Estes bids to acquire equipment from bankrupt trucker

   Richmond, Va.-based trucking company Estes Express Lines has submitted a $15 million bid to acquire certain equipment assets from bankrupt carrier New England Motor Freight’s Eastern Freightways and Carrier Industries divisions.
   If its bid is successful, Estes said the equipment would boost its flatbed and dedicated transport businesses. 
   There is a scheduled court hearing for May 16 to approve the final winning bid, Estes said.
   “We’re seeking steady growth of our flatbed truckload capabilities,” said Bobby Speight, corporate vice president of Estes Level2 Logistics, in a statement. “If our bid is successful, the transaction would support this vision.”
   Elizabeth, N.J.-based New England Motor Freight ceased operations after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February. At the time of its closure, the carrier operated primarily in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic with a network of about 35 terminals, 1,300 trucks and 1,500 drivers.