HTL Freight Acquires Matchmaker Logistics
In keeping with its vision to be a leading 3PL and freight solutions company, Charlotte-based third-party logistics brokerage, HTL Freight, has acquired Wilmington-based 3PL, Matchmaker Logistics.
Historically an open deck-focused brokerage, this acquisition gives HTL Freight expertise and access to dry van and drayage solutions across North America and Canada, and increases its ability to provide better service and drive strong customer satisfaction as supply chain management remains complex in 2022 and beyond. 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. Our customers ship across various modes and equipment types, and this acquisition positions us to be truly a one-stop shop for them,” says HTL Freight CEO Onu Okebie.
Founded in 1981, Matchmaker Logistics was distinguished by deep industry knowledge, seasoned employees, a robust carrier base, and a long-standing loyal client base in a variety of industries including chemicals and specialty materials. Similarly, HTL Freight, a North America flatbed freight specialist for over four decades, is reputed for its customer-first mindset and carrier-friendly model.
“Having run my family’s business for over thirty 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.
“Our priority is always to ensure a seamless and comprehensive integration to preserve the best aspects of the businesses we acquire. We’ve brought on every Matchmaker employee, including Bob, because we value their expertise and the stable client relationships they have nurtured. We then layer in our value-added efficiencies, like our state-of-the-art technology platform that strengthen those relationships even more. It’s a win for all parties” says HTL Freight CFO Brian Boland.
HTL Freight’s technology platform delivers end-to-end visibility and allows real time collaboration between all parties for any given shipment. In unifying people, systems, and data into one network, the technology platform enables workflow automation, decreases manual paperwork and errors, and improves service levels. Customers can request quotes and book loads, access support, and track shipments seamlessly.
Okebie added, “We’re truly excited about the benefits our shippers and carrier partners will gain in addition to the internal synergies we are creating from the acquisition of Matchmaker Logistics.”
About HTL Freight:
Founded in 1983, HTL Freight provides a differentiated logistics experience for shippers and carriers by providing a technology-driven and customer-centric service that is responsive, responsible, and reliable. With service and technology being the pillars of our success, our purpose is to simplify transportation by providing transparency and visibility across the supply chain. HTL Freight’s customers range from small shippers to Fortune 100 manufacturers. For more information, please visit htlfreight.com.
