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Barnhart Crane & Rigging has acquired the assets and operations of two Crane Service Inc. branches in El Paso, Texas, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. The acquisition, finalized with Denver-based ML Holdings Co., does not include the purchase of Crane Service Inc. as a whole, only selected branch assets.
This move expands Barnhart’s footprint in Texas and New Mexico. The El Paso branch becomes Barnhart’s second Texas location, joining its Houston facility. The Albuquerque operations will merge with Barnhart’s existing branch there, established in 2024 following the acquisition of Mountain States Crane.
The newly acquired operations provide crane service, industrial machine moving, transportation and rigging services, and bring approximately 45 employees into Barnhart’s workforce.
“Since its founding in 1960, Crane Service Inc. has built a solid reputation in the crane, rigging, and transportation industry by prioritizing safety and exceeding customers’ expectations,” said Chase Reynolds, regional director at Barnhart. “They are recognized throughout the industry for having skilled and experienced operators and riggers, along with a well-maintained and comprehensive fleet of equipment. The addition of these two branches allows us to further expand our services throughout the Southwest and complements our existing branches.”
Dave Matz, president of ML Holdings, noted that Barnhart was a natural fit for the transition. “Barnhart has a sterling reputation in the industry, and we had confidence our employees would thrive there,” he said.
Branch leaders expressed enthusiasm for the change. “We are excited to start this next chapter in the crane industry with Barnhart,” said Isaac Holguin, branch manager in El Paso. “We will continue to keep cranes moving as we rise up in this new world.”
Albuquerque branch manager Paul Raley added, “We’re buzzing with excitement for the opportunities ahead and the incredible synergy we anticipate creating together.”
ML Holdings, which acquired Crane Service Inc. in 2007, continues to own its locations in Amarillo and Sweetwater, Texas, as well as Denver. The company is shifting its focus toward larger, mobile assets for the energy sector.
