Hines Furlong Line, Nashville, Tenn., has closed its acquisition of the River Division of Campbell Transportation Company, expanding its inland fleet and operating footprint across the U.S. river system. Hines Furlong Line first announced plans for the acquisition on Dec. 3, 2025.
The operator said the deal strengthens its ability to serve customers as supply chains evolve and demand for barge transportation grows.
“As supply chains grow more complex and market demands continue to evolve, the inland barge industry is increasingly being shaped by operators with diversified fleets, expansive geographic reach, and the scale and capital capacity to invest for the long term,” said Kent Furlong, president and founder of Hines Furlong Line. “This acquisition allows us to build upon our foundation and support long-term growth while continuing to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable transportation our customers have relied on for decades.”
Following the transaction, Hines Furlong Line now operates an expanded fleet that includes more than 800 hopper and tank barges, 64 inland towboats, and control of more than 1,000 permitted fleeting spaces. The company also oversees two repair shipyards and additional support facilities in key river corridors.
Company officials said the combined operation now spans 10 cities, extending Hines Furlong Line’s reach from the Upper Ohio River through the Lower Mississippi River system. The broader footprint is expected to improve coordination of vessel operations and shoreside support, including crew changes and mariner recruitment, across multiple regions.
“CTC has been respected for its industry stewardship, operational discipline, and long-standing presence on the river,” Furlong said. “We thank Peter Stephaich and Kyle Buese for their leadership, and we are proud to continue CTC’s legacy within HFL for generations to come.”
Campbell’s Gulf Division was not part of the transaction and will continue to operate independently under the Campbell Transportation Company name. That division remains headquartered in Houston and is led by President and CEO Kyle Buese.
