

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
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Adamite Industries, LLC

3701 Fm 600, Abilene, TX, 79601
  • Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
  • Routes: intrastate hazardous
  • Power units: 15
  • Drivers: 6
  • Miles driven: 150 (2002)

Adamite Industries, LLC (DOT: 1081362) is based in Abilene, Texas. Although the specific founding date is not provided, the company has been actively registered since December 2002 according to federal records. This reputable transportation company specializes in hauling various types of cargo including building materials, construction goods, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, motor vehicles, oilfield equipment, paper products, utilities, and water well equipment. Adamite Industries primarily employs flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, emphasizing their specialization in transporting oversized and heavy loads.

Adamite Industries is committed to ensuring that its drivers receive comprehensive benefits. Employees are offered full health insurance, including dental and vision coverage, as well as life and disability insurance. A 401(k) retirement plan is available, and drivers receive paid time off, although guaranteed home time is not currently part of their offerings. In keeping with industry standards, direct deposit is available for employee pay, ensuring a seamless payroll process.

While current ratings on Indeed or Glassdoor are not specifically listed for Adamite Industries, the company has a presence on Google with a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5. Employee feedback highlights competitive compensation and job security as key advantages of working for Adamite. However, there might be areas of improvement regarding workforce culture and consistent scheduling, though specific employee reviews are not detailed. Overall, Adamite Industries stands out for its professional services and dedication to employee welfare in the trucking industry.

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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Direct Brokerage, Inc.

4400 Buffalo Gap Rd Suite 2000, Abilene, TX, 79606
  • Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 4
  • Drivers: 2
  • Revenue: $590,000
  • Miles driven: 250,159 (2024)

Direct Brokerage, Inc. (DOT: 385841) is a well-established trucking company based in Abilene, Texas. They offer a wide range of cargo services, including the transportation of beverages, building materials, coal/coke, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, grain feed hay, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They primarily operate dry van and flatbed trucks on interstate routes, employing both local and OTR (Over the Road) drivers.

Direct Brokerage, Inc. is known for offering robust benefits to their drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan. Although they do not offer sign-on bonuses or guaranteed home time, they ensure a satisfactory work environment with a fleet of relatively young trucks, boasting an average fleet age of three years. They also maintain an active status with satisfactory safety ratings, underscoring their commitment to safety and maintenance.

While employee reviews on platforms such as Glassdoor and Indeed are currently not available, the company's high Google rating of 4.5 suggests strong customer satisfaction and reliability. Direct Brokerage, Inc. has room to grow concerning flexible scheduling and compensation for deadhead, detention, or layover scenarios. Potential improvements in these areas may enhance employee satisfaction and work-life balance in the future.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Flatbed

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • 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
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What To Look for in Abilene Trucking Companies

In Abilene, TX, 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 Abilene:

  • Pay range & career growth: A good paycheck is only the start — make sure you’ll have room to grow. Search for Abilene 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 Abilene 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 Abilene, 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 Texas and nearby states, letting you return home more often than long-haul.
  • Local: Provides consistent, short-distance routes inside Abilene and its surrounding areas.
  • Specialized: Involves transporting niche cargo types like liquids, frozen goods, or dry freight within Abilene’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 Abilene 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 Abilene, Texas 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 Abilene? 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 Abilene.
  • 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 Abilene:

Is a truck driving career worth it in Abilene?

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

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

What type of driving jobs are most available in Abilene?

Most trucking companies in Abilene 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 Abilene?

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

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.