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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2000
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from_____________________To______________________.
Commission file number 0-15087
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada 93-0926999
(State or Other Jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer
of Incorporation) Identification No.)
2777 Heartland Drive
Coralville, Iowa 52241
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 319-545-2728
Securities Registered Pursuant to section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities Registered Pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act: $0.01 Par Value
Common Stock
Indicated by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES [X] NO [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in the registrant's definitive proxy statement
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K. [X]
The aggregate market value of the shares of the registrant's $0.01 par value
common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of March 15, 2001 was
$281,643,713 (based upon $23.72 per share being the average of the closing bid
and asked price on that date as reported by NASDAQ). In making this calculation
the issuer has assumed, without admitting for any purpose, that all executive
officers and directors of the registrant, and no other persons, are affiliates.
The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant's common stock as March 15,
2001 was 25,366,582.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: The information set forth under Part III,
Items 10, 11, 12, and 13 of this Report is incorporated by reference from the
registrant's definitive proxy statement for the 2001 annual meeting of
stockholders that will be filed no later than April 28, 2001.
1
Cross Reference Index
The following cross-reference index indicates that document and location of the
information contained herein and incorporated by reference into the Form 10-K.
Document and Location
Part I
Item 1 Business Page 3-5 herein
Item 2 Properties Page 5 herein
Item 3 Legal Proceedings Page 5 herein
Item 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of
Stockholders Page 6 herein
Part II
Item 5 Market for the Registrant's Common
Equity and Related Stockholder Matters Page 6 herein
Item 6 Selected Financial Data Page 7 herein
Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations Page 8-12 herein
Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
about Market Risk Page 12 herein
Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Page 13 and 16-26 herein
Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants
on Accounting and Financial Disclosure Page 12 herein
Part III
Item 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the
Registrant Pages 3 to 5 of
Proxy Statement
Item 11 Executive Compensation Pages 7 and 9 of
Proxy Statement
Item 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
Owners and Management Page 10 of Proxy
Statement
Item 13 Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions Page 5 of Proxy Statement
Part IV
Item 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules,
and Reports on Form 8-K Pages 14 and 15 herein
This report contains "forward-looking statements" in paragraphs that are marked
with an asterisk. These statements are subject to certain risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
anticipated. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations-Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements" for additional information and factors to be considered concerning
forward-looking statements.
2
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
General
Heartland Express, Inc. ("Heartland" or the "Company") is a short-to-medium
haul truckload carrier based near Iowa City, Iowa. The Company provides
nationwide transportation service to major shippers, using late-model equipment
and a combined fleet of company-owned and owner-operator tractors. The Company's
primary traffic lanes are between customer locations east of the Rocky
Mountains, with selected service to the West. Management believes that the
Company's service standards and equipment accessibility have made it a core
carrier to many of its major customers.
Heartland was founded by Russell A. Gerdin in 1978 and became publicly
traded in November 1986. Over the fourteen years from 1986 to 2000, Heartland
has grown to $274.8 million in revenue from $21.6 million and net income has
increased to $34.3 million from $3.0 million. Much of this growth has been
attributable to expanding service for existing customers, acquiring new
customers, and continued expansion of the Company's operating regions.
In addition to internal growth, Heartland has completed four acquisitions
since 1987. These acquisitions have enabled Heartland to solidify its position
within historical regions, expand its customer base in the East and Northeast
United States, and to pursue new customer relationships in new markets.
Heartland Express, Inc. is a holding company incorporated in Nevada, which
owns, directly or indirectly, all of the stock of Heartland Express Inc. of
Iowa, Heartland Equipment, Inc., and A & M Express, Inc.
Operations
Heartland's operations department focuses on the successful execution of
customer expectations and providing consistent opportunity for the fleet of
employee drivers and independent contractors, while maximizing equipment
utilization. These objectives require a combined effort of marketing, regional
operations managers, and fleet management.
The Company's regional operations managers are responsible for maintaining
the continuity between the customer's needs and Heartland's ability to meet
those needs by communicating customer's expectations to the fleet management
group. They are charged with development of customer relationships, ensuring
service standards, coordinating proper freight-to-capacity balancing, trailer
asset management, and daily tactical decisions pertaining to matching the
Company's freight with the appropriate capacity within geographical service
areas. They assign orders to drivers based on well-defined criteria, such as
driver safety and DOT compliance, customer needs and service requirements,
equipment utilization, driver time at home, operational efficiency, and
equipment maintenance needs.
Fleet management employees are charged with the management and development
of their fleets of drivers. Additionally, they maximize the capacity that is
available to the organization to meet the service needs of the Company's
customers. Their responsibilities include meeting the needs of the drivers
within the standards that have been set by the organization and communicating
the requirements of the customers to the drivers on each order to ensure
successful execution.
Serving the short-to-medium haul market (558-mile average length of haul in
2000) permits the Company to use primarily single, rather than team drivers and
dispatch most trailers directly from origin to destination without an
intermediate equipment change other than for driver scheduling purposes.
Heartland also operates four specialized regional distribution operations
near Atlanta, Georgia; Carlisle, Pennsylvania; Columbus, Ohio; and Jacksonville,
Florida. These short-haul operations concentrate on freight movements generally
within a 400-mile radius of the regional terminal, and are designed to meet the
needs of significant customers in those regions. Dispatchers at the regional
locations handle these operations, and the Company uses a centralized computer
network and regular communication to achieve system-wide load coordination. The
Company also utilizes its subsidiary, A & M Express, Inc., to service
geographical regions from Kingsport, Tennessee and Decatur, Illinois.
3
The Company emphasizes customer satisfaction through on-time performance,
dependable late-model equipment, and consistent equipment availability to serve
large customers' volume requirements. The Company also maintains a high trailer
to tractor ratio, which facilitates the stationing of trailers at customer
locations for convenient loading and unloading. This minimizes waiting time,
which increases tractor utilization and assists with driver retention.
Customers and Marketing
The Company targets customers in its operating area that require multiple,
time-sensitive shipments, including those employing "just-in-time" manufacturing
and inventory management. In seeking these customers, Heartland has positioned
itself as a provider of premium service at compensatory rates, rather than
competing solely on the basis of price. Freight transported for the most part is
non-perishable and predominantly does not require driver handling. We believe
Heartland's reputation for quality service, reliable equipment, and equipment
availability makes it a core carrier to many of its customers.
Heartland seeks to transport freight that will complement traffic in its
existing service areas and remain consistent with the Company's focus on
short-to-medium haul and regional distribution markets. Management believes that
building additional service in the Company's primary traffic lanes will assist
in controlling empty miles and enhancing driver "home time."
The Company's 25, 10, and 5 largest customers accounted for 68%, 49%, and
35% of revenue, respectively, in 2000. The Company's primary customers include
retailers, manufacturers, and third party logistics providers. The distribution
of customers is not significantly different from the previous year. Sears
Logistics Services accounted for 16% of revenue in 2000. No other customer
accounted for as much as ten percent of revenue.
Drivers, Independent Contractors, and Other Personnel
Heartland's workforce is an essential ingredient in achieving its business
objectives. As of December 31, 2000, Heartland employed 1,728 persons. The
Company also contracted with independent contractors to provide and operate
tractors. Independent contractors own their own tractors and are responsible for
all associated expenses, including financing costs, fuel, maintenance,
insurance, and taxes. The Company historically has operated a combined fleet of
company and independent contractor tractors. Management believes that a combined
fleet compliments the Company's recruiting efforts and offers greater
flexibility in responding to fluctuations in shipper demand.
Management's strategy for both employee and independent contractor drivers
is to (1) hire the best; (2) promote retention through financial incentives,
positive working conditions, and targeting freight that requires little or no
handling; and (3) minimize safety problems through careful screening, mandatory
drug testing, continuous training, and financial rewards for accident-free
driving. Heartland also seeks to minimize turnover of its employee drivers by
providing modern, comfortable equipment and of all drivers by regularly
scheduling them to their homes. All drivers are compensated for empty miles as
well as loaded miles. This provides an incentive for the Company to minimize
empty miles and at the same time does not penalize drivers for inefficiencies of
operations that are beyond their control.
Heartland is not a party to a collective bargaining agreement. Management
believes that the Company has good relationships with its employees.
Revenue Equipment
Heartland's management believes that operating high-quality, efficient
equipment is an important part of providing excellent service to customers. The
Company's policy is to operate its tractors while under warranty to minimize
repair and maintenance cost and reduce service interruptions caused by
breakdowns. In addition, the Company's preventive maintenance program is
designed to minimize equipment downtime, facilitate customer service, and
enhance trade value when equipment is replaced. Factors considered when
purchasing new equipment include fuel economy, price, technology, warranty
terms, manufacturer support, driver comfort, and resale value.
4
Competition
The truckload industry is highly competitive and includes thousands of
carriers, none of which dominates the market. The Company competes primarily
with other truckload carriers, and to a lesser extent with railroads, intermodal
service, less-than-truckload carriers, and private fleets operated by existing
and potential customers. Although intermodal and rail service has improved in
recent years, such service has not been a major factor in the Company's
short-to-medium haul traffic lanes (558-mile average length of haul).
Historically, competition has created downward pressure on the truckload
industry's pricing structure. Management believes that competition for the
freight targeted by the Company is based primarily upon service and efficiency
and to a lesser degree upon freight rates.
Regulation
The Company is a common and contract motor carrier of general commodities.
Historically, the Interstate Commerce Commission (the "ICC") and various state
agencies regulated motor carriers' operating rights, accounting systems, mergers
and acquisitions, periodic financial reporting, and other matters. In 1995
federal legislation preempted state regulation of prices, routes, and services
of motor carriers and eliminated the ICC. Several ICC functions were transferred
to the Department of Transportation (the "DOT"). Management does not believe
that regulation by the DOT or by the states in their remaining areas of
authority will have a material effect on the Company's operations. The Company's
employee and independent contractor drivers also must comply with the safety and
fitness regulations promulgated by the DOT, including those relating to drug and
alcohol testing and hours of service.
The Company's operations are subject to various federal, state, and local
environmental laws and regulations, implemented principally by the EPA and
similar state regulatory agencies, governing the management of hazardous wastes,
other discharge of pollutants into the air and surface and underground waters,
and the disposal of certain substances. Management believes that its operations
are in material compliance with current laws and regulations and does not know
of any existing condition that would cause compliance with applicable
environmental regulations to have a material effect on the Company's capital
expenditures, earnings and competitive position. In the event the Company should
fail to comply with applicable regulations, the Company could be subject to
substantial fines or penalties and to civil or criminal liability.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Heartland's headquarters is located adjacent to Interstate 80, near Iowa
City, Iowa. The facilities include five acres of land, two office buildings of
approximately 25,000 square feet combined and a storage building, all leased
from the Company's president and principal stockholder. Company-owned facilities
at this location include three tractor and trailer maintenance garages totaling
approximately 26,500 square feet, and a safety and service complex adjacent to
Heartland's corporate offices. The adjacent facility provides the Company with
six acres of additional trailer parking space, a drive-through inspection bay,
an automatic truck wash facility, and 6,000 square feet of office space and
driver facilities. The Company also owns a motel located adjacent to its
corporate offices, which functions as a motel and driver training center.
The Company owns regional facilities in Ft. Smith, Arkansas; O'Fallon,
Missouri; Atlanta, Georgia; Columbus, Ohio; Jacksonville, Florida; and
Kingsport, Tennessee. The Company is leasing facilities in Carlisle,
Pennsylvania; Decatur, Illinois; and Rochester, New York. A facility in Dubois,
Pennsylvania is being leased to an unrelated third party. The Company sold
closed facilities in Monmouth, Illinois and Forest Park, Georgia during 2000 to
unrelated third parties.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is a party to routine litigation incidental to its business,
primarily involving claims for personal injury and property damage incurred in
the transportation of freight. The Company believes that adverse results in
these cases, whether individual or in the aggregate, would not have a material
effect upon the Company's financial position or results of operations.
5
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITIES HOLDERS
During the fourth quarter of 2000, no matters were submitted to a vote of
securities holders.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDERS MATTERS
Price Range of Common Stock
The Company's common stock has been traded on the NASDAQ National Market
under the symbol HTLD, since November 5, 1986, the date of the Company's initial
public offering. The following table sets forth for the calendar period
indicated the range of high and low price quotations for the Company's common
stock as reported by NASDAQ from January 1, 1999 to December 31,2000.
Period High Low
Calendar Year 2000
1st Quarter $16.13 $12.63
2nd Quarter 19.38 13.88
3rd Quarter 18.69 15.75
4th Quarter 24.75 15.81
Calendar Year 1999
1st Quarter $17.75 $13.00
2nd Quarter 16.63 13.00
3rd Quarter 17.88 13.38
4th Quarter 16.63 12.38
The prices reported reflect interdealer quotations without retail mark-ups,
markdowns or commissions, and may not represent actual transactions. As of March
15, 2001 the Company had 213 stockholders of record of its common stock.
However, the Company estimates that it has a significantly greater number of
stockholders because a substantial number of the Company's shares are held of
record by brokers or dealers for their customers in street names.
Dividend Policy
The Company has never declared and paid a cash dividend. It is the current
intention of the Company's Board of Directors to retain earnings to finance the
growth of the Company's business. Future payments of cash dividends will depend
upon the financial condition, results of operations and capital requirements of
the Company, as well as other factors deemed relevant by the Board of Directors.
6
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected consolidated financial data presented below reflect the
consolidated financial position and results of operations of Heartland Express,
Inc., and its subsidiaries. The selected consolidated financial data are derived
from the Company's consolidated financial statements. This data should be read
in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" and the Company's consolidated financial statements
and notes thereto included elsewhere herein.
Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income Statement Data:
Operating revenue ................ $ 274,827 $ 261,004 $ 263,489 $ 262,504 $ 229,011
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and benefits..... 73,847 60,258 51,995 49,535 40,261
Rent and purchased transportation. 75,191 90,337 100,089 101,169 93,961
Operations and maintenance........ 42,651 30,167 26,072 27,739 22,158
Taxes and licenses................ 5,952 5,935 6,150 6,049 5,693
Insurance and claims.............. 6,706 5,742 6,810 10,404 9,976
Communications and utilities...... 2,952 2,629 2,684 2,681 2,158
Depreciation...................... 16,285 16,216 18,108 16,752 13,571
Other operating expenses.......... 6,505 5,941 5,872 5,048 4,534
(Gain) on sale of fixed assets.... (1,512) (928) (332) (59) (189)
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
228,577 216,297 217,448 219,318 192,123
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income 46,250 44,707 46,041 43,186 36,888
Interest income, net................ 5,726 5,953 4,896 3,782 2,839
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income before income taxes.......... 51,976 50,660 50,937 46,968 39,727
Income taxes........................ 17,672 17,536 17,828 16,895 14,697
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net income ......................... $ 34,304 $ 33,124 $ 33,109 $ 30,073 $ 25,030
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Basic weighted average shares
Outstanding......................... 25,540 29,360 30,000 30,000 30,000
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Basic earnings per share ........... $ 1.34 $ 1.13 $ 1.10 $ 1.00 $ 0.83
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Balance sheet data:
Net working capital ................ $ 118,506 $ 111,675 $ 127,989 $ 82,170 $ 69,845
Total assets ....................... $ 268,055 $ 246,494 $ 256,828 $ 225,467 $ 191,504
Long term debt ..................... $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
Stockholders' equity ............... $ 195,134 $ 174,840 $ 186,848 $ 153,739 $ 123,666
7
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
General
The following table sets forth the percentage relationship of expense items
to operating revenue for the periods indicated.
Year Ended December 31,
----------------------------
2000 1999 1998
------ ------ ------
Operating revenue............................ 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
------ ------ ------
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and benefits ............ 26.9% 23.1% 19.7%
Rent and purchased transportation......... 27.4 34.6 38.0
Operations and maintenance ............... 15.5 11.6 9.9
Taxes and licenses ....................... 2.2 2.3 2.3
Insurance and claims ..................... 2.4 2.2 2.6
Communications and utilities ............. 1.1 1.0 1.0
Depreciation ............................. 5.9 6.2 6.9
Other operating expenses.................. 2.4 2.3 2.2
(Gain) on sale of fixed assets ........... (0.6) (0.4) (0.1)
------ ------ ------
Total operating expenses.................. 83.2% 82.9% 82.5%
------ ------ ------
Operating income ............ 16.8% 17.1% 17.5%
Interest income, net ........................ 2.1 2.3 1.9
------ ------ ------
Income before income taxes .. 18.9% 19.4% 19.4%
Federal and state income taxes .............. 6.4 6.7 6.8
------ ------ ------
Net income ................... 12.5% 12.7% 12.6%
====== ====== ======
Results of Operations
Year Ended December 31, 2000 Compared With Year Ended December 31, 1999
Operating revenue increased $13.8 million (5.3%), to $274.8 million in 2000
from $261.0 million in 1999, as a result of the Company's expansion of the
customer base as well as increased volume from existing customers. Operating
revenue was also positively impacted by fuel surcharges assessed to the customer
base.
Salaries, wages, and benefits increased $13.5 million (22.5%), to $73.8
million in 2000 from $60.3 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue,
salaries, wages, and benefits increased to 26.9% in 2000 from 23.1% in 1999.
These increases are the result of increased reliance on employee drivers and a
corresponding decrease in miles driven by independent contractors. In addition,
the Company has increased employee driver pay four times since September 1,
1998. The increase in employee driver miles was attributable to internal growth
in the company tractor fleet. During 2000, employee drivers accounted for 60%
and independent contractors 40% of the total fleet miles, compared with 51% and
49%, respectively, in 1999.
Rent and purchased transportation decreased $15.1 million (16.8%), to $75.2
million in 2000 from $90.3 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, rent and
purchased transportation decreased to 27.4% in 2000 from 34.6% in 1999. This
reflected the Company's decreased reliance upon independent contractors. In
addition, an increased industry demand for independent contractors has negated
the Company's previous competitive advantage.
Operations and maintenance increased $12.5 million (41.4%), to $42.7
million in 2000 from $30.2 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue,
operations and maintenance increased to 15.5% in 2000 from 11.6% in 1999. This
increase is attributable to an increase in fuel prices and increased reliance on
the Company owned fleet.
8
Taxes and licenses increased $0.1 million (0.3%), to $6.0 million in 2000
from $5.9 million 1999. As a percentage of revenue, taxes and licenses decreased
to 2.2% in 2000 from 2.3% in 1999.
Insurance and claims increased $1.0 million (16.8%), to $6.7 million in
2000 from $5.7 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, insurance and claims
increased to 2.4% in 2000 from 2.2% in 1999. Insurance and claims expense will
vary as a percentage of operating revenue from period to period based on the
frequency and severity of claims incurred in a given period as well as changes
in claims development trends.
Communications and utilities increased $0.4 million (12.3%), to $3.0
million in 2000 from $2.6 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue,
communications and utilities increased to 1.1% in 2000 from 1.0% in 1999.
Depreciation increased $0.1 million (0.4%), to $16.3 million in 2000 from
$16.2 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation decreased to
5.9% in 2000 from 6.2% in 1999. The decrease resulted from the increase in the
number of trailers in the Company's fleet becoming fully depreciated.
Other operating expenses increased $0.6 million (9.5%), to $6.5 million in
2000 from $5.9 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, other operating
expenses increased to 2.4% in 2000 from 2.3% in 1999. Other operating expenses
consists of pallet cost, driver recruiting expenses, and administrative costs.
Primarily as a result of the foregoing, the Company's operating ratio
increased to 83.2% in 2000 compared with 82.9% in 1999.
Interest income (net) decreased $0.3 million (3.8%), to $5.7 million in
2000 from $6.0 million in 1999. The Company had $128.0 million in cash, cash
equivalents, and investments at December 31, 2000 compared with $126.7 million
at December 31, 1999. Interest income earned is primarily exempt from federal
taxes and therefore earned at a lower pre-tax rate.
The Company's effective tax rate was 34.0% in 2000 and 34.6% in 1999.
As a result of the foregoing, net income increased to $34.3 million in 2000
from $33.1 million in 1999. The net income for both periods was impacted by the
gain from the sale of fixed assets, primarily real estate.
Year Ended December 31, 1999 Compared With Year Ended December 31, 1998
Operating revenue decreased $2.5 million (0.9%), to $261.0 million in 1999
from $263.5 million in 1998. The Company's growth of operating revenues was
curtailed by the industry-wide shortage of experienced employee drivers and
independent contractors.
Salaries, wages, and benefits increased $8.3 million (15.9%), to $60.3
million in 1999 from $52.0 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue,
salaries, wages, and benefits increase to 23.1% in 1999 from 19.7% in 1998.
These increases are the result of increased reliance on employee drivers and a
corresponding decrease in miles driven by independent contractors. In addition,
the Company has increased employee driver pay three times since September 1,
1998. The increase in employee driver miles was attributable to internal growth
in the company tractor fleet. During 1999, employee drivers accounted for 51%
and independent contractors 49% of the total fleet miles, compared with 45% and
55%, respectively, in 1998.
Rent and purchased transportation decreased $9.8 million (9.7%), to $90.3
million in 1999 from $100.1 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, rent
and purchased transportation decreased to 34.6% in 1999 from 38.0% in 1998. This
reflected the Company's decreased reliance upon independent contractors. In
addition, an increased industry demand for independent contractors has negated
the Company's previous competitive advantage.
Operations and maintenance increased $4.1 million (15.7%), to $30.2 million
in 1999 from $26.1 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, operations and
maintenance decreased to 11.6% in 1999 from 9.9% in 1998. This increase is
attributable to an increase in fuel prices and increased reliance on the Company
owned fleet. The fuel cost per gallon steadily increased after the first quarter
of 1999 with heavy increases experienced in the fourth quarter of 1999.
9
Taxes and licenses decreased $0.2 million (3.5%), to $5.9 million in 1999
from $6.1 million 1998. As a percentage of revenue, taxes and licenses remained
constant at 2.3% in 1999 and in 1998.
Insurance and claims decreased $1.1 million (15.7%), to $5.7 million in
1999 from $6.8 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, insurance and claims
decreased to 2.2% in 1999 from 2.6% in 1998. The decrease was primarily
attributable to the favorable settlement of claims and the lessor severity of
incurred claims. Insurance and claims expense will vary as a percentage of
operating revenue from period to period based on the frequency and severity of
claims incurred in a given period as well as changes in claims development
trends.
Communications and utilities decreased $0.1 million (2.1%), to $2.6 million
in 1999 from $2.7 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, communications
and utilities remained constant at 1.0% in 1999 and in 1998.
Depreciation decreased $1.9 million (10.4%), to $16.2 million in 1999 from
$18.1 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation decreased to
6.2% in 1999 from 6.9% in 1998. The decrease resulted from the increase in the
number of trailers in the Company's fleet becoming fully depreciated.
Other operating expenses remained constant at $5.9 million in 1999 and in
1998. As a percentage of revenue, other operating expenses increased to 2.3% in
1999 from 2.2% in 1998. Other operating expenses consists of pallet cost, driver
recruiting expenses, goodwill, and administrative costs.
Primarily as a result of the foregoing, the Company's operating ratio was
82.9% in 1999 compared with 82.5% in 1998.
Interest income (net) increased $1.1 million (21.6%), to $6.0 million in
1999 from $4.9 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, interest income
increased to 2.3% in 1999 from 1.9% in 1998. The Company had $126.7 million in
cash, cash equivalents, and investments at December 31, 1999 compared with
$143.4 million at December 31, 1998. Interest income earned is primarily exempt
from federal taxes and therefore earned at a lower pre-tax rate.
The Company's effective tax rate was 34.6% in 1999 and 35% in 1998. This
decrease is primarily attributable to the increase in tax-exempt interest
earned.
As a result of the foregoing, net income remained constant at $33.1 million
in 1999 and in 1998.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The growth of the Company's business requires significant investments in
new revenue equipment. Historically the Company has been debt-free, financing
revenue equipment through cash flow from operations. The Company also obtains
tractor capacity by utilizing independent contractors, who provide a tractor and
bear all associated operating and financing expenses.
Cash and cash equivalents and investments increased to $128.0 million as of
December 31, 2000 from $126.7 million at December 31, 1999. The Company's policy
is to purchase only high quality liquid investments. Cash equivalents and
investments primarily consist of municipal demand bonds and municipal demand
bond funds.
Net cash provided by operations was $49.9 million in 2000, $45.6 million in
1999, and $52.7 million in 1998. The primary source of funds in 2000 was net
income of $34.3 million increased by non-cash adjustments, including
depreciation and amortization of $17.2 million.
Net investing activities consumed $34.1 million in 2000 and $17.7 million
in 1999, and generated $14.5 million in 1998. The primary use of cash in 2000
was $36.3 million for capital expenditures, including revenue equipment. The
Company expects to finance future growth in its company-owned fleet primarily
through cash flow from operations and cash equivalents currently on hand.
Net cash used in financing activities was $14.0 million in 2000, $45.1
million in 1999, and none in 1998. The 2000 financing activity was comprised
solely of the repurchase of approximately 1.1 million shares of the Company's
common stock.
10
Trade receivables increased to $24.9 million as of December 31, 2000 from
$23.5 million as of December 31, 1999 primarily due to a 5.7% increase in fourth
quarter operating revenue. Cash paid for income taxes decreased to $16.5 million
in 2000 from $16.6 million in 1999. Lower income taxes on a cash basis are
primarily due to increased interest income exempt from federal taxes.
Insurance accruals increased to $35.7 million as of December 31, 2000 from
$34.3 million as of December 31, 1999. The Company's insurance program for
liability, physical damage and cargo damage involves self-insurance retention
for the first $500,000 per claim. Claims in excess of the risk retention are
covered by insurance in amounts which management considers adequate. The Company
accrues the estimated cost of the uninsured portion of the pending claims. These
accruals are estimated based on management's evaluation of the nature and
severity of individual claims and estimate of future claims development based on
historical claim development trends. If adjustments to previously established
accruals are required, such amounts are included in operating expenses.
The Company has one customer who accounted for more than 10% of the
Company's revenue for the year ended December 31, 2000. As disclosed in footnote
two to the financial statements, historically a small number of customers
generate a substantial percentage of revenue. In 2000, the Company's largest
customer generated approximately 16% of operating revenue. The loss of a major
customer could negatively impact the Company. Any negative impact would be
mitigated by two factors: (1) the strong overall financial position of the
Company (no long term debt at December 31, 2000 and $128.0 million in cash and
cash equivalents) and (2) the flexibility inherent in having a substantial
percentage of fleet miles being generated by independent contractors who provide
their own tractors.
Based on the Company's strong financial position (current ratio of 3.1 and
no debt), management foresees no significant barriers to obtaining sufficient
financing, if necessary, to continue with growth plans.
Inflation and Fuel Cost
Most of the Company's operating expenses are inflation-sensitive, with
inflation generally producing increased costs of operations. During the past
three years, the most significant effects of inflation have been on revenue
equipment prices and the compensation paid to the drivers. Innovations in
equipment technology and comfort have resulted in higher tractor prices, and
there has been an industry-wide increase in wages paid to attract and retain
qualified drivers. The Company historically has limited the effects of inflation
through increases in freight rates and certain cost control efforts. In addition
to inflation, fluctuations in fuel prices can affect profitability. Most of the
Company's contracts with customers contain fuel surcharge provisions. Although
the Company historically has been able to pass through most long-term increases
in fuel prices and operating taxes to customers in the form of surcharges and
higher rates, shorter-term increases are not fully recovered.
Seasonality
The nature of the Company's primary traffic (appliances, automotive parts,
paper products, retail goods, and packaged foodstuffs) causes it to be
distributed with relative uniformity throughout the year. However, earnings have
historically been affected adversely during the fourth quarter as a result of
reduced shipments by customers during the winter holiday season. In addition,
the Company's operating expenses historically have been higher during the winter
months due to increased operating costs in colder weather and higher fuel
consumption due to increased engine idling.
Recent Pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS 133"). SFAS 133 establishes new
accounting and reporting standards for derivative financial instruments and for
hedging activities. SFAS 133, as amended, requires an entity to measure all
derivatives at fair value and to recognize them in the balance sheet as an asset
or liability, depending on the entity's rights or obligations under the
applicable derivative contract. The recognition of changes in fair value of a
derivative that affect the income statement will depend on the intended use of
the derivative. If the derivative does not qualify as a hedging instrument, the
gain or loss on the derivative will be recognized currently in earnings.
11
If the derivative qualifies for special hedge accounting, the gain or loss on
the derivative will either (1) be recognized in income along with an offsetting
adjustment to the basis of the item being hedged or (2) be deferred in other
comprehensive income and reclassified to earnings in the same period or periods
during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The Company has completed
its analysis of Statement 133 and does not expect adoption as of January 1, 2001
to have a material effect on results of operations or financial position.
Forward - Looking Information
Certain matters discussed in this annual report and marked with an asterisk
are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbors from
liability established by Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such
statements address future plans, objectives, expectations and events or
conditions concerning various matters such as capital expenditures, litigation,
liquidity and capital resources, and accounting matters. Actual results in each
case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such
statements.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company purchases only high quality liquid investments. Primarily all
investments as of December 31, 2000 have an original maturity of three months or
less. The Company holds all investments to maturity and therefore, is exposed to
minimal market risk related to its cash equivalents.
The Company has no debt outstanding as of December 31, 2000 and therefore,
has no market risk related to debt.
The Company does not engage in fuel hedging with financial instruments.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The Company's audited financial statements, including its consolidated
balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations, cash flows, and
stockholders' equity, and notes related thereto, are contained at pages 17 to 27
of this report. Selected quarterly data is contained at page 27. Such
information is incorporated by reference.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information respecting executive officers, directors, and director
nominee, set forth under the caption "Election of Directors-Information
Concerning Executive Officers and Directors" and "Compliance with Section 16(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934" on pages 2 through 4 and 6 of the
registrant's proxy statement relating to its 2001 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in
accordance with Rule 14a-6 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(the "Proxy Statement"), is incorporated by reference. With the exception of the
foregoing information and other information specifically incorporated by
reference into this Form 10-K report, the Proxy Statement is not being filed as
a part hereof.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information respecting executive compensation set forth under the
caption "Executive Compensation" on pages 4 and 5 of the Proxy Statement is
incorporated herein by reference; provided, however, that the "Board of
Directors' Report on Executive Compensation" is not incorporated by reference
here.
12
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information respecting security ownership of certain beneficial owners
and management included under the caption "Principal Stockholders and
Stockholdings of Management" on page 7 of the Proxy Statement is incorporated
herein by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information respecting certain relationships and transactions of
management set forth under the captions "Board of Directors Interlocks and
Insider Participation / Certain Transactions and Relationships" on page 4 of the
Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) 1. Financial Statements and Schedules
The Company's audited financial statements are set forth on the
following pages of this report:
Page
Report of Independent Public Accountants................................. 17
Consolidated Balance Sheets.............................................. 18
Consolidated Statements of Operations.................................... 19
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity.......................... 20
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.................................... 21
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... 22-27
(a) 2. Financial Statement Schedule
Page
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves........................... 27
(a) 3. Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed below.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
A Form 8-K was filed on February 28, 2000, pertaining to the repurchase
of 1,093,669 shares of the Company's outstanding common stock.
(c) Exhibits
13
Exhibit No. Document Page of Method of Filing
3.1 Articles of Incorporation Incorporated by reference to the
Company's registration statement
on Form S-1, Registration No.
33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
3.2 Bylaws Incorporated by reference to the
Company's registration statement
on Form S-1, Registration No.
33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
3.3 Certificate of Amendment to Incorporated by reference to the
Articles of Incorporation Company's Form 10-QA, for the
quarter ended June 30, 1997, dated
March 26, 1998.
4.1 Articles of Incorporation Incorporated by reference to the
Company's registration statement
on Form S-1, Registration No.
33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
4.2 Bylaws Incorporated by reference to the
Company's registration statement
on Form S-1, Registration No.
33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
4.3 Certificate of Amendment to Incorporated by reference to the
Articles of Incorporation Company's Form 10-QA, for the
quarter ended June 30, 1997, dated
March 26, 1998.
9.1 Voting Trust Agreement dated Incorporated by reference to the
June 6, 1997 between Larry Company's Form 10-K for the year
Crouse as trustee under the ended December 31, 1997. Commission
Gerdin Educational Trusts file no. 0-15087.
and Larry Crouse voting
trustee.
10.1 Business Property Lease Incorporated by reference to the
between Russell A. Gerdin Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter
as Lessor and the Company ended September 30, 2000. Commission
as Lessee, regarding the file no. 0-15087.
Company's headquarters at
2777 Heartland Drive,
Coralville, Iowa 52241
10.2 Form of Independent Incorporated by reference to the
Contractor Operating Company's Form 10-K for the year
Agreement between the ended December 31, 1993. Commission
Company and its independent file no. 0-15087.
contractor providers of
tractors.
10.3 Description of Key Management Incorporated by reference to the
Deferred Incentive Compen- Company's Form 10-K for the year
sation Arrangement. ended December 31, 1993. Commission
file no. 0-15087.
21 Subsidiaries of the
Registrant Filed herewith.
27 Financial Data Schedule Filed herewith.
14
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act
of 1934, the registrant has duly caused the report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
Date: March 26, 2001 By: /s/ Russell A. Gerdin
Russell A. Gerdin
President and Secretary
Pursuant to the Securities Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the
following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities and on the dates
indicated.
Signature Title Date
/s/ Russell A. Gerdin Chairman, President and Chief Executive
Russell A. Gerdin Officer (Principal Executive Officer),
Secretary March 26, 2001
/s/ John P. Cosaert Vice President of Finance (Principal
John P. Cosaert Financial Officer and Principal
Accounting Officer) and Treasurer March 26, 2001
/s/ Richard O. Jacobson Director
Richard O.Jacobson March 26, 2001
/s/ Michael J. Gerdin Director
Michael J. Gerdin March 26, 2001
/s/ Benjamin J. Allen Director
Benjamin J. Allen March 26, 2001
/s/ Lawrence D. Crouse Director
Lawrence D. Crouse March 26, 2001
15
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT
PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and
Stockholders of Heartland Express, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Heartland
Express, Inc. (a Nevada corporation) and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2000
and 1999, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders'
equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 2000. These financial statements and schedule referred to below are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted
in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free
of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Heartland Express,
Inc. and Subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2000 and 1999, and the results of
their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 2000 in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States.
Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic
financial statements taken as a whole. Schedule II is presented for purposes of
complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and is not part of
the basic financial statements. This schedule has been subjected to the auditing
procedures applied in the audits of the basic financial statements and, in our
opinion, fairly state in all material respects the financial data required to be
set forth therein in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a
whole.
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
January 19, 2001
16
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
----------------------------
ASSETS 2000 1999
------------ -------------
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents ..................... $128,027,076 $126,211,056
Trade receivable, less allowance:
$402,812 at both 2000 and 1999 ............. 24,954,681 23,478,708
Prepaid tires and tubes ....................... 3,780,644 1,655,018
Investments ................................... -- 500,000
Deferred income taxes ......................... 16,846,000 15,979,000
Other current assets .......................... 328,273 359,472
------------ ------------
Total current assets ....................... 173,936,674 168,183,254
------------ ------------
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Land and land improvements .................... 3,237,875 3,701,400
Buildings ..................................... 8,532,621 9,740,487
Furniture and fixtures ........................ 2,604,400 2,611,166
Shop and service equipment .................... 1,459,862 1,563,485
Revenue equipment ............................. 129,572,317 121,822,991
------------ ------------
145,407,075 139,439,529
Less accumulated depreciation.................. 56,329,103 66,533,949
------------ ------------
Property and equipment, net.................... 89,077,972 72,905,580
------------ ------------
OTHER ASSETS .................................... 5,040,358 5,404,707
------------ ------------
$268,055,004 $246,493,541
============ ============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities ...... $ 6,712,053 $ 10,595,662
Compensation and benefits ..................... 5,132,589 4,225,023
Income taxes payable .......................... 4,618,882 4,974,341
Insurance accruals ............................ 35,657,944 34,285,500
Other accruals ................................ 3,308,925 2,427,464
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities ................... 55,430,393 56,507,990
------------ ------------
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES ............................ 17,491,000 15,146,000
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, par value $.01; authorized
5,000,000 shares; none issued .................. -- --
Common stock, par value $.01; authorized
395,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding
25,366,582 in 2000 and 26,460,251 in 1999 ...... 253,666 264,603
Additional paid-in capital ..................... 6,608,170 6,608,170
Retained earnings .............................. 188,271,775 167,966,778
------------ ------------
195,133,611 174,839,551
------------ ------------
$268,055,004 $246,493,541
============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
17
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Years Ended December 31,
---------------------------------------------
2000 1999 1998
------------- ------------- -------------
Operating revenue .............. $ 274,827,551 $ 261,004,122 $ 263,489,156
------------- ------------- -------------
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and benefits 73,846,541 60,258,431 51,994,959
Rent and purchased
transportation ............ 75,190,893 90,337,083 100,089,165
Operations and maintenance .. 42,650,757 30,167,446 26,072,323
Taxes and licenses .......... 5,952,448 5,934,644 6,150,407
Insurance and claims ........ 6,706,247 5,742,167 6,809,819
Communications and utilities 2,952,394 2,628,494 2,684,310
Depreciation ................ 16,284,550 16,215,587 18,107,708
Other operating expenses .... 6,505,174 5,941,411 5,871,671
Gain on sale of fixed assets (1,511,587) (927,548) (332,255)
------------- ------------- -------------
228,577,417 216,297,715 217,448,107
------------- ------------- -------------
Operating income ............ 46,250,134 44,706,407 46,041,049
Interest income ................ 5,725,551 5,952,741 4,895,651
------------- ------------- -------------
Income before income taxes .. 51,975,685 50,659,148 50,936,700
Income taxes ................... 17,671,725 17,535,710 17,827,847
------------- ------------- -------------
Net income .................. $ 34,303,960 $ 33,123,438 $ 33,108,853
============= ============= =============
Basic earnings per share ....... $ 1.34 $ 1.13 $ 1.10
============= ============= =============
Basic weighted average shares
outstanding .................... 25,539,896 29,359,936 30,000,000
============= ============= =============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
18
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Capital Additional
Stock, Paid-In Retained
Common Capital Earnings Total
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 $ 300,000 $ 6,608,170 $ 146,830,890 $ 153,739,060
Net income ............... -- -- 33,108,853 33,108,853
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Balance, December 31, 1998 300,000 6,608,170 # 179,939,743 # 186,847,913
Repurchase of common stock (35,397) -- (45,096,403) (45,131,800)
Net income ............... -- -- 33,123,438 33,123,438
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Balance, December 31, 1999 264,603 6,608,170 167,966,778 174,839,551
Repurchase of common stock (10,937) -- (13,998,963) (14,009,900)
Net income ............... -- -- 34,303,960 34,303,960
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Balance, December 31, 2000 $ 253,666 $ 6,608,170 $ 188,271,775 $ 195,133,611
============= ============= ============= =============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
19
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31,
----------------------------------------------
2000 1999 1998
-------------- -------------- --------------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income ............................................... $ 34,303,960 $ 33,123,438 $ 33,108,853
Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating
activities:
Depreciation and amortization ......................... 17,217,526 17,312,033 19,227,213
Deferred income taxes ................................. 1,478,000 (467,000) (426,000)
Gain on sale of fixed assets .......................... (1,511,587) (906,600) (272,893)
Changes in certain working capital items:
Trade receivable .................................... (1,475,973) (2,087,502) 2,856,101
Prepaids ............................................ (2,125,626) (851,922) 502,214
Other current assets ................................ 31,199 (53,330) (769,666)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses ............... 2,349,670 (1,851,091) (844,817)
Accrued income taxes ................................ (355,459) 1,395,840 (645,649)
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash provided by operating activities ................ 49,911,710 45,613,866 52,735,356
------------- ------------- -------------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment ............. 2,163,324 1,585,623 483,668
Capital additions ........................................ (36,335,347) (18,613,595) (5,511,705)
Net maturities (purchases) of municipal bonds ............ 500,000 (500,000) 19,769,765
Other .................................................... (413,767) (177,632) (282,912)
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash provided (used in) by investing activities ...... (34,085,790) (17,705,604) 14,458,816
------------- ------------- -------------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repurchase of common stock ............................... (14,009,900) (45,131,800) --
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in financing activities .................... (14,009,900) (45,131,800) --
------------- ------------- -------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ..... 1,816,020 (17,223,538) 67,194,172
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Beginning of year ........................................ 126,211,056 143,434,594 76,240,422
------------- ------------- -------------
End of year .............................................. $ 128,027,076 $ 126,211,056 $ 143,434,594
============= ============= =============
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for:
Income taxes .......................................... $ 16,549,184 $ 16,606,870 $ 18,899,496
Noncash investing activities:
Book value of revenue equipment traded ................ $ 12,202,753 $ 4,868,860 $ 9,658,636
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
20
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1. Nature of business and Significant Accounting Policies
Nature of Business:
Heartland Express, Inc., (the "Company") is a short-to-medium-haul, irregular
route, truckload carrier of general commodities. The Company's primary traffic
lanes are between customer locations east of the Rocky Mountains, with selected
service to the West. The Company operates the business as one reportable
segment.
Significant Accounting Policies:
Principles of Consolidation:
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company,
Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned.
All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.
Use of Estimates:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with original
maturities of three months or less.
Investments:
Substantially all investments represent municipal bonds or municipal bond funds
with a maturity of one year or less. These investments are held to maturity and
stated at amortized cost. Investment income received is generally exempt from
federal income taxes.
Revenue and Expense Recognition:
Operating revenues are recognized on the date the freight is delivered and
expenses are recognized as incurred.
Property and Equipment:
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed by the
straight-line method for all assets other than tractors, which are depreciated
by the 125% declining balance method. Trailers are depreciated to a salvage
value of up to 30% based upon when they were put in service. Historically, we
have assumed no salvage value for tractors. For revenue equipment purchased
after January 1, 2000 the trailers are depreciated with a $6,000 salvage value
and the tractors with a $15,000 salvage value. Lives of the assets are as
follows:
21
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years
Land improvements and building 3-30
Furniture and fixtures 2-3
Shop and service equipment 3-5
Revenue equipment 5-7
Tires and Tubes:
The cost of tires and tubes on new revenue equipment is carried as a prepayment
and amortized over the estimated tire life of two years. Replacement tires
(including recapped tires) are expensed when purchased.
Earnings Per Share:
Basic earnings per share is based upon the weighted average common shares
outstanding during each year. Diluted earnings per share is based upon the
weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding during each
year. Heartland has no common stock equivalents.
Note 2. Concentrations of Credit Risk and Major Customers
The Company's major customers represent the consumer goods, appliances, food
products and automotive industries. Credit is usually granted to customers on an
unsecured basis. The Company's five largest customers accounted for 35%, 34%,
and 35% of revenues for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999, and 1998,
respectively. Operating revenue from one customer exceeded 10% of total gross
revenues in 2000, 1999 and 1998. Annual revenues for this customer were $43.0
million, $37.0 million, and $37.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2000,
1999, and 1998, respectively.
22
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 3. Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes are determined based upon the differences between the
financial reporting and tax basis of the Company's assets and liabilities.
Deferred taxes are provided at the enacted tax rates to be in effect when the
differences reverse.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are as follows:
2000 1999
------------ ------------
Deferred income tax liabilities,
related to property and equipment ... $ 17,491,000 $ 15,146,000
============ ============
Deferred income tax assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts .... $ 153,000 $ 153,000
Accrued expenses ................... 2,219,000 1,999,000
Insurance accruals ................. 13,262,000 12,724,000
Other .............................. 1,212,000 1,103,000
------------ ------------
Deferred income tax assets ......... $ 16,846,000 $ 15,979,000
============ ============
The income tax provision is as follows:
2000 1999 1998
------------ ------------ ------------
Current income taxes:
Federal ............................... $ 14,846,728 $ 17,008,402 $ 16,983,674
State ................................. 1,346,997 994,308 1,270,173
------------ ------------ ------------
$ 16,193,725 $ 18,002,710 $ 18,253,847
------------ ------------ ------------
Deferred income taxes:
Federal ............................... $ 1,574,000 $ (448,320) $ (408,960)
State ................................. (96,000) (18,680) (17,040)
------------ ------------ ------------
$ 1,478,000 $ (467,000) $ (426,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
Total ................................. $ 17,671,725 $ 17,535,710 $ 17,827,847
============ ============ ============
23
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The income tax provision differs from the amount determined by applying the U.S.
federal tax rate as follows:
2000 1999 1998
------------ ------------ ------------
Federal tax at statutory rate (35%) $ 18,191,490 $ 17,730,702 $ 17,827,845
State taxes, net of federal benefit 876,000 646,000 826,000
Non-taxable interest income (1,725,000) (1,545,000) (1,398,000)
Other 329,235 704,008 572,002
------------ ------------ ------------
$ 17,671,725 $ 17,535,710 $ 17,827,847
============ ============ ============
Note 4. Related Party Transactions
The Company leases two office buildings and a storage building from its
president under a lease which provided for monthly rentals of $24,969 plus the
payment of all property taxes, insurance and maintenance. The lease expires May
31, 2005 and contains a five-year renewal option.
The total minimum rental commitment under the building lease is as follows:
Year Ending December 31:
2001 $ 299,625
2002 $ 299,625
2003 $ 299,625
2004 $ 299,625
2005 $ 124,844
-----------
$ 1,323,344
===========
Rent expense paid to the Company's president totaled $292,281 for the year ended
December 31, 2000 and $282,000 for the years ended December 31, 1999, and 1998.
The Company also maintains cash accounts with a bank owned by the Company's
president.
Note 5. Accident and Workers' Compensation Claims
Accident and workers' compensation claims include the estimated settlements,
settlement expenses and an allowance for claims incurred but not yet reported
for property damage, personal injury and public liability losses from vehicle
accidents and cargo losses as well as workers' compensation claims for amounts
not covered by insurance.
Accrued claims are determined based on estimates of the ultimate cost of
settling reported and unreported claims, including expected settlement expenses.
Such estimates are based on management's evaluation of the nature and severity
of individual claims and an estimate of future claims development based on
historical claims development trends. Since the reported liability is an
estimate, the ultimate liability may be more or less than reported. If
adjustments to previously established accruals are required, such amounts are
included in operating expenses.
24
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company acts as a self-insurer for liability up to $500,000 for any single
occurrence involving cargo, personal injury or property damage. Liability in
excess of this amount is assumed by an insurance underwriter.
The Company acts as a self-insurer for workers' compensation liability up to a
maximum liability of $300,000 per claim. Liability in excess of this amount is
assumed by an insurance underwriter. The State of Iowa has required the Company
to deposit $700,000 into a trust fund as part of the self-insurance program.
This deposit has been classified with other long-term assets on the balance
sheet. In addition, the Company has provided its insurance carriers with letters
of credit and deposits of approximately $5.7 million in connection with its
liability and workers' compensation insurance arrangements.
Note 6. Stockholders' Equity
On October 26, 1999 the Company purchased 3,539,749 shares of its common stock
for $45,131,800 and 1,093,669 shares of its common stock for $14,009,900 on
February 28, 2000. The shares have been reported as retired in the accompanying
financial statements.
Note 7. Profit Sharing Plan and Retirement Plan
The Company has a profit sharing plan with 401(k) plan features whereby the
Company may make contributions to the plan at its discretion. Individual
employees may make voluntary contributions to the plan. Company contributions
totaled $255,000, $501,000, and $675,000, for the years ended December 31, 2000,
1999 and 1998, respectively.
25
HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 8. Commitments and Contingencies
Various claims and legal actions are pending against the Company. In
management's opinion, the resolution of these matters will not materially impact
the Company's financial condition or results of operations.
Note 9. Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
First Second Third Fourth
------- ------- ------- -------
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
Year ended December 31, 2000
Operating revenue ................ $67,190 $69,262 $68,107 $70,269
Operating income ................. 12,529 12,121 11,119 10,481
Income before income taxes........ 13,852 13,450 12,712 11,962
Net income ....................... 9,142 8,877 8,390 7,895
Basic earnings per share ......... 0.35 0.35 0.33 0.31
Year end December 31, 1999
Operating revenue ................ $63,097 $66,094 $65,351 $66,462
Operating income ................. 10,159 11,483 11,582 11,483
Income before income taxes........ 11,638 13,002 13,126 12,893
Net income ....................... 7,564 8,517 8,598 8,445
Basic earnings per share ......... 0.25 0.28 0.29 0.31
SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E
- -------------------------------- ---------- ------------------- ---------- ---------
Charges To
-------------------
Balance At Cost Balance
Beginning And Other At End
Description of Period Expense Accounts Deductions of Period
- -------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- ---------- ---------
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended December 31, 2000 $402,812 $251,555 $ -- $251,555 $402,812
Year ended December 31, 1999 $402,812 $ 4,147 $ -- $ 4,147 $402,812
Year ended December 31, 1998 $491,971 $ 37,078 $ -- $126,237 $402,812
26
Exhibit No. 21
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
Heartland Express, Inc. Parent
A & M Express, Inc. Subsidiary
Heartland Equipment, Inc. Subsidiary
Heartland Express, Inc. of Iowa Subsidiary
27