Two Minnesota carriers shut down, idling 200 drivers

Core Insights - Two Minnesota-based trucking companies, MinStar Transport and Transport Design Inc., have ceased operations, resulting in approximately 200 drivers losing their jobs [1][2][3] - The closures are part of a broader trend of carrier failures in the trucking industry, which has been experiencing a downturn known as the Great Freight Recession since March 2022 [2][7] Company Overview - Both companies were part of True North Equity Partners' portfolio, which focuses on lower-middle-market investments in transportation [4] - True North acquired Transport Design in March 2020 and MinStar Transport in October 2022, expanding its holdings in the trucking sector [4][5] - At the time of the MinStar acquisition, True North's trucking portfolio was projected to generate $220 million in annual revenue [5] Financial Pressures - True North Transportation Holding Company is currently involved in a lawsuit alleging breach of loan agreements, which may indicate financial difficulties that could lead to further operational shutdowns [6] - The trucking industry has seen a significant number of closures and bankruptcies in 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges within the sector [7]