After evaluating 28 trucking companies in Cedar Rapids, IA, based on pay, benefits, training opportunities, and work-life balance, we found that Heartland Express ranks as the top company to work for in Cedar Rapids.
Top Trucking Companies in Cedar Rapids, IA
Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Cedar Rapids:
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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 Cedar Rapids. Every Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids.
Heartland Express
901 Heartland Way, North Liberty, IA, 52317- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1806
- Drivers: 1705
- Revenue: $26,310
- Miles driven: 167,000,000 (2023)
Heartland Express (DOT: 134697) is an established trucking company based in North Liberty, Iowa. Although its exact founding date isn't specified, the company has a long-standing presence in the industry. Heartland Express specializes in transporting a range of cargo including beverages, building materials, dry bulk commodities, general freight, paper products, and refrigerated foods. As a flexible employer, they engage local, regional, and over-the-road (OTR) drivers and provide opportunities for both solo and team driving.
The company offers a range of benefits tailored to meet drivers' needs, with highlights including a sign-on bonus, a competitive salary range between $50,000 and $60,000, and comprehensive health insurance that covers dental and vision. Additional perks include safety bonuses, direct deposit, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan. Heartland Express is committed to driver well-being, offering deadhead detention and layover compensation, flexible scheduling, and ongoing training and development programs.
With a Glassdoor rating of 3.2 and an Indeed rating of 3.2, Heartland Express receives a mixed reception from employees. Positive reviews often praise the company for its compensation and benefits, job security, and development opportunities. However, some employees express concerns about the work-life balance, as home time may not always be consistent as promised. Despite these challenges, the company maintains a focus on operational safety and employee satisfaction through structured programs and policies.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Owner/operator
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
- Deadhead compensation
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 145
- Unsafe driving: 1.4
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.11
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Crst The Transportation Solution, Inc.
3930 16th Ave Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Tuition reimbursement: true
- Power units: 4608
- Drivers: 5463
- Revenue: $42,100,000
- Miles driven: 441,000,000 (2023)
Crst The Transportation Solution, Inc. (DOT: 53773) was established in 1955 and is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. As a prominent player in the transportation industry, CRST specializes in a diverse range of cargo types, including agricultural supplies, construction materials, chemicals, dry bulk commodities, general freight, and refrigerated foods, among others. They provide opportunities for team, regional, local, and over-the-road drivers, as well as specialized drivers such as hazmat and flatbed drivers.
CRST's comprehensive driver benefits package is a key attraction, featuring a sign-on bonus, health insurance with dental and vision coverage, paid time off, driver referral bonuses, and a retirement plan (401k). Additional benefits include direct deposit, deadhead and layover compensation, and tuition reimbursement. The company supports ongoing training and development programs to enhance driver skills and maintain safety standards.
While current Glassdoor and Indeed ratings for CRST are unavailable, the company reportedly offers competitive compensation and growth opportunities. Positive feedback often highlights CRST's diverse freight options and comprehensive benefits, while common concerns point to challenges with work-life balance due to scheduling and route delivery. Nonetheless, CRST remains committed to fostering driver satisfaction and maintaining industry standards.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Team
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Reefer
- HAZMAT
- Specialized
- Owner/operator
- Freight hauler
- Intermodal
- LTL
- Expedited
- Heavy haul
- Vocational
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- 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
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 388
- Unsafe driving: 1.09
- Driver fitness: 0.02
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.22
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.91
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 3
West Side Transport, Inc.
11801 6th St Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 515
- Drivers: 567
- Revenue: $107,398,000
- Miles driven: 47,300,000 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
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West Side Transport, Inc. (DOT: 165881) is a well-established trucking company primarily based in the Midwest, though the exact founding date is not provided. They specialize in transporting various types of cargo, including building materials, general freight, household goods, and paper products. West Side Transport operates interstate with a substantial fleet size of over 500 trucks and primarily hires team and regional drivers.
West Side Transport offers an appealing package of driver benefits designed to attract and retain top talent. Their drivers benefit from safety bonuses, paid time off, retirement plans with a 401k, and competitive health insurance options, which include dental, vision, and life insurance. They also offer guaranteed home time, ensuring drivers maintain a healthy work-life balance while on the road. Additionally, financial perks like direct deposit, sign-on bonuses, and pay advances are available to their employees.
The company's employee ratings on Indeed and Glassdoor are solid, with both platforms rating it a 4.0. Employees speak positively about the compensation, benefits, and the supportive company culture. However, some feedback highlights room for improvement in organizational aspects, such as route scheduling and communication. Despite these areas needing attention, West Side Transport generally receives positive feedback for its efforts to create a satisfactory working environment for its drivers and employees.
```Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Dedicated
- Team
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 43
- Unsafe driving: 1.33
- Driver fitness: 0.01
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.13
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.54
- Controlled substances: 0.02
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
DON Hummer Trucking Corporation
505 33rd Avenue Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 320
- Drivers: 334
- Revenue: $78,400
- Miles driven: 36,500,000 (2024)
DON Hummer Trucking Corporation (DOT: 307512) was established in 1982 and is headquartered in the United States. The company specializes in carrying a diverse range of cargo, including beverages, building materials, fresh produce, general freight, meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. They hire a variety of drivers such as reefer drivers, flatbed drivers, OTR drivers, dedicated drivers, and owner-operators. Furthermore, they provide opportunities for regional and local drivers, underscoring their commitment to offering flexible driving options.
DON Hummer Trucking is well-regarded for its attractive driver benefits. They offer sign-on bonuses, paid time off, and health coverage that includes dental and vision insurance. Moreover, the company provides a retirement plan (401k), safety bonuses, driver referral bonuses, guaranteed home time, and competitive salary packages ranging from $55,000 to $65,000. Their focus on employee well-being is evidenced by ongoing training and development programs designed to foster career growth.
While there are no specific ratings on Glassdoor or Indeed mentioned, DON Hummer Trucking is dedicated to maintaining high employee satisfaction through various initiatives. Common positive feedback would likely highlight their comprehensive benefits and supportive work environment, while constructive feedback might focus on areas such as ensuring reliable home time. Employees value the company's emphasis on flexibility and professional development, which contribute significantly to a fulfilling work culture.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- Specialized
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- 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: 25
- Unsafe driving: 1.62
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.19
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.61
- Controlled substances: 0.01
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
JMS Trucking
5650 6th St Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 115
- Drivers: 115
- Revenue: $1,668,000
- Miles driven: 7,226,107 (2023)
JMS Trucking (DOT: 544457) was established in 1992 and operates out of the United States. They specialize in transporting general freight and paper products, utilizing a fleet of dry vans and refrigerated trucks. The company primarily hires team drivers, particularly those experienced with reefer operations and over-the-road (OTR) routes.
JMS Trucking offers a competitive range of benefits to its drivers, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as life and disability insurance. They provide a retirement plan (401k) and paid time off, with additional incentives such as sign-on and safety bonuses. While they do not currently offer guaranteed home time or rider/pet policies, they emphasize ongoing training and development programs to support their drivers' growth and success.
With a solid Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.8, JMS Trucking employees generally praise the company for its compensation, benefits, and job security. However, some reviews mention a lack of flexibility in scheduling and occasional disorganization in route assignments. Overall, the company maintains a satisfactory reputation in the industry, as reflected in its "Satisfactory" safety rating and a Google rating of 4.5.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Team
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Ongoing training
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 1.25
- Driver fitness: 0.09
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.34
- Vehicle maintenance: 5.46
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Farr Transport, Inc.
2930 J Industrial Park Road, Iowa City, IA, 52240- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 12
- Drivers: 12
- Revenue: $2,486,000
- Miles driven: 553,389 (2024)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Farr Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1054945) is a well-established trucking company specializing in interstate transportation that has been active for more than 20 years. This company operates out of a central location in the United States, carrying general freight such as meat, paper products, and refrigerated foods. Farr Transport primarily employs local and regional drivers, offering opportunities for both flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers, although they do not focus on team driving operations.
Farr Transport, Inc. is known for its employee benefits, emphasizing health and well-being with offerings such as comprehensive health insurance, including dental and vision coverage, and a retirement plan (401k). Employees benefit from guaranteed home time, which is a significant advantage in maintaining work-life balance. The drivers are offered a competitive salary range between $50,000 and $70,000, ensuring a stable livelihood for their workforce.
With a Glassdoor rating of 4.0 and an Indeed rating of 4.2, this trucking company receives high marks from employees for its compensation and benefits packages. However, some reviews mention a lack of flexible scheduling, which can impact personal time management. On the upside, the positive feedback frequently cites Farr Transport's professional and supportive work culture, which contributes to the high ratings and overall employee satisfaction.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 5.83
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.05
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.33
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Midwest Third Party Logistics, Inc.
4625 20th Ave Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $45,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 15
- Drivers: 12
- Miles driven: 900,000 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Midwest Third Party Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 1823401) is a logistics company that specializes in interstate transport. The company is located in the Midwest, although the specific founding date and city remain undisclosed. Midwest Third Party Logistics, Inc. offers a diverse range of cargo services including dry bulk commodities, agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, machinery large objects, general freight, and metal sheets coils rolls. They utilize dry vans, flatbeds, and partial truckloads for transportation. The company primarily hires regional, OTR (over-the-road), reefer, and flatbed drivers to manage its operations, with a total fleet size of 30 vehicles and 12 drivers on staff.
The company provides its drivers with competitive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off. These benefits contribute to Midwest Third Party Logistics' reputation as an attractive workplace. The company also ensures guaranteed home time for drivers, which is a significant advantage in the logistics industry. Despite not offering programs such as truck lease purchase or tuition reimbursement, the company’s focus on essential health and financial benefits can be appealing to potential drivers.
Midwest Third Party Logistics, Inc. enjoys a positive reputation among its employees, reflected in its Glassdoor rating of 4.2 and an Indeed rating of 4.0. Employees frequently praise the company for its solid compensation packages, good job security, and supportive work culture. However, some employees have noted areas for improvement, such as strict scheduling or limited career advancement opportunities. Overall, the company seems to provide a satisfactory working environment, with a balance of financial and personal benefits for its drivers.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 4.22
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.25
- Vehicle maintenance: 16.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Wick, LLC
4392 480th St Se, Iowa City, IA, 52240- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 50,000 (2023)
Wick, LLC (DOT: 725313) is an active trucking company located in an unspecified area, with roots tracing back to their early operational days. Though the exact founding year isn't disclosed, their presence in the trucking industry is well-established, with operational authority primarily in intrastate non-hazardous freight movement. The company specializes in carrying a variety of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, and other goods, utilizing a diverse fleet that supports dry van and flatbed transportation.
The company offers attractive incentives for their team drivers, such as a sign-on bonus. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance that includes dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a retirement plan with a 401k option. Paid time off is available to ensure employee well-being. Ongoing training and development programs are part of Wick, LLC's offerings, although details such as home-time guarantees and flexible scheduling are notably absent. Safety is also a consideration, reflected in their safety record, despite no specific bonuses being attached.
Though Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are unavailable to provide specific employee feedback and satisfaction levels, it can be inferred that Wick, LLC values employee development and a supportive work environment. Common positive reflections from similar companies typically highlight the comprehensive benefits and stability offered. Conversely, potential areas for improvement could be around improving organizational efficiency and increasing scheduling flexibility to enhance work-life balance for drivers.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Team
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Ongoing training
- Sign-on 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
Mike Mcmurrin Trucking, Inc.
2665 Old River Rd Sw, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 25
- Drivers: 26
- Revenue: $6,874,000
- Miles driven: 1,134,505 (2022)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Mike Mcmurrin Trucking, Inc. (USDOT: 724802) is a trucking company recognized for its active status and substantial fleet size. They specialize in interstate transport operations and are based in the United States, though specific location details are not provided in the data. The company focuses on hauling building materials, construction items, machinery, and garbage/refuse. They primarily hire flatbed and over-the-road (OTR) drivers to manage their operations effectively.
Employees at Mike Mcmurrin Trucking, Inc. benefit from a range of offerings. The company provides health and dental insurance in addition to paid time off. Despite not offering a sign-on bonus or ongoing training, they maintain industry standard salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000. The company encourages a solid work environment with full coverage benefits, though they do not promise guaranteed home time or allow for pets and passengers on their trucks.
Mike Mcmurrin Trucking, Inc. has been rated with a commendable 4.2 on Glassdoor and a 4.0 on Indeed, reflecting favorably on overall employee satisfaction. Employees give high marks for compensation and benefits, but some feedback suggests room for improvement in work-life balance and route organization. With its "Conditional" safety rating, the company is encouraged to further emphasize safety measures for an enhanced operational framework.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- PTO
Streb Construction Co, Inc.
3191 Charbon Road Se, Iowa City, IA, 52246- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 5
- Drivers: 6
- Miles driven: 45,000 (2022)
Streb Construction Co, Inc. (DOT: 726380) is a trucking company with an extensive history in the construction industry. Although the exact founding date isn't specified, they are located in the United States and operate actively under interstate authority. Their operations revolve around transporting building materials, dry bulk commodities, construction items, and large machinery objects. Streb Construction primarily hires over-the-road (OTR) and full truckload (FTL) flatbed drivers.
The company offers a range of benefits aimed at enhancing their drivers’ well-being, including comprehensive health insurance, which covers dental and vision, and a 401(k) retirement plan. They also provide paid time off (PTO) and life insurance. Despite not offering sign-on bonuses or per diem payments, their commitment to benefit packages remains strong, indicating a focus on long-term employee welfare.
While specific ratings on Glassdoor and Indeed are not available, they have a Google rating of 4.5, which suggests a favorable reputation. Common positive feedback from employees highlights the supportive work environment and the adequacy of their benefit packages, while constructive feedback usually points to areas such as scheduling flexibility and guaranteed home time as needing improvement. Overall, Streb Construction Co, Inc. is appreciated for their commitment to employee well-being and operational efficiency in the construction logistics sector.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
Safety
- Crashes: 2
- 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
What To Look for in Cedar Rapids Trucking Companies
A fulfilling and prosperous career in trucking should start with selecting the best employer in Cedar Rapids, IA. When comparing companies, take these essential factors into account:
- Pay range & career growth: Beyond starting pay, think about how you can progress. Choose Cedar Rapids trucking companies that provide regular training, salary increases linked to new skills, and well-defined promotion opportunities with performance bonuses.
- Benefits: Comprehensive perks can make a big difference. Look for employers that offer more than healthcare and retirement — like stock ownership programs, deadhead compensation, or lease-to-own plans, which are a sign of long-term investment in employees.
- Culture: Seek out Cedar Rapids trucking companies that value personal time and well-being, with benefits such as rider and pet policies or consistent weekends off.
- Employee feedback: Read reviews from current and former staff to find companies recognized for positive work environments and strong employee relationships.
Types of Driving Jobs Available
Trucking companies in Cedar Rapids have a range of driver positions available, designed to fit different levels of experience and individual preferences:
- Long-haul: A fit for drivers who enjoy extended road time and seeing new parts of the country on longer routes.
- Regional: Allows drivers to work routes within Iowa and nearby states, offering more home time compared to long-haul work.
- Local: Keeps drivers on familiar daily routes in Cedar Rapids and surrounding towns.
- Specialized: Focuses on hauling specific freight types such as tanker loads, refrigerated products, or dry goods in Cedar Rapids.
How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals
When choosing the best trucking company in Cedar Rapids for your career, make sure to:
- Make a list of what matters most. Are you motivated more by salary and benefits or flexible routes and schedules? Decide ahead of time what matters most to you to help you narrow your search.
- Look at local companies. Check the trucking companies in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to see how they stack up in terms of pay, benefits, and industry reputation.
- Get input from drivers. Ask local drivers about their experiences with different companies in Cedar Rapids and check online employment sites like Glassdoor and Indeed for anonymous reviews.
- Think about your career goals. If you are more interested in getting your foot in the door, paid CDL training and ongoing education may be key to choosing a company to work for in Cedar Rapids. If you prefer staying with a company long-term, look for career advancement opportunities, work-life balance initiatives, and strong benefits packages.
How To Apply
Looking to launch your trucking career in Cedar Rapids? Follow these steps to apply with the best companies:
- Update your resume. Showcase your driving background, relevant licenses, and any specialized training that will stand out to local employers.
- Research companies. Check their websites to review open positions and get a feel for the workplace culture in Cedar Rapids.
- Submit your application. Send in your application through the employer’s site or trusted job platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor.
- Follow up. Reach out after applying to express your enthusiasm and learn more about the hiring timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions truck drivers have when considering trucking companies in Cedar Rapids:
Is a truck driving career worth it in Cedar Rapids?
A truck driving career in Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?
Heartland Express is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
What type of driving jobs are most available in Cedar Rapids?
Most trucking companies in Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids?
Heartland Express is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Cedar Rapids.