Heartland Express on Friday, Jan. 20, said operating revenues for the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2011, increased 1.5 percent to $131.2 million from $129.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2010, while net income was $17.1 million compared to $15.4 million. The company posted an operating ratio of 79.5 percent and a 13.0 percent net margin compared to 81.0 percent and 11.9 percent, respectively.
Operating revenues for the year increased 5.8 percent to $528.6 million from $499.5 million in the prior year, while net income was $70 million compared to $62.2 million. The North Liberty, Iowa-based company posted an operating ratio of 79.8 percent and a 13.2 percent net margin compared to 81.7 percent and 12.5 percent, respectively.
Heartland said that safety and customer service continue to be the two primary objectives in its driver recruiting and retention efforts, and that improved utilization is a primary focus as it continues to be challenged by tight driver capacity.
