Family-owned Decker Truck Line Inc. of Fort Dodge, Iowa, confirmed it has permanently closed its terminal in Missoula, Montana, citing the results of a comprehensive review of its operations and freight network as the primary reason of the closing

“This decision was not taken lightly, but is necessary due to changes in freight network patterns and the associated costs of operating a full terminal that is not being used enough,” said the CEO Dale Decker in a statement Tuesday about the closing.

As many as 18 positions were eliminated at the Missoula terminal, they said NBC Montana.

Decker said a small group of drivers was also affected by the closing, but added that the company will continue to use truck drivers in Montana to transport goods.

The trucking company said it plans to work with employees at the now-closed terminal to “explore relocation options” if they want to stay with Decker Truck Line.

“As our business continues to grow, our focus will shift more to core regions. This strategy aims to improve density in our well-established areas,” Decker said. “However, we will continue to require drivers who reside in the Montana area, but we no longer consider it a strategic advantage to have a terminal in Missoula along with the associated overhead costs.”

The 94-year-old trucking company has about 790 company drivers and the same number of power units. It carries general merchandise, refrigerated food and construction materials, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s SAFER website.

In addition to its home terminal in Fort Dodge, which has approximately 190 employees, Decker Truck Line operates terminals in Mediapolis, Iowa; Bessemer, Alabama; and Hammond, Ind., as well as a maintenance facility in Des Moines, according to the company website.

“Although this location no longer offers enough value to warrant a terminal, expansion into other regions can lead to further investment in areas that provide a clear benefit to our network,” Decker said.

Have a news or story to share? Send Clarissa Hawes one email or message @cage_writer to X, formerly known as Twitter. Your name will not be used without your permission.

Wyoming trucking company pays $124,000 to settle sexual harassment lawsuit

New Hampshire man created fake trucking companies, ag to collect COVID funds
Trucking Company of St. Louis, affiliate file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

The publication The 94-year-old Iowa-based trucking company is closing the terminal in Montana appeared first FreightWaves.