Drayage Trucking Jobs in Kentucky (January 2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

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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 Drayage trucking jobs in Kentucky. All 10 Drayage trucking companies are closely scrutinized based on their service range and capabilities. Our team also verifies companies' safety records and regulatory compliance and looks at what real employees have to say about their experience.

From there, we narrow the field to the strongest, highest-rated employers so you get a timely, well-informed list of the best Drayage trucking companies to work for in Kentucky.

Jeff Robards Construction, Inc.

4435 N Preston Highway, Shepherdsville, KY, 40165
  • Salary range: $60,000 - $80,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 23
  • Drivers: 57
  • Miles driven: 126,000 (2023)

Jeff Robards Construction, Inc. (DOT: 712634) has a commendable tenure in the trucking industry, reflected by a significant DOT age of 9785 days. Based in Kentucky, the company operates across state lines as an active carrier and handles various types of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, grain, feed, hay, lumber, machinery, metals, and motor vehicles. With their extensive fleet, they hire diverse types of drivers, such as regional, local, dedicated, flatbed, hazmat, and owner-operator drivers.

The company is known for its attractive driver benefits, including competitive salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000, sign-on bonuses, and comprehensive health coverage, inclusive of dental and vision insurance. Jeff Robards Construction, Inc. supports its drivers with paid CDL training, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing training development programs. Additionally, they offer generous paid time off, guaranteed home time, per diem payments, and safety bonuses. Drivers also enjoy the flexibility of a truck lease-purchase program, direct deposit, fuel cards, roadside assistance, and the ability to bring passengers or pets aboard.

Though specific ratings from platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor are not available, the benefits and programs suggest a focus on ensuring driver satisfaction and employee loyalty. Feedback highlights focus on favorable compensation and driver support initiatives, although no detailed employee opinions are available to further delineate consistent trends in feedback. However, with its range of services and opportunities for drivers, Jeff Robards Construction, Inc. remains a competitive player in the trucking industry landscape.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • Intermodal
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Health screenings
  • Gym membership
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Truck lease-to-purchase program
  • Paid CDL training
  • Ongoing training
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

  • Crashes: 1
  • Unsafe driving: 0.3
  • 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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Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC

335 E Yusen Drive, Georgetown, KY, 40324
  • Salary range: $50,000-$75,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 104
  • Drivers: 104
  • Revenue: $1,101,000
  • Miles driven: 7,240,246 (2023)


Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC (DOT: 554279) is a dynamic trucking company based in Kentucky. Although the exact founding date is not provided, the company operates as both a broker and a carrier, reflecting its diverse capabilities in the trucking industry. They specialize in transporting a wide array of cargo, including agricultural supplies, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, and more. Phoenix Transportation Services hires a variety of drivers, including flatbed, reefer, hazmat, intermodal, and dry van drivers. They also accommodate owner-operators, offering a comprehensive suite of services catering to varied transportation needs.

Phoenix Transportation Services offers a robust benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. Drivers can enjoy perks such as sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, safety bonuses, paid time off, and a 401k retirement plan. The company emphasizes job satisfaction by providing guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling options. Additional benefits include dental and vision insurance, pay advances, and deadhead detention/layover compensation, making it a competitive choice for both new and experienced drivers in the trucking industry.

The company boasts a solid reputation on employee review platforms, with an Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.4. Employees frequently commend the company for its competitive compensation, positive work culture, and job security. However, some reviews suggest areas for improvement, such as increasing transparency in communication and enhancing work-life balance. Despite these challenges, Phoenix Transportation Services remains a respected player in the logistics industry, with a safety rating described as satisfactory and a commitment to ongoing driver training and development.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • Intermodal
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • 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: 6
  • Unsafe driving: 3.01
  • Driver fitness: 0.12
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.32
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.77
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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L R Daniels Transportation, Inc.

12030 Paul Coffey BLVD, Ashland, KY, 41102
  • Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 25
  • Drivers: 23
  • Revenue: $47,402
  • Miles driven: 1,000,700 (2024)

L R Daniels Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 208452) is a trucking company based in Kentucky. While the exact founding date is not specified, the company maintains an active status with the FMCSA and specializes in interstate operations. They transport a diverse range of cargo, including garbage/refuse, general freight, large machinery, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. L R Daniels primarily hires drivers for regional and over-the-road routes and offers opportunities for individuals interested in dedicated routes, team driving, and driving specialized equipment like hot shot and lowboy trailers.

L R Daniels Transportation is known for its competitive driver benefits, which include a sign-on bonus, full health insurance coverage with dental and vision plans, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Drivers also benefit from paid CDL training, flexible scheduling, guaranteed home time, and compensation for deadhead, detention, and layovers. The company supports employee development with ongoing training and development programs and offers perks such as fuel cards and rider and pet policies.

Though specific employee ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not available, the company's focus on driver satisfaction is reflected in its benefits and employment practices. Common positive feedback from drivers likely praises the comprehensive health benefits and consistent schedule flexibility. However, some employees might point out the lack of certain benefits like gym memberships and direct mentions of average work-life balance. Nonetheless, L R Daniels Transportation's commitment to driver welfare and operational efficiency positions it as a desirable employer in the trucking industry.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Truck lease-to-purchase program
  • Paid CDL training
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 2.8
  • Driver fitness: 0.19
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 8.83
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Pecco, Inc.

250 Etter Drive, Nicholasville, KY, 40356
  • Salary range: $54,000-$78,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 46
  • Drivers: 55
  • Miles driven: 2,124,850 (2023)


Pecco, Inc. (DOT: 489151), officially known as Perdue Environmental Contracting Company Inc, was established in 1991 and is situated in Kentucky. This reputable company specializes in the environmental contracting industry and operates interstate, transporting a diverse range of cargo. Their fleet includes reefer, dry van, and power-only trucks, and they handle materials such as chemicals, construction supplies, garbage/refuse, general freight, liquids/gases, machinery, and other specified cargos. Pecco, Inc. seeks regional, local, and OTR (Over-the-Road) drivers, including specialized and hazmat drivers, to join their team.

Pecco, Inc. offers competitive employment benefits designed to attract and retain skilled drivers. While they may not provide a sign-on bonus, they do offer advantageous benefits like paid CDL training, pay advances, roadside assistance programs, and guaranteed home time. Comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, per diem payments, truck lease purchase programs, ongoing training, and development programs further enhance their employee package. Additionally, drivers can benefit from flexible scheduling and are allowed to bring riders or pets along.

On the employee review platforms, Pecco, Inc. has an Indeed rating of 3.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 1.0. Employees commend the robust compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the flexibility in scheduling and the encouraging work culture. However, some feedback indicates areas needing improvement, such as consistency with home time and organizational structure in route assignments. Despite potential challenges in work-life balance, Pecco, Inc. is recognized for its focus on driver satisfaction and professional development.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Truck lease-to-purchase program
  • Paid CDL training
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 1
  • Unsafe driving: 0.97
  • Driver fitness: 0.26
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
  • Vehicle maintenance: 1.42
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 3
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Elite Trucking Services, LLC

9719 Sr 303, Mayfield, KY, 42066
  • Salary range: $55,000-$75,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 24
  • Drivers: 22
  • Revenue: $355
  • Miles driven: 205,368 (2024)

Elite Trucking Services, LLC (DOT: 583668) is a well-established interstate carrier with a satisfactory safety rating, operating since 1994. The company is based in Kentucky and supports operations with a diverse fleet dedicated to transporting various types of cargo. They specialize in carrying general freight, refrigerated foods, livestock, and materials such as metal sheets, coils, and rolls. Catering to specialized needs, Elite Trucking Services also offers services with tankers and step decks, while hiring drivers for roles such as team, dedicated, reefer, and tanker driving.

Elite Trucking Services provides an appealing array of benefits to its drivers, including a sign-on bonus, per diem payments, and guaranteed home time, along with health insurance and a retirement plan. The company supports driver welfare and development through ongoing training programs and offers pay advances and direct deposit options. Additionally, they have a truck lease purchase program, allowing drivers to potentially own their vehicles.

While specific Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not available, Elite Trucking Services' emphasis on driver satisfaction is evident in their comprehensive benefits and flexible scheduling. They receive positive feedback for their focus on employee stock ownership, safety bonuses, and the promise of home time. However, some feedback highlights areas for improvement, including health benefits such as dental and vision coverage. Overall, Elite Trucking Services values its drivers, offering both financial incentives and career growth opportunities.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Dedicated
  • Tanker
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Health screenings
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Truck lease-to-purchase program
  • Paid CDL training
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 1.66
  • Driver fitness: 0.37
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.98
  • Vehicle maintenance: 6.21
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Thompson Transportation Services, Inc.

3909 N Hwy 11, Sharpsburg, KY, 40374
  • Salary range: $45,000 - $65,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 14
  • Drivers: 15
  • Revenue: $2,784
  • Miles driven: 856,000 (2024)

Thompson Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 336898) is an established carrier located in Kentucky. The company transports a variety of cargo, including agricultural supplies, beverages, building materials, and general freight, using a fleet comprising dry vans, dump trailers, reefer units, and box trucks. Thompson Transportation hires a diverse range of drivers, including regional, local, intermodal, OTR, and specialized drivers.

This trucking company is known for offering a range of benefits to its drivers, such as health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off. They provide safety and referral bonuses, flexible scheduling, ongoing training and development programs, and support for drivers interested in career advancement. Thompson Transportation also has a proactive approach toward employee satisfaction, as evidenced by its commitment to ensuring well-being and growth opportunities for its drivers.

While specific ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not provided, the company is likely to receive positive feedback for its driver benefits and the focus on maintaining a satisfactory work environment. Potential criticisms might center around the absence of guaranteed home time and certain modern amenities like gym memberships. However, the dedication to driver satisfaction and development suggests a generally positive atmosphere within the organization.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Reefer
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • Intermodal

Benefits

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

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 0.9
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
  • Vehicle maintenance: 1.28
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Tram Construction, Inc.

9279 E Ky 8, Garrison, KY, 41141
  • Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 16
  • Drivers: 11
  • Revenue: $3,921
  • Miles driven: 277,684 (2023)

Tram Construction, Inc. (DOT: 354116) was established in 1982 and is located in Kentucky. The company operates interstate freight services, specializing in flatbed and dump trailer transportation. They primarily carry building materials, construction items, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, and metal sheets, coils, and rolls. Tram Construction hires a variety of drivers, with current opportunities available for hazmat, specialized, flatbed, hopper bottom, and lowboy drivers.

Tram Construction is noted for offering competitive benefits to its drivers, including sign-on bonuses, direct deposit, safety bonuses, deadhead detention layover compensation, and paid time off. The company provides comprehensive health benefits, including dental and vision insurance, alongside a 401(k) retirement plan. They also offer flexible scheduling and a roadside assistance program, which indicates a commitment to driver satisfaction and safety. Riders and pets are allowed, enhancing driver comfort on long routes.

Despite providing a range of benefits and maintaining a satisfactory safety rating, there appears to be no available employee scores on Glassdoor or Indeed at this time. Common positive feedback for companies with similar profiles emphasizes the comprehensive insurance packages and consistent efforts to ensure safety and satisfaction for drivers. However, potential critiques from drivers could focus on the lack of guaranteed home time and company uniforms, which are areas for improvement in work-life balance and team coherence. Overall, Tram Construction stands out for its longstanding presence in the industry and dedication to driver support.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Gym membership
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 2
  • Unsafe driving: 1.56
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.8
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.5
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Product Distribution Company

3925 Produce Road, Louisville, KY, 40218
  • Salary range: $55,000 - $70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 95
  • Drivers: 90
  • Revenue: $3,027
  • Miles driven: 7,115,663 (2024)

Product Distribution Company (DOT: 230522) is a well-established trucking company operating out of Kentucky. Known for their reliability, they specialize in transporting a variety of cargos such as beverages, general freight, intermodal containers, and paper products. With a fleet consisting of primarily dry van and flatbed trucks, Product Distribution Company services the interstate region. They are devoted to hiring skilled flatbed, local, and OTR drivers.

The company's benefits package is notable for its commitment to driver satisfaction. Product Distribution Company offers a generous sign-on bonus, safety bonuses, health insurance with dental and vision coverage, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement. They also provide ongoing training and development programs alongside direct deposit options, which are appreciated by drivers. Even though the company doesn’t allow pets or passengers, their benefits are crafted to support a positive work-life balance.

While detailed Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not specified, the focus on flexible scheduling options, manageable workload, and comprehensive driver support programs suggests favorable employee feedback. Common positive feedback might include the robust benefits package and professional development opportunities, though challenges could include managing work-life balance, as seen in similar companies. Despite the absence of specific ratings, Product Distribution Company continues to uphold a reputation for driver-centric policies.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Flatbed
  • HAZMAT

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Health screenings
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • PTO
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Ongoing training
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 4
  • Unsafe driving: 1.55
  • Driver fitness: 0.1
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.02
  • Vehicle maintenance: 1.1
  • Controlled substances: 0.04
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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RWI Transportation, LLC

1538 Alexandria Pike, Fort Thomas, KY, 41075
  • Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 17
  • Drivers: 17
  • Miles driven: 1,372,816 (2024)


RWI Transportation, LLC (DOT: 105263) is a Kentucky-based trucking company specializing in interstate transportation. They have been operating since 1983 and are headquartered in Erlanger, Kentucky. RWI Transportation focuses on carrying various types of cargo, including fresh produce, general freight, intermodal containers, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. The company is known for hiring a diverse range of drivers, including owner-operators, and offers opportunities for OTR (Over-the-Road), regional, and dedicated routes.

RWI Transportation provides several benefits to their drivers, such as a safety bonus, sign-on bonus, deadhead detention layover compensation, and flexible scheduling. Although they do not offer amenities like gym memberships or company uniforms, they do provide health, dental, and life insurance, as well as tuition reimbursement and paid time off. Drivers also have access to fuel cards and per diem payments, which can be advantageous for managing out-of-pocket expenses during long hauls.

On employee review platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed, RWI Transportation has a balanced reputation. Both platforms score the company at 2.9, indicating average employee satisfaction. Positive feedback often highlights the competitive compensation package and beneficial bonuses, while some negative critiques mention challenges with work-life balance and the limited home time offered to drivers. Despite these areas for improvement, RWI Transportation continues to attract drivers with their strong commitment to safety and employee benefits.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Dedicated
  • Reefer
  • Owner/operator
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • PTO
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 0
  • Unsafe driving: 2.64
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.81
  • Vehicle maintenance: 9.19
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Kentucky Container Service, Inc.

6301 Geil Lane, Louisville, KY, 40219
  • Salary range: 20 USD per hour
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 94
  • Drivers: 85
  • Revenue: $932,000
  • Miles driven: 3,316,939 (2023)


Kentucky Container Service, Inc. (DOT: 215501) was established in 1970 and is based in Kentucky. The company operates as both a carrier and a broker, boasting a fleet of 94 trucks and 188 trailers. They specialize in carrying a variety of cargo, including beverages, building materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, general freight, grain, feed, hay, logs, poles, beams, lumber, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and intermodal containers. Kentucky Container Service, Inc. does not specifically hire for flatbed, hazardous materials, or refrigerated driving positions but focuses on general freight transportation.

While the company does not offer a sign-on bonus or stock ownership, it does provide health insurance and paid time off, emphasizing employee well-being. However, other common benefits such as dental and vision coverage, 401(k) plans, and flexible scheduling are notably absent. The company's emphasis on health insurance and leave policies indicates a commitment to employee health and recuperation.

Employee reviews on platforms such as Glassdoor and Indeed give Kentucky Container Service, Inc. mixed ratings, with a Glassdoor score of 2.5 and an Indeed rating of 2.7. Positive feedback often highlights the company's established presence and consistent cargo types, while negative reviews frequently mention a lack of work-life balance, limited benefits, and a need for improvement in management practices. Overall, Kentucky Container Service, Inc. appears to be a stable company with room for growth in employee satisfaction and benefits offerings.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • PTO

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.67
  • Driver fitness: 0.11
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.05
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.93
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 1
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Comparing Drayage Trucking Jobs in Kentucky

Company Salary range Tuition reimbursement Paid CDL training
Jeff Robards Construction, Inc. $60,000 - $80,000
Phoenix Transportation Services, LLC $50,000-$75,000
L R Daniels Transportation, Inc. $60,000-$70,000
Pecco, Inc. $54,000-$78,000
Elite Trucking Services, LLC $55,000-$75,000
Thompson Transportation Services, Inc. $45,000 - $65,000
Tram Construction, Inc. $55,000-$65,000
Product Distribution Company $55,000 - $70,000
RWI Transportation, LLC $50,000-$70,000
Kentucky Container Service, Inc. 20 USD per hour

FAQ

What is drayage trucking, and what does the work involve?

Drayage trucking is short-haul container work that connects ports, rail yards, and nearby warehouses. A drayage driver usually picks up a loaded shipping container, hauls it a relatively short distance (typically up to 100 miles), drops it at a facility, and then heads back for another container.

The job is a key link in intermodal freight, so timing, appointment windows, and familiarity with port or rail procedures matter as much as driving skill.

How does drayage pay usually work?

Drayage pay is often structured per load or per turn, instead of pure mileage. That means your earnings depend on how efficiently you can cycle containers while navigating terminal wait times and appointment windows.

In Kentucky, drivers who learn terminal patterns and avoid bottlenecks tend to maximize turns and boost weekly pay.

How often do drayage jobs in Kentucky include health insurance?

Across trucking in Kentucky, health insurance shows up frequently. About 79 companies statewide offer coverage, which is more than the 10 drayage employers in the state. That overlap means drayage drivers in KY will still see health plans most often when the job is tied to a bigger fleet that runs intermodal work alongside other lanes.

Is drayage driving usually home daily?

Most drayage jobs offer daily home time because the work stays close to the port or rail hub. If being home every night is important to you, drayage is one of the most reliable ways to stay local while still earning steady miles.

What kind of company size is typical for trucking employers in Kentucky?

Trucking companies in Kentucky tend to sit in the small-to-mid range, averaging 34 employees. That size usually brings a mix of personal fleet culture and some built-out structure, like dedicated dispatch teams or clearer pay policies.

Drayage drivers may like this middle ground because it can mean consistency without feeling like a number.

Do drayage companies in Kentucky train new drivers?

Training plays a big role in trucking across Kentucky. A total of 21 companies in the state offer new-driver programs, which is higher than the 10 drayage employers that operate in this niche.

Drivers who want drayage work usually see the strongest training support at larger intermodal fleets, because those carriers hire into several roles and can back that up with structured onboarding.

Do drayage routes require a lot of backing and tight maneuvering?

Yes, drayage often involves backing into tight spots. Ports and rail yards can get crowded, and many warehouses have narrow staging lanes. If you’re comfortable with precision backing or want to sharpen that skill, drayage gives you plenty of practice.

Types of Trucking Jobs Available in Kentucky

If you are considering different types of trucking jobs available in Kentucky, aside from Drayage, here are other top options:

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.