YRC Worldwide announced today the successful March 1 integration of the national networks for Yellow Transportation and Roadway. The two industry leaders will now do business as YRC.

The integration is expected to result in more than $200 million in annual operating savings, notes Logistics Management magazine. The integration consolidates the number of YRC service centers from 650 to roughly 450, which offers about 100 more service centers than YRC or Roadway did individually.

"This is a game-changing event for our company and the transportation industry," said Bill Zollars, chairman, president and CEO of YRC Worldwide. "By going to market as YRC, we're making it easier for customers to do business with the industry leader - and harder for the competition to match our network and our capabilities."

Zollars says through the hard work and support of the 37,000 YRC employees, the company implemented a strategic, phased-in approach to the integration. With nearly 450 service centers, YRC offers about 100 more service centers than either Roadway or Yellow did individually. The changes provide 21,000 additional direct service points and position YRC 20 percent closer to customers in major markets. This enables quicker pickups and deliveries, increased flexibility and reduced emissions.

"We've designed our network to help customers succeed. It's that simple," said Mike Smid, president of YRC. "We have the most comprehensive network in North America, the most experienced transportation professionals and the most flexible, efficient solutions to meet any supply chain need.

"The YRC network is built for precision and predictability, so our customers are assured of meeting the needs of their customers," Smid continued. "Our focus is delivering confidence to our customers."