10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Merced, CA
We reviewed key factors — including pay, benefits, training, and work-life balance — across 192 trucking companies in Merced, CA. Our analysis shows that Foster Farms stands out as the best employer for drivers in Merced.
Top Trucking Companies in Merced, CA
Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Merced:
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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 Merced. Every Merced 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 Merced.
Foster Farms
1333 Swan Street, Livingston, CA, 95334- Salary range: $76,000-$92,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 342
- Trailers: 961
- Drivers: 145
- Miles driven: 1,306,634 (2024)
Foster Farms (DOT: 80403) is a distinguished trucking entity nestled in Livingston, California. Established primarily in the food production industry, the company transports a broad range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction items, grain, feed, hay, general freight, large machinery, livestock, and refrigerated food. General freight and dry van operations are also a part of their extensive cargo capabilities. Foster Farms hires a diverse group of drivers, including local, regional, OTR, team, flatbed, and reefer drivers, ensuring extensive and varied shipping capabilities.
Foster Farms is recognized for providing competitive benefits to its trucking personnel. These include health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, alongside a robust retirement plan and 401k. Drivers enjoy paid time off, gym memberships, rider or pet allowances, and flexible scheduling, which enhances work-life balance. The company also offers sign-on bonuses, per diem payments, deadhead detention pay, and pay advances, which contribute to a financially rewarding career for their drivers.
Despite the lack of current Glassdoor or Indeed ratings, Foster Farms' commitment to fostering a positive work environment is evident through their benefits and employee incentives. The company emphasizes safety and training, supported by ongoing training and development programs. Most employee reviews highlight the comprehensive benefits and job stability as major positives, although some feedback suggests room for improvement in certain operational aspects, such as route assignments and schedule consistency.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Gym membership
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Truck lease-to-purchase program
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 21
- Unsafe driving: 0.03
- Driver fitness: 0.03
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.37
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Best Transport
5847 E Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA, 95348- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 1,224,590 (2024)
Best Transport (DOT: 1312590) is a trucking company based in Merced, California. Specializing in the transportation of general freight, Best Transport operates across interstate routes. Although the exact founding date is not specified, they have been active in the transportation industry for several years, contributing notably to the logistics sector. The company employs various types of drivers, including regional, local, and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, with opportunities for both solo and team driving. They offer specialized services like dry van and reefer transportation, accommodating a range of freight needs.
Best Transport is committed to offering attractive benefits to its drivers, incorporating a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as life and disability insurance. The company emphasizes driver satisfaction by offering paid time off, retirement plans such as a 401(k), and well-structured sign-on and referral bonuses. Furthermore, drivers are afforded flexible work provisions like rider or pet allowance and guaranteed home time, enhancing work-life balance.
Employee reviews on sites like Indeed rate Best Transport highly, with an Indeed score of 4.3 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.1. Positive feedback often highlights the company's supportive culture, competitive pay, and reliable benefits as standout features. However, some reviews suggest that there could be improvements in fleet organization and management for more efficient operations. Nonetheless, Best Transport is recognized for maintaining a commendable company atmosphere and ensuring driver welfare remains a priority.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 5.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Unison Trucking, Inc.
1221 Cavalaire Ct, Merced, CA, 95348- Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 13
- Drivers: 13
- Revenue: $368,000
- Miles driven: 1,344,545 (2022)
Unison Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 2273192) is strategically located in Merced, California. Though the exact founding date isn't available, the company has established itself as a reputable carrier offering a range of services. Specializing in the transportation of general freight, Unison utilizes dry van and flatbed trucks, along with refrigerated units (reefers), to efficiently manage their cargo operations. Their fleet consists of 13 trucks, with operations across interstate routes. Unison Trucking primarily hires flatbed and reefer drivers for over-the-road, regional, and local team driving opportunities, also offering positions to owner-operators.
Drivers at Unison Trucking, Inc. benefit from competitive compensation packages, including driver referral bonuses and a sign-on bonus. The company supports its employees with comprehensive health insurance that includes dental and vision coverage, in addition to life insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan. Unison values the safety and satisfaction of its drivers, offering safety bonuses, deadhead detention compensation, and guaranteed home time. Their support for driver growth is evident through their paid CDL training and ongoing training development programs, contributing to their positive work culture.
With an impressive Glassdoor and Indeed rating of 4.0, Unison Trucking is highly rated for job security, advancement opportunities, and benefits, reflecting their commitment to employee satisfaction. However, common feedback from employees suggests there could be improvements in flexible scheduling and work-life balance. Despite these areas for growth, the overwhelmingly positive reviews underline a supportive atmosphere and quality career opportunities within Unison Trucking, making it a distinguished name in the industry.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Paid CDL training
- 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: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Ashley Transport
34860 Ave 13 1/2, Madera, CA, 93636- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 80,358 (2024)
Ashley Transport (DOT: 724400) operates out of Madera, California. Though the exact founding date is not listed, the company actively functions as an interstate carrier. Ashley Transport is engaged in general freight logistics with a fleet that includes dry vans and flatbeds, catering to versatile cargo-carrying needs. They primarily hire local and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, including those specializing in reefer and dry van driving.
Employees at Ashley Transport benefit from several incentives, including a sign-on bonus and direct deposit. The company offers health, dental, and vision insurance alongside a retirement plan (401k) and disability insurance. Additionally, employees receive paid time off and are granted guaranteed home time. They continually invest in their workforce through ongoing training and development programs.
With an Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.8, Ashley Transport garners praise for its employee benefits and job security. Positive feedback often highlights the comprehensive benefit packages and supportive work culture. However, some negative reviews point out shortcomings in flexible scheduling options and occasional delays in promised home time.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- 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: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Chad's Trucking
28405 Ave 15, Madera, CA, 93638- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 8
- Drivers: 8
- Revenue: $540,000
- Miles driven: 100,000 (2024)
Chad's Trucking (DOT: 1686499) is a reputable transportation company operating out of Madera, California. The company carries a wide array of cargo, focusing on agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, construction goods, fresh produce, general freight, and large machinery. Chad's Trucking primarily hires drivers for flatbed, dry van, and reefer operations, offering both local and over-the-road opportunities.
The company provides a competitive package to its drivers, including a sign-on bonus, paid CDL training, and ongoing training and development programs. Employees enjoy comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan with a 401k option. Additionally, paid time off is offered to maintain a good work-life balance. Although they do not guarantee home time, the focus on continuous development and training makes Chad's Trucking an appealing choice for drivers.
Chad's Trucking holds an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Yelp rating of 4.0, reflecting a positive work environment supported by fair compensation and job security. Employees commonly appreciate the support and training they receive but express concerns regarding the lack of guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling. Despite these challenges, the commitment to personal and professional growth remains a notable highlight among employee feedback.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 2.99
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.88
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Great America, Inc.
2474 Industrial Rowe, Turlock, CA, 95380- Salary range: $45,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 15
- Drivers: 18
- Miles driven: 119,357 (2024)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Great America, Inc. (DOT: 2833794) is a trucking company based in Turlock, California. Founded in 2014, they have been a part of the transportation industry for over a decade. With a focus on interstate operations, Great America, Inc. carries a diverse range of cargo including beverages, dry bulk commodities, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They primarily hire drivers for team driving opportunities, including OTR, reefer, and flatbed drivers.
Great America, Inc. offers several benefits that make it an attractive choice for drivers. These include health insurance, paid CDL training, and a variety of insurance coverages like dental, life, and disability. Additionally, employees receive a retirement plan (401k), ongoing training and development programs, and paid time off. The company is known for providing a competitive sign-on bonus, safety bonuses, and having a good reputation in the industry, reflected in their Indeed rating of 4.2 and Glassdoor rating of 4.0.
Reviews on Indeed and Glassdoor highlight Great America, Inc.'s compensation, benefits, and job security as primary strengths, contributing to a positive work culture. However, some employees have noted areas for improvement, such as the absence of guaranteed home time and flexible scheduling. The company continues to work towards maintaining its high standards by emphasizing safety and employee development.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.35
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.92
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.4
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
General Valley Trucking
18869 Rd 22, Madera, CA, 93637- Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 47,633 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
General Valley Trucking (DOT: 865503) is situated in Madera, California, and operates as an intrastate non-hazardous carrier. While the exact founding date is unspecified, the company maintains an active status. General Valley Trucking carries a variety of cargo, including fresh produce and general freight. They deploy reefer, dry van, and flatbed trucks, primarily hiring reefer and flatbed drivers.
General Valley Trucking's driver benefits stand out with offerings like a sign-on bonus, safety bonuses, and competitive salaries ranging from $60,000 to $70,000. Drivers receive comprehensive health insurance, including dental and vision coverage, guaranteed home time, and paid time off. The company also supports retirement planning with a 401(k) and offers life and disability insurance. However, programs like paid CDL training and gym memberships are not provided. A noteworthy perk is the allowance of pets and passengers on board.
General Valley Trucking holds an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0, reflecting positively on compensation and benefits. Employee feedback praises the supportive work culture and management, but some reviews mention areas for improvement in work-life balance and scheduling consistency. Despite these challenges, employees generally express satisfaction with the company's commitment to safety and job security.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
B&C Trucking
16930 Road 26 Suite C, Madera, CA, 93638- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 15
- Drivers: 15
- Revenue: $1,079,000
- Miles driven: 854,250 (2024)
B&C Trucking (DOT: 915180) was established in 1995 in Madera, California. This reputable trucking company specializes in transporting general freight and provides full truckload and partial truckload services using dry van, reefer, and flatbed trucks. B&C Trucking focuses on hiring local, OTR, reefer, and tanker drivers to meet the demands of their interstate operations.
The company is known for offering competitive driver benefits, which include health, dental, and vision insurance along with a robust 401(k) retirement plan. B&C Trucking provides paid time off, a sign-on bonus, and safety bonuses to ensure driver satisfaction and safety. Although the company does not support passenger or pet accompaniment, it guarantees home time and offers life and disability insurance to its employees.
B&C Trucking has received mixed reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed, with a rating of 4.0 on Glassdoor and 3.8 on Indeed. Employees typically praise the competitive salary range of $55,000 to $65,000 and the enriching work environment. However, some criticisms arise regarding the lack of work-life balance due to occasional unpredictable scheduling. Nonetheless, B&C Trucking maintains a solid reputation for being a safe and reliable employer within the trucking industry.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.7
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.81
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
DSD Trucking
925 Jessica St, Turlock, CA, 95380- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 8
- Drivers: 8
- Revenue: $428,000
- Miles driven: 375,237 (2024)
DSD Trucking (DOT: 2151454) was established in 2016 and is based in Turlock, California. As an active interstate carrier, DSD Trucking specializes in transporting beverages, fresh produce, and meat, using their fleet of dry vans and flatbed trucks. The company offers team driving opportunities and hires local and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, ensuring a diverse range of freight hauling capabilities.
DSD Trucking provides a range of benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan. The company also emphasizes safety with bonuses for maintaining high performance in this area. While they offer guaranteed home time, DSD Trucking has yet to introduce sign-on bonuses or ongoing training development programs for its employees.
With an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0, DSD Trucking is generally well-regarded by its employees. Positive feedback frequently mentions the company’s comprehensive health benefits, reliable equipment, and supportive management. However, some criticism arises over limited opportunities for work-life balance and the absence of flexible scheduling. Despite these challenges, DSD Trucking remains a competitive player within the trucking industry, focusing on both driver satisfaction and effective freight transportation.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Team
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Conditional
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 0.75
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.86
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.38
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Merced Transportation Company
300 Grogan Avenue, Merced, CA, 95341- Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Paid CDL training: true
- Power units: 22
- Drivers: 16
- Revenue: $15,878,000
- Miles driven: 380,000 (2022)
Merced Transportation Company (DOT: 267225) was founded in 1982 and is located in Merced, California. This company is an established carrier specializing in intrastate non-hazardous transportation. They primarily carry passengers and operate with a fleet of over 22 buses. Merced Transportation Company hires a variety of drivers, including those for flatbed, reefer, dry van, and over-the-road routes, with an emphasis on team driving opportunities.
Merced Transportation Company offers competitive employee benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401k retirement plan and paid time off. They also support drivers with guaranteed home time and paid CDL training, which can be particularly attractive for those entering the industry. However, the company does not currently offer sign-on bonuses, truck lease purchase programs, or tuition reimbursement.
Employee reviews on Indeed and Glassdoor rate Merced Transportation favorably with scores of 4.2 and 4.0 respectively. Employees frequently praise the company's supportive work environment and reliable scheduling. However, some employees have noted that communication regarding route assignments could be improved, and there is room for growth in advancing career development programs. Despite these challenges, the company maintains a generally positive work culture.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Paid CDL training
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.69
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
What To Look for in Merced Trucking Companies
In Merced, CA, 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 Merced:
- Pay range & career growth: A good paycheck is only the start — make sure you’ll have room to grow. Search for Merced 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 Merced 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.
Types of Driving Jobs Available
In Merced, 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 California and nearby states, letting you return home more often than long-haul.
- Local: Provides consistent, short-distance routes inside Merced and its surrounding areas.
- Specialized: Involves transporting niche cargo types like liquids, frozen goods, or dry freight within Merced’s unique shipping industry.
How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals
As you decide on the best trucking company in Merced 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 Merced, California 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.
How To Apply
Ready to start your trucking career in Merced? 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 Merced.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions truck drivers have when considering trucking companies in Merced:
Is a truck driving career worth it in Merced?
A truck driving career in Merced 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 Merced offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?
Foster Farms is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
What type of driving jobs are most available in Merced?
Most trucking companies in Merced 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 Merced?
Foster Farms is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Merced.