Industries we serve
Transportation & Logistics
Trucking companies, freight brokerages, warehousing, and last-mile delivery operations serving Wisconsin and the upper Midwest.
Overview
Selling in Transportation & logistics
Transportation businesses carry more balance sheet than most small companies. Tractors, trailers, and warehouse equipment come with titles, loans, and lease obligations that have to be untangled before a buyer can price the operation cleanly.
Above the assets, the two questions that decide value are whether the freight is contracted or spot, and whether the drivers stay. A fleet without drivers is equipment; a fleet with tenured drivers and committed lanes is a business.
Valuation
How these businesses are valued
Asset-based carriers are valued with close attention to equipment value net of debt, since the fleet can represent much of the enterprise. Non-asset businesses like freight brokerages are valued on earnings and the durability of shipper and carrier relationships, and can price at a higher multiple precisely because they carry no fleet risk.
What raises the number
- Dedicated lanes or contracted freight with named shippers
- Low driver turnover and competitive pay structure
- Well-maintained fleet with staggered replacement schedule
- Clean safety score and compliance record
What holds it back
- Revenue concentrated in spot market rates
- Chronic driver shortage or high turnover
- Aging fleet facing immediate replacement capital
- Safety violations or a poor inspection history
Ranges and drivers described here are general guidance, not an appraisal. A valuation consultation prices your specific business on its own recast financials.
Deal considerations
What comes up in these transactions
Equipment titles and debt
Every unit is reconciled against titles, loans, and leases so the buyer knows exactly what is owned free and clear at closing.
Operating authority
Federal and state authority, insurance filings, and safety ratings follow specific transfer rules that shape whether the deal is structured as assets or equity.
Driver retention
Announcement timing and any retention arrangements are planned before the sale becomes known, because drivers have options.
Fuel and maintenance contracts
Volume-based fuel, tire, and maintenance agreements can be material to margin and are reviewed for assignability.
Available now
No current listings in this sector
Listings in this category are not always public. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know when something fits.
Start with a confidential conversation
No cost, no obligation, and nothing leaves the room. Tell us where you are and we will tell you honestly what the next step looks like.