History

National Transportation Corp. was incorporated in 1981 as a sister company to National Cartage Co.

The 40s
After several years in business as a trucking company servicing Chicago area wallpaper manufacturers, National Cartage Co. incorporated in 1946 as a intra-state trucking company. During that time the wallpaper manufacturers shifted their production to supply the needs of the US Military fighting in World War 2. Trailers that were once stuffed with wallpaper were now hauling pyrotechnics. When the war came to a close National continued with local pick up and delivery, and added a new service - chemical and compressed gas hauling. National opened an new office in the Chicago Stock Yards.

The 50s
In the post-war era, National added new business in the Joliet, IL lane. When the USA became involved in the Korean War, a new terminal in Joliet was necessary to service Joliet Arsenal at Braidwood. National was hauling shell castings and warheads for the US Government. Michigan interstate authority was purchased from a bankrupted carrier to allow expansion into the Michigan market.

The 60s
In 1965 National acquired at125,000 sq. ft. warehouse to consolidate LTL shipments to East Coast destinations. Additionally, National developed a steel hauling division that serviced Joliet, Chicago and East Chicago, IN. National moved its operation to 9 acres of property in Hammond, IN with an office, cross dock and a shop.

The 70s
National introduction into piggyback began with 20’ containers shipping from Caterpillar’s Joliet, IL to Chicago Rail facilities. With the Michigan authority, National was able to establish piggyback drayage service with Whirlpool Corp., Benton Harbor, MI. As the new piggyback service was growing, National continued to expand with regional TL and LTL services in the Chicago, Northern IN and Southwest MI lane. The Hammond terminal was sold and the operation was moved to Melrose Park, IL.

The 80s
As a direct result of deregulation, National Cartage Co. found it most advantageous to expand by creating a new company, National Transportation Corp. National Cartage would continue to haul steel, but, as the steel industry began to decline, National Cartage divested itself of company owned equipment and shifted it’s resources to the new company. National Transportation was able to establish intermodal business in the Southwest MI and Northern IN markets. The operation moved to a modern office facility in Rolling Meadows, IL and established a terminal in Grand Rapids, MI. In an effort to satisfy the needs of our valued customers, a new freight brokerage was created - National Freight Distribution Services.

The 90s
During this decade National Transportation became a major Western Michigan intermodal carrier and opened up the Western Ohio market.

Today
We have moved our operation to a warehouse in Elk Grove Village, IL and continue to offer the same top quality service.