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UNIVERSAL LOGISTICS HOLDINGS, INC. - Quarter Report: 2009 September (Form 10-Q)

Form 10-Q

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

(Mark One)

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 26, 2009

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: 0-120510

 

 

UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

 

 

Michigan   38-3640097

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

12755 E. Nine Mile Road

Warren, Michigan 48089

(Address, including Zip Code of Principal Executive Offices)

(586) 920-0100

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

N/A

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

 

Indicate 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 whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨    Accelerated filer   x
Non-accelerated filer   ¨    Smaller reporting company   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

The number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, outstanding as of October 26, 2009 was 15,980,483.

 

 

 


PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets

September 26, 2009 and December 31, 2008

(In thousands, except share data)

 

     September 26, 2009     December 31, 2008  
Assets     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1,298      $ 28,767   

Marketable securities

     15,960        8,808   

Accounts receivable – net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,379 and $4,486, respectively

     64,242        70,590   

Prepaid income taxes

     387        —     

Prepaid expenses and other

     2,972        4,189   

Deferred income taxes

     3,658        5,759   
                

Total current assets

     88,517        118,113   
                

Property and equipment

     107,242        87,305   

Less accumulated depreciation

     (30,716     (25,971
                

Property and equipment – net

     76,526        61,334   
                

Goodwill

     13,263        11,891   

Intangible assets – net of accumulated amortization of $11,596 and $9,260, respectively

     14,686        16,682   

Other assets

     4,796        3,527   
                

Total assets

   $ 197,788      $ 211,547   
                
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity     

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 23,268      $ 20,219   

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     16,526        19,421   

Income taxes payable

     —          365   

Due to CenTra and affiliates

     90        35   
                

Total current liabilities

     39,884        40,040   

Long-term liabilities:

    

Long-term debt

     730        820   

Deferred income taxes

     3,935        5,351   

Other long-term liabilities

     468        859   
                

Total long-term liabilities

     5,133        7,030   
                

Shareholders’ equity:

    

Common stock, no par value. Authorized 40,000,000 shares; 16,122,483 shares issued; 15,980,483 and 16,007,383 shares outstanding at September 26, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively

     16,122        16,122   

Paid-in capital

     79,914        79,914   

Treasury Stock, at cost; 142,000 and 115,100 shares at September 26, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively

     (2,058     (1,703

Retained earnings

     58,058        70,898   

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes

     735        (754
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     152,771        164,477   
                

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 197,788      $ 211,547   
                

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

2


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income

September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended     Thirty-nine Weeks Ended  
     2009     2008     2009     2008  

Operating revenues:

        

Truckload

   $ 81,839      $ 122,053      $ 225,620      $ 340,288   

Brokerage

     27,942        60,190        81,819        154,113   

Intermodal

     18,677        30,751        55,942        88,148   
                                

Total operating revenues

     128,458        212,994        363,381        582,549   
                                

Operating expenses:

        

Purchased transportation

     96,905        168,219        271,937        455,596   

Commissions expense

     8,677        12,637        24,339        35,380   

Other operating expense

     2,393        2,129        6,895        7,006   

Selling, general, and administrative

     10,935        13,223        33,378        38,755   

Insurance and claims

     4,084        5,453        13,107        16,916   

Depreciation and amortization

     2,583        2,531        7,721        7,122   
                                

Total operating expenses

     125,577        204,192        357,377        560,775   
                                

Income from operations

     2,881        8,802        6,004        21,774   

Interest income

     28        63        71        129   

Interest expense

     (164     (16     (204     (63

Other non-operating income (expense)

     (17     2        (837     (1,779
                                

Income before provision for income taxes

     2,728        8,851        5,034        20,061   

Provision for income taxes

     1,029        3,445        1,891        7,808   
                                

Net income

   $ 1,699      $ 5,406      $ 3,143      $ 12,253   
                                

Earnings per common share:

        

Basic

   $ 0.11      $ 0.34      $ 0.20      $ 0.76   

Diluted

   $ 0.11      $ 0.34      $ 0.20      $ 0.76   

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     15,980        16,088        15,983        16,088   

Diluted

     15,980        16,106        15,983        16,088   

Dividends paid per common share

   $ —        $ —        $ 1.00      $ —     
                                

Other-than-temporary impairment losses:

        

Total other-than-temporary impairment losses

   $ 126      $ 495      $ 1,258      $ 2,717   

Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income

     —          —          —          —     
                                

Net impairment loss recognized in earnings

   $ 126      $ 495      $ 1,258      $ 2,717   
                                

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

3


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Thirty-nine Weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008

(In thousands)

 

     2009     2008  

Cash flows from operating activities:

    

Net income

   $ 3,143      $ 12,253   

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

    

Depreciation and amortization

     7,721        7,122   

Other-than-temporary impairment of marketable securities

     1,258        2,717   

Losses (gains) on disposal of property and equipment

     133        (50

Gains on disposal of marketable securities

     —          (303

Bad debt expense

     1,626        1,012   

Deferred income taxes

     (232     (1,018

Change in assets and liabilities:

    

Accounts receivable and due from CenTra and affiliates

     4,722        (17,835

Prepaid income taxes, expenses, and other assets

     (439     (1,186

Total current and other long-term liabilities

     (477     4,854   
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     17,455        7,566   
                

Cash flows from investing activities:

    

Capital expenditures

     (20,554     (5,639

Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment

     418        366   

Purchases of marketable securities

     (6,004     (12,480

Proceeds from sale of marketable securities

     —          15,428   

Payment of earnout obligations related to acquisitions

     (390     (551

Acquisition of businesses

     (2,056     (4,253
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (28,586     (7,129
                

Cash flows from financing activities:

    

Dividends paid

     (15,983     —     

Purchases of treasury stock

     (355     (85
                

Net cash used in financing activities

     (16,338     (85
                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (27,469     352   

Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period

     28,767        5,416   
                

Cash and cash equivalents – end of period

   $ 1,298      $ 5,768   
                

Supplemental cash flow information:

    

Cash paid for interest

   $ 51      $ 63   
                

Cash paid for income taxes

   $ 2,919      $ 10,107   
                

Acquisition of businesses:

    

Fair value of assets acquired, including goodwill

   $ 2,270      $ 4,433   

Payment of acquisition obligations

     —          500   

Acquisition obligations

     (214     (680
                

Acquisition of businesses

   $ 2,056      $ 4,253   
                

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

4


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Continued

Thirty-nine Weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008

Non-cash financing transactions (Note 3):

During the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008, the Company recorded the forgiveness of the loan from the County of Cuyahoga of $90,000 as a reduction of the loan and as a reduction of the underlying land improvements.

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

5


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

(1) Basis of Presentation

Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Universal Truckload Services, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, or the Company or UTSI, have been prepared by the Company’s management. In the opinion of management, the unaudited consolidated financial statements include all normal recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly the information required to be set forth therein. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted from these statements pursuant to such rules and regulations and, accordingly, should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008 in the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires the use of management’s estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The Company’s fiscal year ends on December 31. The Company’s fiscal year consists of four quarters, each with thirteen weeks.

(2) Transactions with CenTra and Affiliates

Through December 31, 2004, UTSI was a wholly owned subsidiary of CenTra, Inc, or CenTra. On December 31, 2004, CenTra distributed all of UTSI’s common stock to the sole shareholders of CenTra, Matthew T. Moroun and a trust controlled by Manuel J. Moroun, collectively the Morouns. Subsequent to the initial public offering in 2005, the Morouns retained and continue to hold a controlling interest in UTSI.

CenTra provides management services to UTSI, including legal, human resources, and tax services. The cost of these services is based on the estimated utilization of the specific services and allocated to the Company. Management believes the allocation method is reasonable. However, the costs of these services charged to UTSI are not necessarily indicative of the costs that would have been incurred if UTSI had internally performed or acquired these services as a separate unaffiliated entity. The amounts charged to UTSI for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008 are presented in the table below.

In addition to the management services described above, UTSI purchases other services from CenTra. Following is a schedule of the costs incurred for services provided by CenTra (in thousands):

 

     Thirteen weeks ended    Thirty-nine weeks ended
     September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008
   September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008

Management services

   $ 243    $ 79    $ 717    $ 236

Building & terminal rents

     156      239      496      671

Maintenance services

     22      19      36      19

Trailer rents

     —        —        —        16

Health insurance

     726      460      2,270      1,461
                           

Total

   $ 1,147    $ 797    $ 3,519    $ 2,403
                           

 

6


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(2) Transactions with CenTra and Affiliates - continued

 

An affiliate of CenTra charged UTSI $3,050,000 and $4,221,000 for personal liability and property damage insurance for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008, respectively. Charges for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008 were $8,616,000 and $11,919,000, respectively.

No freight services were provided to CenTra for the thirteen or thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009. Operating revenues from such services for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008 were approximately $62,000 and $200,000, respectively.

Purchased transportation for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008 includes $0 and $1,769,000, respectively, of transportation services provided by CenTra to CrossRoad Carriers, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Charges for such services included in purchased transportation for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008 were $2,000 and $5,282,000, respectively.

As of September 26, 2009 and December 31, 2008, amounts due to CenTra and affiliates were $90,000 and $35,000, respectively. Additionally, as of December 31, 2008, included in accounts payable were amounts due to CenTra of $156,000. There were no amounts included in accounts payable due to CenTra as of September 26, 2009.

In June 2009, the Company closed on the purchase of property located in South Kearny, NJ with Crown Enterprises, Inc., a related party, for $15.2 million. The Company used this location to consolidate the local operations of two of its operating subsidiaries, and is currently expanding its operations in the Port of New Jersey area.

(3) Debt

The Company and KeyBank National Association, or KeyBank, entered into a First Amendment to Loan Agreement and First Amendment to Promissory Note, or the Agreement, dated October 28, 2008 for the period October 28, 2008 to October 27, 2009, amending the previous loan agreement dated October 29, 2007 for the period October 29, 2007 to October 28, 2008, which terminated due to the expiration of its term (see Note 12). Under the amended Agreement with KeyBank, the Company’s maximum permitted borrowings and letters of credit in the aggregate may not exceed $20 million. The line of credit is unsecured, and bears interest at a rate equal to the lesser of the Prime Rate minus 1.75% or LIBOR plus 1.05% (effective rate of 1.50% at September 26, 2009). The Agreement governing the Company’s unsecured line of credit contains various financial and restrictive covenants to be maintained by the Company including requiring it to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $100 million, a debt to tangible net worth ratio not to exceed 1 to 1, and quarterly net profits of at least one dollar. For purposes of this Agreement, tangible net worth is defined as total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less total debt. The Agreement also may, in certain circumstances, limit the Company’s ability to pay dividends or distributions. The Agreement also contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. As of September 26, 2009, the Company was in compliance with its debt covenants. The Company did not have any amounts outstanding under its line of credit at September 26, 2009 or December 31, 2008, and there were $761,000 and $839,000 letters of credit issued against the line, respectively.

 

7


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(3) Debt - continued

 

On May 1, 2006, UTS Realty, LLC, or Realty, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, received a $1,000,000 loan from the County of Cuyahoga, Ohio, or the County, to be used for improvements to its Cleveland, Ohio container storage facility. The loan agreement requires quarterly interest payments at an annual rate of 5.0%. Through January 31, 2011, subject to certain conditions, the County will forgive a total of $450,000 of the principal amount owed. On January 31, 2007, the Company began recording the forgiveness as a reduction in the cost of the underlying improvements at a rate of $90,000 per annum. The remaining principal of $550,000 is due at maturity. As of September 26, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the outstanding balance under the loan was $730,000 and $820,000, respectively. The loan matures on January 31, 2011; however, at Realty’s option, the maturity date may be extended until January 31, 2021. In connection with this loan, Realty and the Company entered into an environmental indemnity agreement with the County and the Company issued a $730,000 standby letter of credit that expires February 14, 2010. Under the terms of the environmental indemnity agreement, Realty and the Company have agreed to indemnify the County, without limitation, against any loss attributable to the generation, storage, release or presence of Regulated Materials, as defined in the environmental indemnity agreement, at the container storage facility. In connection with the acquisition of the Cleveland, Ohio property in August 2005, Realty received indemnity from the seller from any and all claims, which Realty may incur as a direct consequence of any environmental condition of which the seller had actual knowledge as of the date of the acquisition of the property. The Company believes the fair value of this debt approximates the carrying value based on current rates available for similar issues.

(4) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per common share amounts are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, and diluted earnings per share amounts are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the incremental shares that would have been outstanding upon the assumed exercise of all dilutive stock options.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the number of average common shares outstanding used to calculate basic earnings per share to the weighted average number of common shares and common share equivalents outstanding used in calculating diluted earnings per share (in thousands):

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended    Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
     September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008
   September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008

Weighted average number of common shares

   15,980    16,088    15,983    16,088

Incremental shares from assumed exercise of stock options

   —      18    —      —  
                   

Weighted average number of common shares and common share equivalents

   15,980    16,106    15,983    16,088
                   

For both the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009, 190,000 options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because such options were anti-dilutive. For the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008, 190,000 options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because such options were anti-dilutive.

 

8


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(5) Stock Based Compensation

In December 2004, UTSI’s board of directors adopted the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan, or the Plan, which became effective upon completion of the Company’s initial public offering. The Plan allows for the issuance of a total of 500,000 shares. The grants may be made in the form of restricted stock bonuses, restricted stock purchase rights, stock options, phantom stock units, restricted stock units, performance share bonuses, performance share units or stock appreciation rights. On February 11, 2005, UTSI granted 260,000 options to certain of its employees. The stock options granted vested immediately, have a life of seven years and have an exercise price of $22.50 per share. Prior to January 1, 2006, the Company accounted for stock options issued under the Plan pursuant to the recognition and measurement principles of APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. No stock-based employee compensation was reflected in net income prior to fiscal year 2006, as all options granted under the Plan had an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. The intrinsic value of all outstanding options as of September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008 was $0 and $378,000, respectively.

The following table summarizes the stock option activity and related information for the period indicated:

 

     Options    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Balance at January 1, 2009

   190,000    $ 22.50

Granted

   —        —  

Exercised

   —        —  

Expired

   —        —  

Forfeited

   —        —  
           

Balance at September 26, 2009

   190,000    $ 22.50
           

Exercisable

   190,000    $ 22.50
           

(6) Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income includes the following (in thousands):

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended    Thirty-nine Weeks Ended  
     September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008
   September 26,
2009
   September 27,
2008
 

Net income

   $ 1,699    $ 5,406    $ 3,143    $ 12,253   

Other comprehensive income:

           

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments arising during the period, net of tax

     3,521      65      704      (1,256

Reclassification adjustment for losses on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income, net of tax

     77      192      785      1,547   
                             

Net gain recognized in other comprehensive income

     3,598      257      1,489      291   
                             

Total comprehensive income

   $ 5,297    $ 5,663    $ 4,632    $ 12,544   
                             

 

9


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(6) Comprehensive Income (Loss) – (continued)

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at September 26, 2009 of $735,000 represents the net unrealized holding gains on available–for-sale investments of $1,177,000 net of related income tax expense of $442,000. At September 26, 2009, the gross unrealized holding gains and gross unrealized holding losses on available-for-sale investments were $1,551,000 and $374,000, respectively.

Accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2008 of $754,000 represents the net unrealized holding losses on available–for-sale investments of $1,229,000, net of related income tax benefit of $475,000. At December 31, 2008, the gross unrealized holding gains and gross unrealized holding losses on available-for-sale investments were $327,000 and $1,556,000, respectively.

(7) Acquisitions

In 2009, UTSI acquired the following companies for a total cost of $2,270,000:

On July 27, 2009, the Company acquired certain assets of the David Ohlrich Agency, or Ohlrich, for $285,000 through a Limited Asset Purchase Agreement. Ohlrich is a regional provider of flat bed services throughout the Southwestern United States. The Company used cash and cash equivalents to finance the acquisition. Pursuant to the acquisition, Ohlrich operates as part of Louisiana Transportation, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

On August 17, 2009, the Company acquired certain assets utilized in the operations of Pacer Transport, Inc., or Pacer Transport, and two of its subsidiaries, S&H Transport, Inc. and S&H Leasing, Inc., based in Desoto, Texas through a Limited Asset Purchase Agreement for approximately $2.0 million. Pacer Transport was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacer International, Inc. Pacer Transport is a provider of flatbed, van, and specialized heavy-haul equipment services throughout the United States. The Company used cash and cash equivalents to finance the acquisition. Pursuant to the acquisition, Pacer Transport operates as part of Universal Am-Can, Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

The pro forma effect of these acquisitions has been omitted, as the effect is immaterial to the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):

 

Equipment

   $ 670

Intangible assets

     339

Goodwill (tax deductible)

     1,261
      
   $ 2,270
      

The intangible assets acquired represent the acquired company’s customer relationships and are amortized over a period of seven years.

Goodwill represents the expected synergies to be achieved through the integration of the acquired companies into UTSI, and intangible assets that do not qualify for separate accounting recognition under generally accepted accounting principles.

The operating results of the acquired companies have been included in the unaudited consolidated statements of income since their respective acquisition dates; however, they have not been separately disclosed as they are deemed immaterial.

 

10


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(8) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2009, the Company adopted the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC. The ASC does not alter current generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP, but rather identifies the ASC as the single source of authoritative GAAP for nongovernmental entities and supersedes all other previously issued non-SEC accounting and reporting guidance. Following this Statement, the FASB will no longer issue new standards in the form of Statements, FASB Staff Positions, or Emerging Issues Task Force Abstracts, but will provide additional guidance and amendments to the ASC in the form of Accounting Standards Updates, or ASU. The adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

In January 2009, the Company adopted the revisions to accounting standards issued by the FASB related to accounting for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting which are included in Topic 805 “Business Combinations”. This revised guidance changes the accounting and financial reporting for business combinations by requiring, among other things, that: upon initially obtaining control, the acquirer record 100% of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed even when less than 100% of the target is acquired; all transaction costs be expensed as incurred; and, a liability for contingent purchase price obligations (earn-outs), if any, be recorded at the acquisition date and remeasured at fair value and included in earnings in each subsequent reporting period. The application of this standard has not had a significant effect of the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, and has been applicable prospectively to the Company’s 2009 business combinations.

In January 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB related to the recognition and disclosure of nonfinancial assets and liabilities in the financial statements on a non-recurring basis which are included in Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”. The adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB providing for additional financial statement disclosures related to debt and equity securities which are included in Topic 320 “Investments – Debt and Equity Securities”. The adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, but did provide for additional financial statement disclosures beginning with the quarterly report on Form 10-Q with the period ended June 27, 2009.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB providing for additional financial statement disclosures related to the fair value of financial instruments which are included in Topic 825 “Financial Instruments”. The standard expanded the disclosure requirements for fair value of certain financial instruments to interim period financial statements that were previously only required to be disclosed in financial statements for annual period. The adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, but did provide for additional financial statement disclosures beginning with the quarterly report on Form 10-Q with the period ended June 27, 2009.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB related to accounting for and disclosing subsequent events in the financial statements which are included in Topic 855 “Subsequent Events”. The standard establishes authoritative accounting and disclosure guidance for recognized and non-recognized subsequent events that occur after the balance sheet date, but before financial statements are issued and requires disclosure of the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events and the basis for that date. The adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, but did require additional disclosures beginning with the quarterly report on Form 10-Q with the period ended June 27, 2009.

 

11


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(9) Fair Value Measurements

FASB ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and expanded disclosures with respect to fair value measurements. In January 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB related to the recognition and disclosure of nonfinancial assets and liabilities in the financial statements on a non-recurring basis which allowed companies to elect a one year deferral for nonfinancial assets and liabilities. The Company adopted the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 820 for financial assets and liabilities on January 1, 2008, and for nonfinancial assets and liabilities on January 1, 2009.

FASB ASC Topic 820 also establishes a three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:

 

 

Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

 

Level 2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

 

 

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.

The Company’s adoption of the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 820 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. The Company has segregated all financial assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the most appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date in the table below.

 

     September 26, 2009
     Level 1    Level 2    Level 3    Fair Value
Measurement

Assets

           

Cash equivalents

   $ 151    $ —      $ —      $ 151

Equity securities

     15,960      —        —        15,960
                           

Total assets

   $ 16,111    $ —      $ —      $ 16,111
                           
     December 31, 2008
     Level 1    Level 2    Level 3    Fair Value
Measurement

Assets

           

Cash equivalents

   $ 26,353    $ —      $ —      $ 26,353

Equity securities

     8,808      —        —        8,808
                           

Total assets

   $ 35,161    $ —      $ —      $ 35,161
                           

 

12


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(9) Fair Value Measurements - continued

 

The valuation techniques used to measure fair value for the items in the tables above are as follows:

 

   

Cash equivalents — This category consists of money market and mutual funds which are listed as Level 1 assets and measured at fair value based on quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

 

   

Equity securities — Included within this asset category are equity securities. Equity securities consisting of stocks which are actively traded on public exchanges are listed as Level 1 assets. Fair value was measured based on quoted prices for identical securities in active markets.

(10) Marketable Securities

At September 26, 2009, marketable securities, all of which are available-for-sale, consist of common and preferred stocks. Marketable securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), except for losses from impairments which are determined to be other-than-temporary. Realized gains and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary on available-for-sale securities are included in the determination of net income and are included in other non-operating income (expense), at which time the average cost basis of these securities are adjusted to fair value. Fair values are based on quoted market prices at the reporting date. Interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities are included in other non-operating income (expense).

The cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities by type was as follows (in thousands):

 

     September 26, 2009
     Cost    Gross
unrealized
holding
gains
   Gross
unrealized
holding
(losses)
    Fair
Value

Equity securities

   $ 14,783    $ 1,551    $ (374   $ 15,960
                            
   $ 14,783    $ 1,551    $ (374   $ 15,960
                            
     December 31, 2008
     Cost    Gross
unrealized
holding
gains
   Gross
unrealized
holding
(losses)
    Fair
Value

Equity securities

   $ 10,037    $ 327    $ (1,556   $ 8,808
                            

Total

   $ 10,037    $ 327    $ (1,556   $ 8,808
                            

 

13


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(10) Marketable Securities - continued

 

Included in equity securities at September 26, 2009 are $8.5 million of securities with a cumulative loss position of $0.4 million, the impairment of which the Company considers to be temporary. The Company considers several factors in its determination as to whether declines in value are judged to be temporary or other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the decline, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the specific issuers and the industries in which they operate, and the Company’s intent and ability to hold these securities. The Company may incur future impairment charges if declines in market values continue and/or worsen and impairments are no longer considered temporary.

The following table shows the gross unrealized holding losses and fair value of the Company’s marketable securities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired aggregated by type and length of time they have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 26, 2009 (in thousands):

 

     Less than 12 Months    12 Months or Greater    Total
     Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses

Equity securities

   $ 8,482    $ 374    $ —      $ —      $ 8,482    $ 374
                                         

Total

   $ 8,482    $ 374    $ —      $ —      $ 8,482    $ 374
                                         

The Company’s portfolio of equity securities in a continuous loss position, the impairment of which the Company considers to be temporary, consists primarily of common stocks in the transportation, utility, and banking and finance industries. The transportation industry accounts for approximately $6.5 million, or 76%, of the total fair value and $0.1 million, or 24%, of the total unrealized losses of equity securities in a continuous loss position, the utility industry accounts for approximately $0.6 million, or 7%, of the total fair value and $0.1 million, or 29%, of the total unrealized losses of equity securities in a continuous loss position, and the banking and finance industry accounts for approximately $0.5 million, or 6%, of the total fair value and $0.1 million, or 27%, of the total unrealized losses of equity securities in a continuous loss position.

The fair value and unrealized losses are distributed in over 15 publicly traded companies. The Company has evaluated the near-term prospects of the various industries, as well as the specific issuers within its portfolio, in relation to the severity and duration of the impairments, and based on that evaluation, and the Company’s ability and intent to hold these investments for a reasonable period of time to allow for a recovery of fair value, the Company does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 26, 2009.

The Company from time to time invests cash in excess of its current needs in marketable securities, much of which is held in equity securities, which are actively traded on public exchanges. It is the philosophy of the Company to minimize the risk of capital loss without foregoing the potential for capital appreciation through investing in value-and-income oriented investments. However, holding equity securities subjects the Company to fluctuations in the market value of its investment portfolio based on current market prices, and a drop in market prices or other unstable market conditions could cause a loss in the value of the Company’s marketable securities classified as available-for-sale.

 

14


UNIVERSAL TRUCKLOAD SERVICES, INC.

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements - Continued

 

 

 

(10) Marketable Securities - continued

 

There were no equity securities in a cumulative loss position for a period of 12 months or greater as of September 26, 2009; however, during the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009, the Company recorded other-than-temporary impairment charges of $126 thousand and $1.3 million, respectively, for marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale. These charges resulted from the Company’s equity holdings in various industries including the automotive, transportation, energy, tobacco and banking and finance, all of which have experienced severe declines in their respective stock prices. The Company also recorded impairment charges of $495 thousand and $2.7 million, respectively, during the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008 for marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale. These charges resulted primarily from the Company’s equity holdings in the automotive and banking and finance industries. As such, the average cost basis of these securities were adjusted to fair value as of the reporting date, and the losses have been reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income and included in other non-operating income (expense) in the unaudited consolidated statements of income for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008.

(11) Contingencies

The Company is involved in claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. These matters primarily involve claims for personal injury and property damage incurred in the transportation of freight. Based on knowledge of the facts and, in certain cases, opinions of outside counsel, the Company believes all such litigation is adequately covered by insurance or otherwise provided for and that adverse results in one or more of those cases would not have a materially adverse effect on its financial condition, operating results and cash flows. However, if the ultimate outcome of these matters, after provisions thereof, is materially different from the Company’s estimates, they could have a material effect on the Company’s operating results and cash flows in any given quarter or year.

(12) Subsequent Events

The Company evaluated subsequent events through the time of filing this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q on November 3, 2009. Except for the following matter, we are not aware of any significant events that occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date but prior to the filing of this report that would have a material impact on the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements.

On October 26, 2009, the Company and KeyBank entered into a Second Amendment to Loan Agreement and Second Amendment to Promissory Note, or the Agreement, for the period October 26, 2009 to October 25, 2010, amending the previous loan agreement dated October 28, 2008, which terminated due to the expiration of its term. Under the new Agreement with KeyBank, our maximum permitted borrowings and letters of credit in the aggregate may not exceed $20 million. The line of credit is unsecured, and bears interest at a rate equal to the lesser of the Prime Rate or LIBOR plus 1.50%. The agreement governing our unsecured line of credit contains various financial and restrictive covenants to be maintained by us including requiring us to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $100 million, a debt to tangible net worth ratio not to exceed 1 to 1, and quarterly net profits of at least one dollar. For purposes of this agreement, tangible net worth is defined as total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less total debt. The agreement also may, in certain circumstances, limit our ability to pay dividends or distributions. The agreement also contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default.

 

15


ITEM 2: MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Some of the statements and assumptions in this Form 10-Q are forward-looking statements. These statements identify prospective information. Important factors could cause actual results to differ, possibly materially, from those in the forward-looking statements. In some cases you can identify forward-looking statements by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “should,” “will” and “would” or other similar words. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss our future expectations, contain projections of our future results of operations or of our financial position or state other “forward-looking” information. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by which, such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the statements. The factors listed in the section captioned “Risk Factors” in Item 1A in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, as well as any other cautionary language in that Form 10-K, provide examples of risks, uncertainties and events that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the expectations we describe in our forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements are made. We assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information except to the extent required by applicable securities laws. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect thereto or with respect to other forward-looking statements.

Overview

We are primarily an asset-light provider of transportation services to shippers throughout the United States and in the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. We offer flatbed and dry van trucking services, as well as rail-truck and steamship-truck intermodal and truck brokerage services. We primarily operate through a contractor network of independent sales agents and owner-operators of tractors and trailers. In return for their services, we pay our agents and owner-operators a percentage of the revenue they generate for us.

Our use of agents and owner-operators reduces our need to provide non-driver facilities and tractor and trailer fleets. The primary physical assets we provide to our agents and owner-operators include a portion of our trailer fleet, our headquarters facility, our management information systems and our intermodal depot facilities. Our business model provides us with a highly variable cost structure, allows us to grow organically using relatively small amounts of cash, gives us a higher return on assets compared to many of our asset-based competitors and preserves an entrepreneurial spirit among our agents and owner-operators that we believe leads to improved operating performance. For the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009, approximately 84.1% and 82.9%, respectively, of our total operating expenses were variable in nature and our capital expenditures were $1.2 million and $20.6 million, respectively.

 

16


Results of Operations

The following table sets forth items derived from our consolidated statements of income for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008, as a percentage of operating revenues:

 

     Thirteen Weeks Ended     Thirty-nine Weeks Ended  
     September 26,
2009
    September 27,
2008
    September 26,
2009
    September 27,
2008
 

Operating revenues

   100   100   100   100

Operating expenses:

        

Purchased transportation

   75.4      79.0      74.8      78.2   

Commissions expense

   6.8      5.9      6.7      6.1   

Other operating expenses

   1.9      1.0      1.9      1.2   

Selling, general and administrative

   8.5      6.2      9.2      6.7   

Insurance and claims

   3.2      2.6      3.6      2.9   

Depreciation and amortization

   2.0      1.2      2.1      1.2   
                        

Total operating expenses

   97.8      95.9      98.3      96.3   
                        

Operating income

   2.2      4.1      1.7      3.7   

Interest income, net

   (0.1   —        —        —     

Other non-operating income (expense)

   —        —        (0.2   (0.3
                        

Income before provision for income taxes

   2.1      4.1      1.4      3.4   

Provision for income taxes

   0.8      1.6      0.5      1.3   
                        

Net income

   1.3   2.5   0.9   2.1
                        

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended September 26, 2009 Compared to Thirty-nine Weeks Ended September 27, 2008

Operating revenues. Operating revenues for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $219.1 million, or 37.6%, to $363.4 million from $582.5 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The decrease in operating revenues is primarily attributable to a decrease in the number of loads in our truckload, brokerage and intermodal operations attributable to the current economic recession, a decrease in fuel surcharges, and a decrease in operating revenues per loaded mile. The number of loads from our combined truckload, brokerage, and intermodal operations was 480,000 for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 649,000 for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in operating revenues are fuel surcharges of $24.8 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to $81.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. For the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009, our operating revenue per loaded mile, excluding fuel surcharges, from our combined truckload and brokerage operations decreased to $2.04 from $2.37 for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. These decreases in our operating revenues were partially offset by increases in revenue attributable to acquisitions made since the first half of 2008. Included in operating revenues is approximately $8.2 million attributable to these acquisitions, consisting of $6.3 million in truckload operations, $1.1 million in brokerage operations, and $0.8 million in intermodal operations. Excluding the effects of acquisitions made since the first half of 2008, revenue from our truckload operations decreased by $121.0 million, or 35.6%, to $219.3 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 from $340.3 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Excluding the effects of acquisitions made since the first half of 2008, revenue from our brokerage operations decreased by $73.4 million, or 47.6%, to $80.7 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to $154.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Excluding the effects of acquisitions made since the first half of 2008, revenue from our intermodal support services decreased by $33.0 million, or 37.4%, to $55.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 from $88.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008.

Purchased transportation. Purchased transportation expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $183.7 million, or 40.3%, to $271.9 million from $455.6 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, purchased transportation expense decreased to 74.8% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 78.2% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease was primarily due to the decrease in our operating revenues. Purchased transportation expense generally increases or decreases in proportion to the revenues generated through owner-operators and other third party providers. The decrease in purchased transportation as a percent of operating revenues is primarily due to a decrease in fuel surcharges, which are passed through to owner-operators and a change in the mix of operating

 

17


revenues attributable to lower brokerage revenues, which typically payout higher purchased transportation rates than truckload and intermodal revenues. Fuel surcharges for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 were $24.8 million compared to $81.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008.

Commissions expense. Commissions expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $11.1 million, or 31.2%, to $24.3 million from $35.4 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, commissions expense increased to 6.7% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 6.1% for thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease was primarily due to the decrease in our operating revenues. As a percentage of revenues, commissions expense increased primarily due to $56.3 million of the decrease in operating revenues being attributable to a decrease in fuel surcharges, which are passed on through to our owner operators, and as such, no commission is paid.

Other operating expense. Other operating expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $0.1 million, or 1.6%, to $6.9 million from $7.0 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, other operating expense increased to 1.9% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 1.2% for thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in licensing and permit costs, associated with the decrease in operating revenues, and a decrease in other operating costs due to several cost saving initiatives and terminal consolidations. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in repairs and maintenance costs and an increase in highway use and fuel taxes.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $5.4 million, or 13.9%, to $33.4 million from $38.8 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, selling, general and administrative expense increased to 9.2% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 6.7% for thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease in selling, general and administrative expense was primarily the result of a $4.0 million decrease in compensation expense due to reductions in employee headcounts and several cost savings measures that include company wide pay decreases and the implementation of unpaid time-off in the second quarter of 2009. Other cost saving initiatives resulted in decreases in travel and entertainment expenditures of $625 thousand, a decrease in legal and professional fees and other selling, general, and administrative costs of $1.1 million, and decreases in building rents and office supplies of $725 thousand. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in our allowance for doubtful accounts and uncollectible agent loans of $815 thousand.

Insurance and claims. Insurance and claims expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $3.8 million, or 22.5%, to $13.1 million from $16.9 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, insurance and claims increased to 3.6% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 2.9% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease is primarily the result of a $4.6 million decrease in auto liability insurance premiums and claims expense which was partially offset by a $0.8 million increase in other contractor insurance, cargo claims and safety costs.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 increased by $0.6 million, or 8.4%, to $7.7 million from $7.1 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percent of operating revenues, depreciation and amortization increased to 2.1% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 1.2% for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute increase is primarily the result of additional depreciation on our $10.1 million of capital expenditures made throughout 2008.

Interest expense (income), net. Net interest expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $133 thousand compared to net interest income of $66 thousand for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in net interest expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $150 thousand of interest expense assessed in connection with a fuel tax audit.

Other non-operating income (expense). Other non-operating expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $837 thousand compared to other non-operating expense of $1.8 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in other non-operating expense for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 were $1.3 million of pre-tax charges for other-than-temporary impairments of marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale compared to $2.7 million in the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. Excluding these charges, there was a decrease in other non-operating income of $517 thousand which was primarily the result of decreased dividends on available-for-sale investments and gains on the sale of marketable securities.

 

18


Provision for income taxes. Provision for income taxes for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $5.9 million, or 75.8%, to $1.9 million from $7.8 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 27, 2008. The decrease was primarily attributable to the decrease in our taxable income and a lower effective tax rate. For the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008, we had an effective income tax rate of 37.6% and 38.9%, respectively, based upon our income before provision for income taxes.

Thirteen Weeks Ended September 26, 2009 Compared to Thirteen Weeks Ended September 27, 2008

Operating revenues. Operating revenues for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $84.5 million, or 39.7%, to $128.5 million from $213.0 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The decrease in operating revenues is primarily attributable to a decrease in the number of loads in our truckload, brokerage and intermodal operations attributable to the current economic recession, a decrease in fuel surcharges, and a decrease in operating revenues per loaded mile. The number of loads from our combined truckload, brokerage, and intermodal operations was 166,000 for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 214,000 for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in operating revenues are fuel surcharges of $9.5 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to $32.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. For the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009, our operating revenue per loaded mile, excluding fuel surcharges, from our combined truckload and brokerage operations decreased to $2.01 from $2.52 for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. These decreases in our operating revenues were partially offset by increases in revenue attributable to our acquisitions made in the third quarter of 2009. Included in operating revenues is approximately $4.1 million attributable to these acquisitions, consisting of $3.6 million in truckload operations and $0.5 million in brokerage operations. Excluding the effects of the acquisitions made in the third quarter of 2009, revenue from our truckload operations decreased by $43.8 million, or 35.9%, to $78.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 from $122.0 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. Excluding the effects of the acquisitions made in the third quarter of 2009, revenue from our brokerage operations decreased by $32.7 million, or 54.4%, to $27.5 million for the for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to $60.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008.

Purchased transportation. Purchased transportation expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $71.3 million, or 42.4%, to $96.9 million from $168.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, purchased transportation expense decreased to 75.4% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 79.0% for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease was primarily due to the decrease in our operating revenues. Purchased transportation expense generally increases or decreases in proportion to the revenues generated through owner-operators and other third party providers. The decrease in purchased transportation as a percent of operating revenues is primarily due to a decrease in fuel surcharges, which are passed through to owner-operators and a change in the mix of operating revenues attributable to lower brokerage revenues, which typically payout higher purchased transportation rates than truckload and intermodal revenues. Fuel surcharges for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 were $9.5 million compared to $32.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008.

Commissions expense. Commissions expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $3.9 million, or 31.3%, to $8.7 million from $12.6 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, commissions expense increased to 6.8% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 5.9% for thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease was primarily due to the decrease in our operating revenues. As a percentage of revenues, commissions expense increased primarily due to $22.7 million of the decrease in operating revenues being attributable to a decrease in fuel surcharges, which are passed on through to our owner operators, and as such, no commission is paid.

Other operating expense. Other operating expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 increased by $0.3 million, or 12.4%, to $2.4 million from $2.1 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, other operating expense increased to 1.9% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 1.0% for thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute increase was primarily attributable to an increase in repairs and maintenance costs and an increase in highway use and fuel taxes. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in licensing and permit costs, associated with the decrease in operating revenues, and a decrease in other operating costs due to several cost saving initiatives and terminal consolidations.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $2.3 million, or 17.3%, to $10.9 million from $13.2 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, selling, general and administrative expense increased to 8.5% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to 6.2% for thirteen weeks ended

 

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September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease in selling, general and administrative expense was primarily the result of a $2.0 million decrease in compensation expense due to reductions in employee headcounts and several cost savings that include company wide pay decreases and the implementation of unpaid time-off in the second quarter of 2009. Other cost saving initiatives resulted in decreases in legal and professional fees and other selling, general, and administrative costs of $120 thousand and decreases in building rents and office supplies of $300 thousand. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in our allowance for doubtful accounts and uncollectible agent loans of $190 thousand.

Insurance and claims. Insurance and claims expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $1.3 million, or 25.1%, to $4.1 million from $5.4 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percentage of operating revenues, insurance and claims increased to 3.2% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 2.6% for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The absolute decrease is the result of a $1.9 million decrease in auto liability insurance premiums and claims expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 compared to the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. This decrease was partially offset by a $0.6 million increase in other contractor insurance, cargo and safety costs.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 increased by $0.1 million, or 2.0%, to $2.6 million from $2.5 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. As a percent of operating revenues, depreciation and amortization increased to 2.0% for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 from 1.2% for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008.

Interest expense (income), net. Net interest expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $135 thousand compared to net interest income of $47 thousand for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in net interest expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $150 thousand of interest expense assessed in connection with a fuel tax audit.

Other non-operating income (expense). Other non-operating expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 was $17 thousand compared to other non-operating income of $2 thousand for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. Included in other non-operating expense for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 were $126 thousand of pre-tax charges for other-than-temporary impairments of marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale compared to $495 thousand in the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. Excluding these charges, there was a decrease in other non-operating income of $388 thousand which was primarily the result of decreased dividends on available-for-sale investments and gains on the sale of marketable securities

Provision for income taxes. Provision for income taxes for the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 decreased by $2.4 million, or 70.1%, to $1.0 million from $3.4 million for the thirteen weeks ended September 27, 2008. The decrease was primarily attributable to the decrease in our taxable income and a lower effective tax rate. For the thirteen weeks ended September 26, 2009 and September 27, 2008, we had an effective income tax rate of 37.7% and 38.9%, respectively, based upon our income before provision for income taxes.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary sources of liquidity are funds generated by operations and our revolving unsecured line of credit with KeyBank.

We employ a primarily asset-light operating strategy. Substantially all of the tractors and more than 50% of the trailers utilized in our business are provided by our owner-operators and we have no capital expenditure requirements relating to this equipment. As a result, our capital expenditure requirements are limited in comparison to most large trucking companies which maintain sizable fleets of owned tractors and trailers, requiring significant capital expenditures.

During the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009, we made capital expenditures totaling $1.2 million and $20.6 million, respectively. These expenditures consisted primarily of a $15.2 million purchase of land, land improvements, and a facility located in South Kearny, NJ. We used this facility to consolidate the local operations of two of our operating subsidiaries, and are currently expanding operations in the Port of New Jersey area. The remaining expenditures consisted primarily of land and building improvements and trailers.

Through the end of 2009, exclusive of acquisitions, we expect to incur capital expenditures of $1.0 million to $2.2 million relating to real property acquisitions, and improvements to our existing facilities and the acquisition of additional terminal yards or container facilities. We also expect to incur capital expenditures of $1.8 million to $2.3 million for tractors, trailers and other equipment.

 

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We expect that our working capital and available borrowings will be sufficient to meet our capital commitments and fund our operational needs for at least the next twelve months. Based on the availability under our unsecured line of credit and assuming the continuation of our current operating cash flows, we do not expect that we will experience any liquidity constraints in the foreseeable future.

We continue to evaluate business development opportunities, including potential acquisitions that fit our strategic plans. There can be no assurance that we will identify any opportunities that fit our strategic plans or will be able to execute any such opportunities on terms acceptable to us. Any such opportunities will be financed from available cash and cash equivalents, and our unsecured line of credit.

We currently intend to retain our future earnings to finance our growth and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

Unsecured Line of Credit

The Company and KeyBank National Association, or KeyBank, entered into a First Amendment to Loan Agreement and First Amendment to Promissory Note, or the Agreement, dated October 28, 2008 for the period October 28, 2008 to October 27, 2009, amending the previous loan agreement dated October 29, 2007 for the period October 29, 2007 to October 28, 2008, which terminated due to the expiration of its term. Under the amended Agreement with KeyBank, our maximum permitted borrowings and letters of credit in the aggregate may not exceed $20 million. The line of credit is unsecured, and bears interest at a rate equal to the lesser of the Prime Rate minus 1.75% or LIBOR plus 1.05% (effective rate of 1.50% at September 26, 2009). The Agreement governing our unsecured line of credit contains various financial and restrictive covenants to be maintained by us including requiring us to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $100 million, a debt to tangible net worth ratio not to exceed 1 to 1, and quarterly net profits of at least one dollar. For purposes of this Agreement, tangible net worth is defined as total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less total debt. The Agreement also may, in certain circumstances, limit our ability to pay dividends or distributions. The Agreement also contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. As of September 26, 2009, the Company was in compliance with its debt covenants. The Company did not have any amounts outstanding under its line of credit at September 26, 2009, and there were $761,000 letters of credit issued against the line.

On October 26, 2009, the Company and KeyBank entered into a Second Amendment to Loan Agreement and Second Amendment to Promissory Note, or the Agreement, for the period October 26, 2009 to October 25, 2010, amending the previous loan agreement dated October 28, 2008, which terminated due to the expiration of its term. Under the new Agreement with KeyBank, our maximum permitted borrowings and letters of credit in the aggregate may not exceed $20 million. The line of credit is unsecured, and bears interest at a rate equal to the lesser of the Prime Rate or LIBOR plus 1.50%. The agreement governing our unsecured line of credit contains various financial and restrictive covenants to be maintained by us including requiring us to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $100 million, a debt to tangible net worth ratio not to exceed 1 to 1, and quarterly net profits of at least one dollar. For purposes of this agreement, tangible net worth is defined as total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less total debt. The agreement also may, in certain circumstances, limit our ability to pay dividends or distributions. The agreement also contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default.

Discussion of Cash Flows

At September 26, 2009, we had cash and cash equivalents of $1.3 million compared to $28.8 million at December 31, 2008. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $27.5 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 resulted from $28.6 million in cash used in investing activities and an additional $16.4 million used in financing activities, which was offset by $17.5 million in cash generated from operations.

The $17.5 million in cash provided by operations was primarily attributed to $3.1 million of net income adjusted for $7.7 million of non-cash charges for depreciation and amortization, $1.3 million of other-than-temporary impairment charges on marketable securities classified as available–for-sale, $1.6 million of non-cash charges for bad debt expense, and a decrease in the working capital position of the Company of $3.8 million. The decrease in the working capital position is primarily the result of a decrease in accounts receivable due to decreased revenue. The Company also increased its cash provided by operating activities due to a change in payment terms with

 

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brokerage vendors, which generated an additional $2.2 million in operating cash flows. During the third quarter of 2009, the Company used operating cash flows to fund the working capital needs associated with its third quarter 2009 acquisitions.

The $28.6 million in net cash used in investing activities for the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 consisted of capital expenditures of $20.6 million, including $15.2 million for the purchase of facility and property located in South Kearny, NJ, $6.0 million for purchases of marketable securities, and $2.0 million for the acquisition of businesses.

The $16.3 million in cash used in financing activities consisted of a $16.0 million special one-time cash dividend declared on February 25, 2009, paid to stockholders of record on March 7, 2009, and $355 thousand for the repurchase of treasury stock under our stock repurchase plan.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

In connection with the 2007 acquisition of Glenn National Carriers, Inc., or Glenn, we are required to pay cash consideration to the former owners of Glenn based on a percentage of revenues generated through November 2010.

In connection with the 2008 acquisition of Overnite Express, Inc., or Overnite, we are required to pay cash consideration to the former owners of Overnite based on a percentage of revenues generated through June 2010.

Critical Accounting Policies

A summary of critical accounting policies is presented in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies” of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008. There have been no changes in the accounting policies followed by us during the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009.

Effect of Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2009, the Company adopted the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Note (8) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

In January 2009, the Company adopted the revisions to accounting standards issued by the FASB related to accounting for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting which are included in Topic 805 “Business Combinations”. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Note (8) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

In January 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB related to the recognition and disclosure of nonfinancial assets and liabilities in the financial statements on a non-recurring basis which are included in Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Notes (8) and (9) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB providing for additional financial statement disclosures related to debt and equity securities which are included in Topic 320 “Investments – Debt and Equity Securities”. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Note (8) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB providing for additional financial statement disclosures related to the fair value of financial instruments which are included in Topic 825 “Financial Instruments”. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Note (8) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

Effective with the quarterly period beginning on March 29, 2009, the Company adopted new accounting standards issued by the FASB related to accounting for and disclosing subsequent events in the financial statements which are included in Topic 855 “Subsequent Events”. For information on this Statement, see Part I, Item 1, Note (8) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

 

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Seasonality

Our operations are subject to seasonal trends common to the trucking industry. Results of operations in the first quarter are typically lower than the remaining quarters.

 

ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Interest Rate Risk

Our market risk is affected by changes in interest rates. Our unsecured line of credit bears interest at a floating rate equal to the lesser of the Prime Rate or LIBOR plus 1.50%. Accordingly, changes in the Prime Rate or LIBOR would affect the interest rate on and therefore our cost under the line of credit. We currently do not have a balance outstanding under the line of credit.

Included in cash and cash equivalents is $151 thousand in money market and mutual funds. The interest rates on these instruments are adjusted to market rates at least monthly. In addition, we have the ability to put these instruments back to the issuer at any time. Accordingly, any future interest rate risk on these short-term investments would not be material.

We did not have any interest rate swap agreements as of September 26, 2009.

Commodity Price Risk

Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect our profitability by affecting our ability to retain or recruit owner-operators. Our owner-operators bear the costs of operating their tractors, including the cost of fuel. The tractors operated by our owner-operators consume large amounts of diesel fuel. Diesel fuel prices fluctuate greatly due to economic, political and other factors beyond our control. To address fluctuations in fuel prices, we seek to impose fuel surcharges on our customers and pass these surcharges on to our owner-operators. Historically, these arrangements have not fully protected our owner-operators from fuel price increases. If costs for fuel escalate significantly it could make it more difficult to attract additional qualified owner-operators and retain our current owner-operators. If we lose the services of a significant number of owner-operators or are unable to attract additional owner-operators, it could have a materially adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Short Term Investments

The Company from time to time invests cash in excess of its current needs in marketable securities, much of which is held in equity securities, which are actively traded on public exchanges. It is the philosophy of the Company to minimize the risk of capital loss without foregoing the potential for capital appreciation through investing in value-and-income oriented investments. However, holding equity securities subjects the Company to fluctuations in the market value of its investment portfolio based on current market prices. A drop in market prices or other unstable market conditions could cause a loss in the value of the Company’s marketable securities classified as available-for-sale.

Marketable securities are carried at fair value and are marked to market at the end of each quarter, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, unless the declines in value are judged to be other-than-temporary, in which case an impairment charge would be included in the determination of net income. Gross unrealized holding losses of $374 thousand as of September 26, 2009 have not been recognized in earnings as these impairments in value were judged to be temporary. We may incur future impairment charges if declines in market values continue or worsen and impairments are no longer considered temporary. See Part I, Item 1, Note (10) to the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

As of September 26, 2009, the fair value of equity securities was $15.9 million compared to $8.8 million at December 31, 2008. The increase during the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 represents additional purchases of $6.0 million and net unrealized holding gains of $2.4 million, which were partially offset by other-than-temporary charges of $1.3 million. A 10% decrease in the market price of our marketable equity securities would cause a corresponding 10% decrease in the carrying amounts of these securities, or approximately $1.6 million.

 

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ITEM 4: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 13a-15 or 15d-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (or the Exchange Act). Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 26, 2009, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in causing the material information required to be disclosed in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act to be recorded, processed, summarized and reported, to the extent applicable, within the time periods required for us to meet the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (or SEC) filing deadlines for these reports specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

Internal Controls

There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the thirty-nine weeks ended September 26, 2009 identified in connection with our evaluation that has materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1: LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Information with respect to legal proceedings and other exposures appears in Part I, Item 1, Note (11) of the “Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements,” and in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.

 

ITEM 1A: RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes to our risk factors as previously disclosed in Item 1A to Part 1 of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.

 

ITEM 2: UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

 

ITEM 3: DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.

 

ITEM 4: SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

None.

 

ITEM 5: OTHER INFORMATION

None.

 

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ITEM 6: EXHIBITS

The exhibits listed on the Exhibit Index are furnished as part of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.

 

Exhibit
No.

 

Description

  3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on November 15, 2004 (Commission File No. 333-120510))
  3.2   Amended and Restated Bylaws, as amended effective April 22, 2009 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 24, 2009 (Commission File No. 000-51142))
  4.1   Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2004, among the Registrant, Matthew T. Moroun and The Manuel J. Moroun Trust (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on January 7, 2005 (Commission File No. 333-120510))
10.1   Second Amendment to Loan Agreement and Second Amendment to Promissory Note, dated as of October 26, 2009, between Universal Truckload Services, Inc. and KeyBank National Association. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 27, 2009 (Commission File No. 000-51142))
31.1*   Chief Executive Officer certification, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*   Chief Financial Officer certification, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**   Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

* Filed herewith.
** Furnished herewith
+ Indicates a management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report on Form 10-Q to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

   

Universal Truckload Services, Inc.

(Registrant)

Date: November 3, 2009     By:   /S/    ROBERT E. SIGLER        
     

Robert E. Sigler,

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer

Date: November 3, 2009     By:   /S/    DONALD B. COCHRAN        
     

Donald B. Cochran,

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

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