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Different Truck Types in Freight: Every Freight Truck & Goods They Haul

By
Brian Smith
April 12, 2024
16 minutes
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Different Truck Types in Freight: Every Freight Truck & Goods They Haul
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You can't optimize freight logistics without a solid understanding of the diverse world of truck types. Different types of trucks cater to the unique demands of various goods, such as perishable or non-perishable foods, electronics loaded into skids, or large machinery and equipment. 

This guide will walk you through freight truck classes, the 14 most commonly used trucks and their designated loads, as well as delve into what the future of trucks looks like. Our aim here is that you walk away with valuable information that will help streamline shipping and freight logistics to save money for your small to medium sized business.

Let's get started.

truck types in freight

Importance of Understanding Types of Trucks

As mentioned above, understanding freight truck types is important - but how does that importance vary between shippers, carriers, and dispatchers? Let's start with a basic definition and then move into how different fields benefit from understanding the various types.

What is a freight truck?

A freight truck is a heavy transport vehicle designed to ship cargo to and from different destinations. There are different types of freight trucks, including flatbeds, tankers, and more - each tailored for the type of goods it's meant to transport.

Shippers

  • Selecting the right types of trucks ensures your product is transported safely and efficiently.
  • A thorough understanding of the capacity of each type of truck can optimize load costs and reduce shipping costs.
  • Truck type knowledge helps shippers plan for specific requirements, like refrigeration for perishable goods.

Carriers

  • Using the right type of truck for each cargo maximizes operational efficiency.
  • The appropriate truck type means you'll meet compliance regulations specific to your load.
  • Streamlines fleet management and maintenance schedules based on the needs of your cargo.

Dispatchers

  • Without understanding freight truck types, it would be difficult to facilitate appropriate matching between a load and potential carrier.
  • Truck type knowledge helps improve route planning by considering the limitations and capabilities of each truck.
  • Matching the right truck with a load means no delays and better customer satisfaction.

Classifications to Consider: What's GVWR?

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is a crucial classification that indicates the safe operating weight of a vehicle, its cargo, passengers, and the vehicle itself. Its purpose is to guide safety regulations, vehicle registration, and even where it can legally operate. The GVWR holds jurisdiction under national transportation safety authorities to ensure vehicle integrity and safety on the road. 

These classifications take several factors into account, including:

  • Make
  • Model
  • Truck configurations

For the freight industry, commercial trucks typically fall under Class 7 and 8, both of which are heavy duty categories to reflect the substantially heavy loads trucks can handle. The classes of trucks will cover all 14 truck types we outline later in the article.

To better understand how heavy duty truck classification can differ from their light and medium counterparts, let's discuss each classification below.

truck classification chart

Light Duty (Class 1-3)

This light duty truck category, classes 1-3, cater to more personal and light commercial use vehicles. Class two is separated into two categories - 2a and 2b, with class 2b being heavier machinery than 2a. Industries that use this class of trucks typically offer local delivery and landscaping services. Nothing more than a standard driver's license is required to drive class 1 to a class 3 truck which makes them more accessible.

Examples:

Class 1: Chevrolet Colorado (light cargo delivery and utility services).

Class 2: Ford F-150 (moderate hauling, construction, and towing).

Class 3: Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (heavier loads, towing, some commercial services).

Medium Duty (Class 4-6)

Medium duty trucks, classes 4-6, serve more specific commercial needs than the light duty class. Class 4 trucks cater to similar industries as the light duty trucks, delivery and smaller equipment, but on a larger scale. Class 5 and class 6 trucks however, are on the heavier side of the medium duty class. They serve industries with larger delivery trucks as well as construction machinery.

To drive a truck in this class, you'll require a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) which will differ depending on the size and capacity of your medium duty truck. Medium duty trucks are more relevant to the freight industry, they offer a balance between maneuverability and the ability to carry significant loads.

Examples:

Class 4: Ford F-450 Super Duty (small equipment transport and utility services).

Class 5: International TerraStar (medium sized deliveries and specialized commercial services).

Class 6: Freightliner M2 106 (heavier commercial deliveries, waste collection, larger utility applications).

Heavy Trucks (Class 7-8)

Now we're really headed into freight truck type territory. Heavy trucks, classified as 7-8, are designed to handle significant and demanding freight tasks. Long-haul transportation, construction, large and heavy equipment, and significant loads fall under this category. 

To operate class 7 trucks or a class 8 truck you'll require a CDL along with specific endorsements depending on the type of cargo. This category is largely responsible for deliveries cross state, cross-nation, and even international long-hauls. Certain expectations come with driving one of these trucks, including regulations such as CDL inspections, specific number of hours on the road, and freight insurance, and more.

Examples:

Class 7: International 4300, Hino 338 (local deliveries and waste collection).

Class 8: Freightliner Cascadia, Kenworth T680 (long-haul transportation).

Why Types of Trucks Classification is Important

By understanding truck classification, you can navigate through permit requirements, DOT regulations, maintenance needs, license levels, hours of service laws, and weigh station regulations. Each of these impacts the industry significantly, let's break these down:

Permit Requirements & DOT Regulations: Ensure safety and compliance by dictating the operational standards for different truck types.

  • Maintenance Requirements: Has a tremendous effect on operational costs as well as safety - varies by weight and truck type.
  • License Levels: Each truck type comes with a specific license requirement. To operate a light duty truck, a standard license is sufficient, whereas classes 4-8 will require a CDL (Commercial Driver's License).
  • HOS (Hours of Service) Laws: Apply to commercial truck drivers and indicate the stretch of hours a driver is allowed on the road. This ensures road safety by avoiding fatigued long-haul driving.
  • Weigh Station Regulations: These regulations greatly influence freight logistics by controlling the maximum weight each truck is allowed to carry.

14 Types of Commercial Trucks for Smooth Freight Operations

Now we dive into the landscape of logistics and transportation with 14 different types of trucks. We curated this list of trucks to help shippers and dispatchers make informed decisions for their cargo needs. Bookmark and keep this list handy as one of the valuable resources you can always refer back to. Each truck type will include a brief description, dimensions, typical goods,haul type, classification, axle count, and more. Without further ado...

Semi Trucks (18-Wheelers)

Also known as 18-wheelers, semi trucks are both versatile and central to the freight industry. They can adapt to different transportation needs by transforming into reefers for refrigerated goods, flatbeds for heavy machinery, a chassis to attach to another trailer, and even a tanker for liquid haulage. The ability of the semi-truck to turn into different types of trucks is thanks to the fifth wheel. The fifth wheel is a mechanism that securely connects the semi truck to all kinds of trailers. Click over to our blog about semi truck shows to learn more about these powerful vehicles.

Size/Dimensions: About 48-53 feet long.

Typical Goods: Varied, including general freight, heavy equipment.

Haul Type: Long haul.

Freight Classification: Class 8.

Axle Count: 5 axles typically.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 400-600 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 65-70 mph on highways.

Special Requirements: CDL license, endorsements for certain cargo.

Operating Costs: High due to fuel, maintenance, and tolls.

Environmental Impact: High, due to diesel emissions.

semi truck type

Flatbed Truck

When shippers are in need of transporting oversized loads, or goods that require a side crane or crane-loading, they call on these commercial trucks. The open and flat design trailer makes it easy to load heavy machinery. Safety precautions for these oversized loads include securing the load, using flags, lights, and reflective signs to mark the load. Ensuring the cargo meets weight requirements and the driver carries all the necessary permits are also crucial safety measures. Oversized load, overweight load, hazardous material load permits are the most commonly acquired for flatbed truck transportation.

Size/Dimensions: Typically around 48 feet long.

Typical Goods: Construction materials, heavy machinery.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: 2-3 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Up to highway limits, around 65-70 mph.

Special Requirements: Permits for oversized loads.

Operating Costs: Moderate to high.

Environmental Impact: Moderate to high, based on load and distance.

flatbed truck types

Refrigerated Truck (Reefer)

Reefer freight trucks are used to transport perishable cargo in temperature-controlled conditions. They're essential for food safety and quality, pharmaceuticals, flowers and plants, personal care products, chemicals, and even artwork. Temperatures inside this type of truck are closely monitored via integrated temperature monitoring systems using sensors to relay real-time data to a digital platform. There's no wiggle room in this constant oversight which ensures the integrity of reefer cargo. 

Size/Dimensions: Commonly around 53 feet long.

Typical Goods: Perishable goods, pharmaceuticals.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: 2-3 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Subject to standard highway limits.

Special Requirements: Refrigeration maintenance.

Operating Costs: Higher due to refrigeration units.

Environmental Impact: Diesel emissions, plus refrigeration unit impact.

refrigerated trucks

Tanker Truck

Tankers are very specialized types of trucks for freight with a focus on transporting liquids, gasses, and powders. This type of cargo is often used for fuel, chemicals, and food-grade products. Specific safety procedures such as regular vehicle inspections, ensuring adherence to specific material handling procedures, and using the right hazard placards for each load. Permits, like a hazardous material transportation license, will depend on the cargo. Accurate goods information is shared by the shipper to ensure the right regulations are put in place and carriers must be trained for the specific type of tanker they're operating.

Size/Dimensions: Varies, but can be up to 53 feet long.

Typical Goods: Liquids (fuel, chemicals, milk).

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: Typically 2-5 axles depending on the tanker size.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: Around 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 65-70 mph on highways.

Special Requirements: Hazardous material endorsements for certain cargoes.

Operating Costs: High, especially if specialized equipment for hazardous materials is required.

Environmental Impact: High, especially for hazardous material transport due to potential for spills.

tanker trucks

Box Truck (Cube Truck)

Among versatile freight truck types is the box truck that boasts a closed cargo area. This is ideal for transportation of goods that need to be protected from environmental elements. Lift gates are a unique feature of most box trucks, allowing the loading and unloading of cargo to be less laborious and more efficient. Moving services are one of the most common industries that use these types of trucks due to their offering of a balance between capacity and maneuverability.

Size/Dimensions: Typically 10-26 feet in length.

Typical Goods: Furniture, appliances, parcel delivery.

Haul Type: Short haul, local deliveries.

Freight Classification: Class 3 to Class 6.

Axle Count: Usually 2 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel or gasoline.

Engine Size and Horsepower: Typically 200-300 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 55-65 mph, depending on local regulations.

Special Requirements: CDL may be required for larger box trucks.

Operating Costs: Moderate, depending on size and usage.

Environmental Impact: Moderate, with more efficient models offering better fuel economy.

 light duty trucks

Bulker or Bulk Hauler

A bulk hauler is exactly as described - transporting bulk goods such as cement, grains, and other dry commodities. Bulker freight truck types also must adhere to specific safety regulations that cater to their type of loads. For example, a dry commodity could tip over, so the load must be evenly distributed in the bulker. As with most permits mentioned above, hazardous material permits a common request for bulk haulers. Emergency training for truckers is also a crucial aspect of safety in these types of trucks.

Size/Dimensions: Around 40-42 feet long.

Typical Goods: Grain, coal, minerals.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 8.

Axle Count: 3-4 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 400-600 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 65-70 mph on highways.

Special Requirements: Endorsements for bulk cargo handling.

Operating Costs: Moderate to high.

Environmental Impact: Moderate to high.

Bulk Hauler (Bulker)

Livestock Truck

Transportation of cattle, pigs, and sheep is done by a livestock truck. Crucial considerations such as proper ventilation, secure partitions within the truck, and regular welfare check stops for the animals are part of the safety considerations of the animals being transported. Specific permits related to animal transport should be attained and minimized travel time is a must to reduce animal stress levels. Although these livestock truck sizes are sufficient enough to provide comfort the animals require, shippers must ensure that the animals are fit for travel before loading. These assurances include health certifications and strict adherence to ethical and legal standards.

Size/Dimensions: Typically around 40-53 feet long.

Typical Goods: Live animals.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 8.

Axle Count: 2-4 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 60-70 mph, depending on state regulations.

Special Requirements: Ventilation for animals, special licenses for livestock handling.

Operating Costs: High, due to specific care for live cargo.

Environmental Impact: High, due to size and additional resources for livestock.

truck transports livestock

Container Truck (Chassis)

A chassis is an integral part of global transmodal transportation. When freight trucks deliver cargo to trains, airplanes, or ships, containers are used to easily move goods from one mode of transportation to another. Weight limits still apply to these freight trucks, along with securement checks to ensure containers are properly fastened, and regular vehicle inspections. Any oversized or over limit containers will require permits and customs documentation will apply for international shipments.

Size/Dimensions: Designed for 20 to 40-foot standard containers.

Typical Goods: Shipping containers.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 8.

Axle Count: 3-5 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 65-70 mph on highways.

Special Requirements: CDL with endorsements depending on cargo.

Operating Costs: Moderate to high.

Environmental Impact: High, especially for long-haul.

Dry Van

The first on our list outside of class 7 and 8 trucks, van duty trucks fall under the light and medium duty class. Their main purpose is to deliver goods in urban environments and provide flexibility for last-mile delivery services for both shippers and dispatchers. Dry van duty trucks typically only carry non-perishable goods for protection from weather conditions. Permits may be necessary for certain cargo such as hazardous materials.

Size/Dimensions: Varies, up to about 25 feet for larger models.

Typical Goods: General freight, parcels.

Haul Type: Short to medium hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 2 to Class 6.

Axle Count: 2 axles.

Fuel Type: Gasoline or diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 200-400 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: 55-65 mph, or as per urban traffic conditions.

Special Requirements: CDL for larger models.

Operating Costs: Moderate.

Environmental Impact: Moderate to high, depending on fuel type and efficiency.

Dry Van

Step Deck (Drop Deck)

One of the more versatile trucks for hauling, step deck trucks are designed to move oversized goods that are too big or too tall for the standard flatbed. The name stepdeck comes from the two levels of this truck, a higher front and lower rear to accommodate taller cargo and remain under height restrictions. Height markers and adequate tie-downs are necessary for this type of cargo along with permits for oversized loads. Machinery, large equipment, and construction materials are a few examples of cargo fit for these types of trucks. 

Size/Dimensions: Typically around 48-53 feet long.

Typical Goods: Tall equipment and freight.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: 2-3 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Up to 65-70 mph on highways.

Special Requirements: Permits for tall loads.

Operating Costs: Moderate to high.

Environmental Impact: High due to size and potential for heavy loads.

Step deck or Drop Deck truck type

Double Drop/RGN (Removable Gooseneck)

A double drop truck, or removable gooseneck, takes the stepdeck concept further. A third lower central section of a double drop allows for even taller cargo that doesn't require too much ground clearance for transport. Another unique feature is the detachable front which allows the trailer bed to lower to the ground for easy loading and unloading of these large cargo. Due to the ability to detach the front, or gooseneck, of a double drop, safety precautions highlight the proper reattachment of the gooseneck after loading. These freight trucks are unique and require specialized training for carriers to ensure safe transport.

Size/Dimensions: Varies, designed for tall cargo.

Typical Goods: Heavy machinery, large equipment.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: 3 or more.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 400-600 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Lower due to oversized loads, often requires escort.

Special Requirements: Permits for oversized and heavy loads.

Operating Costs: High.

Environmental Impact: High.

Double Drop/RGN (Removable Gooseneck)

Stretch Trailer Trucks

A fitting name, stretch trailer trucks are designed for transporting especially long cargo that can't be divided into smaller, more manageable, shipments. A feature exclusive to these freight trucks is the ability to extend its length to accommodate different lengths of cargo, making them versatile and adaptable. Very long loads often require an escort vehicle and stringent adherence to route restrictions in order to avoid infrastructure damage and ensure safe passage. Special permits are required more often than not due to the nature of the oversized loads of these types of trucks.

Size/Dimensions: Extendable, varies based on load.

Typical Goods: Long items like beams, pipes.

Haul Type: Long haul.

Freight Classification: Class 7 or 8.

Axle Count: 2-4 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Restricted, varies with load.

Special Requirements: Permits for length.

Operating Costs: High.

Environmental Impact: High, especially due to potential for oversized loads.

Stretch Trailer Trucks

Hotshot Trucking

These are the types of trucks called in for urgent and time-sensitive deliveries. Hotshot freight trucks don't fit into the traditional freight classification like others on our list. They vary in size and weight, falling into all freight classes from 1 to 5. Typically, hotshot trucks are lighter and more agile. They also cater to LTL shipping modules (Less-than-Truckload) and prioritize speed and flexibility over volume.

Size/Dimensions: Varies, typically uses smaller trailers suitable for quick loads.

Typical Goods: Time-sensitive deliveries, LTL freight.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls, often direct delivery.

Freight Classification: Class 3 to Class 5.

Axle Count: 2-3 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel or gasoline.

Engine Size and Horsepower: Typically 200-400 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Up to highway limits, around 65-75 mph.

Special Requirements: CDL may not be required for lighter setups.

Operating Costs: Lower compared to larger trucks.

Environmental Impact: Relatively lower due to smaller size and lighter loads.

Power Only Trucking

A power only truck service is when the carrier provides the tractor unit to haul trailers owned by others. Shippers enjoy the flexibility to have trailer loads ready for transport at any given time. Each trailer must be appropriately matched with a power only truck by ensuring the following:

  • The Hitch system is compatible with the trailer.
  • Verifying the tractor can handle the trailer's load.
  • Confirming both the trailer and tractor meet appropriate safety standards and have the proper permits required.

Size/Dimensions: Dependent on the trailer being pulled.

Typical Goods: Various trailers or mobile homes.

Haul Type: Both short and long hauls.

Freight Classification: Varies with the attached trailer, typically Class 1 to Class 8.

Axle Count: Depends on the tractor, commonly 2-3 axles.

Fuel Type: Diesel.

Engine Size and Horsepower: Varies, usually 300-500 horsepower.

Typical Speed Limits: Subject to standard highway limits.

Special Requirements: CDL required; specific endorsements depend on the load.

Operating Costs: Varies with the trailer type and cargo.

Environmental Impact: Varies with the load but generally high due to diesel usage.

Future of Types of Commercial Trucks

The rise of AI certainly has major implications for the trucking industry. We may soon see new automated trucks that can transport loads without human drivers. Electric heavy duty trucks are already here. Tesla's new Semi is a fully electric truck with a 500-mile range and an 82k Gross Combination Weight. 

These new types of trucks will have an enormous effect on truckers and the trucking industry. Here are some ways you can take advantage of these new opportunities. 

Job Security

These new changes may lead to job transformation, but they can also result in job loss and a decline in truck driver pay. To stay in the game, you need to keep up to date with truck transport technology and regulatory demands. Learning new systems can open up new job opportunities. You also have to be ready to deal with ethical controversies, legal hurdles, and public acceptance issues as these technologies experience growing pains.

Environmental Impact

New environmental regulations mean that all commercial truck sizes need to keep an eye on their carbon footprint and fuel efficiency. Keep abreast of any new state or local rules that may apply on your routes. Electrical trucks promise a lower carbon footprint and greater energy efficiency. Improved routing and supply chain technology can also help you save money and help the environment by using your current fleet more efficiently.

Operational Efficiency

Using semi trucks more efficiently can lead to faster delivery times and reduced operational costs. More efficient routing helps you minimize empty ride time, reduce fuel consumption, and increase revenue per mile. These allow carriers to provide faster delivery times with fewer stops and less downtime on the road. Well-organized loading policies can also help save loading time and minimize damage to fragile and perishable cargo. Size-appropriate packaging is more environmentally friendly and saves valuable cargo real estate.

 Future different types of trucks like driverless trucks and their impact

Safety

Freight truck automation could lead to increased road safety and fewer accidents. Many new safety systems provide drivers with visual data and early warnings that help them manage the load. AI-driven trucks could theoretically be less subject to human error and have faster reactions than a human driver. Stay abreast of all new federal, state, and local safety requirements to ensure your trucks are compliant and your equipment is properly updated. 

Long Term Industry Implications

Here are some changes we might see in a world where the majority of freight trucks are driverless: 

  • Supply Chain Transformation: Driverless freight trucks could result in reduced lead times and more flexible delivery schedules.
  • New Business Models: We could see radical changes in on-demand trucking, more efficient last-mile solutions, and higher customer satisfaction.
  • Urban Planning: These fleets may require dedicated lanes, as well as new loading/unloading zones to accommodate the influx of deliveries.
  • Global Impact: Driverless freight technology could have a tremendous impact on international trade and may lead to more streamlined global supply chains.

Important Considerations for All Types of Trucks

Different Types of Truck Regulations by Region

Safety regulations for different freight truck types can vary considerably between states. Make sure you know the rules for tarping, vehicle emissions, and other state regulations throughout your route. Even intrastate commerce may be subject to federal interstate commerce rules if you pick up a load as part of a route that originated or ends outside your state. Check to make sure you have all necessary state and local operating authority and UCR registrations in order.

The Importance of Efficient Freight Loading

Efficient freight loading enables cargo transportation companies to maximize the payload of each vehicle and minimize the number of trips needed to deliver goods. Efficient truck freight loading strategies ensure that weight is evenly distributed and the load properly secured. 

Freight trucks rely on efficient cargo loading for security and safety. Efficient cargo loading helps keep drivers safe and maximizes their per mile earnings. It also helps keep cargo safe and reduce shipping damage.

freight truck loading

Safety Equipment for Freight Trucks

Here's a general list of safety equipment every trucker can benefit from no matter their truck classification:

  • Reflective triangles.
  • Fire extinguishers.
  • Seat belts.
  • First aid kits.
  • Emergency escape tools.
  • Flashing hazard lights.
  • Spill kits for hazardous materials.
  • Load securing tools (straps and chains).
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the driver.
  • Side mirror extenders for improved visibility.
  • Convex mirrors to eliminate blind spots.
  • Backup alarms for reversing safety.
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for better control.
  • Lane departure warnings to prevent accidents.
  • Tire pressure monitoring systems to ensure optimal tire health.
  • Dash cams for recording road incidents.

Industries Dependent on Different Truck Types

The most common kind of truck used in the truck industry is a 53-foot dry van. Most commercial and electronic shipments are transported in this type of container, which can be used for both local and over-the-road hauling.  

Larger loads, often required in the manufacturing and agricultural industries, may require flatbed truck transports which ship exposed cargo in bulk.  

Other truck types you may see in the industry include reefers (refrigerated trucks used in transporting perishables), liquid tankers, and dry bulk tankers - all of which we've covered above.

How Cota Systems Matches Truck Types with Shipment Cargos

LoadBoost™ 

Our LoadBoost™ load board gives truckers exclusive access to Cota System loads for all truck types. You can fill up your container and increase your revenue per mile. The Cota Systems™ Mobile App provides real time communication between carriers and dispatchers, so all stakeholders can stay informed on shipments. 

We’re experts in consolidated and LTL (Less-than-Truckload) freight and we can help carriers make runs more efficient and profitable. Dispatchers can use Cota Systems to broadcast loads and organize shipments by load, driver, truck, and trailer.

Guaranteed Freight Quotes

Guaranteed freight quotes means no re-rates, ever! Cota Systems provides shippers access to exclusive and vetted carriers via multiple truck types, including expedited freight and LTL loads for smaller shipments. Choose from our spot orders for one-time loads or contract orders for recurring shipments.

Other Ways Cota Systems Eases the Process of Choosing a Truck Type

Cota Systems bridges the gap between truckers and shippers, and helps both maximize their earnings together through streamlined direct shipments. With CarrierPro™ for carriers and FreightPro™ for shippers, we provide the industry with cutting-edge and free Transportation Management System (TMS) tools.

Wrapping Up on Truck Types

The modern transit industry requires many different types of trucks. Whatever type of commercial trucks carriers drive, and no matter the type of cargo shippers need moved, Cota Systems can help.

Our cloud-based dispatch management system has an easy drag-and-drop interface. It also integrates seamlessly with top quick pay providers, so drivers can get paid immediately on invoices. All you need is a browser and an internet connection. The Cota Systems driver app works on both Apple and Android phones to keep drivers and dispatchers informed and in touch. 

Cota Systems software is designed for the needs of smaller shipping companies, but our software is robust enough to handle the needs of larger companies as well. Whether you’re a trucker or a shipper, Cota Systems can earn you more and make smooth logistics for seamless operations.

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