Wheaton World Wide Moving is buying the nation’s oldest and one of its largest household movers, Bekins Van Lines.

Wheaton World Wide Moving announced the official news that it is completing the acquisition of Hillside, Ill-based Bekins Van Lines. The transition is expected to be complete by mid-March, creating the fourth-largest household goods carrier in the U.S.

“We are excited about the opportunity to grow the oldest and one of the most important brands in the moving and storage industry, right here from our corporate offices in Indianapolis,” said Mark Kirschner, chief executive officer of Wheaton. “Through operational efficiencies and marketing potential, the acquisition of the Bekins brand will allow Wheaton to expand our market share nationally and solidly creates the fourth largest household goods carrier in the country.”

The 121-year-old Eakins has a strong identity in the household moving market, particularly in Chicago and in the western U.S. Wheaton is more focused in the northeast and Midwest.

Only about 25 percent of Wheaton’s business was in the residential market, with corporate clients amounting to roughly another 25 percent. Wheaton World Wide Moving and Bekins Van Lines will continue to be operated as separate brands with combined operations headquartered in Indianapolis, Wheaton’s current HQ. Together, the brands will increase the van line’s agency base from 240 to approximately 370 nationwide. Approximately 38 employees will be added to Wheaton’s corporate staff in Indianapolis bringing the total number to about 175. Bekins offices in Hillside, Ill. will be shut down.

About Wheaton

Wheaton Van Lines, Inc. is one of the world’s most highly regarded providers of transportation services. Wheaton Van Lines now owns two household goods relocation brands, Wheaton World Wide Moving and Bekins Van Lines. With annual combined revenue in excess of $250 million, the van line is now the fourth largest household goods carrier. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., the Wheaton and Bekins brands offer private and corporate domestic and international household goods relocation services as well as special commodities and logistic services. The United States Military also is one of the company’s largest customers. Wheaton Van Lines, Inc. is partner to approximately 370 Wheaton agents nationwide. To learn more, visit www.wheatonvanlines.com.