Schneider to acquire Cowan Systems, LLC

December 16, 2024

GREEN BAY – Schneider National, Inc. announced it will acquire Cowan Systems, LLC for approximately $390 million, subject to certain adjustments. 

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Cowan Systems is primarily a contract carrier with complementary services, including brokerage, drayage and warehousing, with customers including leading producers of retail and consumer goods, food and beverage products, industrials and building materials. 

The company operates approximately 1,800 trucks and 7,500 trailers across more than 40 locations throughout the Eastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. 

Schneider President/CEO Mark Rourke said Cowan Systems’ lightweight equipment enables customers to move more freight per shipment, saving transportation expenses and reducing emissions.

The acquisition, Rourke said, will further complement Schneider’s organic growth as the inclusion of Cowan Systems will see Schneider operating more than 8,400 tractors – approximately 70% of Schneider’s truckload fleet.

“This acquisition aligns with Schneider’s long-term vision to have customer-centric, dedicated solutions as the cornerstone of its truckload segment,” he said. “By complementing our organic, dedicated growth success with transactions like this, we are broadening our presence to provide greater value to our customers and stakeholders. We look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Cowan Systems to drive our now shared mission forward.”

Per the announcement, upon closing, Cowan Systems will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Schneider.

“My father started Cowan Systems more than 100 years ago, and with the expertise, passion and dedication of so many amazing employees along the way, it has grown in more ways than he could have ever imagined,” Chairman Joe Cowan said. “When it was time for me to move to a new chapter in my life, I wanted to be sure the organization was in good hands, at a company with a similar culture and values, and that it would continue to grow. With Schneider, I know our legacy will not just be preserved, but it will continue to thrive.”