Memphis-based heavy lift and transport specialist Barnhart Crane & Rigging has expanded outside of the US borders with its first international acquisition. The company has completed the purchase of NCSG of Acheson, Alberta, Canada, its largest single acquisition to date.

The purchase also is significant due to the size and scope of NCSG, which was founded in 1987 as Northern Crane Services. In addition to its corporate headquarters in Acheson, NCSG operates eight branches across Western Canada’s energy corridor, with locations in Edmonton, Bonnyville, Calgary, Fort McMurray, and Grande Prairie, Alberta; Fort St. John and Terrace, British Columbia; and Regina, Saskatchewan. NCSG represents Barnhart’s largest single acquisition to date.

Earlier this year, Barhart acquired its compatriot Baxter Crane and Rigging, based in Tupelo, Mississippi. The acquisition of NCSG continues the company’s expansion.

NCSG employs approximately 400 workers providing crane and heavy haul services to various industries including refining, upgrading, upstream oil and gas, utilities, forestry, mining, and wind energy.

“The acquisition of NCSG literally takes Barnhart into new territory,” said Alan Barnhart, CEO of Barnhart Crane and Rigging. “The decision to become an international company was not made lightly, but NCSG’s preeminence, reputation, and dominant market share ensure Barnhart’s position as one of the leading crane, rigging, and logistics companies in North America.”

“We are pleased to join the Barnhart family,” said NCSG President and CEO Heather MacCallum. “Our goal has been to serve as the premier supplier in Western Canada’s crane and heavy haul sector by providing best-in-class equipment, personnel, an award-winning safety program, and operational best practices.”