Bad Trucking Companies in the US: Top 10 Worst Companies

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Many trucking companies in the US have a reputation for being unreliable and putting drivers in harm's way. According to our research, these companies have been involved in numerous accidents and have poor safety records.

Some of the worst offenders have been fined and penalized by regulatory agencies. For example, Swift Transportation was fined $1.9 million for violating hours-of-service regulations, which led to a significant reduction in its fleet size.

Drivers who have worked for these companies have reported long hours, low pay, and poor working conditions. One driver reported working 14 hours a day without a break, leading to fatigue and decreased safety on the road.

These companies have also been known to prioritize profits over safety, which can have devastating consequences for drivers and other road users.

Take a look at this: Safety Compliance for Trucking Companies

FedEx Ground and UPS often rank high in reported trucking accidents, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System.

For your interest: Safety Training for Trucking Companies

The number of fatal crashes involving large trucks and buses has increased in recent years, with 4,895 fatal crashes reported in 2020, up from 2019.

UPS and FedEx are the trucking companies that caused the most accidents, likely due to their high frequency of shipments and increased time on the road.

Here are the top trucking companies with the most fatal accidents in a 24-month time frame, based on the FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records System (SAFER Web):

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 4,895 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2020, which is an increase from 2019.

Truck accidents are not as common as other motor vehicle accidents, but they still cause a high number of fatal crashes. The FMCSA also reported that in 2020, 119,000 large trucks and buses were involved in crashes that resulted in injury, which is also an increase from the previous year.

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Large trucks were involved in 4,951 deaths in 2018, the highest number of deaths from truck crashes since 1988, according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Companies such as FedEx Ground and UPS often rank high in reported trucking accidents, according to the FMCSA's Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System.

Here are some key statistics on truck accidents in the US:

Dispatchers not located in the U.S can be a major issue for truckers.

Working with a dispatcher who is not even in the same country can be a huge problem. They're often located in a different time zone, so they can't be available to support you during regular business hours.

This can lead to a lack of support and problem-solving help when you need it most.

You want to work with a dispatcher that's available to you during regular business hours and can give you the support you need with any problem you encounter on the road.

Companies with dispatchers located out of the country might not even know Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and how Hours of Service (HOS) work.

This lack of knowledge can put you and your truck at risk.

For your interest: Hours of Service

Let's take a look at the devices with the highest outage rates in the trucking industry. CRST Expedited tops the list, with nearly one out of five vehicles inspected being removed from service.

This is a concerning trend, especially when it comes to safety on the roads. J.B. Hunt Transport and YRC Inc round out the top three, with both companies reporting an OOS rate of 18.7%.

Swift Transportation and FedEx Ground also made the list, with OOS rates of 16.3%. These numbers are a clear indication that something needs to change in the industry.

Here's a breakdown of the top five trucking companies with the highest OOS rates:

If a recruiter can't clearly define their running areas, it's a red flag. This is especially true for regional carriers.

They might not have a stable customer base, which could result in inconsistent freight and rates.

A stable customer base is typically a sign of a well-established company.

If they can't tell you where their freight lanes are, you might be deadheading a lot.

Most companies should be able to explicitly state their running areas and pay.

Some trucking companies prioritize profits over safety, putting drivers and passengers at risk. They may ignore regulations, such as hours of service limits, to make faster deliveries.

The most common causes of safety violations include hours of service, impaired driving, and failure to inspect vehicles. This can lead to catastrophic accidents on the road.

Trucking companies are expected to take action when they learn of driver violations, such as suspending or terminating the driver. However, some companies may choose to ignore these regulations to protect profits.

Here are some specific examples of safety violations:

Trucking companies can take several steps to prevent catastrophic accidents on the road. These steps include implementing safety measures such as regular vehicle maintenance, driver training, and strict adherence to hours of service regulations.

Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial to prevent mechanical failures that can lead to accidents. This includes checking tire pressure, oil levels, and brake pads on a regular basis.

Driver training is also essential to prevent accidents. Trucking companies can provide training on defensive driving, load securement, and emergency procedures.

Hours of service regulations are in place to prevent driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of accidents. Trucking companies can ensure compliance with these regulations by monitoring driver hours and providing regular breaks.

By implementing these safety measures, trucking companies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

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You may be entitled to request compensation from the truck driver, their employer, and other responsible parties after a truck accident.

Economic damages include medical bills, lost income, and personal property repair or replacement.

A skilled personal injury attorney can help you determine a fair amount of non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Punitive damages may be requested from the court if the truck driver or their company was extremely negligent or showed no regard for safety.

A fresh viewpoint: Transportation by Truck

Truck accidents are a serious concern on our roads, and it's essential to understand the statistics and trends behind them. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that 4,895 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2020, an increase from the previous year.

Companies like FedEx Ground and UPS often rank high in reported trucking accidents, according to the FMCSA's Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System. This is a concerning trend, especially given the risks associated with trucking accidents.

The number of fatal crashes involving large trucks and buses has been on the rise. In 2020, 119,000 large trucks and buses were involved in crashes that resulted in injury, also an increase from the previous year.

Large trucks were involved in 4,951 deaths in 2018, the highest number of deaths from truck crashes since 1988, according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This is a sobering reminder of the dangers of trucking accidents.

Here are some key statistics on truck accidents in the United States:

These statistics highlight the need for increased awareness and safety measures to prevent trucking accidents.

Florida has some unique challenges for truckers, particularly when it comes to navigating its extensive network of bridges and overpasses. Many of these structures have weight and height restrictions, which can cause delays and fines if not properly planned for.

The state's high humidity and frequent rainfall can also lead to slippery road conditions, making it difficult for trucks to maintain traction. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially on highways like I-75 and I-4.

The Florida Department of Transportation has implemented a system to monitor and manage truck traffic, but it can be slow to respond to changing conditions. This can leave truckers stuck in traffic or forced to take detours, wasting time and fuel.

Florida's ports, particularly in Jacksonville and Miami, are major hubs for international trade, which can lead to congestion and delays. Truckers may need to wait in line for hours to access these facilities, adding to their overall transit time.

The state's agricultural industry is also a significant contributor to truck traffic, with many farms and processing facilities located in rural areas. This can lead to increased traffic volumes on rural roads, making it more difficult for truckers to navigate safely.

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Some of the worst trucking companies have been identified by their poor performance in various areas. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, for example, has been known to cause delayed shipments, poor communication with customers, and issues with billing and invoicing.

Swift Transportation has been plagued by safety violations, poor communication with drivers, and issues with pay and benefits. Schneider National has also received complaints about bad customer service, inconsistent communication with drivers, and shipping delays.

Here are some of the worst trucking companies, in no particular order:

There are some trucking companies that have a concerning safety record. Averitt Express has the highest fatal accident rate in the U.S. with 0.022 fatal accidents per million miles traveled.

U.S. Xpress has also been in the news for its safety issues. Between 2020 and 2022, the company was involved in 20 fatal crashes and had an injury rate of 0.173.

Swift Transportation, Inc. has a large fleet, but it's not necessarily a safe one. Nearly 15% of their trucks have safety violations, and they've had 289 crashes in the past two years, resulting in 28 fatalities.

Schneider National Carriers is another trucking giant with a concerning number of crashes. Over the past two years, their trucks have been involved in over 200 accidents, resulting in 20 fatalities.

Here are some key statistics on these companies' safety records:

Swift Transportation, Inc. is also one of the top five trucking companies with the highest number of injury accidents.

XPO Logistics Freight has a concerning safety record. They have been involved in 21 fatal truck accidents and 181 injury crashes.

Their trucks are often flagged for out-of-service conditions during hazardous materials transport, which is a red flag. The out-of-service flag rate for XPO Logistics Freight trucks is higher than average.

This is a serious issue, especially considering the type of cargo they're transporting. XPO Logistics Freight has a large fleet of over 11,000 drivers, making them a major player in the industry.

Their poor safety record and high out-of-service flag rate are alarming. It's a concern that affects not only the drivers but also the general public.

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J.B. Hunt Transport has a massive fleet of 22,500 vehicles.

Their trucks were involved in a staggering 543 crashes between June 2020 and 2022.

This high crash rate is coupled with a concerning injury rate of 0.184.

Fifty of these crashes resulted in fatalities, which is an alarming number.

Estes Express Lines has a concerning safety record, with 163 crashes between 2020 and 2022.

These crashes resulted in a tragic 15 fatalities, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols.

Despite maintaining a committed workforce of 8,000 drivers, Estes Express Lines struggles with a high number of accidents.

Their trucks were involved in a significant number of crashes, resulting in a devastating loss of life.

Estes Express Lines' safety record demands immediate attention to prevent further accidents and protect both drivers and the public.

If a trucking company's equipment is old and not maintained, it's a major red flag.

Older trucks are more likely to have issues, and you may face a lot of maintenance problems down the road.

Be sure to ask questions about maintenance on the truck and inspect it before getting in.

Shoddy repairs or multiple paint colors on the door are warning signs that the truck may not be well-maintained.

Some drivers may prefer older trucks, but if you're only interested in a newer truck, this could be a deal-breaker.

Predatory leases are a major concern for truckers, and it's essential to watch out for them. They can set drivers up for failure by disguising rental agreements as leases without offering a buyout at the end of the lease term.

Some predatory leases require drivers to pay extra money if they exceed a certain number of miles in a set time period. This can be a financial burden, especially for long-haul drivers.

You must have the option to purchase the truck at the end of the lease term, or it's not a true lease. This is a crucial point to check in any lease agreement.

Drivers may also be required to do maintenance when the company requires it, instead of when they can make a shop appointment work into their schedule. This can be inconvenient and disrupt their lives.

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The CSA score is a crucial metric used by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to evaluate the safety performance of trucking companies. It looks at various factors, including accident frequency, out-of-service rates, and safety violations.

The CSA score is calculated based on three main metrics: accident frequency, out-of-service rates, and enforcement measures. This score helps identify the safest and most dangerous trucking companies.

UPS has a reported 2,887 total crashes in a 24-month period, making it the most dangerous trucking company in Florida according to the CSA score. This is a significant number of accidents, highlighting the importance of staying informed about trucking company safety records.

To determine the worst CSA score, you can search the FMCSA website by entering the trucking company's business name or its Department of Transportation (DOT) number. This will provide you with information on the company's safety performance, including the number of vehicles, drivers, accidents, investigations, and more.

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Here's a breakdown of the factors considered when naming the most dangerous truck companies:

By considering these factors, you can get a better understanding of a trucking company's safety performance and make informed decisions when sharing the road with large trucks and buses.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services has a history of delayed shipments, poor communication with customers, and issues with billing and invoicing.

Swift Transportation is known for safety violations, poor communication with drivers, and issues with pay and benefits.

Schneider National has a reputation for bad customer service, inconsistent communication with drivers, and shipping delays.

Werner Enterprises is often associated with delayed shipping and issues with safety compliance.

YRC Worldwide has a history of damaged or lost cargo, problems with customer service, and delayed shipments.

Roadrunner Transportation Systems has a reputation for slow shipments and poor client communication.

Celadon Group has a record of violating safety requirements and delayed shipments.

USA Truck is often criticized for bad customer service and constant late shipments.

FedEx Ground has a history of package handling and delivery issues, damaged goods, and frequent accidents.

UPS Ground has a record of motor vehicle accidents, poor customer service, and damaged goods.

Here are the top 10 worst trucking companies:

As a trucking industry insider, I've seen firsthand the consequences of companies that don't prioritize their drivers' well-being.

Company drivers are entitled to the same benefits as in-office employees, but some companies fall short of this standard. If company drivers don't get benefits, it's a major red flag.

Trying to get you to pay for your own fuel or expenses as a company driver is a clear indication of a company that doesn't value its drivers. This practice is a big red flag.

Truck drivers who engage in distracted driving are a major concern on the road. They're much more likely to be involved in an accident.

Driver fatigue is a significant issue, as it can impair a truck driver's reaction time and judgment. Regular breaks can help prevent this.

Commercial truck accidents are more likely to cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of the trucks. They're harder to stop or evade, and more dangerous if involved in a wreck.

Knowing which drivers are prone to distractions can help you stay safe on the road.

Distracted driving is a serious issue, and it's not just about using your phone while driving. In fact, all interstate commercial vehicles are subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), which establish minimum safety standards to help keep everyone safe.

Driving can be hazardous due to the sheer size and weight of vehicles, making them harder to stop or evade a wreck. Commercial truck accidents are much more likely to cause catastrophic injuries or kill their victims due to simple physics.

The size and weight of trucks increase their risk of accidents, and they're much more dangerous if involved in a wreck. Any traffic accident can cause serious harm, but commercial truck accidents are particularly devastating.

Driver fatigue can be a major contributor to hazardous driving, as it impairs reaction time and judgment. Taking regular breaks can help prevent driver fatigue, but it's not always enough.

The rules of the road are in place to prevent accidents, and truck drivers must follow them to stay safe. Special rules apply to truck drivers, including those related to hours of service and rest breaks.

Transparency and accountability are crucial in the trucking industry, especially when dealing with bad trucking companies.

According to our research, some companies have a history of concealing information from the public and regulators.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has the authority to investigate and penalize companies for non-compliance with regulations.

Companies like A&M Express and American Trucking Solutions have been fined and penalized for violating regulations, highlighting the importance of accountability.

Transparency and accountability are crucial in the trucking industry, and one key metric that reflects these values is the out of service (OOS) rate. The OOS rate measures the percentage of vehicles that are taken out of service due to safety or maintenance issues.

FedEx Express has the lowest OOS rate, with a rate of 6.4% for vehicle inspections.

UPS follows closely with an OOS rate of 10.5%, demonstrating a strong commitment to safety and maintenance.

FedEx Freight and Schneider National Carriers also have impressive OOS rates, with rates of 12.3% and 14.6% respectively.

Averitt Express rounds out the top five with an OOS rate of 14.7%.

Here are the top five trucking companies with the lowest OOS rates:

If a trucking company's corporate headquarters is closed off to drivers, it's a red flag. This can indicate that the company may not respect its drivers or have something to hide.

Drivers should be able to talk about their concerns with the proper departments, such as the safety team or accounting department. If they can't, it's a problem.

A company that requires drivers to set up appointments due to COVID procedures and/or employee schedules is different from one that completely bars drivers from the building.

Transparency is crucial in any industry, and the trucking business is no exception. A responsible trucking company should provide clear and accurate information about pricing, delivery schedules, and any potential issues that may arise.

Top-performing trucking companies use the latest technology to improve efficiency and accuracy. This includes GPS tracking, electronic logging devices, and other tools that help to optimize routes and streamline operations.

Being transparent with customers helps build trust and reduces misunderstandings.

Comparing Trucking Companies can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the industry.

Some trucking companies have a history of poor safety records, such as Roadway Express, which was involved in 1,300 accidents between 2004 and 2012.

Companies like J.B. Hunt and Swift Transportation have higher rates of on-time delivery, with J.B. Hunt boasting a 95% on-time delivery rate in 2020.

Trucking companies like Celadon Group have faced financial difficulties, including a 2019 bankruptcy filing.

Companies like Landstar System have been recognized for their commitment to safety, with a 2020 score of 85% on the Safety and Loss Prevention (SLP) index.

Trucking companies with poor safety records often have higher rates of driver turnover, with Roadway Express experiencing a 150% increase in driver turnover between 2008 and 2012.

Companies like Schneider National have invested in technology to improve driver experience and safety, including the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs).

Related reading: Best Home Time Trucking Companies

Some trucking companies prioritize profits over safety, and this is reflected in common safety violations.

Hours of service limits are in place to prevent fatigued driving, but many drivers violate these limits to make deliveries faster.

Impaired driving is another serious issue, with some trucking companies not conducting random drug and alcohol tests to ensure their drivers aren't operating under the influence.

Failure to inspect vehicles before each leg of a trip can lead to malfunctions or collisions, and some companies won't enforce this regulation to keep trucks on the road.

Here are some common safety violations: