Is Jack Cooper Auto Transport Still in Business? What Freight Carriers Need to Know

The End of a 97-Year Legacy

Jack Cooper Auto Transport, a name that once commanded respect in auto hauling, has officially shut down. For nearly a century, the company moved new vehicles across the country, servicing major automakers like Ford and General Motors (GM). But in early 2025, the wheels came off.

In January, Ford pulled the plug on its contract with Jack Cooper, and within weeks, GM followed suit. The loss of these two massive clients left the company with no lifeline. CEO Sarah Amico, in a letter to employees, made it clear: the business was done. For thousands of truckers, dispatchers, and logistics professionals, this was more than a corporate shake-up—it was a seismic shift in auto transport.

Why Did Jack Cooper Go Out of Business?

If you’ve been in trucking long enough, you know that relying too much on one customer is like putting all your eggs in a single, very shaky basket. Jack Cooper’s downfall is a case study in why that’s a bad idea.

For years, the company thrived on contracts with Ford and GM. But when Ford exercised a 30-day out clause and GM quickly followed, Jack Cooper had no backup plan. Other auto haulers, like Proficient Auto Logistics and United Road, had already been expanding their networks, making it easy for Ford and GM to shift operations elsewhere.

But it wasn’t just about losing contracts. The auto-hauling industry is evolving. Electric vehicle (EV) transport requires specialized equipment, and automakers are looking for carriers that can keep up. Jack Cooper, once an industry leader, found itself outpaced by newer, more adaptable players.

What Does This Mean for Freight Brokers and Carriers?

Losing a company like Jack Cooper isn’t just a headline—it’s a shake-up that ripples through the industry. Automakers now need new carriers to move their vehicles, and that means opportunity for those ready to step in.

If you’re a freight broker, expect some short-term chaos. The sudden shift in contracts means some OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) are scrambling to find capacity. That means higher rates, unpredictable lead times, and a golden opportunity for carriers looking to expand.

For carriers, this could be a chance to pick up auto-hauling contracts—if you’ve got the right equipment and experience. Jack Cooper’s workforce, including seasoned drivers, will also be looking for new jobs, which could help companies needing skilled labor. But be warned: automakers are notorious for cutting costs. If they’re handing out new contracts, they’re going to be looking for the best deal, not just a quick fix.

Where Does Auto Hauling Go from Here?

The industry is shifting, and fast. The rise of EVs, automation, and direct-to-consumer vehicle sales means auto transport isn’t what it used to be. Traditional hauling companies need to adapt, or they risk going the way of Jack Cooper.

In the short term, automakers will likely spread their contracts across multiple haulers instead of relying on just one or two major players. That could make it harder for any single company to dominate the industry the way Jack Cooper once did. It also means more competition, tighter margins, and a greater need for operational efficiency.

For smaller carriers, this could be an opportunity to grab a piece of the pie. If you can offer specialized EV transport or expedited deliveries, you might find yourself in high demand. The key is staying agile—something Jack Cooper, unfortunately, failed to do.

What Does This Mean for Freight Factoring?

If Jack Cooper’s downfall proves anything, it’s that cash flow can make or break a business. For auto haulers adjusting to a rapidly changing landscape, having steady access to working capital is more critical than ever.

Freight factoring companies are already seeing an uptick in demand from auto haulers looking to bridge payment gaps. With contract shifts and delayed payments from OEMs, many carriers are turning to factoring as a way to keep their operations running smoothly.

But not all factoring solutions are created equal. Carriers need to be wary of predatory terms, hidden fees, and agreements that lock them into long-term commitments with little flexibility. The goal is to stay liquid, not get stuck in another bad deal.

Final Word

Jack Cooper’s collapse is a wake-up call for the auto-hauling industry. No company—no matter how big, no matter how long it’s been in the game—is immune to sudden change. For freight brokers and carriers, this is a moment to reassess strategies, build financial resilience, and be ready to pivot.

Whether you’re looking to pick up new contracts, expand your fleet, or just keep cash flow steady, now is the time to stay sharp. The industry is shifting, and this is a wake up call to make sure you remain on top of your game.

‍