Central Transport Review 2026

Pay, Benefits, Home Time & Driver Ratings

Founded 1932Warren, MIFleet: 3,500+ tractors

Driver Rating

3.2/5 — Average

Annual Pay

$55,000 - $85,000

Solo CPM

Hourly: $23 - $30/hour (city); mileage-based for linehaul

Sign-On Bonus

Up to $5,000 (market-dependent)

Driver Rating

3.2/5 — Average

Central Transport Overview

Central Transport is a major LTL carrier operating throughout the United States and into Canada. Founded in 1932 and headquartered in Warren, Michigan, the company operates over 3,500 tractors from approximately 170 terminals. Central Transport provides national LTL coverage with a particularly strong presence in the Midwest and Northeast.

The company has undergone ownership changes in recent years, with the Moroun family maintaining control. Central Transport's national footprint and competitive pay attract drivers, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast markets where the terminal density is highest.

Driver opinions on Central Transport are mixed. The company offers competitive hourly pay and home daily positions, which are strong positives. However, some terminals have drawn criticism for management practices, equipment quality, and workload expectations. As with many LTL carriers, the experience at Central Transport can vary dramatically from one terminal to another.

Pay & Benefits

Solo CPM

Hourly: $23 - $30/hour (city); mileage-based for linehaul

Team CPM

N/A (LTL operations)

Annual Earnings

$55,000 - $85,000

Sign-On Bonus

Up to $5,000 (market-dependent)

Benefits Package

  • Health, dental, vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan
  • Paid time off
  • Home daily for city drivers
  • Dock-to-driver opportunities
View full pay breakdown →

Equipment Used

Freightliner CascadiaVarious day cabs28' LTL pup trailers53' trailers

Home Time Policy

Central Transport city drivers are home daily. Linehaul drivers are home nightly for most runs within the terminal network. Some longer relay linehaul positions may require occasional overnight stays.

Training Program

Central Transport requires 1 year CDL-A experience for external hires. Dock-to-driver programs are available at many terminals. New hires go through orientation and LTL operations training.

Hiring Requirements

Minimum Age

21 years old

Minimum Experience

1 year CDL-A experience

CDL Required

Yes — CDL-A

Clean MVR Required

Yes

Endorsements

  • Doubles/triples endorsement preferred

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • National LTL coverage with strong Midwest and Northeast terminal density
  • Competitive hourly pay with overtime opportunities
  • Home daily for city positions; most linehaul also home nightly
  • Dock-to-driver opportunities available at many terminals
  • Large terminal network provides multiple position options

Cons

  • Terminal-to-terminal experience varies significantly — some locations have management issues
  • Equipment quality has been inconsistent, with older trucks at some terminals
  • Workload expectations can be heavy, particularly for city drivers
  • Driver satisfaction scores are below the top-tier LTL carriers

Best For

Central Transport is recommended for:

  • LTL drivers in the Midwest and Northeast seeking home daily positions
  • Dockworkers looking for dock-to-driver career paths
  • Drivers wanting a national LTL carrier with multiple terminal options

Overall Driver Rating

3.2/5

Based on compiled driver feedback, industry reputation, and compensation analysis. Rating last updated March 2026.

Central Transport FAQs

How is the equipment at Central Transport?
Equipment quality at Central Transport varies by terminal. Some locations have modern, well-maintained trucks while others have been criticized for older or less-maintained equipment. The company has been investing in fleet updates, but the experience is inconsistent across the terminal network. Ask about specific equipment during your interview at the terminal you're considering.
How much do Central Transport drivers make?
Central Transport city drivers earn $23-$30/hour depending on market, with annual earnings of $55,000-$72,000 including overtime. Linehaul drivers earn mileage-based pay with annual earnings of $68,000-$85,000. Pay is competitive for the LTL segment but generally below top-tier employers like Old Dominion or Dayton Freight.
Does Central Transport experience vary by terminal?
Yes, dramatically. Central Transport driver reviews show wide variation from terminal to terminal. Some terminals have excellent management, good equipment, and fair workloads, while others have been criticized for poor management, heavy workloads, and older equipment. Before accepting a position, try to talk to current drivers at the specific terminal you'd be working from.
Does Central Transport offer dock-to-driver programs?
Yes, many Central Transport terminals offer dock-to-driver programs where dockworkers can earn their CDL and transition to driving positions. This can be a good way to get into LTL driving without prior CDL experience. Availability varies by terminal and staffing needs.
Is Central Transport a good company to work for?
Central Transport is an average LTL carrier that offers competitive pay and home daily positions. The main concern is the inconsistency between terminals — your experience will depend heavily on which terminal you work from. Research the specific terminal before accepting a position. For drivers who end up at a well-managed terminal, Central Transport can be a solid employer.

More About Central Transport

Central Transport Company Profile

Jobs, fleet size, and key info

Central Transport Pay Breakdown

Full salary, CPM, and benefits details

Central Transport Jobs in Michigan

Openings and hiring info by state

Central Transport Jobs in Ohio

Openings and hiring info by state

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