Finding a Reliable Carrier in 2026: What Smart Shippers Are Doing

The trucking market entering 2026 is not the same market we had two years ago. After major collapses in late 2025 — Light Speed Logistics, JITX, TST-CF, and several mid-sized fleets — shippers can’t rely on outdated vetting methods.

Here’s what experienced logistics managers now check before awarding a single load.

1. Immediate Responsiveness

Fill out their website form.
Call their main line.
A reliable carrier demonstrates reliability before you even send freight.

2. Authority Age & Fleet Reality Check

A logistics professional checking the cross-border transportation checklist

Go beyond “we have 50 trucks.”
Most carriers exaggerate.

Use LoadConnect MC Check to verify:

  • MC age
  • Actual number of power units
  • Real trailer count
  • Safety performance

This tool exposes the truth instantly.

3. Confirm Real References

Ask for 2–3 shippers they moved freight for in the last 60 days.
Call them.
Any hesitation is a red flag.

4. Insurance Review

Theft claims and staged scams have become common. Always confirm:

  • Cargo value matches your freight
  • Updated certificates
  • No sudden policy lapses

5. Market Reality

Capacity is shrinking. Many good carriers are full.
That’s why forward-thinking shippers are partnering early with carriers who proved stability through 2025’s volatility.

Want a reliable asset-based carrier?
Check out ET Transport: ET Transport – Dry Van, Reefer, Flatbed, LTL, FTL…
Verify MCs with LoadConnect MC Check: https://loadconnect.io/