Less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier Saia announced Monday the opening of three new terminals in Kentucky and Ohio. These additions are a significant part of the company's ambitious $1 billion capital expenditures plan for 2024, which has already seen more than 20 new facilities integrated into its network this year.

The Johns Creek, Georgia-based carrier confirmed that a facility in Akron, Ohio, began operations on Monday. Additionally, two new service centers in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky, are scheduled to open on October 28th.

These three locations are believed to be part of the 17-terminal portfolio that Saia acquired from the bankrupt Yellow Corp. for $236 million last December. Saia further expanded its footprint by acquiring 11 leased properties for $8 million in a subsequent auction of Yellow's real estate.

While Saia currently serves these three markets, the new facilities are expected to provide "increased capacity and better freight handling," according to a Monday news release. "Opening these terminals in Ohio and Kentucky will improve service for our customers, allowing us to deliver freight faster," stated Jared Mull, Saia's vice president of operations.

This expansion follows a busy period for Saia. Last month, the company opened its first two terminals in North Dakota and added a fourth location in Montana. In August, Saia established six new locations across Montana, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Earlier in the year, the carrier had already opened an additional 10 sites.

Saia's comprehensive capital expenditure plan, estimated at approximately $1 billion, allocates $550 million for real estate investments, $400 million to $450 million for equipment purchases, and an additional $50 million for IT projects.