The road that motor carriers had to drive in 2002 was largely uphill. Insurance costs were up again and diesel fuel prices reached unprecedented heights. But something else went up in 2002 as well: overall satisfaction scores for truckload carriers. In all but one segment, our readers noted strong improvement among truckload haulers. Dry-freight, high-value, heavy-haul, and bulk carriers all improved on their 2002 figures, and each logged an increase in on-time performance scores.

Household-goods carriers were the only truckload segment to show a general downward trend this year. Three companies returned from last year: Atlas Van Lines (33.27), North American Van Lines (33.02), and United Van Lines (31.89). But their weighted scores were down by at least a full point compared to last year. Graebel Van Lines, which didn't make the grade in 2002, pulled up with a total of 34.04. Overall, scores dropped in every attribute except for on-time performance.

Van lines weren't the only truckload carriers to be applauded for their on-time performance. Bulk motor carriers improved their average on-time scores from 9.22 last year to 9.90; high-value goods carriers notched an 11.28 score compared to last year's 9.19; heavy haulers moved from 9.68 to 11.29, the highest score in the truckload category; and dry-freight carriers rolled from 9.42 to 10.82.

Among bulk carriers, Miller Transporters took the lead, returning for the sixth consecutive year—and leading for the first time—with a score of 34.04. Schwerman Trucking Co. logged a 33.76 score, with Schneider National Bulk tailgating at 33.74. Groendyke Transport finished the list with a 33.28 tally. Bulk carriers' scores improved over last year only in on-time performance and information technology.

Only one high-value carrier received the laurel this time. United Van Lines took the award with a score of 35.89, up from last year's 32.71. Average scores in this segment were up in all attributes, except for equipment and operations.

Similarly, scores for heavy haulers declined only in equipment and operations. In addition to the noted leap in on-time performance, points for value rose from 7.99 to 8.24; information technology moved from 2.98 to 3.56; and customer service climbed from 6.63 to 7.13. Five companies received kudos this year. Anderson Trucking Service led with a 38.75 score, followed by Tri-State Motor Transit with 38.53. Landstar Ranger returned with a 37.46 score, a significant jump over last year's 33.48. Universal Am-Can made itself known with 35.72 points, and Landstar Inway came back with 35.68.

Four dry-freight carriers met with approval this time around, including three that were winners last year. Werner Enterprises moved into first place with a 36.50. Heartland Express joined the Quest with a score of 36.23. J.B. Hunt Transport returned with 34.77, bettering last year's 32.89. And Schneider National filled out the list with 34.60, almost two points over its previous score of 32.88. Once again, only equipment and operations came up short, while all other attributes improved.

This year's survey also checked up on readers' TL shipping habits. Most respondents (84 percent) said they deal directly with carriers; only 16 percent said that they use an online transportation exchange to book or monitor shipments. And most appear to be satisfied with their shipping methods: 65 percent said they're not dabbling in LTL consolidation in order to ship more truckloads.