our history

Durst trucking company history

Founded in 1935, for over 72 years Durst Trucking has been a staple of the Erie community. Building a strong community and a thriving business environment is Durst’s primary purpose

durst trucking history with sears branded trucks
Erie, Pennsylvania local

Durst Trucking History

For 72 years Durst has been satisfying customers with its trucking, warehousing, and unique special services.

Founded in 1935 by Chester Durst with one truck, he hauled and recycled coal ashes for commercial and residential customers. On Christmas Eve of 1935, Sears, Roebuck and Company entered into an emergency contract with Chester to deliver bicycles for the Christmas holiday. Durst Trucking was born that night and quickly expanded to 10 trucks dedicated to Sears’ deliveries.

Since then, Chester’s two sons have taken the business, providing excellent service like their father did over 50 years. Currently, the Durst Company has more than 100,000 square feet of warehouse space and 20 pieces of equipment that service commercial, residential and corporate customers from all over the world.

Current management at durst trucking

Durst Trucking has been a member of the Erie, Pennsylvania, community since its founding in 1951, blending seven decades of logistics expertise with an unwavering commitment to local growth. Durst Trucking is a family-owned business, with roots running deep in Erie’s business landscape.

Our current management team has transitioned Durst from a modest trucking operation into a full-service provider of freight transportation, warehousing, and custom logistics solutions. This expansion wasn’t just driven by market demands—it was shaped by Durst’s mission to uplift the community it serves. From supporting small businesses with affordable transport and storage options to goods and services direct to local residents, the company has consistently prioritized Erie’s economic vitality. 

Tim Durst
brad durst at warehouse photo
Brad Durst