The Top 7 Trucking Companies in the US

The trucking industry forms the backbone of American commerce. Freight trucking keeps shelves stocked, factories running and supply chains moving. While independent trucking companies dominate in number, a few large carriers stand out for scale, innovation and market influence. For companies looking to secure logistics partners or for fleet operators tracking the competitive landscape, it’s essential to know which names shape the industry. This list highlights the biggest trucking companies and top US carriers based on reach, revenue and strategic importance.

1. United Parcel Service, Inc. (UPS)

UPS is widely known for package delivery but it also operates one of the largest trucking fleets in North America. The company’s freight division includes ground freight, less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload services. With over $85 billion in annual revenue, UPS is often ranked as the largest player among US logistics providers.

Its extensive infrastructure, including distribution centers, a proprietary logistics platform and integrated global shipping capabilities, makes UPS a key player in freight trucking. For independent trucking companies, UPS is a case study in how combining trucking with warehousing and supply chain services can build lasting value. Its size may reduce flexibility, but it sets a high standard in logistics coordination and operational scale.

2. FedEx Corporation

FedEx is another global company that significantly contributes to the US trucking sector. Its FedEx Freight division is one of the largest LTL carriers in the country. FedEx Ground also contributes a major share of domestic trucking, especially for e-commerce and B2B deliveries.

The company benefits from a hybrid model that combines air cargo with an extensive trucking network. For smaller operators, FedEx offers lessons in technology adoption, hub-and-spoke optimization and real-time tracking. It serves as both a competitor and a potential partner, depending on one’s place in the logistics chain.

3. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

J.B. Hunt is one of the largest transportation logistics companies in North America. The company operates across multiple segments including dedicated contract services, intermodal, and truckload. Based in Arkansas, it manages thousands of trucks and has become a pioneer in using data and digital platforms to optimize load management.

Its strategic use of rail partnerships for intermodal transport helps reduce costs and emissions. Independent trucking companies can take inspiration from J.B. Hunt’s shift from asset-heavy operations to more network- and technology-driven models. It shows how scale can be reached not just through fleet size but through smart partnerships.

4. Schneider National, Inc.

Headquartered in Wisconsin, Schneider National is a full-service carrier offering truckload, LTL, intermodal and logistics services. Its reputation is built on reliability, technology use and a strong safety record. The company operates thousands of trucks and trailers and has been recognized for investing in electric fleets and sustainability.

Schneider’s flexibility in providing both dedicated and on-demand services makes it attractive to shippers looking for tailored solutions. For independent carriers, Schneider represents a pathway to growth through diversified services and a customer-centric approach. Its broad portfolio helps shield it from market fluctuations in any single transport segment.

5. Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc.

Knight-Swift is the result of a 2017 merger between Knight Transportation and Swift Transportation. It is now the largest truckload carrier in North America. The company specializes in dry van, refrigerated, flatbed and intermodal services. Knight-Swift’s expansive terminal network and driver base give it significant pricing power and operational reach.

What makes Knight-Swift stand out is its disciplined cost control and investment in driver retention. For smaller trucking firms, the company offers a model in maintaining margins while scaling up. It proves that truckload services, traditionally seen as commoditized, can be profitable with the right structure and leadership.

6. Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Old Dominion is a leader in less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. Founded in 1934, it has grown into a nationwide carrier known for its service quality, punctuality and dense terminal network. LTL shipping is particularly complex, requiring consolidation, route planning and frequent updates—areas where Old Dominion excels.

The company consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys and financial performance. It is a prime example of how specialization in one segment of freight trucking can yield strong results. Independent trucking companies interested in LTL can learn from Old Dominion’s focus on service efficiency and terminal-based routing.

7. Landstar System, Inc

Landstar operates on a different model compared to asset-heavy carriers. It functions as a third-party logistics provider, using a network of independent owner-operators, known as business capacity owners. This asset-light structure allows it to remain flexible and scalable without owning trucks directly.

Landstar’s approach is particularly relevant for independent trucking companies. It offers a way to participate in large-scale freight logistics while retaining control over operations. The company focuses on specialized freight and project cargo, giving it a unique edge in a crowded market. Its success shows that independence and size are not mutually exclusive in freight trucking.

Lessons from the top carriers

The US trucking landscape is vast and competitive. While independent trucking companies represent the majority in terms of volume, the biggest trucking companies dominate freight capacity and logistics infrastructure. Each of the top 7 carriers, UPS, FedEx, J.B. Hunt, Schneider, Knight-Swift, Old Dominion and Landstar, brings a unique model to market.

These companies illustrate different strategies for scaling operations, leveraging technology and diversifying services. Some operate with massive fleets while others, like Landstar, rely on networks of independent contractors. For smaller operators, these companies offer valuable insights into how to build resilience and remain competitive in a rapidly changing freight environment.

Rather than competing directly, independent carriers can study how the major players operate and adapt successful strategies to fit their own strengths. Whether it is focusing on service quality, operational efficiency or strategic partnerships, learning from the industry’s leaders can provide a clear direction for growth and sustainability.