Trimac Transportation has acquired Winnipeg-based Searcy Trucking, an open-deck and heavy-haul carrier, effective July 31. The deal expands Trimac’s presence in flatdeck, LTL, and specialized services across Western Canada and the U.S. Midwest, according to a news release.

Founded in 1969, Searcy operates more than 120 trucks and 170 trailers, serving industries including construction, agriculture, and industrial manufacturing. Through its Universal Reload division, the company also offers transloading, warehousing, and distribution services, with 20,000 sq.-ft. of indoor storage and direct rail access.

The carrier will continue to operate under the Searcy Trucking name from its Winnipeg and Altona, Man., locations, with the leadership team remaining in place.

“Searcy Trucking has built a strong reputation in the market and we are excited to welcome them into the Trimac family,” said Matt Faure, president and CEO of Calgary-based Trimac, in the release. “By combining strengths, we are creating even more value for customers and expanding what is possible for our teams across North America.”

Searcy’s capabilities include a logistics division offering transportation management, heated and dry storage, and one of the largest private fleets of removable gooseneck trailers in Western Canada, including up to nine-axle configurations for oversized and complex freight, according to the release. The company has also received multiple industry safety awards.

“For more than 50 years, our team at Searcy has built something we’re proud of — strong relationships, a reputation for quality and a culture where people matter,” said Norm Blagden, president of Searcy Trucking. “Becoming part of Trimac allows us to carry that legacy forward with a partner who respects where we’ve come from and shares a vision for where we’re going. This is the right next step for our employees, our customers and the future of specialized transportation.”