How to Find Government Contracts for Trucking Companies (2025)

Government contracts can be a lucrative and stable source of income for trucking companies. The U.S. government spends billions annually on transportation and logistics services, making it a prime market for trucking businesses looking to secure long-term, high-value contracts. However, finding and winning these contracts requires knowledge, strategy, and persistence.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the key steps to finding and winning government contracts for your trucking company.

1. Understand the Types of Government Trucking Contracts

Before searching for opportunities, it's essential to know the different types of government trucking contracts available:

• Freight & Cargo Transport – Moving goods for federal, state, and local agencies.
• Military & Defense Logistics – Transporting military equipment, supplies, and personnel.
• Emergency & Disaster Relief Transport – Delivering aid, supplies, and essential goods during natural disasters.
• Waste & Hazardous Material Transport – Handling specialized government waste disposal.
• Mail & Package Delivery – Serving agencies like the U.S. Postal Service and federal courthouses.

2. Register Your Trucking Business for Government Contracting

To bid on government contracts, you must complete several registrations:

• Get a D-U-N-S Number

The D-U-N-S Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is required for government contracting. You can obtain it for free through Dun & Bradstreet (www.dnb.com).

• Register with SAM.gov

The System for Award Management (SAM.gov) (www.sam.gov) is the primary portal for federal contracting. You’ll need to:
✔ Register your business
✔ Provide banking information for electronic payments
✔ List your North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes (e.g., 484110 for general freight trucking).

• Get a DOT Number & MC Authority (If Required)

For trucking-specific contracts, your Department of Transportation (DOT) number and Motor Carrier (MC) Authority may be necessary.

• Where to Find Government Trucking Contracts
• Search on SAM.gov

The SAM.gov portal is the best place to find federal trucking contracts. Use filters like:
✔ NAICS Codes (484110, 484121, 484122)
✔ Location preferences
✔ Small business set-asides

3. Check State and Local Procurement Websites about Trucking Government Contracts

Each state and city government has its own procurement website. Search for trucking-related contracts in:
✔ State government procurement websites
✔ County and city government bid portals
✔ Transportation department websites

4. Explore Trucking Subcontracting Opportunities 

If you’re a small trucking company, consider working as a subcontractor under larger companies that win federal contracts. Look for opportunities at:

• GSA Subcontracting Directory (www.gsa.gov)
• SubNet (https://eweb1.sba.gov/subnet)
• Prime contractor listings on SAM.gov

Here's a video about how to get started in 5 easy steps

Network with Government Buyers & Agencies about your Trucking Company

Attend procurement events, industry expos, and webinars where agencies like the Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Department of Defense (DOD) discuss contract needs.

How to Submit a Competitive Bid

Winning a government contract requires more than just submitting a price—agencies look at experience, compliance, and efficiency. Here’s how to stand out:

Write a Strong Capability Statement about your Trucking Company

Your Capability Statement is a one-page summary of your company’s qualifications, including:
✔ Business overview
✔ Past performance and client testimonials
✔ Trucking fleet details
✔ Safety and compliance records
✔ Key personnel and certifications

Understand Pricing Strategies for Trucking Government Contracts

Government contracts are price-sensitive, so research competitive rates. Factor in:
✔ Fuel costs
✔ Driver wages
✔ Maintenance expenses
✔ Insurance & compliance costs

Stay Compliant with Trucking Contract Safety & Regulations

Ensure your trucking company meets:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations
• Hazardous material transport compliance (if applicable)
• Proper insurance and bonding requirements

Use Set-Asides & Certifications to Gain an Advantage

Many government contracts are set aside for small businesses and disadvantaged groups. If your trucking company qualifies, you can gain a competitive edge:

✔ Small Business Set-Aside Contracts – Reserved for small businesses
✔ 8(a) Business Development Program – For socially/economically disadvantaged businesses
✔ HUBZone Certification – If your business operates in underutilized areas
✔ Veteran-Owned & Minority-Owned Certifications – For eligible businesses

Applying for these certifications through the Small Business Administration (SBA) can open doors to exclusive contracts.

Stay Updated on New Opportunities Trucking Government Contract Opportunities  

✔ Set up alerts on SAM.gov
✔ Subscribe to government procurement newsletters
✔ Network with procurement officers
✔ Join industry groups like the National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC).

Navigating the Challenges of Government Contracting for Trucking Businesses

One of the biggest challenges in securing government contracts is understanding the complex requirements and crafting a competitive proposal. Many business owners in the trucking industry simply don’t have the time to sift through solicitations, ensure compliance, and handle the paperwork—your time is best spent running your business, not buried in paperwork.

That’s where my services come in. We identify contract opportunities that align with your company’s strengths, craft compelling proposals, and handle the submission process from start to finish. Our goal is to simplify the process so you can focus on growing your trucking business while we take care of the contracting details.

Final Thoughts: Take Action & Start Bidding on Trucking Government Contracts

Finding and winning government trucking contracts takes effort, but the rewards are worth it. By registering properly, networking, searching for contracts, and submitting competitive bids, your trucking company can secure profitable contracts that ensure steady business growth.

💡 Start today by registering on SAM.gov and researching local and federal bid opportunities!

Read other articles related to Government Contracts for Trucking Companies:

1. Securing Service-Based Government Contracts as a New Contractor
2. How to Get Started in Federal Government Contracting for Beginners
3. How to Win Government Contracts (Step by Step Guide)
4. Why a Living Trust is better than a Will

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