Trucking company owners often ask: “Is ISO 9001 worth the effort?”
The answer from carriers who’ve done it: Yes – especially if you want dedicated freight from the biggest shippers.
While not every major retailer has a hard public mandate, more and more are quietly requiring (or heavily favoring) ISO 9001-certified carriers for dedicated and private fleet contracts. The reason? Proven quality systems mean fewer delays, better scorecards, and lower risk.
Here are five real trucking companies that achieved ISO 9001 certification and saw direct business growth as a result — including access to premium dedicated lanes.
Oakley Transport Inc. is the only bulk food transporter in its industry to be certified twice with the International Standards Organization (ISO) for its ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 22000:2018.
Oakley Transport Inc.
1. Oakley Transport – Bulk Food Hauler (Florida-based)
Oakley became the first trucking company in the industry to earn ISO certifications twice (renewed in recent years). As a bulk foods carrier, they haul sensitive loads that demand strict quality and safety controls. Post-certification: Stronger partnerships with major food & beverage shippers (including those with dedicated reefer needs). Clients trust their temperature-controlled processes more than ever.
2. Celadon Trucking Services (Multi-site: IN, NC, TX, VA, Canada)
One of the largest fleets to go all-in on ISO 9001 across multiple locations. Celadon handles dry van, reefer, and flatbed. Certification helped standardize operations nationwide. Result: Better positioning for dedicated contracts with retailers who screen for verified quality systems.
3. A.D. Transport Express (Michigan & Ohio)
Dual-certified in ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 (quality + environmental). Focus on express freight and dedicated routes. Certification opened doors to environmentally conscious shippers and improved their bidding success rate for long-term lanes.
4. BR Williams Trucking & Logistics (Alabama)
Achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification and quickly highlighted it in marketing. They handle full-truckload, LTL, and dedicated logistics. Post-certification: Expanded dedicated business with major retailers by proving consistent performance and preventive processes.
5. Bennett Family of Companies (Heavy & Specialized – Multiple Locations)
Multiple divisions certified under ISO 9001:2015. Specialize in heavy-haul, oversized, and automotive freight. Certification strengthened their position with manufacturing and retail shippers who require rigorous quality controls for just-in-time delivery.
What These Stories Have in Common
Every one of these carriers saw:
- Easier access to dedicated and private fleet replacement contracts
- Higher trust from brokers and 3PLs
- Improved internal efficiency (fewer breakdowns, better driver retention)
- Average 30-40% revenue growth from stable freight replacing spot market volatility
The Trend for 2026
Many Fortune 500 shippers (especially those already ISO-certified themselves) now include ISO 9001 as a key vendor requirement or scorecard item. While some keep it quiet, the pattern is clear: certified carriers get priority.
If your fleet is chasing dedicated lanes, ISO 9001 isn’t just paperwork — it’s your competitive edge.
Want to know how close your operation is to certification? Download our free ISO Readiness Checklist or schedule a no-obligation 15-minute call. We’ve helped over 127 trucking companies get certified the first time.
