Trucking company owner CRST International has announced the acquisition of privately-held BESL Transfer Company, based in Cincinnati, Ohio.

BESL is a provider of short haul, flatbed services. Both companies serve customers in the construction trade, steel and aluminum markets.

“The acquisition of BESL will allow CRST to expand its flatbed operations nationwide footprint through their shorthaul, regional services and expanded agent base,” said Group President John Gallardo . “For CRST and BESL it means improved fleet utilization and increased operating efficiencies. We look forward to working with the BESL employees, independent contractors, and agent family.

CRST funded the purchase through existing cash reserves, allowing the company to remain debt-free, it said in a release. The purchase price was not disclosed.

Cedar Rapids-based CRST International owns CRST Malone and is one of the nation’s largest providers of long haul, flatbed services, with projected revenues in 2013 to exceed $1.3 Billion. It currently employs more than 4,400 company drivers and office personnel, and an additional 2,500 independent contractors across the United States.

In the past two years, CRST has acquired Specialized Transportation and Allied Special Products, the specialized division of North American Van Lines.