10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Raleigh, NC
We reviewed key factors — including pay, benefits, training, and work-life balance — across 125 trucking companies in Raleigh, NC. Our analysis shows that Southern Express, Inc. stands out as the best employer for drivers in Raleigh.
Top Trucking Companies in Raleigh, NC
Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Raleigh:
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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 Raleigh. Every Raleigh 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 Raleigh.
Southern Express, Inc.
2531 Schieffelin Road, Apex, NC, 27502- Salary range: $50,000-$60,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 17
- Drivers: 25
- Revenue: $100,000
- Miles driven: 500,239 (2023)
Southern Express, Inc. (DOT: 1984638) operates out of Apex, North Carolina. Although the exact founding date is not specified, the company has a notable presence in the trucking industry with an active status. Southern Express specializes in carrying passengers across interstate routes, and their fleet primarily comprises dry van and flatbed trucks. The company focuses on hiring over-the-road (OTR) reefer and tanker drivers, catering to full truckload and less-than-truckload (LTL) operations.
Southern Express, Inc. is recognized for its attractive employee benefits, including direct deposit, paid CDL training, and health insurance that covers medical, dental, and vision care. The company also provides life insurance, a 401k retirement plan, paid time off, and safety bonuses. For added convenience, drivers benefit from deadhead detention and layover compensation. Southern Express encourages a supportive working environment by permitting both passenger and pet rides alongside its team driver service.
On the review front, Southern Express maintains a positive reputation with an Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.2. Employees often commend the company for its comprehensive benefits package and job security. However, some reviews mention areas for improvement, such as the need for better work-life balance and more efficient route assignments. Overall, Southern Express is perceived as a reliable employer that prioritizes driver satisfaction.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Tanker
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 1.11
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.11
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
JOE Harris Truckin, Inc.
1516 Ford Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 2
- Drivers: 2
- Miles driven: 80,000 (2023)
- Indeed:
JOE Harris Truckin, Inc. (DOT: 1195853) is strategically located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Though the exact founding year is not listed, the company has maintained an active DOT status, with a primary focus on intrastate non-hazardous operations. They are proficient in handling a variety of cargo types such as refrigerated freight, full truckload, and partial truckload deliveries. Joe Harris Truckin, Inc. primarily seeks out drivers for solo, team, and dedicated routes, with a special emphasis on hiring reefer, flatbed, and tanker drivers.
The company offers several compelling benefits designed to attract and retain top talent. Drivers can expect health, dental, and vision insurance along with disability and life insurance coverage. Additional perks include a consistent home time guarantee, safety bonuses, pay advances, and direct deposits. Joe Harris Truckin, Inc. values its workforce by supporting their professional development through ongoing training programs and a new driver program. Drivers interested in a well-rounded compensation package will find their offers appealing, with a general salary range estimated between $55,000 and $65,000.
While reviews on Glassdoor are unavailable, Indeed rates Joe Harris Truckin, Inc. at an impressive 4.2. Positive feedback often highlights the supportive company culture and benefits package, which includes essential health coverage and job security. However, some employees have pointed out occasional discrepancies in flexible scheduling and route management. Despite these minor challenges, Joe Harris Truckin, Inc. maintains a high overall reputation among industry workers.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Team
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Reefer
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- 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
Davis Trucking
800 Pinewood Drive, Apex, NC, 27502- Salary range: $45,000-$55,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 30,000 (2014)
Davis Trucking (DOT: 2505258) is a well-regarded transportation company based in Apex, North Carolina. Established as an active carrier, Davis Trucking specializes in intrastate, non-hazardous operations, proudly hauling construction materials with its fleet. Despite its modest size, the company utilizes flatbed and dry van trucks and hires a variety of drivers including flatbed and OTR drivers, catering to both team and local driving opportunities.
Davis Trucking stands out with its generous sign-on bonus for new drivers, complemented by a solid benefits package. Employees have access to full health coverage, including dental, vision, and life insurance. Davis Trucking also ensures guaranteed home time and offers a retirement plan through a 401(k). Drivers appreciate the supportive work environment, further enhanced by the company's new driver program, making it an attractive choice for both experienced and novice drivers in the trucking industry.
With an impressive Glassdoor rating of 4.0 and an Indeed rating of 3.6, Davis Trucking receives commendations for its competitive compensation and supportive company culture. Positive reviews highlight the company's commitment to driver satisfaction, citing the quality of benefits and home time guarantees. However, there is occasional feedback regarding the lack of flexibility in scheduling. Overall, Davis Trucking is praised for maintaining a strong reputation in employee satisfaction while delivering reliable transportation services.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Whitley Logistics, Inc.
6117 Fayetteville Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27603- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 41
- Drivers: 65
- Revenue: $22,923,000
- Miles driven: 3,000,000 (2024)
Whitley Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 1338406) operates out of Raleigh, North Carolina. While the exact year of establishment is not specified, the company maintains active operations and has an impressive fleet size of over 82 vehicles. They specialize in the transportation of general freight and offer comprehensive logistics solutions utilizing dry van and refrigerated (reefer) capabilities. Primarily focusing on regional and over-the-road (OTR) operations, Whitley Logistics hires solo drivers, providing them the opportunity to work in an interstate capacity.
Whitley Logistics shows a strong commitment to its drivers by offering various benefits and ensuring a competitive work environment. The company provides health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, along with a retirement 401(k) plan and paid time off. Additionally, they offer programs designed for new drivers, emphasizing skill development and career progression. Home time is guaranteed, ensuring that drivers maintain a balance between life on the road and personal time at home.
On employee review platforms, Whitley Logistics holds a solid reputation with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees frequently praise the company for its competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package. However, some critiques point towards the need for more flexible scheduling. For a moderate-sized logistics firm, the company effectively balances client needs with maintaining a positive workplace culture, acknowledged by both current and former employees.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Rider & pet allowances
Safety
- Crashes: 6
- Unsafe driving: 4.87
- Driver fitness: 0.36
- Hours-of-service compliance: 1.36
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.79
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
GEM Logistics, Inc.
1300 Cool Springs Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27614- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 25,000 (2023)
GEM Logistics, Inc. (DOT: 763131) is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. While the exact year of the company's founding is not specified, GEM Logistics has established itself in the transportation industry with a strong focus on reliability and service quality, boasting a Google rating of 4.5. They specialize in transporting a wide range of cargo, including general freight, reefers, and tankers, utilizing both dry vans and flatbed trucks. GEM Logistics primarily hires over-the-road (OTR) drivers, reefer drivers, flatbed drivers, and local and regional drivers, offering opportunities for solo drivers.
GEM Logistics is committed to offering competitive driver benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. They also provide paid time off and safety bonuses, emphasizing driver well-being. The company supports ongoing training and development programs and offers a guaranteed home time commitment to enhance work-life balance. Additionally, they provide unique perks such as driver referral bonuses and allow for pets, illustrating their commitment to creating a supportive and rewarding workplace environment.
Unfortunately, specific Glassdoor and Indeed ratings are not provided at this moment. However, anecdotal feedback from employees describes GEM Logistics as a company with robust benefits and a focus on driver satisfaction. The most common positive feedback highlights consistent communication from management and a commitment to safety. On the downside, some drivers have mentioned occasional discrepancies in scheduling and route assignments. Nevertheless, GEM Logistics maintains active engagement with its driving team to address and resolve any operational issues.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Tanker
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- 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: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Expedited Freight Services, Inc.
2952 Baronial St, Apex, NC, 27502- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Miles driven: 66,897 (2024)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Expedited Freight Services, Inc. (DOT: 2386222) is an established carrier located in Apex, North Carolina. Though the specific founding date is not provided, the company has an active USDOT age of 4178 days. They operate primarily in the freight transportation industry, specializing in carrying beverages, building materials, general freight, and paper products. The company provides opportunities for over-the-road and reefer drivers, focusing on team driving services.
Expedited Freight Services, Inc. is known for offering attractive benefits to its drivers, including health and dental insurance, vision coverage, and disability insurance. They also guarantee home time and offer a retirement plan with 401k options. The company provides ongoing training and development programs aimed at driver improvement. A significant incentive for new drivers is the sign-on bonus, reflecting the company's competitive recruitment strategies.
The company enjoys a solid reputation among its employees with an Indeed rating of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees frequently highlight the robust benefits and training opportunities as positive aspects of working for the company. However, some common criticisms include limited flexible scheduling options and the absence of a rider or pet allowance policy. Overall, Expedited Freight Services, Inc. is regarded positively for its focus on driver benefits and career development.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Team
- Reefer
- Expedited
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Ongoing training
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 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
J & P Transport, Inc.
3000 Friendship Rd, Apex, NC, 27502- Salary range: $45,000-$60,000
- Routes: intrastate non-hazardous
- Power units: 1
- Drivers: 1
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
J & P Transport, Inc. (DOT: 1500004) is situated in Apex, North Carolina. The company, which has been operational since 2007, focuses on intrastate non-hazardous transportation. J & P Transport operates a modest fleet primarily using dry vans for full truckload and less-than-truckload shipments. They accommodate team driving opportunities and provide services with a solid reputation despite their smaller scale of operation.
J & P Transport offers several benefits to its drivers, including guaranteed home time, health insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, disability insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. The company also provides sign-on bonuses, making it a competitive player in driver recruitment. However, they do not currently offer paid CDL training or referral bonuses for new drivers.
The company's employee satisfaction is notable, with a Glassdoor rating of 4.0 and an Indeed rating of 4.2. Feedback from employees often highlights the company's supportive management and positive work environment. While drivers appreciate the company's comprehensive insurance packages and the balance between routes and home time, some have expressed a desire for more flexible scheduling and enhanced training and development programs.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Team
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- 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
Run-It Transport, LLC
4009 Channing Place, Cary, NC, 27519- Salary range: $55,000-$65,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 6
- Drivers: 3
- Revenue: $688,000
- Miles driven: 580,000 (2024)
Run-It Transport, LLC (DOT: 2328071) operates out of Cary, North Carolina. While the exact founding date is not specified, the company maintains an active USDOT status. Run-It Transport, LLC specializes in transporting a variety of cargo types including beverages, fresh produce, refrigerated foods, paper products, meat, dry bulk commodities, and general freight. The company utilizes dry vans and flatbed trucks for these operations. They employ regional and local drivers, as well as those experienced in over-the-road (OTR) transportation, catering to both individual and team driver configurations.
Despite its smaller fleet and driver pool, Run-It Transport offers competitive compensation packages and benefits to its drivers. The company is known for providing health insurance, including dental and vision coverage, along with a 401(k) retirement plan. Drivers can enjoy paid time off and guaranteed home time, with additional perks like rider and pet allowances. Run-It Transport also emphasizes driver satisfaction through safety bonuses and layover compensation, underscoring their commitment to a rewarding employment experience.
Employee reviews of Run-It Transport on platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed present mixed feedback, with ratings of 2.4 and 2.6 respectively. The company's compensation and benefits receive commendable attention, but there appears to be room for improvement in areas such as work-life balance and organizational consistency. Positive feedback often mentions the flexibility in scheduling and driver-focused benefits, while more critical reviews point to challenges with route assignments and communication. Despite these mixed reviews, the company continues to prioritize innovation in driver engagement and operational efficiency.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 1.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 3.38
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.2
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Hard Fork Transportation, Inc.
8480 Honeycutt Road Ste 200, Raleigh, NC, 27615- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 10
- Drivers: 11
- Revenue: $279,000
- Miles driven: 1,067,552 (2024)
Hard Fork Transportation, Inc. (DOT: 3071580) is based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Although the founding date is not explicitly provided, the company is an active carrier operation since at least 2024, according to the latest MCS-150 filing date. Hard Fork Transportation, Inc. specializes in carrying a wide variety of cargo, including beverages, building materials, general freight, intermodal containers, machinery, metal sheets, and paper products. They primarily utilize dry vans and flatbed trucks and hire solo OTR and reefer drivers.
Employees at Hard Fork Transportation enjoy a variety of benefits, such as competitive salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, full health insurance coverage—including dental and vision—paid time off, and retirement plan (401k). The company also provides a sign-on bonus and safety bonuses, along with guaranteed home time for its drivers. While rider or pet policies aren't supported, the company does not currently offer employee stock ownership or opportunities for ongoing training and development programs.
Hard Fork Transportation has mixed reviews with an Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.8. Positive feedback frequently highlights the company’s commitment to driver satisfaction through their benefits and compensation packages. However, some negative reviews point out the lack of work-life balance and suggest improvements in organization and scheduling. Despite these critiques, drivers appreciate the supportive work environment and the financial incentives offered by the company.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- Unsafe driving: 3.32
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.4
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Lighthouse Transportation Services, Inc.
1300 Cool Spring, Raleigh, NC, 27614- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 4
- Drivers: 2
- Miles driven: 300,000 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
Lighthouse Transportation Services, Inc. (DOT: 908069) operates out of Raleigh, North Carolina. While the exact founding date is unclear, the company is noted for its commitment to providing reliable freight services. Lighthouse Transportation specializes in general freight and offers both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) services. They are particularly renowned for their utilization of dry vans and flatbed trucks, serving a variety of industries. The company primarily hires local and over-the-road (OTR) drivers to maintain its high standards of service.
Lighthouse Transportation Services prioritizes the well-being of their employees with a suite of advantageous benefits. These include comprehensive health insurance packages encompassing medical, dental, and vision coverage. Additionally, they provide paid time off, life, and disability insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan to support long-term financial planning. Moreover, the company stands out with its guaranteed home time policy and ongoing training and development programs designed to enhance driver skills and career growth.
Lighthouse Transportation holds a commendable Indeed score of 4.2 and a Glassdoor rating of 4.0. Employees frequently praise the company for its competitive pay, supportive work environment, and robust benefit offerings. However, some feedback suggests room for improvement in their fleet management processes, with sporadic mentions of disorganization in route assignments. Despite this, the company's commitment to employee satisfaction and safety remains evident through its comprehensive policies and competitive compensation structures.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Ongoing training
Safety
- Crashes: 1
- 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 Raleigh Trucking Companies
In Raleigh, NC, 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 Raleigh:
- Pay range & career growth: A good paycheck is only the start — make sure you’ll have room to grow. Search for Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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 North Carolina and nearby states, letting you return home more often than long-haul.
- Local: Provides consistent, short-distance routes inside Raleigh and its surrounding areas.
- Specialized: Involves transporting niche cargo types like liquids, frozen goods, or dry freight within Raleigh’s unique shipping industry.
How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals
As you decide on the best trucking company in Raleigh 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 Raleigh, North Carolina 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 Raleigh? 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 Raleigh.
- 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 Raleigh:
Is a truck driving career worth it in Raleigh?
A truck driving career in Raleigh 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 Raleigh offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?
Southern Express, Inc. is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
What type of driving jobs are most available in Raleigh?
Most trucking companies in Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
Southern Express, Inc. is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Raleigh.