C.H. Robinson Buys DeSpir for Secure Freight Push

Robinson adds a security-focused specialist

C.H. Robinson is acquiring DeSpir Logistics, an Illinois-based provider of secure transportation and cargo escort services for high-value freight moving across North America.

The deal is priced at $75 million. DeSpir generated about $62 million in revenue last year, putting the transaction at roughly 1.2 times trailing revenue.

Why this target fits the market

DeSpir operates in freight where security, pre-planning, compliance, and real-time visibility carry extra weight. C.H. Robinson pointed to sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, data centers, aerospace, and high-value retail as examples of the demand it wants to serve more deeply.

The acquisition comes as cargo theft and shipment fraud remain high on brokers' and shippers' risk lists. For sensitive freight, price and capacity are only part of the buying decision; carrier vetting, chain-of-custody controls, and execution quality matter just as much.

First traditional brokerage deal in years

The move also marks a notable return to M&A for the largest U.S. 3PL. C.H. Robinson's last more traditional brokerage acquisition was Combinex Holding B.V. in 2021. The company also bought oilfield logistics specialist Breaker19 in the fourth quarter of 2025, though that deal drew little public attention.

For fleets and shippers, the DeSpir deal is another sign that freight security is becoming a more formal service line. High-value loads are pushing brokers to prove not only that they can find capacity, but that they can control risk through the handoff.