Fastfrate acquires Omnitrans

Fastfrate Group has agreed to acquire Omnitrans Inc. in a move to bolster its global supply chain capabilities. The acquisition includes complete ownership of Omnitrans, along with its subsidiaries Metro Customs Brokers Inc. and Omnitrans China Ltd. While financial details remain undisclosed, this strategic acquisition is set to extend Fastfrate's reach beyond its North American stronghold into larger global trade lanes, particularly enhancing connectivity with Asia.

Founded in 1966, Fastfrate Group is known as one of Canada’s major privately-owned transportation and supply chain companies, with operations spanning 46 locations across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The acquisition of Omnitrans effectively integrates international freight forwarding and customs brokerage into Fastfrate’s service portfolio. Omnitrans, headquartered in Montreal, is recognized for its expertise in international freight forwarding and customs brokerage, operating 230 trade lanes with a notable presence in China, thus aligning seamlessly with Fastfrate’s service expansion goals.

The deal is designed to create a comprehensive end-to-end solution for handling freight from its international origin, through customs clearance, to its final destination. Fastfrate CEO Manny Calandrino remarked on the deal's importance, emphasizing the growing complexity in global sourcing and cross-border trade, which necessitates streamlined transit and greater accountability in freight management. With Omnitrans brought into its fold, Fastfrate aims to enhance its service reliability and efficiency by minimizing handoffs in the supply chain.

Omnitrans will remain a standalone division but will collaborate closely with Fastfrate’s existing logistics operations. This organizational structure is intended to sustain Omnitrans’ specialized focus while benefiting from Fastfrate's extensive North American infrastructure. The acquisition aims to allow for seamless freight operations from Asia into North America, optimizing customs processes and reducing logistical friction for corporate clients.

The transaction is expected to conclude in the Spring of 2026, pending customary regulatory approvals. This deal comes as players in the freight forwarding and customs brokerage sector face increased pressure to innovate and consolidate capabilities in response to growing global trade complexities. Further developments surrounding regulatory approvals or adjustments to the involved parties' operational strategies could influence the transaction timeline and integration outcomes.