Transportation company CRST International said it has acquired BESL Transfer, a provider of short haul, flatbed services.

The company said the acquisition complements CRST Malone, which CRST International purchased in 1984. CRST Malone is a provider of long haul, flatbed services. Both companies serve customers in the construction trade, steel and aluminum markets. CRST funded the purchase through existing cash reserves, allowing the company to remain debt-free.

Dave Rusch, president and CEO of CRST International said, “CRST International is comprised of six specialized, niche transportation companies. We are always in search of adding companies to our portfolio that offer services which would allow us to expand our capabilities with our customers. The acquisition of BESL Transfer Company further complements our flatbed transportation services, by offering premiere, short haul dedicated services. We are thrilled to be working with the Dehan family on this acquisition and look forward to expanding the service offerings to both BESL and CRST customers going forward.”

“The acquisition of BESL will allow CRST to expand its flatbed operations nationwide footprint through their shorthaul, regional services and expanded agent base,” said group president John Gallardo. “For CRST and BESL it means improved fleet utilization and increased operating efficiencies. We look forward to working with the BESL employees, independent contractors and agent family.”