Company History

Founded in 1854 by Captain William Leavitt, Chase, Leavitt has been a leader in the international transportation industry for over 145 years. Originating in the port of Portland, Maine as a steamship agency, Chase, Leavitt rapidly established its pattern of growth and diversified into Customhouse Brokerage, Foreign Freight Forwarding, Lloyd’s Agency and Chartering Brokerage, as well as establishing a marine supply and marine safety division.

Back in the days of coastal schooners and full rigged clippers, Chase, Leavitt chartered and managed ocean going vessels trading throughout the world.

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In the mid and late 1800’s, Chase, Leavitt workers acted as ship agents for ships trading with the West Indies bringing molasses into Portland to be distilled into rum. Chase, Leavitt also acted as stevedores and unloaded the various cargoes that arrived in the port. In 1894, the firm became a marine surveying agent for Lloyd’s of London, operating as an investigator for the insurance company, and, at this time, also entered the arena of foreign freight forwarding and customs brokerage.

Today, Chase, Leavitt & Company acts as a transportation expert for commodities in the Import/Export field. The company continues to build its reputation for stability, efficiency, and expertise in navigating the subtleties of international commerce.

Chase, Leavitt (CHB), Inc. maintains its headquarters on the waterfront in Portland, Maine and has branches in Boston, Massachusetts, Miami, Florida, Newark, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, California. All other cities are serviced through a network of affiliates and overseas agents.

Celebrating 145 Years! Pictured in the original office in Portland, Maine are William Leavitt, Jr., Tewksbury L. Sweat and Captain William Leavitt, Sr.