Estes is projected to exceed 14,000 doors by 2026

Estes Express Lines Expands Network and Sets Sights on 14,000 Doors by 2026

Less-than-truckload provider Estes Express Lines has significantly grown its operations, increasing its door count by almost 9% over the past year. This expansion included launching four new terminals, enlarging four existing sites, and relocating a dozen facilities. Estes projects that its network will exceed 14,000 doors by the close of 2026.

In 2025 alone, the company boosted its network capacity by 1,038 doors, marking an 8.7% rise compared to the previous year. Notable upgrades to its more than 300-terminal system include major service centers in Buffalo, New York (171 doors), and Tracy, California (167 doors), now among the largest in the Estes network.

These recent developments are part of a broader growth initiative that has resulted in a 32% increase in door count over the last five years.

"Each new terminal is a step forward—offering greater capacity, improved reliability, and expanded opportunities for both our team and our customers," stated Webb Estes, president and COO of Estes. "We are preparing our network to meet the evolving demands of modern supply chains, focusing on speed and dependability."

Estes also invested in its fleet in 2025, adding nearly 1,200 new tractors and 600 trailers, along with additional equipment such as straps, airbags, and load bars.

Previous investments in technology have helped the company lower operational costs, achieve fewer shipment handlings, reduce returns, and decrease the distance between stops.

These strategic improvements have earned Estes the top spot from Mastio for "best value" among national carriers for four consecutive years.

In 2023, Estes played a key role in the liquidation of Yellow Corp.’s real estate, acquiring 24 terminals valued at nearly $250 million during Yellow’s initial auction. Further court documents reveal that Estes has since repurchased leases and acquired additional properties, further increasing its total holdings.

Other transportation companies, such as Knight-Swift Transportation, Saia, and XPO, have also been active in acquiring Yellow’s former properties.

Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Estes operates close to 7,000 next-day lanes, maintains a fleet of over 10,500 tractors, and employs more than 24,000 people.