Minnesota Trucking by the Numbers — The Strength Behind the Supply Chain
Minnesota’s economy depends on movement. From the flour mills in the Twin Cities to the paper plants in northern towns and the steel distribution hubs along the Mississippi, trucking keeps the state connected. At MBM Logistics, we’re proud to be part of the network that delivers the products that fuel Minnesota’s industries every single day.
1 | Minnesota: A Freight Powerhouse
Minnesota might be known for its lakes, but it’s the highways that make it an economic engine. According to MnDOT’s Statewide Freight System and Investment Plan, over 68% of all freight tonnage in the state moves by truck. That translates to more than 500 million tons of goods transported annually—ranging from agricultural products and paper goods to steel and construction materials.
Every one of those shipments relies on safe, efficient, and dependable carriers. MBM Logistics helps fill that need with modern equipment, professional drivers, and routes that connect Minnesota to the rest of the Midwest and beyond.
2 | Freight by the Numbers
Breaking down Minnesota’s trucking landscape reveals how vital logistics is to the state’s economy:
This network supports both large manufacturers and small businesses, making trucking one of the most essential—and stable—industries in the state.
Freight moved by truck
68% of all in-state tonnage (source: MnDOT Freight Plan)
Top commodities
Food products, paper, steel, machinery, wood, aggregates (Source: ATA & MnDOT)
Annual trucking jobs
Over 85,000 Minnesotans employed in trucking or related fields (source: ATA 2023)
Economic impact
$5.6 billion contributed annually to Minnesota’s GDP (Source: ATA State Facts)
Miles of public roads
138,000 miles connecting every major region (Source: MnDOT 2024)
3 | Dry Van & Intermodal: The Workhorses of Freight
While flatbeds and specialty hauls often get the spotlight, dry van and intermodal carriers like MBM Logistics handle the majority of freight moving through Minnesota. These modes are the quiet backbone of commerce—transporting the packaged, palletized, and containerized goods that keep factories running and store shelves stocked.
Why it matters:
Dry van freight is ideal for everyday goods—paper, packaged food, and manufacturing components that require protection from the elements.
Intermodal shipping connects Minnesota’s rail hubs in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth to national ports and distribution centers, providing a lower-carbon alternative to long-haul trucking.
Together, they form a flexible, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible solution that fits Minnesota’s diverse freight needs.
4 | The Human Side of the Supply Chain
Behind the numbers are the people who keep the state moving. Minnesota’s trucking workforce is known for its professionalism and work ethic—qualities MBM values deeply.
Our drivers don’t just move freight; they move reliability forward. Through continuous training, safety meetings, and cutting-edge technology like AI dash-cams and real-time telematics, MBM ensures every mile is driven safely and efficiently.
5 | Infrastructure that Supports Growth
Minnesota has invested heavily in freight-friendly infrastructure. The I-35 and I-94 corridors connect the state’s manufacturing heartland to major Midwest and national markets. Recent MnDOT freight mobility grants have focused on improving first- and last-mile connections—vital for dry van and intermodal operations.
These infrastructure upgrades translate to faster turnaround times, reduced idle hours, and more consistent delivery performance—benefits that directly impact MBM’s customers.
6 | Sustainability in Motion
Efficiency and sustainability now go hand in hand. With SmartWay-certified carriers, widespread use of B20 biodiesel, and continued research into electric regional trucks, Minnesota is positioning itself as a leader in clean freight transport.
MBM contributes to this shift by monitoring emissions through SmartWay data and reducing idle times through technology and driver training. Each initiative helps shrink the environmental footprint of everyday freight.
7 | The MBM Difference
As part of this thriving ecosystem, MBM Logistics represents what Minnesota trucking does best—combine Midwestern work ethic, smart logistics, and modern technology to deliver results. From the Twin Cities to Chicago and beyond, MBM keeps regional supply chains steady, sustainable, and dependable.
Our success is built on precision, transparency, and long-term partnerships—values that reflect the strength of Minnesota’s entire trucking community.
8 | Looking Ahead
The next decade will bring new technology, greener fleets, and evolving regulations—but one constant will remain: Minnesota’s economy will continue to depend on trucking. MBM Logistics stands ready to meet that challenge mile after mile, shipment after shipment.
Reliable. Responsible. Ready.
That’s the MBM promise—keeping Minnesota’s freight moving forward, one load at a time.
