ROMULUS, Mich. -

In a move the company said will nearly double its capacity and make it the second-largest car hauler in North America, United Road Services — in partnership with its owner (Charlesbank Capital Partners) and investors — announced that it has acquired the auto transport division of Waggoners Trucking.

The expanded United Road will now have 75 locations throughout North America. Expectations are for the company to transport more than 2.5 million new, used and specialty vehicles next year.

“Acquiring an organization of Waggoners’ stature is both a privilege and a strategic game-changer for United Road,” said Kathleen McCann, president of United Road. “Waggoners’ reputation for customer service and the dedication of its employees mirror our own.  We are so proud of the teamwork already evident as we focus on meeting our customers’ sales and shipping targets.”

McCann added: “The companies’ geographic territories are extremely complementary. United Road will be much stronger in the southeast and south central U.S. going forward.

“When integrated, we will also have a national network of nearly 20 company-owned maintenance facilities that will further support our goals of on-time vehicle delivery and driver safety,” she continued. “Importantly, United Road’s patented and proprietary logistics platform will enhance the combined operation.”

Waggoners was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Billings, Mont., and Irving, Texas. Its auto transport division was created in 1987 and focuses on moving new cars. United Road said its technology platform and national sales center can complement this new-car transport business by filling empty backhaul miles with remarketed vehicles.

The companies did not disclose financial details of the transaction.

“We have had an exciting first year with United Road in our portfolio and are thrilled to close on this compelling acquisition,” said Jon Biotti, a managing director at Charlesbank. “We continue to be impressed by United Road’s innovative and talented team and are confident that they will maximize the potential of this acquisition and make United Road an even more attractive investment for our limited partners.”

McCann added: “We are excited and grateful to be adding so many talented Waggoners car hauling professionals to the United Road family. This expansion will enhance our ability to support our customers’ vehicle logistics needs, while creating significant opportunity for our people and investors.

“The alignment of our two businesses could not be better, and together, United Road will move closer to its aspirational goal as the employer and supplier of choice in the finished vehicle logistics industry.”
 

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