Madison

*Note: The list of imports and exports reflects the entirety of Wisconsin, as reported by the Observatory of Economic Complexity. Madison’s trade data is unavailable.

Madison’s primary industries are government and education, as the city is the state capital and the home to the state’s flagship campus for the University of Wisconsin System. However, due to its high base skill, the city has attracted businesses from the biotechnology, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance sectors. Many major companies have extended operations in the city, including major employers Hormel Foods, Frito-Lay, Sony, and Mongoose. At the same time, a large group of businesses call Madison and the surrounding metro area their home.

 

Listed below are some companies headquartered in Madison:

These companies are crucial to driving the city’s economy, as most are involved in developing and distributing major imports and exports.  As the city continues to embrace new infrastructures and industries, its status as a logistics powerhouse will also continue to rise.

Freight Shipping Rates To Any City

Shipping from city to city can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be if you work with FreightCenter. We’re a 3PL dedicated to enhancing your shipping experience. We’ll find reputable carriers in your metropolitan area from our extensive network of over 50 shipping companies.

No matter where your freight is shipping to or from, Enjoy reliable, cost-effective freight services with easy booking and tracking tools. FreightCenter knows how to ship freight right!

Call us at (800) 716-7608, or use our free online quote tool to find and compare rates to and from any city in North America!

FreightCenter’s vast network of carriers includes companies servicing the Madison metro area. We connect customers to reputable trucking carriers, finding the right one for your shipping needs. Some of FreightCenter’s partnered freight shipping companies include:

Note: FreightCenter adds and removes carrier partners from time to time. This list may not be current. Ask your FreightCenter agent for assistance.

Madison’s Major Highways and Freeways

Several major highways and tollways service the Madison Metro area. These include the following:

• I-39
• I-90
• I-94
• US 151
• US 12 (The Beltline)
• US 18
• WI 113

 

 

Madison’s Major Ports, Terminals, and Warehouses

Madison has a transloading terminal owned by Watco that is located downtown. Connected to four highways and Madison’s railroads, the 20-railcar terminal handles bulk, breakbulk, and liquid goods. The facility also has a 60,000 sq. ft. asphalt pad for outdoor storage, a railcar unloading pit, railcar storage, and a certified truck scale.

The city does not have a nearby port. The nearest port to Madison is Port Milwaukee, which is where the city’s imports and exports come in and out of.

Madison Railroads

Two freight railroads operate in Madison. Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) is a Class 1 railroad running north of Madison up until a two-way split east and west in Columbia County. Wisconsin & Southern Railroad is a Class 2 railroad that splits into 4 sections in Madison: northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest.

Both railroads use the Watco Transload Terminal in downtown Madison for rail-to-truck transfers.

Madison Airports and Commercial Airlines

The city’s primary airport is the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), located about 7 miles northeast of downtown Madison. The airport handles parcel deliveries from four carriers, including FedEx. MSN is also a designated Foreign Trade Zone.

The only other airport in the area is the Middleton Municipal Airport, operated by Morey Airplane Company in Middleton, WI. It is a general aviation airport with one cargo airline company that utilizes its facilities.

Cost to Ship Freight to Madison

Several factors influence the cost when shipping to and from Madison. This includes:

• Type, size, and weight: Shipping heavy equipment, perishable goods, or specialized cargo will affect pricing. Madison offers a variety of shipping options, from standard LTL to temperature-controlled and expedited services, ensuring your freight arrives safely and securely.
• Seasonal changes and demand: Madison’s rates fluctuate as much as the seasons change, especially during severe weather events or peak holiday shipping seasons.
• Shipping distance: How far are you shipping your freight? The length between point A and point B will heavily determine your rate. Popular routes to and from Madison include major cities like Denver, Chicago, Seattle, and Des Moines, where established rates can result in competitive rates.
• What transportation mode is used: How you get your freight to and from Madison matters. LTL freight shipping via truck is much cheaper than air or rail shipping. However, it is also riskier and slower than those two, especially when your freight passes through multiple terminals throughout the city.
• Accessorial Charges: Additional services, such as liftgate requirements, residential delivery, or limited access locations, can impact the final shipping price. Madison’s vast network of carriers ensures you can find a provider that offers the services you need at the right price.

Madison offers competitive rates due to its extensive network of freight carriers, proximity to key markets, and multiple transportation options. The city provides flexible and cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs, whether shipping less-than-truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), air cargo, intermodal cargo, or ocean and container drayage.

Why Choose Madison for Your Shipping Needs?

Shipping to and from Madison offers unique advantages other metropolitan areas with logistics hubs can’t offer:

• Transload Terminal: Madison’s Watco transload terminal provides rail-to-truck services, allowing your business to optimize your shipping route and efficiently ship your goods without wasting time and money.
• Proximity to Milwaukee: Madison is under 200 miles from Wisconsin’s biggest city, Milwaukee, where established shipping lanes and the state’s busiest port await. Take advantage of Madison’s proximity without having to find space for logistical operations in Milwaukee itself.

How to Ship Freight to Madison

When shipping from Madison, start by gathering accurate information on what you are shipping, like the weight and dimensions, including the packaging. The freight will be handled multiple times at several freight terminals along the way. To protect your shipment during transport, crating an item is recommended.

You can compare Madison freight rates with our freight quote tool and find a carrier that meets your pricing and shipping needs. Ask our in-house shipping experts which carrier will be best for your shipment. They will also advise you if any other fees or special services are needed when shipping to Madison.

Get the Best Madison Freight Rates Today

To find the most competitive rates for shipping freight to or from Madison, use our online freight quote tool. Instantly compare rates from over 50 carriers and choose the best option for your needs. Alternatively, call 800.716.7608 to speak with one of our freight experts and receive a custom quote tailored to your shipment.

Make Madison your next shipping destination and experience reliable, cost-effective freight services from a city that’s a leader in logistics and transportation.