Proficient Auto Logistics is acquiring Auto Transport Group, according to a regulatory filing.
The acquisition adds a sixth founding company to the organization, according to Proficient Auto Logistics CEO Rick O’Dell. Proficient led a corporate combination between itself and four other vehicle carriers earlier this year. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. It is expected to close in Q3.
The addition of Auto Transport Group enhances Proficient Auto Logistics’ western U.S. presence, O’Dell said. The Ogden, Utah-based vehicle transporter has 117 power units and 115 drivers, according to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data.
Auto Transport Group is among several western fleets recently snapped up in M&A deals amid a two-year freight market downcycle. Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings expanded its growing LTL network with Los Angeles-based Dependable Highway Express, while Veneer Chip Transport bought Signature Transport in Kelso, Washington. Carriers are also reopening former Yellow Corp. terminals they acquired in the West and around the country.
Brent Larson, CEO of Auto Transport Group, will continue to lead Auto Transport Group, which also is retaining its name.
“We’re excited for the go to market collaboration opportunity offered by the combination with Proficient Auto Logistics,” Larsen said. “It’s a great opportunity to expand the Company that we have built over the past 25 years.”
