🚛 The Best Trucking Companies in New Jersey (That Won’t Waste Your Time) Intro: Why Jersey Trucking Hits Different

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

New Jersey ain’t just toll booths and aggressive honking—it’s one of the busiest freight corridors in the country.

From port runs in Newark to warehouse hauls in Elizabeth and Pharma loads outta Princeton, the Garden State is stacked with freight—and truckers who know how to move it.

But here's the problem: not all trucking companies in NJ treat drivers (or clients) with respect. Some are run tighter than a weigh station inspection, while others feel like a bad lease-purchase deal wrapped in false promises.

So, we went digging—not just for the biggest, but for the best. Ones that deliver the goods without wrecking your time, pay, or sanity.

Top Trucking Companies in New Jersey (By Category)

Let’s break it down by what kind of service you’re lookin’ for—because flatbed ain’t reefer, and hazmat ain’t your average drop-and-hook.

1. **For Freight Volume & Coast-to-Coast Power**

NFI Industries – Camden, NJ - One of the biggest names in the game with terminals all over the U.S. - Full-service: logistics, drayage, intermodal, warehousing - Known for strong benefits and decent pay—but it’s still corporate, so manage your expectations.

Why it matters: They’ve got the freight flow. If you’re looking to stay busy and get consistent miles, NFI is reliable—even if it’s not the most personal vibe.

2. **For Owner-Operators Who Want Freedom**

Road Scholar Transport – Scranton PA (runs heavily through NJ) - Great support for O/O and small fleet guys - Specializes in sensitive freight: pharma, high-security cargo, food - Pays attention to compliance and safety (but not in an annoying micromanaging way)

Why it matters: If you're hauling high-value loads, they’ll treat you like a pro. You get respect and the rates match the freight.

3. **For Local/Regional Runs & Home Time**

New England Motor Freight (NEMF) – Elizabeth, NJ *(NOTE: NEMF declared bankruptcy, but regional players filled the gap)* Check out: Central Transport & A. Duie Pyle (Westampton, NJ) - These regional carriers cover NJ, PA, NY, and New England - Solid for local work with consistent hours - Good for drivers who wanna be home for dinner instead of stuck at a rest stop

Why it matters: Not everyone wants OTR life. These guys give you a predictable schedule and familiar lanes.

4. **For Flatbed & Heavy Haul

Jobs**

Polaris Transportation – Newark, NJ - Handles specialized freight from ports and industrial zones - Requires a little more skill (and patience), but pays accordingly - Bonus points: they’ll help train if you’re switching from van to flatbed

Why it matters: This is where the money’s at if you don’t mind strapping, tarping, and hustling with heavy loads.

5. **For Hazmat & Tanker Drivers**

Quality Carriers – Paulsboro, NJ - Industry leader in chemical, petroleum, and bulk liquid transport - Hazmat endorsement required - Not for the faint of heart, but definitely pays above average

Why it matters: Tanker work can be stressful, but it pays—especially when you’re hauling for clients that don’t play around.

What Drivers Say (The Real Reviews)

We dug into Reddit threads, Facebook groups, and truck stop gossip. Here’s what drivers actually say:

“NFI keeps you moving, but don’t expect to make friends with dispatch.”

“Road Scholar gives you the miles and the support. Real owner-operator vibe.”

“Central Transport isn’t glamorous, but it’s steady local work.”

“QC ain’t for everyone, but you’ll see paychecks that make it worth it.”

Moral of the story: know your goals. Don’t just chase the logo or the marketing video.

Red Flags to Watch Out For (NJ Edition)

🚩 Lease-purchase offers with $900/week deductions but no guaranteed loads
🚩 Small carriers with no ELD compliance and shady safety ratings
🚩 Companies that won’t show you the rate con
🚩 Dispatchers who act like they’re doing YOU a favor

If a carrier won’t answer simple questions about pay, lanes, or home time—keep it moving. There’s too much freight in Jersey to settle for less.

Bottom Line: Pick the Right Lane for Your Life

Whether you’re trying to stack miles, stay local, or build your own authority, New Jersey has a trucking company for you.
Just don’t fall for the shiny logos and promises.

Ask other drivers. Read reviews. Check FMCSA safety records. And remember—your CDL is your business card. Protect it like your life depends on it.

Because in this game? It does.

📣 Call to Action

Ready to stop running blind and start running smart?

✅ LifeAsATrucker.com
– Real driver reviews, no sugar coating
✅ RetireFromTrucking.com
– Learn AI and build income outside the truck, before burnout catches you