Drayage Trucking Jobs in Tennessee (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 Tennessee. 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 Tennessee.

Covenant Logistics

400 Birmingham Highway, Chattanooga, TN, 37419
  • Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 1364
  • Drivers: 1917
  • Revenue: $76,030,000
  • Miles driven: 191,000,000 (2024)


Covenant Logistics (DOT: 273818) was established in 1986 and operates out of Tennessee. With a fleet size between 50-99 corporate units, Covenant Logistics carries a wide range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, chemicals, fresh produce, and refrigerated foods, among others. The company hires a variety of drivers, including regional, local, team, and OTR drivers, as well as specialized flatbed and intermodal drivers. They also offer opportunities for owner-operators and support for drivers interested in hauling hazardous materials.

Known for their competitive employee benefits, Covenant Logistics provides sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing training programs. Their impressive benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (with dental and vision), as well as a retirement plan, life and disability insurance. Drivers also enjoy deadhead detention layover compensation, guaranteed home time, direct deposit, and per diem payments. The company supports work-life balance through flexible scheduling and allows riders or pets, which underscores their commitment to driver satisfaction.

On employee feedback platforms, Covenant Logistics holds a Glassdoor rating of 3.4 and an Indeed rating of 3.2. Employees often praise the competitive compensation and benefits package and appreciate the opportunities for career advancement. However, some express concerns about the work-life balance, citing instances where home time can be unpredictable and the route assignments somewhat disorganized. Despite these challenges, many drivers commend the company's supportive environment and the focus on fostering a positive work culture.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Team
  • Flatbed
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Owner/operator
  • Freight hauler
  • Intermodal

Benefits

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

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 167
  • Unsafe driving: 1.87
  • Driver fitness: 0.02
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.12
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.92
  • Controlled substances: 0.01
  • Hazardous materials violations: 30
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Titan Transfer, Inc.

1200 Stanley BLVD, Shelbyville, TN, 37160
  • Salary range: $70,000-$75,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 583
  • Drivers: 562
  • Revenue: $18,248
  • Miles driven: 52,000,000 (2024)

Titan Transfer, Inc. (DOT: 845505) was established in 2000, located in Tennessee. The company carries a diverse range of cargo including beverages, building materials, chemicals, general freight, liquids/gases, metal sheets, coils and rolls, and paper products. Titan Transfer primarily hires a variety of drivers, including regional, local, OTR, team, hazmat, reefer, flatbed, and dedicated drivers, with opportunities for owner-operators as well.

Titan Transfer, Inc. is known for providing robust benefits for its drivers, which include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, and a retirement plan. The company also offers unique perks such as gym memberships, roadside assistance programs, and tuition reimbursement, alongside driver referral and safety bonuses. Notably, Titan offers a rider or pet policy, per diem payments, and pay advances to their drivers.

Although specific employee ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not available, Titan Transfer’s emphasis on driver satisfaction is evident in their comprehensive benefits package and commitment to training and development. Common positive feedback highlights the company’s flexible scheduling, guaranteed home time, and the proactive approach to driver well-being. However, as with many trucking firms, a few drivers have raised concerns about occasional inconsistencies in route assignments or scheduling.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Flatbed
  • Reefer
  • HAZMAT
  • Owner/operator
  • 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
  • Paid CDL training
  • Ongoing training
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 52
  • Unsafe driving: 2.46
  • Driver fitness: 0.08
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.34
  • Controlled substances: 0.01
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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International Paper

6400 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38197
  • Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 213
  • Drivers: 208
  • Revenue: $1,520,991
  • Miles driven: 8,141,555 (2024)

International Paper (DOT: 297334) is a longstanding trucking company founded in 1898, based in Tennessee. Known for its extensive history and industry presence, International Paper specializes in carrying a wide range of cargo, including chemicals, garbage, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, and paper products. The company primarily hires various types of drivers including regional, local, dedicated, and hazardous materials drivers, accommodating both owner-operators and specialized drivers for team driving opportunities.

International Paper is notable for offering a comprehensive benefits package that attracts a diverse workforce. Driver benefits include a sign-on bonus, paid CDL training, tuition reimbursement, health, vision, dental, and life insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan. The company also provides safety bonuses and per diem payments, with direct deposit options and pay advances. Drivers benefit from guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling, which are essential for maintaining work-life balance. Additionally, they have programs for ongoing training and development, roadside assistance, and gym memberships, enhancing overall employee satisfaction.

While specific ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed were not available, International Paper is recognized for its emphasis on employee satisfaction and development, made evident by its robust benefits and career development offerings. Common positive feedback often highlights its competitive salaries ($50,000-$60,000 range), job security, and safe working environment. However, some employees might point out concerns, such as the challenges of maintaining work-life balance due to the demands of the trucking routes. Despite these challenges, International Paper remains a prominent player in the trucking industry, reflecting its strong operational standards and commitment to employee welfare.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • 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
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 10
  • Unsafe driving: 0.77
  • Driver fitness: 0.09
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.01
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.58
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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OLD Time Express, Inc.

600 Industrial Park Drive, Hartsville, TN, 37074
  • Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 25
  • Drivers: 23
  • Revenue: $4,000
  • Miles driven: 1,128,575 (2023)

OLD Time Express, Inc. (DOT: 567905) is a trucking company with its operations based in Tennessee. While their exact founding year isn't specified, they have established their presence as a reputable provider in the industry, boasting a fleet size of 25 trucks and 50 trailers. OLD Time Express specializes in a range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, fresh produce, general freight, grain feed hay, meat, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and refrigerated food. The company actively hires a variety of drivers such as regional, local, over-the-road (OTR), hazmat, intermodal, tanker, reefer, flatbed, specialized, and dedicated drivers.

OLD Time Express stands out in the industry with its competitive range of driver benefits. They offer a sign-on bonus, paid CDL training, direct deposit options, safety bonuses, and paid time off (PTO). Drivers also enjoy comprehensive health benefits which include health, dental, and vision insurance. A significant emphasis is placed on professional development through ongoing training and tuition reimbursement programs. Additional perks include deadhead detention and layover compensation, per diem payments, guaranteed home time, and flexible scheduling.

Although specific Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not available, the company actively nurtures a supportive work environment, as reflected by their policies. Common positive feedback from employees often highlights their commitment to ensuring safety, maintaining a modern fleet with an average fleet age of 2 years, and providing a structured environment for drivers to grow professionally. On the downside, some employees might point out challenges similar to those in the industry, such as occasional disorganization in route management. Overall, OLD Time Express is perceived as a reliable employer with a keen focus on driver satisfaction and safety.

Driver Options

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

Benefits

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

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 1.84
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.38
  • Vehicle maintenance: 4.64
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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NEW Waverly Transportation

1610 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN, 37203
  • Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Paid CDL training: true
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 125
  • Drivers: 125
  • Revenue: $14,015,000
  • Miles driven: 8,255,285 (2024)

NEW Waverly Transportation (DOT: 146001) was established in 1972 and is based in Tennessee. The company operates primarily in the building solutions industry, efficiently transporting a wide range of cargo such as building materials, general freight, grain, feed, hay, liquids/gases, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, and oilfield equipment. NEW Waverly Transportation hires various types of drivers, including flatbed, hazmat, local, regional, OTR, dedicated, and tanker drivers, ensuring comprehensive coverage of logistical needs.

NEW Waverly Transportation is known for its employee-centric benefits, which include a sign-on bonus, health and dental insurance, paid CDL training, per diem payments, a truck lease purchase program, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off. Additionally, drivers benefit from gym memberships, roadside assistance programs, driver referral bonuses, and a retirement plan (401k). The company also offers flexible scheduling and ensures guaranteed home time for its drivers, fostering a supportive work environment.

Though specific employee ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not available, NEW Waverly Transportation is noted for its competitive compensation packages, transparent communication, and supportive management team. Nevertheless, some feedback highlights challenges in work-life balance and organizational aspects of route assignments. Overall, NEW Waverly Transportation remains committed to maintaining a dynamic and positive workplace culture, attracting drivers across various specializations.

Driver Options

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

Benefits

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

Safety

  • Crashes: 9
  • Unsafe driving: 1.96
  • Driver fitness: 0.13
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.46
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.49
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co

2163 Airways BLVD, Memphis, TN, 38114
  • Salary range: $60,000-$80,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Tuition reimbursement: true
  • Power units: 690
  • Drivers: 647
  • Revenue: $22,509
  • Miles driven: 6,881,387 (2024)


Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co (DOT: 536) was founded in 1969 and operates out of Tennessee. The company is well-regarded in the trucking industry for its specialized and heavy-haul logistics solutions. Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co transports a variety of cargo including construction materials, general freight, drive/tow-away services, machinery, motor vehicles, and oilfield equipment. They hire drivers for different capacities, including flatbed and dedicated routes, with an emphasis on safety and reliability.

The company offers a range of benefits to its drivers, such as a sign-on bonus, safety bonuses, paid time off, and direct deposit options. Although Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co does not have a program for rider or pet allowances, they support driver development through ongoing training programs and tuition reimbursement. Health and wellness are prioritized with offerings that include comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, and a retirement plan (401k).

With a Glassdoor rating of 4.1, Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co maintains favorable employee reviews, particularly for job security and career advancement opportunities. The company garners a mixed response on work-life balance and flexible scheduling, which some employees appreciate while others find lacking. Common positive feedback highlights the competitive compensation and supportive management, whereas some negative comments revolve around the need for improved organizational efficiency in route planning.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Flatbed
  • HAZMAT
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Ongoing training
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 7
  • Unsafe driving: 0.63
  • Driver fitness: 0.02
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.08
  • Vehicle maintenance: 2.41
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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CMH Transport, Inc.

5000 Clayton Road, Maryville, TN, 37804
  • Salary range: $40,000-$50,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
  • Power units: 379
  • Drivers: 397
  • Miles driven: 18,900,000 (2024)

CMH Transport, Inc. (DOT: 594023) operates as a carrier from Tennessee. Despite the JSON not providing a specific founding year, CMH Transport has established a robust presence in the industry with a significant fleet size. The company specializes in hauling building materials, construction items, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, and mobile homes. They primarily hire flatbed and dry van drivers, with opportunities for both regional and OTR positions. The company also accommodates intermodal and tanker operations.

CMH Transport, Inc. stands out for its employee benefits and focus on driver welfare, offering health, dental, and life insurance, roadside assistance programs, and paid time off. Employees benefit from guaranteed home time, a rider and pet policy, driver referral bonuses, flexible scheduling, and a 401(k) retirement plan. The company is known for providing direct deposit and a safety bonus, which underlines its commitment to keeping employees satisfied and motivated.

Although specific Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not available, CMH Transport, Inc. is reportedly active on these platforms, providing transparency and engagement opportunities for current and potential employees. Common positive feedback highlights their comprehensive benefits package, while negative reviews mention challenges with work-life balance due to the nature of trucking schedules. Overall, CMH Transport strives to create a productive yet accommodating working environment for its drivers.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Dedicated
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Specialized
  • Owner/operator
  • Intermodal

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Guaranteed home time
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Dedicated routes
  • Ongoing training
  • Deadhead compensation
  • Rider & pet allowances
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 29
  • Unsafe driving: 0.45
  • Driver fitness: 0.04
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.06
  • Vehicle maintenance: 1.96
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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JIT - Ex, LLC

3344 Cazassa Rd, Memphis, TN, 38116
  • Salary range: $2,029 - $4,329 a month
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 214
  • Drivers: 278
  • Revenue: $3,163
  • Miles driven: 17,700,000 (2024)

JIT - Ex, LLC (USDOT: 974027) is a trucking company operating out of Tennessee. Although detailed information about the founding date is not provided, the company is active and operates across interstate borders. JIT - Ex, LLC carries a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, beverages, building materials, commodities dry bulk, construction supplies, general freight, grain feed hay, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, metal sheets, coils, rolls, paper products, and utilities. The company hires various types of drivers including regional, local, over-the-road (OTR), intermodal, LTL, and general freight drivers, showcasing their robust hiring strategies.

JIT - Ex offers a comprehensive benefits package to its drivers, which includes a sign-on bonus, health insurance (covering dental, vision, and life), retirement plan (401k), gym membership, and roadside assistance programs. They implement direct deposit and promote flexible scheduling to enhance driver satisfaction. Driver referral bonuses also form part of their recruitment strategy. While details about compensation specifics are limited, general driver salaries range from $2,029 to $4,329 per month, emphasizing their commitment to competitive pay structures in the industry.

The company maintains a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, with a satisfactory safety rating. However, exact Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not provided. Insights into employee feedback suggest a positive work environment facilitated by diverse driver opportunities and comprehensive benefits but potentially limited by unspecified work-life balance concerns typical in trucking. Despite some crash reports, JIT - Ex remains committed to sustaining its punctual and secure transport services across the country.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • LTL

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision coverage
  • Gym membership
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Sign-on bonus

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 23
  • Unsafe driving: 1.76
  • Driver fitness: 0.19
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.4
  • Vehicle maintenance: 5.51
  • Controlled substances: 0.03
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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MTR Nashville

3006 Seaboard Drive, Nashville, TN, 37211
  • Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 5
  • Drivers: 6
  • Revenue: $1,360,000
  • Miles driven: 231,907 (2023)

  • Glassdoor: 4.1 / 5
  • Indeed: 4.2 / 5

MTR Nashville (USDOT: 1030979) was established in 2002 and is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Known as Midwest Transportation Resources Inc, MTR Nashville carries a variety of cargo including building materials, general freight, and paper products. They employ a diversified driver workforce that includes regional, local, and over-the-road drivers. They also offer opportunities for team drivers and flatbed operators, demonstrating flexibility in hiring practices.

MTR Nashville distinguishes itself with an attractive range of driver benefits such as competitive salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, guaranteed home time, and safety bonuses. Health benefits include comprehensive health insurance with dental, vision, and life coverage. The company supports its employees further with a solid 401(k) retirement plan. MTR Nashville enhances financial support with direct deposit, pay advances, and sign-on bonuses for new drivers, fostering an employee-first culture.

With a commendable Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.1, MTR Nashville is appreciated for compensation, benefits, and a positive work culture. Positive feedback frequently mentions the robust benefits package and supportive work environment. However, some employees have noted concerns with work-life balance and limited flexibility in scheduling. Despite these notes, MTR Nashville remains an attractive workplace for truck drivers within the industry.

Driver Options

  • OTR
  • Regional
  • Local
  • Dedicated
  • Team
  • Flatbed
  • Tanker
  • Reefer
  • Owner/operator

Benefits

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

Safety

  • 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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Burkhart Enterprises

2435 Asbury Road, Knoxville, TN, 37914
  • Routes: interstate
  • Power units: 16
  • Drivers: 12
  • Revenue: $14,159
  • Miles driven: 602,325 (2024)


Burkhart Enterprises (DOT: 41115) is based in Tennessee and specializes in a wide array of freight, including agricultural supplies, building materials, coal, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, garbage, general freight, hay, intermodal containers, lumber, machinery, metal sheets and coils, motor vehicles, oilfield equipment, paper products, and refrigerated food. As an interstate carrier, they have a fleet of over 50 trucks and employ around 40 people, with 12 drivers engaged in their operations.

The company does not appear to provide a wide array of driver benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. However, they focus on maintaining satisfactory safety standards and have internal measures to ensure compliance. Although specific details about driver bonuses are not provided, there is a noticeable absence of perks such as a sign-on bonus or paid time off, which might influence a driver's choice when considering employment with Burkhart.

The reviews on Indeed give Burkhart Enterprises a moderate score of 3.3. The positive reviews often highlight the company's reliable vehicle maintenance and satisfactory safety practices. However, common complaints include the lack of comprehensive employee benefits and limited work-life balance. Drivers often mention the need for better pay structures and more generous home time policies, which are critical factors for job satisfaction in the trucking industry.

Safety

CSA safety score: Satisfactory


  • Crashes: 3
  • Unsafe driving: 0.53
  • Driver fitness: 0.0
  • Hours-of-service compliance: 0.75
  • Vehicle maintenance: 3.9
  • Controlled substances: 0.0
  • Hazardous materials violations: 0
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Comparing Drayage Trucking Jobs in Tennessee

Company Salary range Tuition reimbursement Paid CDL training
Covenant Logistics $50,000-$60,000
Titan Transfer, Inc. $70,000-$75,000
International Paper $50,000-$60,000
OLD Time Express, Inc. $50,000-$60,000
NEW Waverly Transportation $55,000-$65,000
Barnhart Crane And Rigging Co $60,000-$80,000
CMH Transport, Inc. $40,000-$50,000
JIT - Ex, LLC $2,029 - $4,329 a month N/A N/A
MTR Nashville $50,000-$70,000
Burkhart Enterprises N/A N/A N/A

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

How often do drayage jobs in Tennessee include health insurance?

Across trucking in Tennessee, health insurance shows up frequently. About 145 companies statewide offer coverage, which is more than the 10 drayage employers in the state. That overlap means drayage drivers in TN 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.

Do drayage drivers in Tennessee work for mid-sized fleets most of the time?

Yes, mid-sized fleets are common in Tennessee. The average trucking company employs 87 people, which often means stronger support systems such as planned scheduling, defined lane coverage, and stable customer contracts. Around ports and rail ramps, these fleets usually have enough volume to keep turns steady week to week.

Do drayage companies in Tennessee train new drivers?

Training plays a big role in trucking across Tennessee. A total of 40 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 Tennessee

If you are considering different types of trucking jobs available in Tennessee, 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.