Drivers Parked: Michigan-Based Trucking Company Suddenly Closes

After 51 years in business, a Michigan-based trucking company has abruptly closed its doors, permanently parking its entire workforce.

According to Freight Waves, Equity Transportation Company in Walker suddenly ceased operations, leaving a workforce of approximately 100 drivers and other staff members without jobs. Walker is located on Michigan's West side, about 10 miles northwest of Grand Rapids.

Michigan Trucking Company Suddenly Ceases Operations

Although Equity Transportation's website is still active, Freight Waves cites multiple social media posts saying the company's workforce has been let go. Many drivers report that they are waiting to receive their final paychecks while some report that recent payroll checks have bounced.

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The news outlet notes that attempts to reach company officials were unsuccessful and that many company phone numbers had been deactivated.

A History of Financial Struggles, Service Violations

According to Yahoo Finance, Equity Transportation's recent history has been rife with problems. The company has been flagged for hours-of-service violations and multiple accidents have been reported in the last two years.

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The company had recently been flagged with a high-risk credit warning by Dun and Bradstreet, which can signal financial trouble in the trucking industry.

Freight Waves goes on to say that market conditions have presented myriad challenges for trucking carriers, especially those that are considered small or midsize. Many companies increased capacities during the freight boom a few years ago but then experienced a decline in business.

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