Wave of carrier bankruptcies, logistics layoffs signals ongoing freight sector strain

A spate of trucking company bankruptcies and logistics layoffs between June 5 and mid-June underscores mounting pressure on carriers and freight businesses nationwide, according to FreightWaves. Triple RRR Carriers Inc., a Laredo, Texas-based cross-border carrier, filed for Chapter 7 liquidation on June 5 in the Southern District of Texas. The company operated 177 power units and employed 286 drivers before shutting down. GLS Materials and Trucking LLC of Van Alstyne, Texas also filed for Chapter 7 protection, reporting between $1 million and $10 million in liabilities after ceasing operations. In California, Ruezga Hauling Inc. filed for Chapter 11 reorganization on June 5 after its DOT operating authority became inactive, having operated 10 tractors with 10 drivers. Other notable filings included Circle D Truck Sales Inc., an Abilene, Texas sales and repair shop that filed for Chapter 11 on June 8, and ZDM Transport, a Rolling Meadows, Illinois carrier that sought Chapter 7 liquidation. Beyond bankruptcies, layoffs rippled through the sector. Dallas-area logistics provider Alan Ritchey Inc. announced it will close an Irving transfer center and lay off 232 employees starting in September. The shutdowns reflect elevated operating costs and financing challenges that continue squeezing carriers and logistics providers across the freight market.