Top Freight Carriers in the US: 2025 Guide

The United States freight industry moves over 10 billion tons of goods annually. Choosing the right carrier impacts your shipping costs, delivery times, and customer satisfaction.

This guide covers the top freight carriers operating in the US, including their strengths, coverage areas, and tracking capabilities.

Types of Freight Carriers

• LTL Carriers - Less-Than-Truckload for shipments under 15,000 lbs
• FTL Carriers - Full Truckload for larger shipments
• Regional Carriers - Focused coverage in specific geographic areas
• National Carriers - Coast-to-coast coverage
• Freight Brokers/3PLs - Intermediaries connecting shippers with carriers

These carriers provide LTL service across the continental United States:

ABF Freight (ARCB)

One of the oldest LTL carriers in North America, ABF Freight is known for reliable service and comprehensive coverage. Part of ArcBest Corporation, they offer both asset-based LTL and logistics services.

• Coverage: All 50 states, Canada, Mexico
• Specialty: Time-critical and guaranteed services
• Tracking: Real-time PRO number tracking

R+L Carriers

A family-owned carrier with a strong reputation for service quality. R+L Carriers has grown to become one of the largest LTL carriers in North America.

• Coverage: All 50 states, Canada, Caribbean
• Specialty: Expedited and guaranteed services
• Tracking: Online tracking with delivery notifications

SAIA

SAIA offers non-union LTL service with a focus on technology and customer service. Known for consistent transit times and claims ratio.

• Coverage: 45 states (limited in Northwest)
• Specialty: Customer pickup and delivery flexibility
• Tracking: Detailed milestone tracking

Third-party logistics providers and brokers connect shippers with carriers:

C.H. Robinson

The largest freight broker in North America, C.H. Robinson connects shippers with over 73,000 carriers. They offer both brokerage and managed transportation services.

• Coverage: Global network
• Services: LTL, FTL, intermodal, air, ocean
• Technology: Navisphere platform for visibility

Echo Global Logistics

A technology-driven 3PL offering multimodal transportation management. Acquired by Jordan Company, Echo continues to grow its carrier network.

• Coverage: North America focus
• Services: LTL, FTL, partial truckload, intermodal
• Technology: EchoShip online platform

Banyan Technology

A leading logistics technology company providing rate shopping and shipment execution through their LIVE Connect platform.

• Focus: Technology and automation
• Services: Multi-carrier rate comparison and booking
• Integration: TMS connectivity

Specialized carriers serve specific needs or regions:

Forward Air

Specializes in airport-to-airport expedited freight. Ideal for time-sensitive shipments that need to move quickly.

• Coverage: Major airport markets
• Specialty: Next-day and same-day service
• Best for: Urgent, time-critical freight

CEVA Logistics

A global 3PL with strong international capabilities. CEVA offers end-to-end supply chain solutions including freight forwarding.

• Coverage: Global
• Specialty: International and cross-border
• Services: Contract logistics, freight management

SEKO Logistics

Specializes in white-glove delivery, e-commerce logistics, and final-mile services.

• Coverage: Global with US focus
• Specialty: Home delivery and installation
• Best for: B2C and high-touch shipments

Selecting a carrier depends on your specific needs:

Consider These Factors

• Coverage - Does the carrier serve your origin and destination?
• Transit Time - How quickly do you need delivery?
• Price - Compare rates for your freight profile
• Service Quality - Check claims ratios and on-time performance
• Tracking Capability - What visibility do they provide?
• Special Requirements - Liftgate, inside delivery, appointment scheduling

Multi-Carrier Strategy

Most shippers work with multiple carriers to optimize for different lanes and service requirements. Use routing guides or TMS systems to automate carrier selection.

No matter which carriers you use, maintaining visibility is essential. Each carrier provides their own tracking portal, but managing multiple logins is time-consuming.

Unified Tracking Solution

ShipmentTrack supports all the major carriers mentioned in this guide:

• ABF Freight (ARCB)
• R+L Carriers
• C.H. Robinson
• Forward Air
• CEVA Logistics
• SEKO Logistics
• Echo Global
• Banyan Technology
• And 8+ more carriers

Track all your shipments from one interface - no accounts required, completely free. Get started now.