Universal on intermodal buying spree

Warren, MI-based Universal Truckload Services has stated it is finalizing the purchase of four intermodal companies, rolling them into its Mason Dixon Intermodal subsidiary: Los Angeles-based Marc Largent; Houston-based Diamond Logistics; Memphis, TN-based Assure Intermodal and Seattle-based DiJulio Enterprises.

The four companies generated combined gross revenues of approximately $28 million in 2005 and employ 53 full-time workers along with 170 owner-operators while operating some six terminals nationwide, Universal said.

“These new additions begin our expansion into the western U.S., increasing our service offering nationwide to 27 terminals, including seven depots which are supported by approximately 570 owner-operators,” said Don Cochran, Universal’s president & CEO.

By the end of this year’s first quarter, he added, Universal should begin operations at its intermodal facility in Cleveland, OH. Acquired in August 2005, the facility covers approximately 40 acres and provides container delivery services, full service storage and maintenance and repair services.