Pitt Ohio Transportation Group has made a significant move to bolster its less-than-truckload (LTL) operations by acquiring Sutton Transport, a Wisconsin-based LTL carrier. The deal, announced on January 6th, marks the latest instance of consolidation within the active LTL sector and promises to enhance Pitt Ohio’s service capabilities across the Midwest. While the financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, the strategic implications for both Sutton Transportation and the broader transportation landscape are considerable.
Pitt Ohio is set to expand its LTL services through the acquisition.
Pittsburgh-headquartered Pitt Ohio intends to integrate Sutton Transport, which focuses on Midwest operations, with its existing LTL division, Dohrn Transfer. Initially, both entities will operate independently before being merged under the Dohrn LLC banner. Pitt Ohio previously acquired Dohrn Transfer in 2014, and this latest acquisition, following the addition of US Special Delivery to the Dohrn fold less than two months prior, signals a clear strategy for growth and expanded market presence.
The combined entity, Dohrn LLC, aims to leverage the strengths of both Pitt Ohio and Sutton Transportation to deliver improved service quality, enhanced safety and security measures, advanced technology integration, and a superior customer experience. For customers of Sutton Transportation, this acquisition promises access to a broader network and enhanced service offerings.
Prior to the acquisition, Pitt Ohio operated 25 LTL terminals under its own name. Sutton Transport brings to the table a substantial infrastructure, boasting over 850 pieces of equipment and 13 terminals, supported by a workforce of more than 700 employees. Dohrn Transfer, US Special Delivery, and Ross Express collectively operate an additional 34 LTL terminals within the Pitt Ohio group.
Pitt Ohio’s strategic acquisition of Sutton Transportation positions the company to ascend in industry rankings. Currently, Pitt Ohio holds the 49th position on the Transport Topics Top 100 list of the largest for-hire carriers in North America and ranks 13th among LTL carriers. Sutton Transport, prior to the acquisition, was ranked 24th among LTL players. The combined operations are projected to elevate Pitt Ohio to become the 12th largest LTL operator in North America, signifying a considerable leap in market share and influence.
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Robert Howard, Chief Operating Officer of Dohrn Transfer, emphasized a customer-centric approach during the integration phase. “Over the next several months, we’ll work behind the scenes to align our strengths and prepare for a fully integrated future. During this time, our focus remains on delivering exceptional service and providing transparency on every step we take in our journey to enhance the customer experience with greater flexibility, reliability and efficiency,” Howard stated. This commitment to a seamless transition is crucial for maintaining customer trust and service continuity for Sutton Transportation clients.
Chuck Hammel, president of Pitt Ohio, highlighted the strategic rationale behind the Sutton Transportation acquisition. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategic vision to enhance service for our customers by increasing shipment density within our footprint,” Hammel explained. He also acknowledged the legacy of Sutton Transport, stating, “Sutton Transport has a strong reputation for excellence, cultivated over many years by the dedication and hard work of the Sutton family. We are deeply appreciative of their contributions to the industry. We are confident that this integration will deliver significant benefits to our customers. We continue to prioritize best-in-class customer service and ensuring damage-free, on-time delivery services. This acquisition exemplifies our commitment to innovation and growth.”
Cliff Sutton, president of Sutton, recognized the broader trend of consolidation within the LTL industry as a factor in the decision to sell. “After thorough consideration, Sutton Transport determined that [Pitt Ohio Transportation] was the most suitable entity to purchase our company, ensuring the interests of both our customers and our employees are protected,” Sutton commented. This statement underscores the careful deliberation behind the acquisition and the focus on ensuring a positive outcome for all stakeholders of Sutton Transportation.
The acquisition of Sutton Transportation by Pitt Ohio is part of a larger wave of consolidation in the LTL sector. Recent activity includes Knight-Swift Transportation’s acquisition of Dependable Highway Express’ LTL operations in July. Furthermore, the 2023 collapse of Yellow Corp., a major player in the LTL market, triggered significant shifts as major carriers vied for Yellow’s former terminals. FedEx Corp.’s plan to spin off FedEx Freight into a separate publicly traded company further illustrates the dynamic and evolving nature of the LTL landscape.
With the integration of Sutton Transportation, Pitt Ohio, which already employs over 5,400 staff and operates a substantial fleet, is poised to strengthen its position as a leading LTL carrier, offering enhanced services and expanded reach within the competitive North American transportation market. The acquisition represents a strategic alignment aimed at growth, efficiency, and superior customer service in the ever-changing world of freight transportation.
