Specialty Trucking

Specialty Trucking

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry provide long-distance transportation by truck of freight that often has atypical shapes, weights, or sizes and may require specialized equipment such as flatbeds, tankers, car carriers, or refrigerated trailers. Major US companies include CH Robinson, CR England, Jack Cooper Transport, Kenan Advantage Group, and Quality Distribution, along with units of general freight trucking companies like JB Hunt and Schneider National.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by manufacturing output and consumer spending. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations. Large companies have advantages in account relationships, bulk fuel purchasing, fleet size, and access to drivers. Small operations can compete effectively by providing quick turnaround or specializing in a particular industry. The US specialized trucking industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for about 40% of industry revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Specialized freight includes transportation of climate-controlled box and pallet goods, and bulk liquids and gases which account for about 20% each of the industry's revenue. This is followed by bulk liquids and gases at more than 20%. Other services include transportation of other goods, dry bulks, and automobiles and light trucks. Specialized trucking operators often deliver cross-country and may cross international borders.