Business Details
Your Trusted Intermodal Transportation Partner
At Lightning Transportation: Balto, we have built a reputation as a trusted leader in intermodal land transportation for import-export cargo. Since our founding in the early 1970s, we have prioritized service excellence through a unique driver-partnership model that empowers 100% owner-operators with business owner support. Our team of experienced professionals combines industry expertise with cutting-edge technology, including electronic data interchange (EDI) systems and computerized dispatch control, to optimize efficiency and reduce shipping costs. We maintain strong interchange agreements with all major steamship lines while upholding an excellent safety record that ensures reliable, on-time deliveries.By leveraging innovations like imaging storage systems and customizable reporting tools, we provide real-time data sharing and transparent communication that streamline freight management for our clients. Our commitment to environmental responsibility is demonstrated through detailed fuel use tracking and greenhouse gas emissions reporting for sustainability-conscious customers. With terminal locations across seven strategic hubs, we deliver flexible logistics solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of domestic and international supply chains.
Services
Intermodal Drayage
Domestic Truckload
EDI Services
Container Management
Fuel Reporting
Highlights and features
- We maintain EDI capabilities for real-time shipment tracking and documentation.
- Our owner-operator model reduces overhead while maximizing driver expertise.
- Computerized dispatch system ensures optimal load management and cost efficiency.
- Custom reporting tools adapt to unique customer freight management requirements.
- Environmental accountability through detailed fuel and emissions tracking.
Services
Intermodal Drayage
Our intermodal drayage service connects shipping containers between ports, rail terminals, and final destinations. Using advanced dispatch systems, we coordinate seamless transfers while maintaining compliance with international cargo regulations. Experienced drivers handle specialized equipment for safe, efficient container movements.
EDI Services
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) capabilities enable automated document exchange for bills of lading, invoices, and shipment tracking. This eliminates manual entry errors while providing real-time status updates through standardized transaction sets like 204 load tenders and 214 shipment status messages.
Owner-Operator Program
Our 100% owner-operator model offers independent drivers business support resources while maintaining operational autonomy. Partners gain access to consistent freight opportunities, equipment financing guidance, and dedicated dispatch assistance across our terminal network.
Fuel Reporting
Detailed fuel consumption metrics allow customers to calculate greenhouse gas emissions for sustainability reporting. We provide customized GHG reports that integrate with corporate environmental accountability initiatives while optimizing fuel efficiency across transport routes.
Custom Reporting
Tailored reporting tools deliver actionable insights into shipping patterns, cost distribution, and delivery performance. Our team collaborates with clients to develop customized dashboards that enhance decision-making and improve supply chain visibility.
Questions
What transportation services does Lightning offer?
We specialize in intermodal drayage for containerized cargo and domestic truckload services with EDI integration across multiple terminal locations.
Do you hire owner-operators?
Yes, we actively recruit owner-operators at all terminal locations with business support resources and consistent freight opportunities.
What technology systems do you use?
Our computerized dispatch control system (CDCS) and EDI capabilities enable real-time tracking, automated documentation, and efficient load management.
Which areas do you serve?
We operate from seven terminals covering Hagerstown, Baltimore, Norfolk, Charlotte, Charleston, Savannah, and Atlanta metropolitan areas.
