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History

Ervin Equipment began as a one‑man operation and has grown into a thriving international company specializing in semi‑trailers and dry van trailers. Founded by Greg Ervin, our business has experienced tremendous success and expansion, yet we remain true to the core values that shaped us from the start: integrity, quality, commitment, and innovation. What started as a used equipment dealership has evolved into a full‑service transportation partner. Today, Ervin is your trusted source for: New and Used Trailers, E-Funding Solutions, Online Auctions, and Logistics Services.

As a family‑owned business, we believe in building lasting relationships with our customers. From acquisition to long‑term support, we strive to be more than just a supplier. We aim to be your partner in success. At Ervin, we measure our achievements by one standard: your success on the road.

June 1, 1981

Ervin Equipment Founded

On June 1, 1981, Greg Ervin established Ervin Equipment as a small, one‑man operation focused on selling used semi‑trailers. What began as a modest venture in Toledo, Illinois quickly gained traction thanks to Greg’s commitment to integrity, quality, and customer service. This founding moment laid the groundwork for what would become a trusted name in the transportation industry.

January 28, 1991

Ervin Equipment Incorporated

On January 28, 1992, Ervin Equipment officially became an incorporated company, marking a major step forward in its growth and stability. Incorporation provided the structure to expand operations beyond a small dealership and positioned Ervin as a trusted, professional organization in the trailer industry. This milestone reflected the company’s evolution from a local used‑equipment dealer into a business with the capacity to serve a broader customer base, laying the foundation for future expansion into new trailer sales, financing solutions, and logistics services.

October 2003

Dallas Location Opens

In October 2003, Ervin Equipment expanded into Texas with the opening of our Dallas location. Positioned in one of the nation’s busiest freight corridors, this facility strengthened our ability to serve carriers across the Southwest and Central United States. The Dallas site provided customers with easier access to Ervin’s growing inventory of dry vans, reefers, flatbeds, and chassis, while reinforcing our commitment to offering local support backed by national reach. This expansion marked a key step in transforming Ervin from a regional dealer into a company with a truly multi‑state presence.

January 2005

Move into New Corporate Headquarters Building

In January 2005, Ervin Equipment reached another major milestone by moving into a new corporate headquarters building in Toledo, Illinois. This expansion reflected the company’s rapid growth and the need for a larger, more modern facility to support its expanding operations. The new headquarters provided space for additional staff, improved infrastructure, and enhanced customer service capabilities. More than just a physical move, this step symbolized Ervin’s transition into a nationally recognized leader in trailer sales and logistics, while reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and long‑term stability.

November 2008

Mexico Operations Open

In November 2008, Ervin Equipment took a major step toward international growth by launching operations in Mexico. Establishing a presence south of the U.S. border allowed Ervin to better serve carriers engaged in cross‑border logistics and expand access to quality trailers for fleets throughout Latin America. The Mexico operations strengthened Ervin’s role as a global transportation partner, offering customers in the region the same commitment to integrity, quality, and innovation that has defined the company since its founding. This expansion marked the beginning of Ervin’s international footprint, positioning the company to meet the needs of a rapidly growing global freight market.

August 2011

Laredo Location Opens

In August 2011, Ervin Equipment expanded its footprint in Texas with the opening of the Laredo, TX location. Strategically positioned near the U.S.–Mexico border, this facility became a critical hub for cross‑border logistics and freight movement. The Laredo site gave carriers in South Texas and international markets direct access to Ervin’s growing inventory of dry van trailers and other equipment, while providing local support backed by our nationwide reach. This expansion reinforced Ervin’s role as a trusted partner in the transportation industry and highlighted our commitment to integrity, quality, and innovation.

November 2012

Expanded Corporate Headquarters Building

In November 2012, Ervin Equipment celebrated another major achievement with the expansion of its corporate headquarters in Toledo, Illinois. This growth reflected the company’s continued success and the increasing demand for its trailer sales and logistics services. The expanded headquarters provided additional office space, modernized facilities, and improved infrastructure to support a larger team and more complex operations. More than just a physical upgrade, the expansion symbolized Ervin’s evolution into a leading international provider of transportation solutions, while reinforcing the company’s long‑standing values of integrity, quality, commitment, and innovation.

January 2013

Recognized on the Inc. 5000 List

In January 2013, Ervin Equipment earned national recognition by being named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest‑growing companies in the United States. This prestigious ranking highlighted Ervin’s rapid growth, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to delivering value to customers across the transportation industry. Making the Inc. 5000 list underscored the company’s transformation from a small, family‑owned operation into a leading international provider of trailers and logistics solutions. The honor reflected not only strong business performance but also Ervin’s dedication to its founding values of integrity, quality, commitment, and innovation.

February 28, 2013

E‑Funding Division Starts

On February 28, 2013, Ervin Equipment launched its E‑Funding Division, adding a new layer of support for customers beyond trailer sales. This division was created to provide flexible financing solutions tailored to the needs of fleets and owner‑operators, making it easier to acquire equipment and grow their businesses. By offering innovative funding options, Ervin strengthened its role as a full‑service transportation partner, guiding customers through the acquisition process and ensuring long‑term success. The start of the E‑Funding Division reflected Ervin’s commitment to innovation and customer‑focused solutions, helping carriers overcome financial barriers and keep their operations moving forward.

November 2017

Ervin Becomes a Stoughton Dealer

In November 2017, Ervin Equipment achieved a significant milestone by becoming an authorized Stoughton Trailers dealer. Partnering with one of the most respected names in the trailer manufacturing industry allowed Ervin to expand its product offerings and provide customers with access to new, high‑quality Stoughton dry van trailers. This dealership strengthened Ervin’s ability to serve fleets nationwide with reliable equipment backed by Stoughton’s reputation for durability and innovation. The partnership underscored Ervin’s commitment to offering customers the best brands in transportation, while continuing to build on the company’s foundation of integrity, quality, and customer success.

August 2025

Blue Diamond Award

Ervin Equipment earns the prestigious Stoughton Blue Diamond Award—marking eight consecutive years of Diamond-level recognition. This milestone includes four years as a Diamond Dealer and four years as a Blue Diamond Dealer. A testament to the dedication and teamwork of our incredible team, this achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence.