Use the links in a transport directory to find specialized companies

The links in transportation directories have companies from all over the spectrum of material transport. In many cases, transporters are listed several times in every area they work. Some directories have profiles for the companies in addition to their website link.

I recommend: What The Transportation Directory lacks in interface it makes up for in quantity of links. It features links pertaining to nearly every area of transportation. The Directory for Transportation has similar set-up and categories but a less complete link list. Its interface is more user-friendly, and its search function is more informative.

Utilize a transportation broker directory to hire a transporter to efficiently move cargo

Broker directories allow companies to post loads of cargo that need to be shipped to other locations. Truck owners can then log on and find loads in their area--that way they don't need to travel with an empty trailer.

I recommend: Since the majority of overland shipping was deregulated, the quality of some shipping companies has fallen. The Redbook Transportation Broker Ratings lists many broker companies and rates them based on several "real world" factors, such as business practices and time to payment. RayTrans is a hauler-centric broker directory with links to hundreds of clients.

Look for a specialized directory of transport for air and water-based companies

Most transport directories specialize in overland transportation. Specialized directories have listings for air and water companies. These specialized directories are more likely to have additional information about the companies.

I recommend: The Air Transportation Directory features a list of all airlines with active routes. CreditRiskMonitor may seem like an unlikely transport directory but it features a listing of all active international waterborne carriers along with information on their financial situation.