Merced
Learn more about shipping freight to and from Merced, including information on the city's major ports, terminals, and other freight shipping services, and discover the most competitive freight shipping rates available. FreightCenter provides top solutions for all your logistics needs.
Shipping freight to or from Merced is a breeze with FreightCenter. We make navigating the city’s freight landscape easy by offering instant quotes from top carriers, competitive rates, and a straightforward booking process. Whether you’re moving intermodal, LTL, truckload, or rail freight, our extensive network and expert support ensure your cargo moves smoothly and affordably. No matter your shipping needs in Merced, FreightCenter delivers tailored solutions to keep your business running efficiently.
Merced Freight Shipping
Merced, California, is a growing city in the San Joaquin Valley, serving as a key hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. Its central location in California provides access to major supply chain networks, facilitating the movement of goods throughout the state and beyond. The city benefits from a well-connected transportation infrastructure that supports freight movement across multiple industries, including food processing, construction materials, and retail distribution.
Merced’s logistics network is supported by major highways, rail connections, and a regional airport. Highway 99 serves as the primary freight corridor, linking the city to major markets in Northern and Southern California. State Route 59 and State Route 140 provide additional routes for regional shipments. The city also has access to rail freight services, connecting businesses to national and international markets. Merced Regional Airport (MCE) offers limited air cargo services, supporting time-sensitive shipments. With its strategic location, Merced plays a vital role in California’s logistics industry, supporting agricultural exports, industrial shipments, and consumer goods distribution.
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Agricultural Products – Including almonds, dairy products, tomatoes, and other crops grown in the Central Valley.
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Frozen and Processed Foods – Processed agricultural goods such as packaged fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
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Livestock and Animal Feed – Cattle, poultry, and feed supplies used in the local agriculture industry.
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Construction Materials – Lumber, concrete, asphalt, and steel for regional development and infrastructure projects.
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Manufactured Goods – Machinery, tools, and equipment used in local and regional industries.
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Retail and Consumer Goods – Clothing, electronics, furniture, and household products distributed to stores and consumers.
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Automotive Parts – Car parts, tires, and vehicle components for local dealerships and repair shops.
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Medical Supplies and Pharmaceuticals – Equipment and medications for hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
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Solar Panels and Renewable Energy Equipment – Components for solar farms and renewable energy projects in the region.
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Beverages – Wine, bottled water, and soft drinks produced and distributed within and beyond California.
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Refrigerated Freight – Perishable food items, dairy, and pharmaceuticals requiring temperature control.
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E-commerce and Parcel Shipments – Packages from major online retailers, fulfillment centers, and distribution hubs.
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Hazardous Materials – Chemicals, fertilizers, and fuels used in agriculture, industry, and transportation.
Merced, CA, is a key player in California’s agricultural economy, with a significant portion of its freight movement centered around agricultural products and food processing. The region exports almonds, dairy products, tomatoes, and other produce while importing essential farming supplies such as fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural equipment.
Merced has strong trade connections with domestic and international markets, particularly in Asia, Canada, and Mexico, where agricultural exports remain in high demand. Over time, the city has expanded its economic base beyond agriculture, embracing industries such as renewable energy, logistics, and light manufacturing. However, agriculture and food production continue to dominate its freight movement, supporting the region’s role as a vital contributor to California’s economy.
For more information, you can visit Merced’s official website here.
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 Merced 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:
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ABF Freight
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ArcBest
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Bolt Express
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Central Transport
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CRST
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Daylight Transport
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Dayton Freight Lines
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Estes Express Lines
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Estes Forwarding Worldwide
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FedEx Freight
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Forward Air
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Frontline Freight
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HNRY Logistics
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Holland
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Keyboard Motorcycle
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Lynden
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Old Dominion
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Panther Premium Logistics
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Pilot Freight
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Pitt Ohio
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R+L Carriers
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Roadrunner Transportation Systems
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SAIA
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TForce Freight
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UPack
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UPS Freight (now TForce Freight)
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XPO Logistics
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Xpress Global Systems
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Yellow Freight
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YRC Freight
Note: FreightCenter adds and removes carrier partners from time to time. This list may not be current. Ask your FreightCenter agent for assistance.
Merced’s Major Highways and Routes
Several major highways and roads serve the Merced area, facilitating efficient freight movement. These include:
- State Route 99 – A crucial north-south highway connecting Merced to major California cities like Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield.
- State Route 140 – Provides a direct route to Yosemite National Park and serves as a critical corridor for tourism-related freight.
- State Route 59 – Supports local agricultural and commercial transport, connecting Merced with other regional communities.
- State Route 152 – A key east-west highway linking the Central Valley to the California coast, essential for trucking and freight transport.
Merced’s Major Ports, Terminals, and Warehouses
Although Merced does not have direct port access, its location in the Central Valley allows for seamless freight movement to major California ports, including:
- Port of Oakland – A primary gateway for international containerized freight, handling goods from Asia and beyond.
- Port of Stockton – A key inland port serving bulk cargo and agricultural exports.
- Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach – One of the busiest port complexes in the world, facilitating trade throughout California.
Merced also has numerous warehouses and distribution centers that support the region’s agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing industries. These facilities play a crucial role in storing and distributing perishable goods, packaged food, and industrial equipment.
Merced Railroads
Merced is well-connected by rail, supporting freight transport across California. Key rail services include:
- BNSF Railway – Provides freight transport across California and the western U.S.
- Union Pacific Railroad – A major rail network facilitating agricultural and industrial freight.
- Amtrak San Joaquins Line – While primarily a passenger service, Amtrak supports some freight movement through California’s rail network.
Merced Airports and Commercial Airlines
Merced is served by Merced Regional Airport (MCE), which supports regional flights and small-scale air cargo operations. For larger freight shipments, businesses in Merced rely on major airports such as:
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) – A regional hub for air cargo and commercial freight.
- Oakland International Airport (OAK) – Supports significant cargo movement in Northern California.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – One of the largest cargo-handling airports in the world, used for high-volume freight transport.
These airports play an essential role in time-sensitive freight shipping, including perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce shipments.
Cost to Ship Freight to Merced
Several factors influence freight shipping costs to and from Merced, including:
- Type, Size, and Weight – Shipping large agricultural equipment or temperature-sensitive goods affects pricing. Merced has access to LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) and FTL (Full-Truckload) shipping, ensuring cost-effective transport.
- Seasonal Demand – Shipping rates fluctuate based on harvest seasons, holiday surges, and weather conditions in California.
- Shipping Distance – Merced’s central location allows competitive freight rates, with key shipping lanes connecting the city to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Fresno.
- Mode of Transportation – Truck freight is the most common shipping method, while rail transport is used for bulk goods. Air freight is available for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.
- Accessorial Charges – Additional fees may apply for special handling, liftgate services, or residential deliveries.
Merced benefits from a diverse logistics network that ensures competitive shipping rates and reliable freight services.
Why Choose Merced for Your Shipping Needs?
Shipping to and from Merced offers distinct advantages, including:
- Strategic Location in California – Situated in the heart of the Central Valley, Merced provides easy access to major highways, railroads, and ports.
- Strong Agricultural and Manufacturing Sectors – The region’s economy relies heavily on food processing, farming equipment, and consumer goods, making it a high-demand shipping hub.
- Cost-Effective Freight Rates – Merced’s central location and well-established distribution networks result in competitive pricing for regional, national, and international shipping.
How to Ship Freight to Merced
When shipping freight to Merced, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Gather Key Shipping Information – Provide accurate weight, dimensions, and packaging details. Agricultural shipments often require temperature-controlled freight for preservation.
- Select the Right Carrier – Compare LTL, FTL, rail, or air freight options based on budget and shipping urgency.
- Account for Seasonal Demand – Merced experiences peak freight volumes during harvest seasons, affecting shipping costs and availability.
- Protect Your Shipment – Use pallets, crates, or specialized containers to secure goods during transit.
- Get a Freight Quote – Use a freight quote tool to compare rates from different carriers.
- Consult Freight Experts – Work with logistics specialists to determine the best shipping method and avoid unexpected costs.
With a strong transportation infrastructure and access to major shipping routes, Merced is a reliable hub for freight movement in California.
Get the Best Merced Freight Rates Today
To find the most competitive rates for shipping freight to or from Merced, 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 Merced your next shipping destination and experience reliable, cost-effective freight services from a city that’s a leader in logistics and transportation.
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