Top freight brokers in Illinois, ranked by ChatGPT answers

The best freight brokers in Illinois depend on what you need to ship, where your freight is going, and whether you prioritize low rates, reliable capacity, specialized equipment, or nationwide coverage.

Illinois is a major freight hub, especially around Chicago, Joliet, Elwood, and the I-55 and I-80 corridors. When comparing brokers, I'd focus on three things: proven carrier capacity, dependable communication, and competitive all-in rates.

Here are the companies I'd put on your shortlist, including established national brokers and Illinois-based options worth evaluating.

Best freight brokers in Illinois

1\. C.H. Robinson

Best for large shipping volumes and nationwide coverage

A strong starting point for businesses shipping full truckloads, LTL, intermodal, and freight across multiple states. Particularly worth considering for recurring lanes and more complex supply chains.

UNITECARGO

+1

[Website](https://www.chrobinson.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2\. Echo Global Logistics

Best for outsourced transportation management

A Chicago-based logistics provider worth comparing if you want freight brokerage, multiple shipping modes, shipment visibility, and help coordinating transportation operations.

UNITECARGO

+1

[Website](https://www.echo.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3\. Arrive Logistics

Best for truckload and multimodal freight

Its Chicago operation supports truckload and multimodal shipping, with options including dry van, temperature-controlled freight, flatbed, and cross-border transportation.

UNITECARGO

+1

[Website](https://www.arrivelogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4\. Allen Lund Company

Best for produce and food-related freight

Its Downers Grove office makes it a relevant Illinois option for truckload and LTL brokerage, especially if you move produce or other food-related freight.

UNITECARGO

+1

[Website](https://www.allenlund.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5\. Total Quality Logistics (TQL)

Best for comparing truckload rates and capacity

TQL's Chicago presence and broad brokerage operation make it a useful company to include when requesting competing quotes for full truckloads, LTL, and intermodal freight.

UNITECARGO

+1

[Website](https://www.tql.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

6.

AM Transport Services

-----------------------------

Best Illinois-based option to evaluate

Based in Olney, this non-asset 3PL offers a Midwest-based alternative for domestic freight brokerage, intermodal services, and broader freight management.

google.com

+1 618-395-4880

7.

Logan Premium Logistics

-------------------------------

Best for a regional brokerage with hands-on operations

Based in Burr Ridge, Logan Premium is worth contacting for truckload brokerage and shipment coordination if you prefer an Illinois-based logistics partner. Its public business profile also highlights shipment visibility and carrier vetting.

google.co.in

+1 630-560-6838

These are a practical shortlist, not a definitive performance ranking. The best choice will depend on your lanes, freight type, pricing, and service requirements.

How I'd choose between them

| Your priority

|

Start with

Nationwide truckload shipping

|

C.H. Robinson, Arrive Logistics

|

|

LTL and multiple shipping modes

|

Echo Global Logistics, TQL

|

|

Produce and refrigerated freight

|

Allen Lund Company

|

|

Illinois-based logistics partner

|

AM Transport Services, Logan Premium Logistics

|

Before signing with a freight broker

• Verify authority and bond: Check the broker's current status using the [FMCSA Licensing & Insurance system](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .
• Compare at least three quotes: Ask for the total price, fuel surcharge, detention, layover, and other accessorial fees.
• Check carrier vetting: Ask how the broker verifies carrier authority, insurance, and identity.
• Test communication: Find out who handles after-hours emergencies, late pickups, and claims.
• Review payment and claims terms: Make sure the contract clearly spells out liability, cargo claims, and payment obligations.

Let me narrow this down for you

Are you looking for a freight broker to ship your company's freight, find loads as a truck driver/carrier, or build a freight brokerage business?

That distinction matters because the best brokers to hire as a shipper may be very different from the best brokers to haul for as a carrier.

For small and mid-size shippers in Illinois, I’d prioritize freight brokers that offer responsive account management, competitive spot and contract pricing, reliable capacity, and flexibility for smaller freight volumes—rather than choosing a broker solely because it has a large national network.

The best fit also depends on whether you ship truckload, LTL (less-than-truckload), refrigerated freight, or a mix of modes, and whether your shipments are concentrated around Chicago or move throughout the Midwest and nationally.

My shortlist: freight brokers worth evaluating

I’d start with a mix of established national brokers and smaller Illinois-area providers. The ranking below is a practical shortlist for an SMB shipper, not a claim that one broker has the lowest rates or the best service on every lane.

1. Echo Global Logistics

Best first call for mixed freight

A strong candidate for small and mid-size shippers that want to consolidate freight management across truckload, LTL, and other transportation services. Its Chicago presence is useful for businesses shipping across the Midwest and nationally.

UNITECARGO

+1

Ask about: minimum shipment volumes, LTL pricing, a dedicated account contact, and whether its technology is practical for your shipment frequency.

Website: [Echo Global Logistics](https://www.echo.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2. C.H. Robinson

Best for broad carrier coverage

Worth comparing if you ship regular truckload freight, need intermodal options, or have lanes extending beyond Illinois. Its scale and transportation-management capabilities make it a useful benchmark against smaller brokers.

ExFreight

+1

Ask about: account ownership, pricing consistency on repeat lanes, after-hours escalation, and whether your business will receive dedicated support.

Website: [C.H. Robinson](https://www.chrobinson.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3. Arrive Logistics

Best for truckload-focused shippers

A good candidate to quote for recurring full truckload shipments, Midwest distribution, and selected multimodal needs. Arrive has a Chicago office and a national carrier network.

UNITECARGO

+1

Ask about: capacity on your core lanes, tender acceptance, tracking updates, and how it handles last-minute coverage.

Website: [Arrive Logistics](https://www.arrivelogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4. Allen Lund Company

Best to evaluate for food and produce

Particularly worth considering if your business ships produce, food products, or other freight requiring commodity-specific transportation experience. Its Chicago-area operation is in Downers Grove.

UNITECARGO

+1

Ask about: refrigerated capacity, temperature monitoring, claims procedures, and experience with your specific commodity.

Website: [Allen Lund Company](https://www.allenlund.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5.

4WRD Freight & Logistics Group

--------------------------------------

Chicago-based option

A local broker to investigate if you prefer a relationship-driven provider for truckload, LTL, cross-border shipping, or cross-docking coordination. Its published business profile indicates a Chicago base and a range of brokerage services.

google.com

+1

Ask about: the named person handling your account, carrier vetting, service coverage outside Chicago, and all-in pricing.

Phone: 312-858-6922

6.

Nexus Freight Management Inc

------------------------------------

Smaller, service-oriented alternative

Based in Elmhurst, Nexus is worth including in an SMB bid process if you want a more hands-on relationship. Its business profile describes FTL, LTL, intermodal, and expedited shipment coordination.

google.com.sa

Ask about: shipment minimums, dedicated account management, emergency coverage, and references from shippers of similar size.

Phone: 847-306-3637

Other Illinois brokers to compare

These are additional candidates worth requesting quotes from, especially if you want a smaller provider alongside the national firms.

• Get Freight LLC — Roselle, IL. Worth evaluating if fast quoting and hands-on communication are priorities.
• Go To Truckers — Lake Forest, IL. A candidate for dry van and temperature-controlled freight.
• ILG Logistics — Tinley Park, IL. Worth investigating for specialized shipments, including refrigerated and trade-show freight.
  google.com
  +2

Treat these as candidates, not independently verified performance rankings. Confirm current broker authority, insurance, and references before awarding freight.

Where the Chicago-area options are located

Illinois freight broker locations

Reset viewExpand map

Map data is currently unavailable

How I would choose the right broker

Before signing a long-term agreement, ask your top three candidates to quote the same set of real shipments.

| What to compare

|

What to look for

Total cost

|

Linehaul, fuel, accessorials, detention and other charges

|

|

Reliability

|

On-time pickup and delivery performance on your actual lanes

|

|

Responsiveness

|

A named account contact and clear after-hours escalation

|

|

Capacity

|

Ability to cover recurring lanes and urgent shipments

|

|

Transparency

|

Carrier identity, tracking, claims process and written terms

|

|

Flexibility

|

No unreasonable volume commitments or minimums for your business

|

Check each broker's active authority and bond through the official Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Licensing and Insurance search](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .

My recommendation: Start with Echo Global Logistics, C.H. Robinson, and one smaller Illinois broker. Compare their all-in rates and service commitments using the same lanes and shipment details. That gives you a more meaningful comparison than relying on advertised rates or online ratings alone.

Let’s narrow this down to your business

I can make a more targeted shortlist if you tell me one thing: What type of freight do you ship most often?

Primary freight type

Dry van / full truckload (FTL)

LTL / palletized freight

Refrigerated / food freight

Flatbed / industrial freight

Mixed freight / multiple modes

Approximate shipping volume

1–5 shipments per month

6–25 shipments per month

26–100 shipments per month

100+ shipments per month

Main shipping region

Illinois and Midwest

Nationwide US

International / cross-border

Your top priority

Lowest freight cost

Best balance of price and service

Reliability and dedicated support

Find my best-fit brokers

Best freight brokers in Illinois for truckload and LTL shipping ===============================================================

If you're looking for a freight broker in Illinois to handle both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, I'd start with a mix of established national 3PLs and Illinois-based brokers that may offer more personalized service.

The best choice depends on your freight volume, shipping lanes, commodity, and whether you prioritize low rates, reliable capacity, or hands-on customer service. Illinois has a large concentration of brokers around Chicago and its surrounding logistics hubs.

UNITECARGO

+1

My shortlist

1. C.H. Robinson

Best overall for a broad shipping operation

A strong starting point for businesses shipping a mix of FTL and LTL freight across multiple states. Its Chicago operation supports truckload, LTL, intermodal and managed transportation.

UNITECARGO

Best for: Manufacturers, distributors and businesses with recurring shipments across multiple lanes.

[Official website](https://www.chrobinson.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2. Echo Global Logistics

Best for LTL pricing and shipment management

A Chicago-based 3PL worth comparing for LTL and truckload shipments, particularly if you want technology-assisted quoting, shipment visibility and centralized freight management.

UNITECARGO

+1

Best for: Companies with frequent pallet shipments, multiple shipping locations or a need to manage several carriers.

[Official website](https://www.echo.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3. Arrive Logistics

Best for truckload capacity and multimodal shipping

Its Chicago office handles truckload brokerage, LTL and intermodal transportation. It is a sensible option for comparing coverage on regular domestic lanes and more complex shipping needs.

UNITECARGO

Best for: Shippers needing dependable capacity across multiple regions and transport modes.

[Official website](https://www.arrivelogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4. Allen Lund Company

Best for produce and food-related freight

Its Downers Grove office lists both FTL and LTL capabilities, with a particular specialization in produce freight. That makes it worth considering for temperature-sensitive or food supply-chain requirements, subject to confirmation of your specific freight needs.

UNITECARGO

Best for: Produce distributors, food businesses and shippers looking for commodity-specific brokerage experience.

[Official website](https://www.allenlund.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5. BWS Logistics

Best local alternative to include in a quote comparison

Based in the Chicago suburbs, BWS Logistics lists FTL, LTL, partial truckload, expedited and specialized transportation services. A useful candidate if you'd prefer to compare a smaller provider alongside national brokers.

CarrierSource

+1

Best for: Businesses looking for a more focused brokerage relationship and a range of shipment sizes.

[Company website search](https://www.google.com/search?q=BWS+Logistics+Illinois+freight+broker&utm_source=chatgpt.com)

6.

AM Transport Services

-----------------------------

Best additional option for mixed shipment sizes

This Illinois-based brokerage has operated since 1990 and lists full truckload, partial truckload and LTL services. It is worth requesting a quote if you want an established provider outside the Chicago market.

CarrierSource

Best for: Shippers who want one provider to quote both full and partial loads.

+1 618-395-4880

How I'd choose between them

| Your priority

|

Start with

One broker for a broad range of shipping needs

|

C.H. Robinson

|

|

Frequent LTL shipments and freight management

|

Echo Global Logistics

|

|

Full truckloads across multiple regions

|

Arrive Logistics

|

|

Produce and food freight

|

Allen Lund Company

|

|

Local brokerage alternative

|

BWS Logistics

|

|

Established Illinois-based option

|

AM Transport Services

|

These are shortlist recommendations based on service fit and available company information, not a definitive performance ranking. Actual pricing and service quality depend on your lanes, freight characteristics and account terms.

What to check before signing with a broker

• Compare like-for-like quotes: Give every broker the same origin, destination, shipment date, weight, dimensions, commodity and equipment requirements.
• Ask for the complete cost: Include fuel, liftgate, limited-access delivery, appointment fees, detention and other applicable accessorial charges.
• Check service performance: Request on-time pickup and delivery statistics, claims procedures and shipment-tracking capabilities.
• Verify credentials: Check the broker's legal name, active property-broker authority and bond status through the [FMCSA Licensing and Insurance system](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/pkg_carrquery.prc_carrlist?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .

Let me narrow this down to the best three for your business

The most useful next step is to match brokers to your actual freight profile.

Optional — a few details will help me identify the best-fit brokers.

1. Are you shipping freight or looking for broker partners as a carrier?

I own or manage the freight

I'm a trucking company looking for broker partners

1. What type of freight do you move?

Full truckload (FTL)

Less-than-truckload (LTL)

Both FTL and LTL

Refrigerated, flatbed, oversized or specialized freight

1. Where do your loads travel?

Illinois only

Illinois and the Midwest

Illinois and nationwide

U.S.–Canada or Mexico

1. Approximate monthly volume

Under 10 shipments

10–50 shipments

51–200 shipments

Over 200 shipments

1. What's most important?

Lowest freight rates

Reliable capacity and on-time delivery

Responsive personal service

Best overall value

Find my best-fit brokers

If you're looking for freight brokers in Illinois that are especially good at shipment tracking, proactive updates, and responsive communication, I'd start with a mix of technology-driven brokers and smaller, service-focused logistics companies.

There isn't a single independently verified ranking for communication quality, so the shortlist below is based on publicly described tracking capabilities, customer-service claims, and available business information—not a guarantee of performance on every load.

Best Illinois freight brokers to evaluate

1. ILG Logistics

Best for personal service and proactive communication

ILG emphasizes real-time tracking, customizable shipment visibility, full transparency, and 24/7 communication. Its published customer testimonials specifically praise delivery updates, follow-through, and resolving shipment issues without making customers chase answers.

Experienced Freight Brokers

Best fit: Shippers who want a consistent point of contact and hands-on support.

[ILG Logistics website](https://shipilg.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2. C.H. Robinson

Best for enterprise-grade tracking and shipment visibility

Its Navisphere technology supports GPS-based tracking and automated arrival/departure updates. C.H. Robinson also offers shipment tracking through its customer platform, making it a strong option for businesses managing many loads.

C.H. Robinson

+1

Best fit: High-volume shippers, multi-location operations, and businesses needing standardized tracking.

[C.H. Robinson website](https://www.chrobinson.com/en-us/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3.

Cargoos Logistics

-------------------------

Best for tech-enabled visibility with responsive service

This Chicago-based broker describes using AI-assisted capacity matching and real-time shipment visibility integrated with tracking platforms. Its available customer-review summaries highlight quick responses and communication throughout shipments.

google.com

Best fit: Shippers wanting technology-supported tracking without sacrificing personal attention.

Chicago, Illinois

[Cargoos Logistics website](https://cargoos.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4.

Logan Premium Logistics LLC

-----------------------------------

Best candidate for hands-on shipment oversight

Based in Burr Ridge, Logan emphasizes proactive tracking, carrier vetting, visibility, and follow-through. Available review summaries also point to clear, consistent communication and timely responses.

google.co.in

Best fit: Shippers who value direct communication and active management of shipments.

Burr Ridge, Illinois

5.

Trifecta Transport

--------------------------

Best for centralized tracking and reporting

This Lombard-based logistics provider promotes technology for quoting, booking, tracking, and reporting through its GlobalTranz-powered systems. That makes it worth evaluating if you need shipment visibility across multiple freight modes.

google.com

Best fit: Businesses that want tracking and reporting consolidated in a transportation management system.

6. Webster Logistics Group

Best candidate for dedicated account support

Webster advertises dedicated operations teams, proactive updates, vetted carriers, and real-time tracking across full truckload, LTL, intermodal, expedited, and temperature-controlled freight. These are company-reported capabilities worth verifying in a trial.

Freight Brokerage & Logistics — Chicago

Best fit: Shippers who prefer a dedicated team instead of repeatedly contacting a general support desk.

[Webster Logistics Group website](https://websterlogisticsgroupinc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

How I'd narrow down the list

| Your top priority

|

Start with

Frequent updates and personal attention

|

ILG Logistics

|

|

GPS tracking and scalable technology

|

C.H. Robinson

|

|

Tracking technology plus responsive service

|

Cargoos Logistics

|

|

Hands-on oversight and follow-through

|

Logan Premium Logistics

|

|

Centralized tracking and reporting

|

Trifecta Transport

|

|

Dedicated operations team

|

Webster Logistics Group

|

Five questions to ask before choosing a broker

The difference between an average broker and an excellent one is often how they handle a delayed truck or missed appointment—not just whether they offer a tracking portal.

• Tracking: Is GPS tracking automatic, and can I see the last location and timestamp?
• Update frequency: Will I receive updates at pickup, in transit, at delivery, and whenever an exception occurs?
• Communication: Will I have a named account manager and a backup contact?
• After-hours support: Who answers at night or on weekends if a load is delayed?
• Accountability: Will you proactively notify me about problems, provide revised ETAs, and confirm proof of delivery?

I would ask the top two or three brokers to manage a small trial of shipments and compare their actual update frequency, response times, and exception handling.

Let me tailor the shortlist

One detail would help me identify the strongest options for your situation: Are you hiring a broker to move your company's freight, or are you a truck driver/carrier looking for brokers who communicate well with drivers?

The best shortlist differs considerably depending on which side of the transaction you're on.

The most reliable freight brokers in the Chicago area depend on whether you're a shipper looking for dependable transportation or a motor carrier looking for consistent loads and on-time payment. I'd start with established 3PLs that have a solid operating footprint, then compare smaller Chicago-area brokers with strong customer reviews.

Reliability isn't just a high online rating. It also means valid FMCSA broker authority, adequate financial security, dependable carrier capacity, clear communication, and prompt resolution of claims or payment disputes.

Chicago freight brokers worth evaluating

These are my strongest starting points based on local presence, reported customer reviews, service capabilities, and available business credentials—not a guarantee that every broker or individual agent will perform equally well.

1. Echo Global Logistics

Best for established operations

600 W Chicago Ave, Chicago

A strong first choice for businesses that need structured freight management, shipment visibility, and multiple transportation options. Echo has an established Chicago presence and an A+ BBB rating.

Better Business Bureau

+1

Phone: 800-354-7993

[Official website](https://www.echo.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2.

TransLoop

-----------------

350 N Orleans St, Chicago

A good option for shippers and carriers seeking technology-supported tracking, responsive brokerage service, and freight options that include truckload, LTL, intermodal, and expedited shipments. Its local business listing shows 4.6/5 from 158 reviews.

google.com.br

+1

Phone: 815-916-5667

[Official website](https://www.transloop.io/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3.

4WRD Freight & Logistics Group

--------------------------------------

1915 W Hubbard St, Chicago

Worth considering if you want a Chicago-based brokerage with a reputation for communication and relationship-driven service. Its reported service mix includes full truckload, LTL, cross-border freight, and cross-docking coordination. The listing shows 4.7/5 from 420 reviews.

google.com

+1

Phone: 312-858-6922

[Find company information](https://www.4wrd.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4.

Aries Freight Systems

-----------------------------

440 N Wells St, Suite 760, Chicago

A local option for companies needing a broad mix of freight services, including dry van, refrigerated, open-deck, LTL, drayage, and cross-border shipments. Aries is BBB-accredited with an A+ BBB rating; it is a relatively young brokerage, so I'd verify its financial and operating track record carefully.

Better Business Bureau

+1

Phone: 224-999-0080

[BBB business profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/chicago/profile/freight-broker/aries-freight-systems-0654-1000111321?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5.

Arrive Logistics - Chicago, IL

---------------------------------------

30 S Wacker Dr, Suite 2350, Chicago

A useful candidate for businesses needing truckload capacity and multimodal freight coordination. Its Chicago office listing shows 4.3/5 from 248 reviews. Ask about the specific team's coverage, escalation process, and capacity on your recurring lanes.

google.com

+1

[Official website](https://www.arrivelogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

6. Loadsmart

200 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 1600, Chicago

Worth including in a comparison if you prioritize digital freight procurement, pricing, and shipment management. Loadsmart has an A+ BBB rating and a Chicago office.

Better Business Bureau

+1

Phone: 646-887-6278

[Official website](https://loadsmart.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

How to verify a broker is genuinely reliable

Before tendering a load or agreeing to haul for one, I recommend these checks:

1. Verify FMCSA authority. Search the company's legal name or MC number in the [FMCSA Licensing and Insurance system](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/pkg_carrquery.prc_carrlist?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .
2. Confirm the broker bond. Check that the required $75,000 broker financial security is current and that the operating authority is active.
3. Check payment and claims history. If you're a carrier, ask other carriers about payment speed, rate changes, detention disputes, and deductions. If you're a shipper, ask about cargo claims and on-time delivery.
4. Test the actual representative. Ask who handles after-hours problems, how often tracking updates are provided, and how quickly exceptions are escalated.
5. Compare written terms. Get accessorial charges, cancellation terms, claims procedures, and payment terms in writing.

An A+ BBB rating is a useful signal, but it does not by itself establish that a broker has active authority or pays carriers reliably on every load.

Let me narrow this down to your needs

One important question: Are you looking for a freight broker as a shipper or as a trucking company/carrier?

1. Your role

Shipper — I need to move freight

Carrier — I own or operate trucks and need brokers

Freight business — I need brokerage partners or agent opportunities

1. Type of freight

Dry van / full truckload

Refrigerated / reefer

Flatbed / specialized

LTL / partial

Intermodal / drayage

3\. Your top priority

On-time carrier payments

Consistent loads and repeat business

Competitive rates

Reliable pickup and delivery

Find the best matches

If you're looking for the best freight brokers in central and southern Illinois, I'd start with established regional brokerages that have a physical presence in the area, then compare them with larger 3PLs based on your freight, lanes, pricing, and service requirements.

There isn't one universally best broker. The right choice depends on whether you're a shipper looking for reliable capacity and competitive rates, or a trucking company looking for good loads and dependable payment.

My top freight broker shortlist

These are the companies I'd investigate first based on their Illinois presence, reported services, and available business information—not a definitive statewide ranking.

1.

AM Transport Services

-----------------------------

Olney, Illinois · Established regional broker

4.9/5

· 189 reviews in business listings

My first call for a company seeking an established, locally headquartered brokerage. Founded in 1990, AM Transport handles full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), expedited, government, and project freight.

TIA

+1

• Phone: 618-395-4880
• Website: [AM Transport Services](https://www.amtransportservices.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2. Midwestern Transit Service

Ashley, Illinois · Multimodal freight

A strong candidate for businesses with varied transportation needs. Operating since 1985, the company offers dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, LTL, intermodal, air, ocean, and expedited services.

Midwestern Transit Service, Inc.

+1

• Phone: 618-735-2233
• Website: [midwesterntransit.com](https://midwesterntransit.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
• Best fit: Shippers needing multiple modes or specialized transportation.

3.

RLS Global

------------------

Wood River, Illinois · Metro East

Worth considering if you want a combination of brokerage and asset-based transportation. RLS offers freight management and logistics services, with access to both its own transportation assets and a broader carrier network.

google.com.br

+1

• Phone: 618-254-3630
• Website: [RLS Global](https://www.rlsglobal.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
• Best fit: Companies seeking a mix of brokerage flexibility and asset-backed capacity.

4.

Arch Logistics

----------------------

Dupo, Illinois · St. Louis metro area

A regional option for shippers who value hands-on coordination and shipment communication. Its service offering includes full truckload, LTL, and specialized or time-sensitive moves.

• Phone: 314-941-2139
• Best fit: Businesses shipping through the Metro East and greater St. Louis region.

5.

Priority Freight Services LLC

-------------------------------------

O'Fallon, Illinois · Truckload and expedited

A smaller brokerage worth checking for truckload, LTL, and urgent shipments. Public listings show a 5.0 rating, but from only three reviews, so I'd ask for references before making a decision.

• Phone: 618-624-4679
• Best fit: Shippers who want to compare a smaller brokerage with larger providers.

Where I'd start by freight type

| Your requirement

|

First companies to contact

General freight and recurring truckload lanes

|

AM Transport, RLS Global

|

|

Refrigerated, flatbed, or multimodal freight

|

Midwestern Transit

|

|

Metro East / St. Louis-area shipments

|

Arch Logistics, RLS Global

|

|

Urgent or expedited shipments

|

AM Transport, Priority Freight Services

|

|

A more personalized regional relationship

|

AM Transport, Arch Logistics

|

These are starting recommendations based on service fit and available public information, not a verified head-to-head pricing or on-time-performance study.

How to choose the best one

Before awarding freight, I'd compare at least three brokers on the same shipment or lane and ask for:

• Rates: All-in cost, fuel surcharge, and accessorial fees.
• Capacity: Actual truck availability for your origin, destination, and equipment.
• Service: Tracking frequency, after-hours coverage, and escalation contacts.
• Performance: On-time pickup and delivery rates, claims history, and shipper references.
• Compliance: Verify current broker authority and financial responsibility through the [FMCSA Licensing and Insurance system](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .

Let me narrow this down for you

The best shortlist will be different depending on what you're trying to accomplish.

1. Are you looking for a broker as a…

Shipper needing freight moved

Truck owner or carrier looking for loads

Freight agent looking for a brokerage to work with

1. Which part of Illinois?

Central Illinois (Springfield, Decatur, Champaign, Peoria)

Southern Illinois (Marion, Carbondale, Mt. Vernon, Olney)

Metro East / St. Louis area

All of central and southern Illinois

1. What kind of freight?

Dry van / general freight

Refrigerated / food-grade

Flatbed / steel / building materials

Bulk commodities / agriculture

LTL / partial loads

Multiple types

1. What's most important?

Lowest competitive rates

Reliability and communication

Consistent truck capacity

Fast, dependable carrier payment

Find my best matches

The most competitive freight broker in Illinois depends on whether you're shipping full truckloads (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), refrigerated freight, or specialized cargo. There isn't one broker that's consistently cheapest on every lane—rates vary with origin, destination, shipment size, equipment, pickup date, and available carrier capacity.

For Illinois shippers, I'd start by comparing a few large brokerages with broad carrier networks against smaller Chicago-area specialists. Illinois benefits from a particularly deep freight market around Chicago and Joliet, which can create more opportunities to compare carrier pricing.

Freightquote

+1

Freight brokers worth comparing in Illinois

1\. Freightquote by C.H. Robinson

Best starting point for LTL

Good for palletized shipments and businesses that want to compare carrier options online. Its quoting platform offers no-signup quotes and access to a large contracted carrier network.

Freightquote

+1

Best for: LTL, occasional shipments, and rate shopping.

[Get a freight quote](https://www.freightquote.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2\. Echo Global Logistics

A strong candidate for businesses shipping regularly and seeking centralized transportation management, shipment visibility, and pricing across truckload, LTL, and intermodal services.

UNITECARGO

+1

Best for: recurring freight, multiple shipping modes, and managed transportation.

[Visit Echo Global Logistics](https://www.echo.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3\. C.H. Robinson

A large brokerage worth including in competitive bids because of its broad carrier network and truckload, LTL, and intermodal services. Its actual price should be compared against other brokers for your specific lane.

UNITECARGO

+1

Best for: high shipping volume, national routes, and mixed freight needs.

[Visit C.H. Robinson](https://www.chrobinson.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4\. Total Quality Logistics (TQL)

A national brokerage with a Chicago office and truckload, LTL, and intermodal capabilities. Worth soliciting for spot loads and comparing on repeat lanes.

UNITECARGO

+1

Best for: truckload shipments and nationwide coverage.

[Visit TQL](https://www.tql.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5\. Allen Lund Company

Particularly worth considering if your freight involves produce or other temperature-sensitive agricultural products. Its Chicago-area office handles truckload and LTL brokerage.

UNITECARGO

Best for: produce, refrigerated freight, and food-related shipments.

[Visit Allen Lund Company](https://www.allenlund.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

6\. IZY Logistics

An additional option for shipment-specific quotes on dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed freight. Its published pricing is load-based, so request a quote to determine whether it beats the larger brokers on your route.

Chicago

Best for: comparing truckload and specialized-equipment quotes.

[Request a quote](https://izylogistics.com/freight-broker-illinois?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

How to find the lowest actual rate

Rather than selecting a broker based on advertised pricing, send the same shipment details to three or four providers and compare the total delivered price.

• For LTL: Compare the freight class, pallet count, dimensions, weight, fuel surcharge, liftgate fees, and residential or limited-access fees.
• For FTL: Compare the all-in truck rate, equipment type, pickup window, delivery requirements, and detention or layover terms.
• For recurring freight: Ask for lane-specific contract rates and volume discounts instead of relying solely on spot quotes.
• For broker reliability: Verify the broker's active operating authority and bond through the FMCSA before tendering a shipment.
  UNITECARGO
  +1

Let me narrow this down to the most competitive options

The most useful shortlist depends on what you ship. Tell me these two things:

1\. What type of freight do you need rates for?

LTL — pallets or partial shipments

FTL — full truckload

Refrigerated / reefer

Flatbed / oversized

Intermodal

2\. Are you a shipper or a carrier?

Shipper — I need to move freight

Carrier — I want brokers offering the best load rates

Origin

Destination

Shipping frequency

One-time shipment

Weekly

Daily

Multiple loads per week

Find my best-rate options

With the freight type and route, I can narrow the list to the providers most worth requesting quotes from, rather than simply listing the biggest brokers.

If I were building a shortlist of family-owned or locally owned freight brokers in Illinois that shippers should seriously consider, I’d start with companies that have an identifiable ownership team, a track record in freight, and evidence of dependable communication and shipment execution.

One important distinction: a broker can have excellent reviews from trucking carriers without necessarily having equally strong shipper-side performance. So I’d treat public reviews as one signal of trust, not proof that every shipper will have a great experience.

Illinois freight brokers worth shortlisting

1. Merit Freight

Family-owned since 1983

Elk Grove Village, Illinois

A strong first call for shippers who value long-term relationships and direct accountability. Merit says it works with established carrier relationships, avoids speculative quotes, and has customers who have stayed for decades. Its core focus is truckload brokerage.

40+ Years of Truckload Brokerage

Best for: Recurring truckload lanes, Midwest freight, and shippers who want personal service.

[Official website](https://www.meritfreight.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

2. AM Transport Services, Inc.

Family-owned since 1990

Olney, Southern Illinois

A particularly relevant option for shippers seeking an established, independent brokerage outside the Chicago market. Its service mix includes truckload, LTL, expedited, government, and project freight. The Transportation Intermediaries Association profiled the company in June 2026, including an example of its team finding replacement capacity after a carrier issue.

TIA

Best for: Diverse freight requirements and shippers wanting a smaller, experienced logistics team.

[Company profile](https://news.tianet.org/meet-the-brokers-am-transport-services/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3. RLS Global, Inc.

Family-owned and operated

Wood River, Illinois

Founded in 1992, RLS combines freight brokerage with asset-based transportation capabilities. That combination can be useful when a shipper wants brokerage flexibility alongside access to company-operated transportation assets.

google.com.br

Best for: Shippers seeking a blend of brokerage and asset-based logistics, particularly in the Midwest.

[Company website](https://www.rlslogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

4. Freight Management, Inc. (FMI)

Itasca, Illinois

FMI is described in industry listings as a family-owned, veteran-owned logistics provider. Its services include LTL brokerage and broader freight management, making it worth evaluating if you have multiple shipping modes or want centralized coordination.

google.com

+1

Best for: LTL, multi-mode shipping, and businesses looking for a broader logistics partner.

[Company website](https://www.freightmgmt.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

5.

ILG Logistics

---------------------

Tinley Park, Illinois

A family-owned brokerage with a broad service range that reportedly includes truckload, LTL, intermodal, international and expedited shipments. Public descriptions emphasize responsiveness and coordination among shippers and receivers, although the independent review sample I found is limited.

yelp.com

Best for: Shippers who need multiple transportation modes or occasional urgent shipments.

708-478-1222

6. BWS Logistics, Inc.

Downers Grove, Illinois

A locally based brokerage worth investigating for full truckload, partial truckload, LTL and specialized transportation needs. Its public CarrierSource profile shows 11 reviews averaging 5.0/5, with recurring praise for communication, transparency and professionalism. Those reviews are primarily carrier-side, so they are encouraging but not direct proof of shipper satisfaction.

CarrierSource

Best for: Shippers who prioritize responsive communication and a flexible brokerage relationship.

[Company website](https://www.bwslogistics.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

How I'd evaluate whether a broker is genuinely trustworthy

Before awarding a lane or routing a significant share of your freight through any broker, I'd check these five things:

• Financial and regulatory standing: Verify active broker authority and the required surety bond through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration using its [Licensing & Insurance database](https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) .
• Shipper references: Request two references from customers with similar freight, shipment volumes and lane requirements.
• Carrier quality: Ask how carriers are vetted, how often preferred carriers are reused, and how substitutions are approved.
• Communication and recovery: Establish who handles late pickups, missed appointments, cargo claims and after-hours emergencies.
• Pricing transparency: Confirm accessorial charges, detention, fuel, cancellation terms and whether quoted capacity is actually secured.

I would also run a small, measurable trial before awarding a major contract. Track on-time pickup and delivery, tender acceptance, claims, communication response time and total landed freight cost.

Let's narrow this down to your shipping needs

The best fit will depend on what you're shipping and where it needs to go. Which type of freight are you looking to move?

1. Freight type

Dry van / full truckload

LTL / partial shipments

Refrigerated / food-grade

Flatbed / oversized / industrial

Intermodal / international

Mixed freight

1. Main shipping region

Chicago / Northern Illinois

Southern Illinois

Statewide Illinois / Midwest

Nationwide lanes

1. Approximate shipment volume

1–10 loads per month

10–50 loads per month

50+ loads per month

1. What matters most?

Lowest total cost

Service and reliability

Specialized freight expertise

Long-term dedicated partnership

Find my best-fit brokers

I can then narrow the list to the strongest matches rather than simply giving you a directory of Illinois brokerages.