Charlotte-based third-party logistics brokerage HTL Freight has acquired Wilmington-based 3PL Matchmaker Logistics.
The acquisition gives HTL Freight – historically an open deck focused brokerage – expertise and access to dry van and drayage solutions across North America and Canada. Partner carriers will similarly have access to a strong base of customers that ship a wide variety of essential goods that are core to numerous industries and infrastructure sectors.
“We are bigger but most importantly better for our customers, given the combined capabilities of the two companies," said HTL Freight CEO Onu Okebie. "Our customers ship across various modes and equipment types, and this acquisition positions us to be truly a one-stop shop for them."
Founded in 1981, Matchmaker Logistics serves a client base in a variety of industries including chemicals and specialty materials. HTL Freight, formerly known as Heritage Trucking, has been a North American flatbed freight specialist for more than four decades.
“Having run my family’s business for over 30 years, it was important to me to safeguard our shippers, carriers, employees, company culture and values for the future,” said Bob Skane, President of Matchmaker Logistics. “HTL’s vision aligns with how I see Matchmaker growing to serve our loyal customers and dedicated employees, and I know we have found a perfect match.”
The acquisition will increase HTL Freight’s footprint nationwide, allowing the company to offer additional freight solutions to all supply chain partners while positioning HTL as a major player in the 3PL arena. HTL’s shippers will now have direct access to dry van solutions across the United States and Canada while the carrier base will benefit from increased asset utilization with more connecting lane and equipment type options.
