History of Transport Co., Ltd.

Transport Co., Ltd. was established on July 13, 1930, under the Civil and Commercial Code, originally named Thai Airways Company, Ltd., as the first pioneer of commercial aviation and passenger transportation in Thailand. It initially operated bus routes between Bangkok and Lopburi, as well as Bangkok and Prachinburi. During World War II, the company became a state enterprise and was renamed Transport Co., Ltd. (BorKorSor) in 1938.

Key Historical Milestones:

1. Domestic Aviation and River Transport (1940s-1950s)

   • In 1947, the government separated domestic aviation from Transport Co., Ltd.
   • By 1948, the company began river transport services with a fleet of 48 boats. By 1957, this included 18 river routes and four branches: Tha Tian, Pak Nam Pho–Nakhon Sawan, Phra Pradaeng, and Ayutthaya. However, the construction of the Chao Phraya Dam caused river shallowing, leading to the discontinuation of river services.

2. Addressing Unregulated Bus Operations (1959)
   During this period, unregulated bus services caused frequent accidents and disrupted the economy. Recognizing the issue, Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat’s government in 1959 granted Transport Co., Ltd. exclusive concessions for Category 2 bus routes in 25 provinces. The company was tasked with organizing bus operations for fairness and ensuring quality service for the public.

3. Collaboration with Private Operators (1959–1976)

   • Transport Co., Ltd. integrated major private bus operators into its system, ensuring they followed regulations.
   • Despite initial financial losses, the company improved its operations and achieved profitability by 1965, even distributing bonuses for the first time in 1976.

4. Reorganization of Private Operators (1980s)

   • From 1979 to 1988, the company restructured its operations and encouraged private bus owners to form cooperatives or associations. This led to the establishment of the Association of Passenger Bus Operators in 1983, marking significant progress in collaboration.

5. Development of Major Bus Terminals (1967–1997)

   • In 1967, the foundation stone was laid for the Northern and Northeastern Bus Terminal at Mo Chit, which became a well-known landmark.
   • By 1997, the new Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak), commonly known as Mo Chit 2, was officially opened. This 4-story facility was designed with modern safety and convenience in mind, offering a full range of amenities for passengers.

6. Expanding International Routes (1999–Present)

   • In 1999, the company launched international bus routes to neighboring countries, starting with services between Thailand and Laos. Over the years, routes expanded to Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, supporting the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). Notable routes include Bangkok–Phnom Penh, Chiang Mai–Luang Prabang, and Chiang Rai–Bo Keo.
   • Facilities such as the Chiang Khong Bus Station were established to enhance connectivity and accommodate increasing passenger demand.

7. Rebranding and Modernization (2009)

   • The company introduced a new logo in 2009, symbolizing progress and customer friendliness.
     • Orange Line: Represents the company’s long-standing stability in transportation services.
     • Blue Line: Signifies continuous development and service efficiency.
     • Pink Line: Reflects auspiciousness and the company’s ongoing social contributions.

8. Integration of Passenger Vans (2010)

   • In 2010, approximately 6,000 passenger vans were integrated into the company’s system to improve service standards and passenger safety.

9. Preparation for ASEAN Economic Community (2014)

   • In preparation for the AEC, Transport Co., Ltd. expanded international routes and constructed facilities to support cross-border transportation and regional economic growth.
     
     

Social Contributions:

• In 1999, the last boat from the company’s river transport era, “Maharaj Boat”, was donated to the Ministry of Education to support educational initiatives in honor of King Rama IX’s 72nd birthday. This project aimed to promote literacy and lifelong learning among Thai citizens.
  
  

Current Status:

The company’s headquarters is located at 999 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak District, Bangkok 10900. It continues to operate under the mission of serving the public, upholding government policies, and preparing for future challenges.

Motto:
“Transport Co., Ltd. belongs to the state, serving the people—everyone is an owner.”