C.H. Robinson to Acquire RXO in $5.8 Billion Truck Brokerage Deal

C.H. Robinson Worldwide plans to acquire trucking brokerage firm RXO in a stock-and-cash transaction valued at approximately $5.8 billion, creating a larger third-party logistics network and expanding the companies’ presence in North American freight brokerage, managed transportation and last-mile delivery.

Deal Details

The transaction values RXO at $30.25 per share, representing a premium of about 29% over the company’s previous closing price. The combined company is expected to have an enterprise value of more than $25 billion.

C.H. Robinson said the acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory review.

The companies described the transaction as a combination of complementary transportation networks. C.H. Robinson’s global forwarding and North American Surface Transportation operations would be combined with RXO’s truck brokerage, expedited freight and last-mile capabilities.

Expanded Brokerage Network

C.H. Robinson currently handles approximately 37 million shipments annually for about 75,000 customers and works with a network of roughly 450,000 contract carriers. Following the acquisition, the companies said the combined operation would represent approximately 93,000 shippers and 600,000 contract carriers.

The larger network is expected to increase freight and carrier activity across a single logistics platform. C.H. Robinson also said the deal would diversify its customer base, expand U.S. coverage and create additional opportunities to sell multiple transportation services to large corporate accounts.

Freight brokers connect shippers with available trucking capacity through technology, carrier relationships and managed transportation services. The combined company would control both organizations’ brokerage and transportation operations, including RXO’s specialized expedited and last-mile services.

Focus on Technology and Cost Savings

The transaction is built in part around the use of artificial intelligence and other technology to improve operating efficiency in a difficult freight market. C.H. Robinson plans to apply its operating model across RXO’s business after the acquisition.

The companies project approximately $300 million in annual cost savings within two years of closing. C.H. Robinson said those savings would come from operating efficiencies, network scale and the integration of the two businesses.

What the Deal Could Mean for Carriers

A larger brokerage platform could give carriers access to more freight opportunities, but it would also place more shipper and carrier activity within a single corporate network. Owner-operators and small fleets may therefore evaluate the combined company based on factors such as rate competitiveness, payment terms, access to preferred freight and the quality of individual broker relationships.

The acquisition would represent a major consolidation in the truck brokerage sector. Its ultimate effect on carriers and shippers will depend on how C.H. Robinson integrates RXO’s operations and whether the projected efficiencies translate into improved service and competitive freight opportunities.