CHARLOTTE, NC (February 23, 2026) – Carolina Handling has been awarded the prestigious MVP (Most Valuable Partner) Award for its outstanding achievements in 2025 by industry trade association MHEDA (Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association).

This is the sixth consecutive year that Carolina Handling has achieved the award. 

A coveted accolade within the industry, fewer than 10 percent of MHEDA's 600 members earn the annual distinction. Carolina Handling’s continued recognition as a MHEDA MVP underscores a commitment to excellence, professionalism and responsible stewardship in the business world.

“It is always a special honor to be recognized by your industry peers. As Carolina Handling celebrates 60 years in business, this recognition is especially meaningful. The MVP Award reflects the dedication and pride of our associates, whose commitment to serving one another, our customers, and our communities has defined who we are for six decades,” said Carolina Handling President & CEO, Brent Hillabrand.

To qualify for the annual MVP Award, companies must provide evidence of their commitment to their partners in business, including their customers, associates, and suppliers. They must satisfy criteria in the following important areas:

• Industry Advocacy
• Customer Service & Safety Practices
• Business Networking
• Continuing Education
• Business Best Practices

"Earning MHEDA's highest honor, the MVP Award is a significant achievement that speaks directly to a company's genuine dedication. It is a clear testament to their commitment to professional excellence, their partners, and continually improving the value they bring to the entire material handling community,” said Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Company and 2026 MHEDA Chairman.

ABOUT CAROLINA HANDLING

Founded in 1966, Carolina Handling is one of the Southeast’s leading material handling solution providers and the exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida’s Central time zone territory. The company provides lift trucks and automation solutions for warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers, as well as parts, racking, storage, lighting and dock and door equipment.

Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Carolina Handling operates branch offices in Atlanta, GA, Birmingham, AL, Greensboro, NC, Raleigh, NC and Easley, SC. The company has more than 900 associates. For more information, visit www.carolinahandling.com.

ABOUT MHEDA

The Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) is the premier trade association dedicated to serving all segments of the material handling business community.  MHEDA represents over 500 companies in the material handling equipment business.  Located in suburban Chicago, the association provides services to companies seeking to improve their business through education, networking, benchmarking and best practices. For more information, visit www.mheda.org.