The transportation sector is one of the most successful and busiest worldwide. After all, whether you’re traveling or transporting goods, you will rely on road, air, rail, water, or pipeline transportation. In addition, the logistics and transportation industry has witnessed significant growth over the years, making it lucrative for investors and job seekers.
But do you understand how the industry works? Do you know what companies are in the transportation field? If you’re curious about launching a career in this field, we’ve created this article to help you. It will provide you with an in-depth look into the transportation industry, plus a list of some of the best companies to which you can apply for a chance to prosper as a transportation professional in 2023.
Types of Transportation Companies
There are thousands of transportation companies in the United States and worldwide. Every day, investors are pouring into this sector by establishing delivery, transportation, and shipping services. Below are five types of transportation companies for investors and job seekers.
Cab Services
Cabs or taxis have become the most popular mode of transport for people seeking convenient transportation. Companies like Uber and Lyft have redefined the industry, allowing passengers to book a cab using an app from anywhere.
Old school taxis are still available in densely populated areas, including the traditional yellow cabs of New York or the black taxicabs in London. You can choose to register as a driver in any cab company or work as an independent cab driver.
Rental Companies
Rental companies allow people to lease cars, bicycles, trucks, jets, and more. Most people opt to rent these services for short-term use without buying. For example, a tourist might hire a bike for the day to tour the city, or party-goers can rent a party bus overnight or for a longer trip. You can even start a rental limo service, which is quite popular for events. Rental companies are a booming business, but remember to secure a good insurance policy to cover unforeseen risks.
Boat Companies
Boat companies provide water transport in the form of cruise ships, yachts, jet skis, small fishing boats, and more. Although it is a seasonal business venture, boat companies are very profitable. You can even start a shipping company, which is also a popular mode of international transportation of goods and services.
Air Transport Companies
The air transport industry can be a financial burden for start-ups. You will require licenses, insurance, and investment money for buying or leasing the aircraft, maintenance, and more. However, it is also a lucrative business venture because people always travel or transport cargo via air transport. The industry is not congested, but you must offer competitive services and abide by very strict policies.
Trucking Companies
Trucking companies are in the commercial transportation business. They transport large quantities of goods, agricultural products, petroleum products, and more. Owners place bids to win contracts that allow them to transport goods for different organizations. Depending on the workload, you can either hire drivers or establish a business with trucks and company drivers. Trucking is complex and requires commitment, resilience, and business knowledge.
How to Get a Job in the Transportation Field
Like every industry, you must prepare for a career in the transportation industry. However, the learning paths are different, depending on the career path you wish to pursue within the industry. Below is the most basic step-by-step guide to getting a job in transportation.
- Pick a specialty. There are various modes of transportation in this industry. Therefore, before pursuing an education, pick a specialty that appeals to your goals, and then research the education requirements. You can select between air, ground, or water transport. Here, you will find hundreds of career opportunities to pursue.
- Get an education. You need to understand the field extensively if you want to work in the transportation sector. You can learn logistics management, which helps you develop the skills to offer high-quality logistics services. You can also study to become a pilot, captain, forklift operator, marine shipping specialist, or locomotive engineer. Remember, you also need to gain valid certifications and licenses.
- Showcase your transportation experience on your resume. During the hiring process, employers need proof that you have experience in transportation. They want skilled workers who understand transportation infrastructure, management, customer service, and more. Therefore, always highlight your skills and work experience in your resume. Additionally, we recommend you consult resume-writing tips and write a new resume for every job opportunity, tailoring it to match the company’s requirements.
- Research your target company. Doing your due diligence before applying for a position is crucial because it gives you an upper hand during the hiring process. Find out the company’s operations, products, history, vision, and more. Research also helps you write a personable cover letter and resume, which makes a great impression on employers.
- Seek government tenders. Did you know you can work for the government? Through the Department of Transportation, the US government offers jobs and tenders all year round. All you have to do is check the DOT Careers page regularly and submit a well-written application. You can either get permanent employment or receive tenders for trucking, rental, or logistics services.
The Best Companies in the Transportation Field to Work For in 2023
As the transport industry grows, more people seek employment within it. Different types of transport and logistics companies provide variety and opportunities for job seekers. Whether you’re seeking a job in rental, moving, freight, international shipping, or cab services, below are the top five companies for job seekers in 2022 to help you find the right fit.
UPS
- Annual Revenue: $84.6 billion
- Number of Employees: 543,000
- Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
UPS, Inc. was started in 1907 by two dedicated teenagers who took a $100 loan, Jim Casey and Claude Ryan, and worked in a Seattle basement to establish what has become the highest-earning and largest package delivery service worldwide.
UPS also offers supply chain management solutions, providing even more job opportunities. You can work in US Domestic Package Operations, Supply Chain and Freight Operations, or International Package Operations.
Why Is UPS a Good Place to Work?
UPS offers a wide range of benefits to full-time and part-time employees. The organization has also been regarded as one of the best places to work on Glassdoor, with a four-star rating and over 20,000 reviews. Most reviewers enjoy the good work environment, opportunities for growth, health insurance, and excellent pay.
DHL
- Annual Revenue: 66.8 billion euro
- Number of Employees: About 400,000
- Headquarters: Bonn, Germany
DHL is one of the most popular logistics companies, with branches in over 220 countries. The company handles international shipping and express delivery services, transporting over 1.5 billion parcels annually. DHL North America covers Canada and the US, allowing business people to transport goods in under six days.
You can work for DHL as a delivery man, customer support specialist, project coordinator, operations manager, and more. All you have to do is find out the qualifications and achieve these goals.
Why Is DHL a Good Place to Work?
DHL was named one of the top 100 companies to work for. In fact, current and former employees gave DHL a four-star rating on Glassdoor and praised it as a good organization with knowledgeable employees. The organization also offers career advancement opportunities, which is an excellent incentive for entry-level employees. PayScale places the average annual salary for DHL employees at about $62,902.
DSV: Global Transport and Logistics
- Annual Revenue: $19.03 billion
- Number of Employees: Over 75,000
- Headquarters: Hedehusene, Denmark and Woodbridge, New Jersey
DSV was founded in 1976 and has since become a leading logistics and transport company. The organization specializes in freight forwarding, warehousing, 3PL, 4PL, and contract logistics. The company has a team of over 75,000 employees, located in different parts of the world, to help clients gain access to goods and services via land, air, and sea.
Why is DSV a Good Place to Work?
DSV has developed a strong foundation through high-quality services and a solid clientele. You don’t have to worry about job security or disorganized management. In addition, PayScale indicates that DSV employees receive an array of perks and benefits, including 401(k) plans, paid holidays and sick leave, insurance, and more. You will enjoy a good work environment and be motivated to meet your full potential in the industry.
Uber
- Annual Revenue: $4.8 billion
- Number of Employees: Over 22,000 employees and 3.9 million drivers
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, USA
Uber is one of the leading transportation network providers, with branches and dedicated drivers worldwide. You can either apply for a job at Uber or make money as a Uber driver who receives a specific percentage after each ride. Since its establishment in 2009, Uber has grown into a multimillion-dollar company with millions of active users.
You can work for Uber as an engineer, data scientist, software developer, marketer, manager, and so much more. Once you key in your location, you will find endless career opportunities on the website. However, working at Uber requires skills, dedication, and innovation because of how quickly the industry evolves.
Why Is Uber a Good Place to Work?
Uber has received great reviews on Glassdoor, Indeed, and other career sites. Most employees enjoy the fast-paced work environment, flexible hours, diversity, and great pay. However, most Uber drivers would appreciate better commission.
Swift Transportation
- Annual Revenue: $4.67 billion
- Number of Employees: 22,900
- Headquarters: Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Swift Transportation is the largest full truckload carrier in the United States. The company offers customized solutions and job opportunities for drivers, technicians, operators, and support staff. Moreover, you can apply for these positions across the company’s 200 locations and 30 terminals. Swift transportation offers equipment leasing, dry vans, heavy haul trucks, flatbeds, logistics, and more.
Why Is Swift Transportation a Good Place to Work?
Swift Transportation is regarded as one of the best organizations to work for because the company prioritizes employee growth. It offers employee recognition programs, corporate discounts, 401(k), competitive PTO plans, training and development programs, full health insurance, and stock purchase plans.
You will also have access to career advancement opportunities through the truck driving school, CDL certification programs, and programs focused on women’s empowerment.
CEVA Logistics
- Annual Revenue: $3.3 billion
- Number of Employees: 78,000
- Headquarters: Marseille, France
CEVA Logistics offers transportation and supply chain solutions for national and international organizations. The company is part of the CMA CGM Group, which is known for its high-quality services in shipping and logistics. CEVA Logistics was founded in 1946 and has expanded to 160 countries to become a leader in freight management services.
You can apply for a wide range of vacancies on the company’s career page, depending on your location and interest. It is a world-renowned company that prioritizes quality and customer satisfaction.
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Why Is CEVA Logistics a Good Place to Work?
The career opportunities at CEVA Logistics are endless, allowing you to work in any part of the world. The company prides itself in having over 1,000 locations spread across 160 countries. In addition, you will work with state-of-the-art supply chain solutions, which are exciting and educational.
Employee reviews on Glassdoor indicate that the company provides a great work environment and reasonable work hours. A small percentage do complain of low pay and long hours.
NFI Logistics
- Annual Revenue: Over $3 billion
- Number of Employees: 14,500
- Headquarters: Camden, New Jersey, United States
NFI logistics is also a leader in providing supply chain solutions for various industries. The organization focuses on trucking solutions, non-asset logistics, real estate, port services, warehouse services, and more.
You can join a team of over 14,000 employees as a warehouse material handler, project manager, forklift operator, driver, general manager, and more. The company hires employees throughout the year, providing thousands of job opportunities, including a number of part-time jobs that pay well.
Why Is NFI Logistics a Good Place to Work?
NFI employees commend the management system, good pay, flexible hours, teamwork, and the freedom to grow and change positions. You will also receive health insurance, dental insurance, and long-term disability insurance, among other perks. The company has been in business for over 80 years, guaranteeing job security and a sense of familiarity among workmates.
GXO Logistics
- Annual Revenue: $2.0 billion
- Number of Employees: About 95,000
- Headquarters: Greenwich, Connecticut, United States
GXO Logistics provides state-of-the-art logistics solutions for multinational and blue-chip market leaders worldwide. The company has locations in 25 countries and 850 warehouse locations. You can apply for positions on the tech team, in operations, on the corporate team, and in material handling. In addition, GXO provides internships for university students and opportunities for military veterans.
Why Is GXO Logistics a Good Place to Work?
GXO Logistics strives to be the best in the transportation sector and sets measures to attract the best in the industry. Some of the competitive offers at GXO include full health insurance coverage, 401(k), life insurance, employee discounts, and more. However, Glassdoor reviews indicate that most employees are not pleased with the mandatory overtime at the organization.
Kenco Logistics Services LLC
- Annual Revenue: $1.36 billion
- Number of Employees: 5,000
- Headquarters: Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States
Kenco Logistics Services is a woman-owned logistics company founded over 70 years ago. The organization provides third-party logistics (3PL), warehousing services, and management solutions across North America. The logistics solutions at Kenco include material handling, equipment services, innovation consulting, ecommerce, and comprehensive transportation.
The company works with over 200 clients and employs thousands more. You can apply for driver positions, permanent employee positions, and hourly positions on the company’s website.
Why Is Kenco Logistics Services LLC a Good Place to Work?
Working at Kenco Logistics comes with a comprehensive employee benefits package, including medical coverage, parental leave, tuition reimbursement programs, FSA plans, wellness activity programs, paid holidays, and more. The company aims to provide a safe work environment to ensure employees are productive, which leads to satisfied customers.
Penske Logistics LLC
- Annual Revenue: $1.25 billion
- Number of Employees: Over 60,000
- Headquarters: Reading, Pennsylvania, United States
Penske Logistics was founded in 1969 and has grown to become one of the largest supply chain logistics companies worldwide. The company provides a wide range of solutions, including transportation services, warehousing and distribution, freight management, warehouse operations, warehouse and network design, consulting, and more. Penske Logistics provides various job opportunities across Asia, Europe, Brazil, Mexico, and Africa.
Why Is Penske Logistics a Good Place to Work?
Working at Penske Logistics provides various benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement saving plans, paid holidays, employee discounts, and more. In addition, former and current employees on Glassdoor commend the company’s work environment and the opportunities for growth within the organization.
Is It Hard to Get a Job in the Transportation Field?
No, getting into transportation is not an uphill climb for most people. The transportation industry accommodates people from all walks of life. You don’t need an advanced degree or certification to pursue a career in this industry. You can start with entry-level jobs and work your way to the top through online logistics degrees and hands-on experience.
However, if you want to work in logistics, engineering, cargo transport, or agriculture, you must gain additional educational qualifications. As the industry grows, more job opportunities are sure to become available for job seekers.
Should You Work in the Transportation Field?
Yes, working in the transportation industry gives you access to new opportunities and challenges that help your career grow. You will also develop skills that have a real-life impact on your path to transportation industry careers. In addition, if you enjoy being part of a team, the transportation industry will provide fulfillment in that area because the industry relies heavily on teamwork.
Job security is also a cause for concern for many Americans and people worldwide. Working in transportation provides job security because people are always on the move, and goods are always being transported. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9 percent growth for transportation occupations between 2020 and 2030. Furthermore, the transportation sector contributes to a large share of the economy, with trillions of dollars in annual revenue.
Best Transportation Companies FAQ
What are the primary modes of transportation?
The primary modes of transport are road, air, water, rail, and pipeline. Therefore, if you want to start a business or find a job at GM, Ford, or in transportation in general, you must select between these five modes of transportation. The most used mode of transportation is the road.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the transportation sector?
The Coronavirus pandemic crippled several industries, including transport. The industry experienced a decline in profit as governments implemented heavy travel regulations worldwide. In addition, fuel prices and associated energy costs skyrocketed, putting a heavy toll on public and private transport providers. However, the industry is recovering rapidly as governments continue to fight the pandemic.
What is the impact of the transport industry on the environment?
According to the EPA, transportation is the largest contributor to environmental pollution, followed by the energy sector, agriculture, and fashion. The industry degrades air quality, causes greenhouse gas emissions, the degradation of water resources, and more.
These effects have led various countries to introduce autonomous vehicles and smart transportation to help conserve the environment. More and more companies around the world are putting an emphasis on accountability and sustainable practices, so if this is something you’re interested in, this industry could definitely use your contribution.
Do I need a degree to work in transportation?
No. You don’t need a college degree to work in the transport industry. With a driver’s license and enough training, you can work as an Uber driver or truck driver. With enough research, you will find various entry-level and mid-level jobs that don’t require a degree. However, it is always beneficial to enhance your skills and knowledge through further studies or training programs.
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