form10q.htm

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 March 31, 2016
 
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: 001-32396

KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Arizona
86-0649974
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
   
20002 North 19th Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona
85027
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(Zip Code)
   
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:
602-269-2000

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.
[X]  Yes   [  ]  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).
[X]  Yes   [   ]  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 [X]
Accelerated filer [  ]
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   [X] No

The number of shares outstanding of registrant's common stock, par value $0.01 per share, as of April 30, 2016, was 80,209,489 shares.

 
 

 

KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


 
Page Number
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
   
Item 1.
Financial Statements
 
     
 
1
     
 
3
     
 
4
     
 
5
     
 
7
     
Item 2.
22
     
Item 3.
35
     
Item 4.
36
     
Part II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
37
     
Item 1A.
37
     
Item 2.
38
     
Item 3.
38
     
Item 4.
38
     
Item 5.
38
     
Item 6.
39
     
 
40

 
 


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.                      Financial Statements

Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
 
   
   
March 31,
2016
   
December 31,
2015
 
ASSETS
           
Current Assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 21,472     $ 8,691  
Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,034 and $3,106, respectively
    131,898       131,945  
Notes receivable, net of allowance for doubtful notes receivable of $245 and $273, respectively
    554       648  
Prepaid expenses
    16,658       17,320  
Assets held for sale
    27,100       29,327  
Other current assets
    8,362       14,215  
Income tax receivable
    27,698       41,967  
Total current assets
    233,742       244,113  
                 
Property and Equipment:
               
Revenue equipment
    862,729       866,252  
Land and land improvements
    53,024       52,951  
Buildings and building improvements
    141,973       139,102  
Furniture and fixtures
    18,910       18,363  
Shop and service equipment
    16,307       16,729  
Leasehold improvements
    3,669       3,061  
Gross property and equipment
    1,096,612       1,096,458  
Less:  accumulated depreciation and amortization
    (298,604 )     (292,815 )
Property and equipment, net
    798,008       803,643  
Notes receivable, long-term
    3,212       3,419  
Goodwill
    47,045       47,050  
Intangible assets, net
    2,950       3,075  
Other long-term assets, restricted cash and investments
    26,690       18,932  
Total long-term assets
    877,905       876,119  
Total assets
  $ 1,111,647     $ 1,120,232  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.


 
1


KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Balance Sheets (continued)
(in thousands, except par values)
 
             
   
March 31,
2016
   
December 31,
2015
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
           
Current Liabilities:
           
Accounts payable
  $ 24,590     $ 14,818  
Accrued payroll and purchased transportation
    22,389       23,776  
Accrued liabilities
    16,701       21,609  
Claims accrual – current portion
    20,264       19,471  
Dividend payable – current portion
    333       349  
Total current liabilities
    84,277       80,023  
                 
Long-term Liabilities:
               
Claims accrual – long-term portion
    11,963       11,508  
Long-term dividend payable and other liabilities
    1,888       2,164  
Deferred tax liabilities
    175,056       174,165  
Long-term debt
    106,000       112,000  
Total long-term liabilities
    294,907       299,837  
                 
Total liabilities
    379,184       379,860  
                 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 6)
               
                 
Shareholders' Equity:
               
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 50,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding
    -       -  
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 300,000 shares authorized; 80,116 and 80,967 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively
    801       810  
Additional paid-in capital
    209,489       205,648  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    1,715       2,573  
Retained earnings
    518,641       529,367  
                 
Total Knight Transportation shareholders' equity
    730,646       738,398  
Noncontrolling interest
    1,817       1,974  
Total shareholders’ equity
    732,463       740,372  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
  $ 1,111,647     $ 1,120,232  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.

 
2


Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Statements of Income
(in thousands, except per share data)
 
   
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
REVENUE:
           
Revenue, before fuel surcharge
  $ 253,583     $ 257,214  
Fuel surcharge
    18,505       33,067  
Total revenue
    272,088       290,281  
                 
OPERATING EXPENSES:
               
Salaries, wages and benefits
    83,603       80,026  
Fuel
    26,771       38,089  
Operations and maintenance
    18,010       20,128  
Insurance and claims
    8,823       8,933  
Operating taxes and licenses
    5,487       5,855  
Communications
    1,205       1,140  
Depreciation and amortization
    28,402       27,160  
Purchased transportation
    57,785       59,545  
Miscellaneous operating expenses
    3,275       3,101  
Total operating expenses
    233,361       243,977  
                 
Income from operations
    38,727       46,304  
                 
Interest income
    94       132  
Interest expense
    (301 )     (283 )
Other income
    1,286       2,464  
Income before income taxes
    39,806       48,617  
                 
Income tax expense
    16,783       18,675  
Net income
    23,023       29,942  
                 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
    (453 )     (379 )
Net income attributable to Knight Transportation
  $ 22,570     $ 29,563  
                 
                 
Earnings per share:
               
Basic
  $ 0.28     $ 0.36  
Diluted
  $ 0.28     $ 0.36  
Dividends declared per share
  $ 0.06     $ 0.06  
                 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding – Basic
    80,707       82,025  
                 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding – Diluted
    81,398       83,192  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.
 
 
3


KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Statements of Comprehensive Income
(in thousands)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
             
   
2016
   
2015
 
             
Net income
  $ 23,023     $ 29,942  
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
               
Realized gains from available-for-sale securities reclassified to net income(1)
    (981 )     (1,438 )
Unrealized (loss)/gain from changes in fair value of available-for-sale securities(2)
    123       (261 )
Comprehensive income
  $ 22,165     $ 28,243  
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest
    (453 )     (379 )
Comprehensive income attributable to Knight Transportation
  $ 21,712     $ 27,864  

(1)
Net of current income tax expense of $(614) and $(908), respectively.
(2)
Net of deferred income tax expense/(benefit) of $76 and $(243), respectively.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.
 
 
4

 
Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
 
       
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
           
Net income
  $ 23,023     $ 29,942  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    28,402       27,160  
Gain on sale of equipment
    (3,195 )     (4,690 )
Gain from sale of available-for-sale securities
    (1,595 )     (2,346 )
Loss (income) from investment in Transportation Resource Partners III
    308       (117 )
Provision for doubtful accounts and notes receivable
    28       605  
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation
    (447 )     (2,481 )
Stock-based compensation expense, net
    780       2,153  
Deferred income taxes
    1,431       (4,648 )
                 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Trade receivables
    28       9,563  
Other current assets
    5,853       668  
Prepaid expenses
    662       (347 )
Income tax receivable
    14,269       19,143  
Other long-term assets
    (149 )     (2,366 )
Accounts payable
    4,151       (6,348 )
Accrued liabilities and claims accrual
    (5,960 )     (7,619 )
                 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    67,589       58,272  
                 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
               
Purchases of property and equipment
    (34,783 )     (26,715 )
Proceeds from sale of equipment/assets held for sale
    23,065       20,957  
Proceeds from notes receivable
    412       237  
Change in restricted cash and investments
    (16 )     (15 )
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
    2,852       3,146  
Cash payments to Transportation Resource Partners
    (10,974 )     -  
Cash proceeds from Transportation Resource Partners
    423       60  
                 
Net cash used in investing activities
    (19,021 )     (2,330 )

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.

 
5


KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Statements of Cash Flows (continued)
(in thousands)
 
   
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
           
Dividends paid
  $ (5,129 )   $ (5,244 )
Payments to repurchase company stock
    (27,111 )     -  
Payments on line of credit borrowings, net
    (6,000 )     (56,000 )
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation
    447       2,481  
Cash distribution to noncontrolling interest holder
    (610 )     (316 )
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
    2,616       4,909  
                 
Net cash used in financing activities
    (35,787 )     (54,170 )
                 
Net increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
    12,781       1,772  
Cash and Cash Equivalents, beginning of period
    8,691       17,066  
                 
Cash and Cash Equivalents, end of period
  $ 21,472     $ 18,838  
                 
Supplemental Disclosures:
               
Non-cash investing and financing transactions:
               
Equipment acquired included in accounts payable
  $ 9,840     $ 14,514  
Transfer from property and equipment to assets held for sale
  $ 12,857     $ 8,411  
Financing provided to independent contractors for equipment sold
  $ 87     $ 285  
Net dividend accrued for restricted stock units
  $ 33     $ 52  
                 
Cash flow information:
               
Income taxes paid
  $ 616     $ 1,717  
Interest expense paid
  $ 306     $ 316  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements.
 
 
6


KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1.                      Financial Information

References in this Report on Form 10-Q to "we," "us," "our," "Knight," or the "Company" or similar terms refer to Knight Transportation, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. All inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The accompanying condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements of Knight Transportation, Inc. and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and Regulation S-X, instructions to Form 10-Q, and other relevant rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), as applicable to the preparation and presentation of interim financial information. Certain information and footnote disclosures have been omitted or condensed pursuant to such rules and regulations.  We believe all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Results of operations in interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year.  These condensed consolidated unaudited financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Note 2.                      Stock-Based Compensation

In May 2015, our shareholders approved the Amended and Restated 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2015 Plan”). This plan combines into a single plan the Company’s 2005 Executive Cash Bonus Plan (the “2005 Plan”) and the 2012 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2012 Plan”) and allows for future grants under the 2015 Plan.  Grants outstanding under the 2005 Plan and 2012 Plan will continue in force and effect and continue to be governed solely by the terms and conditions of the instrument evidencing such grants, and will be interpreted under the terms of the 2005 Plan and the 2012 Plan, as applicable. Since approval of the 2015 Plan in May 2015, all grants of stock-based compensation are made under the 2015 Plan.  Stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015, are as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Stock compensation expense for options, net of forfeitures
  $ 371     $ 166  
Stock compensation expense for restricted stock units and performance restricted stock units, net of forfeitures
    409       1,987  
Stock compensation expense
  $ 780     $ 2,153  

Our policy is to recognize compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

As of March 31, 2016, we have approximately $4.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested options.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.1 years and a total period of 3.9 years.  We have approximately $10.0 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock unit awards, which is anticipated to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.6 years and a total period of 6.8 years. We also have approximately $9.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested performance awards.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.8 years, and a total period of 3.1 years.
 
 
7

 
A total of 569,480 stock options were granted during the first three months of 2016 and 31,000 stock options were granted during the first three months of 2015. We received approximately $2.6 million in cash from the exercise of stock options during the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $4.9 million for the same period in 2015.

A summary of the option award activity under our equity compensation plan as of March 31, 2016, and changes during the three months is presented below:

   
Option Totals
   
Weighted Average Exercise
Price Per Share
 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2015
    2,008,872     $ 21.41  
Granted
    569,480       24.23  
Exercised
    (144,825 )     18.38  
Forfeited
    (34,090 )     25.80  
Outstanding as of March 31, 2016
    2,399,437     $ 22.20  

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model.  Listed below are the weighted-average assumptions used for the fair value computation:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Dividend yield (1)
    0.99 %     0.84 %
Expected volatility (2)
    27.91 %     25.79 %
Risk-free interest rate (3)
    0.90 %     0.89 %
Expected term (4)
 
2.74 years
   
2.74 years
 
Weighted-average fair value of options granted
  $ 4.28     $ 4.72  

(1)
Dividend yield – the dividend yield is based on our historical experience and future expectation of dividend payouts.
(2)
Expected volatility – we analyzed the volatility of our stock using historical data.
(3)
Risk-free interest rate – the risk-free interest rate assumption is based on U.S. Treasury securities at a constant maturity with a maturity period that most closely resembles the expected term of the stock option award.
(4)
Expected term – the expected term of employee stock options represents the weighted-average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding and has been determined based on an analysis of historical exercise behavior.

A total of 350 and 7,700 restricted stock unit awards were granted during the first three months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.  A summary of the restricted stock unit award activity under our equity compensation plans as of March 31, 2016, and changes during the three months is presented below:
 
 
8

 
   
Number of
Restricted
Stock Unit
Awards
   
Weighted Average Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Unvested as of December 31, 2015
    879,173     $ 16.45  
Granted
    350       24.23  
Vested
    (151,967 )     16.73  
Cancelled
    (5,240 )     16.43  
Unvested as of March 31, 2016
    722,316     $ 16.40  

The fair value of each restricted stock unit is based on the closing market price on the date of grant.

Beginning in 2014, we issued performance restricted stock units (“PRSUs”) to selected key employees that may be earned based on revenue growth and return on assets, and may then be modified based on our total shareholder return, as defined in the instrument evidencing the grant, over a three-year period. The primary award adjustment may range from 0 percent to 150 percent of the initial grant, based upon performance achieved over the three-year period. The primary award modifier, which would multiply the adjusted primary award by 75 percent to 125 percent, is measured by determining the percentile rank of the total shareholder return, as defined in the instrument evidencing the grant, of Knight common stock in relation to the total shareholder return of a peer group for the three-year period. The final award will be based on performance achieved in accordance with the scale set forth in the plan agreement. Performance restricted stock units do not earn dividend equivalents.

A total of 177,741 PRSUs were granted during the three months ended March 31, 2016, and none were granted during the three months ended March 31, 2015. A summary of the performance restricted stock unit award activity for the three months ended March 31, 2016, is presented below:

   
Number of Performance
Restricted
Stock Unit
 Awards
   
Weighted Average Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Unvested as of December 31, 2015
    341,782     $ 26.46  
Granted
    177,741       23.89  
Shares earned above target
    2,516       23.85  
Vested
    (5,391 )     23.85  
Cancelled
    (1,238 )     23.89  
Unvested as of March 31, 2016
    515,410     $ 25.59  

The number of granted shares, cancelled shares, and unvested shares are included in the table above based on the performance target established at the initial grant date.

The performance period for the awards granted during the three months ended March 31, 2016, is January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018. These awards will vest January 31, 2020, or thirteen months following the expiration of the performance period. The fair value of each PRSU grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model.  Listed below are the weighted-average assumptions used for the fair value computation:
 
 
9

 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
 
Dividend yield(1)
    0.99 %
Expected volatility(2)
    27.95 %
Average peer volatility(2)
    34.37 %
Average peer correlation coefficient(3)
    0.6022  
Risk-free interest rate(4)
    0.89 %
Expected term(5)
    2.84  
Weighted average fair value of PRSUs granted
  $ 23.89  

(1)
The dividend yield, used to project stock price to the end of the performance period, is based on our historical experience and future expectation of dividend payouts. Total shareholder return is determined assuming that dividends are reinvested in the issuing entity over the performance period, which is mathematically equivalent to utilizing a 0% dividend yield.
(2)
We (or peer company) estimated volatility using our (or their) historical share price performance over the remaining performance period as of the grant date.
(3)
The correlation coefficients are used to model the way in which each entity tends to move in relation to each other; the correlation assumptions were developed using the same stock price data as the volatility assumptions.
(4)
The risk-free interest rate assumption is based on U.S. Treasury securities at a constant maturity with a maturity period that most closely resembles the expected term of the performance award.
(5)
Since the Monte Carlo simulation valuation is an open form model that uses an expected life commensurate with the performance period, the expected life of the PRSUs was assumed to be the period from the grant date to the end of the performance period.

Note 3.                      Earnings Per Share

A reconciliation of the basic and diluted earnings per share computations for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, is as follows (dollars in thousands except per share data):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
       
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic
    80,707       82,025  
Dilutive effect of stock options and unvested restricted stock units
    691       1,167  
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted
    81,398       83,192  
                 
Net income attributable to Knight Transportation
  $ 22,570     $ 29,563  
                 
Basic earnings per share
  $ 0.28     $ 0.36  
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 0.28     $ 0.36  

Certain shares of options, restricted stock units, and PRSUs (collectively, “equity awards”) were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the equity award’s exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares and the sum total of assumed proceeds resulted in fewer shares repurchased than the weighted equity awards outstanding hypothetically exercised per the treasury method.
 
 
10

 
The number of anti-dilutive shares are:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Number of anti-dilutive shares
    1,017,093       26,970  

Note 4.                      Segment Information

We have two operating segments:  (i) the Trucking segment comprised of three operating units (Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Drayage), and (ii) the Logistics segment comprised of two operating units (Brokerage and Intermodal). We also provide logistics, freight management and other non-trucking services through our Logistics businesses. Through our Trucking and Logistics segment capabilities, we are able to transport, or can arrange for the transportation of, general commodities for customers throughout the United States and parts of Canada and Mexico.

In determining our reportable operating segments, we focus on financial information such as operating revenues and expenses, operating income, operating ratios, and other key operating statistics common in the industry.  The chief operating decision makers also use this information to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources to our operations.

Our segments provide transportation and related services for one another. Such services are billed at cost, and no profit is earned. Such intersegment revenues and expenses are eliminated in our consolidated results.

The following table sets forth revenue and operating income between the Trucking and Logistics segments for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Revenues:
   $       %      $       %  
Trucking Segment
  $ 217,956       80.1 %   $ 235,290       81.1 %
Logistics Segment
    58,609       21.5       57,848       19.9  
Subtotal
    276,565               293,138          
Intersegment Eliminations Trucking
    (38 )     0.0       (18 )     0.0  
Intersegment Eliminations Logistics
    (4,439 )     (1.6 )     (2,839 )     (1.0 )
Total
  $ 272,088       100 %   $ 290,281       100 %
                                 
Operating Income:
                               
Trucking Segment
  $ 35,922       92.8 %   $ 42,147       91.0 %
Logistics Segment
    2,805       7.2       4,157       9.0  
Total
  $ 38,727       100 %   $ 46,304       100 %

Trucking Segment Information

The Trucking segment operates large, modern, company-owned tractor fleets and use independent contractors to provide various transportation solutions, including multiple stop pick-ups and deliveries, dedicated equipment and personnel, on-time expedited pick-ups and deliveries, specialized driver training and other truckload services. Revenues are generally set at a predetermined rate per mile or per load for the Trucking services.  In addition, revenue streams are also generated by charging for tractor and trailer detention, loading and unloading activities, dedicated services, and other specialized services, as well as through the collection of fuel surcharges to mitigate the impact of increases in the cost of fuel.
 
 
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The primary measurement we use to evaluate the profitability of the Trucking segment is the operating ratio, measured both on a GAAP basis (operating expenses expressed as a percentage of revenue) and non-GAAP basis used by many in our industry (operating expenses, net of Trucking fuel surcharge revenue, expressed as a percentage of Trucking revenue, excluding Trucking fuel surcharge revenue).  We believe the second method allows us to more effectively compare periods while excluding the potentially volatile effect of changes in fuel prices.  Non-GAAP operating ratio is not a substitute for, or superior to, and should be considered in addition to, GAAP operating ratio.  Pursuant to the requirements of the SEC's Regulation G, the tables below compare our operating ratio using both methods.

The following table sets forth the Trucking segment operating ratio on a GAAP basis (dollars in thousands).

GAAP Presentation:
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Trucking Segment
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 217,956             $ 235,290          
Operating expenses
    182,034       83.5 %     193,143       82.1 %
Operating income
  $ 35,922             $ 42,147          

The following table sets forth the Trucking segment operating ratio as if fuel surcharges are excluded from total revenue and instead reported as a reduction of operating expenses, excluding intersegment activity (dollars in thousands).

Non-GAAP Presentation(1):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Trucking Segment
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 217,956             $ 235,290          
Less: Trucking fuel surcharge revenue
    (18,505 )             (33,067 )        
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (38 )             (18 )        
Revenue, net of fuel surcharge and intersegment transactions
    199,413               202,205          
Operating expenses
    182,034               193,143          
Less: Trucking fuel surcharge revenue
    (18,505 )             (33,067 )        
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (38 )             (18 )        
Operating expenses, net of fuel surcharge and intersegment transactions
    163,491       82.0 %     160,058       79.2 %
Operating income
  $ 35,922             $ 42,147          

(1)
These items represent non-GAAP financial measures and are not substitutes for, or superior to, and should be considered in addition to, the GAAP financial measures presented in the previous table.  Although we believe that this non-GAAP presentation of our operating ratio can make an evaluation of our operating performance more consistent because it removes items that, in our opinion, do not reflect our core operating performance, other companies in the transportation industry may define the non-GAAP operating ratio differently.  As a result, it may be difficult to use non-GAAP measures that other companies may use to compare the performance of those companies to our performance.
 
 
12

 
Our Trucking segment requires substantial capital expenditures for purchases of new revenue equipment.  Total depreciation and amortization expense for the Trucking segment was approximately $27.4 million and $26.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Logistics Segment Information

Logistics revenue is generated primarily by the Brokerage and Intermodal operating units, which charge a predetermined rate per mile or per load for arranging freight transportation for our customers. We also provide logistics, freight management and other non-trucking services through our Logistics business.   Additional revenue is generated by offering specialized logistics solutions (including, but not limited to, origin management, surge volumes, disaster relief, special projects, and other logistics needs).  Logistics   revenue is mainly affected by the rates we are able to negotiate with customers, the freight volumes that are shipped through third-party capacity providers, and our ability to secure qualified third-party capacity providers to transport customer freight.

The following table sets forth the Logistics segment revenue, operating expenses, and operating income (dollars in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Logistics
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 58,609             $ 57,848          
Operating expenses
    55,804       95.2 %     53,691       92.8 %
Operating income
  $ 2,805             $ 4,157          

The following table sets forth the Logistics segment revenue, operating expenses, and operating income, excluding intersegment transactions (dollars in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Logistics
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 58,609             $ 57,848          
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (4,439 )             (2,839 )        
Revenue excluding intersegment transactions
    54,170               55,009          
Operating expenses
    55,804               53,691          
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (4,439 )             (2,839 )        
Operating expenses excluding intersegment transactions
    51,365       94.8 %     50,852       92.4 %
Operating income
  $ 2,805             $ 4,157          

We primarily measure the Logistics segment's profitability by reviewing the gross margin percentage (revenue, net of intersegment elimination), less purchased transportation expense, expressed as a percentage of revenue (net of intersegment elimination) and the operating income percentage.  The gross margin percentage can be affected by customer rates and the costs of securing third-party capacity providers.  Our third-party capacity providers are generally not subject to long-term or predetermined contracted rates, and the operating results could be affected if the availability of third-party capacity providers or the rates for such providers change in the future.
 
 
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The following table lists the gross margin percentage for our Brokerage and Intermodal businesses combined.

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Combined Brokerage and Intermodal gross margin percent(1)
    18.7 %     16.0 %

(1)
Gross margin percentage is based on revenue net of intersegment elimination.

Our Logistics segment does not require significant capital expenditures and is not asset-intensive like the Trucking segment.  Total Logistics segment depreciation and amortization expense is primarily attributed to equipment leased to third parties, which was approximately $1.0 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015.

No segmental asset or liability information is provided as we do not prepare balance sheets by segment, and the chief operating decision makers do not review segment assets to make operating decisions.

Note 5.                      Joint Ventures

In July 2014, we formed an Arizona limited liability company, Kool Trans, LLC, for the purpose of expanding our refrigerated trucking business. In October 2015, we amended the Articles of Organization to change the company name to Kold Trans, LLC.  We are entitled to 80% of the profits of the entity and have effective control over the management of the entity. In accordance with ASC 810-10-15-8, Consolidation, we consolidate the financial activities of this entity into these condensed consolidated financial statements. The noncontrolling interest for this entity is presented as a separate component of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

In 2010, we partnered with a non-related investor to form an Arizona limited liability company for the purpose of sourcing commercial vehicle parts. We contributed $26,000 to acquire 52% ownership of this entity. In accordance with ASC 810-10-15-8, Consolidation, we consolidate the financial activities of this entity into the condensed consolidated financial statements. The noncontrolling interest for this entity is presented as a separate component of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Note 6.                      Commitments and Contingencies

We are a party to certain claims and pending litigation arising in the normal course of business.  These proceedings primarily involve claims for personal injury, property damage, physical damage, and cargo loss incurred in the transportation of freight or for personnel matters, as well as certain class action litigation in which plaintiffs allege failure to provide meal and rest breaks, unpaid wages, unauthorized deductions, and other items.

We are insured against auto liability (“AL”) claims under a primary self-insured retention ("SIR") policy with retention ranging from $1.0 million to $3.0 million per occurrence and in some years, depending on the applicable policy year, we have been responsible for aggregate losses up to $1.5 million within the primary AL layer.  For the policy periods March 1, 2016 to March 1, 2017, and March 1, 2015 to March 1, 2016, the SIR is $2.5 million with no additional aggregate limits or deductibles within the primary AL policy.  We have secured excess liability coverage up to $130.0 million per occurrence for the policy period March 1, 2016 to March 1, 2017. For policy period March 1, 2015 to March 1, 2016, our excess liability coverage limit was $105.0 million per occurrence. We also carry a $2.5 million aggregate deductible for any loss or losses within the excess coverage layer.
 
 
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We are self-insured for workers' compensation coverage. On March 31, 2016, the self-retention level was increased from a maximum $500,000 per occurrence to a maximum $1,000,000 per occurrence. We also maintain primary and excess coverage for employee medical expenses and hospitalization, with self-insured retention of $240,000 per claimant in 2016, and $225,000 per claimant in 2015.

Based on claims resolved in 2015, and our present knowledge of the facts and in certain cases, advice of outside counsel, management believes the resolution of open claims and pending litigation, taking into account existing reserves, is not likely to have a materially adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Note 7.                      Property and Equipment

To ensure that our facilities remain modern and efficient, we periodically have facility upgrades, or new construction, in process at our various service center or corporate headquarters locations. Until these projects are completed, we consider these to be assets not yet placed in service and they are not depreciated.  Once they are placed into service, we depreciate them according to our depreciation policy. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we had approximately $9.2 million and $17.5 million, respectively, of facility construction in process assets included under "Buildings and building improvements” on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Note 8.                      Goodwill and Intangibles, net

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of our acquisitions over the fair value of the net assets acquired. The tax benefit from the recognition on the tax return of the amortization of the excess tax goodwill over book goodwill is treated as a reduction in the book basis of goodwill.

The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill were as follows (dollars in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
 
       
Goodwill at beginning of period
  $ 47,050  
Amortization relating to deferred tax assets
    (5 )
Goodwill at end of period
  $ 47,045  

In conjunction with our acquisitions, identifiable intangible assets subject to amortization have been recorded at fair value and are being amortized over a weighted-average amortization period of 7.6 years.

Intangible asset balances were as follows (dollars in thousands):

   
March 31,
2016
   
December 31,
2015
 
       
Gross carrying amount
  $ 3,700     $ 3,700  
Accumulated amortization
    (750 )     (625 )
Intangible assets, net
  $ 2,950     $ 3,075  

Amortization expense associated with these intangible assets was $0.1 million in both the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015, and is included in “Depreciation and amortization” on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of income. Future amortization expense for intangible assets is estimated at $0.4 million for the remainder of 2016, $0.5 million for each of the years 2017 through 2019, and $0.4 million in 2020 and 2021.
 
 
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Note 9.                      Investments and Related Commitments

In 2003, we signed a partnership agreement with Transportation Resource Partners ("TRP"), a company that makes privately negotiated equity investments. Per the original partnership agreement, we committed to invest $5.0 million in TRP. In 2006, we increased the commitment amount to $5.5 million. No gain or loss was recognized in the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015, from TRP investment activity. The carrying value of our investment in TRP was $300,000 at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Our investment in TRP is accounted for using the cost method, and the balance is included within "Other long-term assets, restricted cash, and investments" on our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, we formed Knight Capital Growth, LLC and committed $15.0 million to invest in a new partnership managed and operated by the managers and principals of TRP. The new partnership, Transportation Resource Partners III, LP ("TRP III"), is focused on investment opportunities similar to TRP. As of March 31, 2016, we have contributed approximately $11.0 million to TRP III, leaving an outstanding commitment of $4.0 million. Our investment in TRP III is accounted for using the equity method. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, we recorded a loss of approximately $300,000, for our investment in TRP III, and income of approximately $117,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The carrying value of our investment in TRP III was $5.0 million and $5.8 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and included within "Other long-term assets, restricted cash, and investments" on our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

In 2015, we committed to invest in a new partnership, TRP Capital Partners, LP (“TRP IV”). The new partnership is managed and operated by the managers and principals of TRP and TRP III, and is focused on similar investment opportunities. We committed to contribute a total of $4.9 million to the new partnership, and have contributed approximately $1.0 million leaving an outstanding commitment of approximately $3.9 million as of March 31, 2016. Our investment in TRP IV is accounted for using the cost method, and the balance is included within "Other long-term assets, restricted cash, and investments" on our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

In 2016, we committed to invest in another TRP partnership, TRP CoInvest Partners, (NTI) I, LP (“TRP Coinvestment”). The new partnership is managed and operated by the managers and principals of the other TRP partnerships, and is focused on similar investment opportunities. We committed to contribute, and have paid a total of $10.0 million to the new partnership, leaving no outstanding commitment as of March 31, 2016. Our investment in TRP Coinvestment is accounted for using the equity method, and the carrying value at March 31, 2016 was $10.0 million and is included within "Other long-term assets, restricted cash, and investments" on our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Note 10.                      Marketable Equity Securities

We have certain marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale securities, which are recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, as a component of "Accumulated other comprehensive income" in shareholders' equity on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. Realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are included in the determination of net income. We use specific identification to determine the cost of securities sold, or amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings and included in “Other income” on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of income.
 
 
16

 
The following table shows the Company’s realized gains during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, on certain securities that were held as available-for-sale (dollars in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
       
Realized gains
           
Sales proceeds
  $ 2,852     $ 3,146  
Cost of securities sold
    1,257       800  
Realized gain
  $ 1,595     $ 2,346  
                 
Realized gains, net of taxes
  $ 981     $ 1,438  

As of March 31, 2016, our available-for-sale equity investments included in "Other long-term assets and restricted cash and investments" on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets, was approximately $4.4 million, including gross unrealized gains of approximately $2.8 million, or $1.7 million (net of tax). As of December 31, 2015, our available-for-sale investment balance was approximately $7.1 million, including gross unrealized gains of approximately $4.2 million, or $2.6 million (net of tax).

Note 11.                      Assets Held for Sale

Revenue equipment that is not utilized in continuing operations and is held for sale is classified as "Assets held for sale" on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.  Assets held for sale at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, totaled $27.1 million and $29.3 million, respectively. Assets held for sale are no longer subject to depreciation, and are recorded at the lower of depreciated carrying value or fair market value less selling costs. We expect to sell these assets and replace them with new assets within twelve months of being classified as "Assets held for sale."

Note 12.                      Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. For interim reporting purposes, our income tax provisions are recorded based on the estimated annual effective tax rate. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse.  The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

We record net deferred tax assets to the extent we believe these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies, and recent financial operations.  A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets has not been deemed necessary due to our profitable operations.

We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits.  We file federal and state income tax returns with varying statutes of limitations. The 2011 through 2015 tax years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities.  As of March 31, 2016, cumulative gross unrecognized tax benefits were $0.7 million.  We had no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2015.  All unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate.
 
 
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With the exception of the unrecognized tax benefits discussed above, we believe that our income tax filing positions and deductions will be sustained on audit and do not anticipate any adjustments that will result in a material change to our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.  Our policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense.  No interest or penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits has been recognized as of March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015, because the Company has not yet received the refunds related to the uncertain tax benefits.  None of the unrecognized tax benefits are expected to reverse in the next 12 months.

Note 13.                      Company Share Repurchase Programs

In May 2011, our Board of Directors unanimously authorized the repurchase of 10.0 million shares of our common stock. The repurchase authorization is intended to afford flexibility to acquire shares opportunistically in future periods and does not indicate an intention to repurchase any particular number of shares within a definite timeframe.  Any repurchases would be effected based upon share price and market conditions. The Company’s share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares. Under the program, shares may be repurchased in privately negotiated and/or open market transactions, including under plans complying with Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act.

Under the share repurchase program, we repurchased 1.1 million shares for $27.1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016, and no repurchases were made in the three months ended March 31, 2015. As of March 31, 2016, there were 4.7 million shares remaining for future purchases under our repurchase program. The repurchase authorization will remain in effect until the share limit is reached or the program is terminated.

Note 14.                      Fair Value Measurements

Our assets and liabilities measured at fair value are based on principles set forth in ASC 820-10, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure, for recurring and non-recurring fair value measurements of financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. This standard defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This standard establishes a three-level hierarchy for fair value measurements based upon the significant inputs used to determine fair value.  Observable inputs are those which are obtained from market participants external to us while unobservable inputs are generally developed internally, utilizing management's estimates, assumptions, and specific knowledge of the nature of the assets or liabilities and related markets.  The three levels are defined as follows:

Level 1 – Inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access at the measurement date. An active market is defined as a market in which transactions for the assets or liabilities occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

Level 2 – Inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active (markets with few transactions), inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (i.e., interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs, only used to the extent that observable inputs are not available, reflect our assumptions about the pricing of an asset or liability.
 
 
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In accordance with the fair value hierarchy described above, the following table shows the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (dollars in thousands). 
 
   
Total
   
Total
   
Level One
   
Level Two
   
Level Three
 
   
Balance at
March 31,
2016
   
Balance at
December 31,
2015
   
Balance at
March 31,
2016
   
Balance at
December 31,
2015
   
Balance at
March 31,
2016
   
Balance at
December 31,
2015
   
Balance at
March 31,
2016
   
Balance at
December 31,
2015
 
       
Assets:
                                               
Available-for-sale securities:
                                               
Equity securities - common shares
  $ 4,445     $ 7,101     $ 4,445     $ 7,101       -       -       -       -  
Restricted cash and investments:
                                                         
Money market funds
  $ 1,204     $ 1,003     $ 1,204     $ 1,003       -       -       -       -  
Trading securities:
                                                               
Debt securities - municipal securities
  $ 2,095     $ 2,279       -       -     $ 2,095     $ 2,279       -       -  

Our other financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, long term debt, and capital lease obligations. At March 31, 2016, the fair value of these instruments were approximated by their carrying values.

Note 15.                      Notes Receivable

We provide financing to independent contractors and third parties on equipment sold or leased under our equipment sale program. Most of the notes are collateralized and are due in weekly installments, including principal and interest payments generally ranging from 2% to 20%.

The notes receivable balances are classified separately between current and long-term on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.  The current and long-term balance of our notes receivable at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, are as follows (dollars in thousands):

   
March 31,
2016
   
December 31,
2015
 
       
Notes receivable from independent contractors
  $ 636     $ 794  
Notes receivable from third parties
    3,375       3,546  
Gross notes receivable
    4,011       4,340  
Allowance for doubtful notes receivable
    (245 )     (273 )
Total notes receivable, net of allowance
    3,766       4,067  
                 
Current portion, net of allowance
    554       648  
Long-term portion
  $ 3,212     $ 3,419  

Note 16.                      Line of Credit

We maintain a revolving line of credit which permits revolving borrowings and letters of credit.  The line of credit is maintained at $300.0 million and matures December 1, 2017. We incur interest on borrowings under the line of credit at the prime rate or LIBOR plus 0.625%, determined by us at the time of borrowing. We had $106.0 million outstanding under the line of credit as of March 31, 2016, compared to $112.0 million as of December 31, 2015.  The weighted average variable annual percentage rate ("APR") for amounts borrowed during the three months ended March 31, 2016 was 1.04%.  Borrowings under the line of credit are recorded in the "Long-term debt" line of the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.  As of March 31, 2016, we also utilized $27.4 million of the line of credit for letters of credit issued to various regulatory authorities in connection with our self-insurance programs.  With the outstanding letters of credit and debt borrowed, we have $166.6 million available for future borrowings as of March 31, 2016.  After consideration of fees incurred for the unused portion of our line of credit, our weighted average variable APR for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was 1.18%. We are obligated to comply with certain financial and other covenants under the line of credit agreement and were in compliance with such covenants at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
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Note 17.                      Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvement to Employee Share-based Payment Accounting. The objective of this update is to simplify several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the new guidance to determine the impact it may have on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net).  This update clarifies the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. The guidance includes indicators to assist an entity in determining whether it controls a specified good or service before it is transferred to the customers. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which is not yet effective. The effective date for the amendments in this update is the same as the effective date of ASU 2014-09 which will be effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating the effect that this guidance will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This update seeks to increase the transparency and comparability among entities by requiring public entities to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. To satisfy the standard’s objective, a lessee will recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term and a lease liability for the obligation to make lease payments. Both the right-of-use asset and lease liability will initially be measured at the present value of the lease payments, with subsequent measurement dependent on the classification of the lease as either a finance or an operating lease. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, a lessee is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. If a lessee makes this election, it should recognize lease expense for such leases generally on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Accounting by lessors will remain mostly unchanged from current U.S. GAAP.

In transition, lessees and lessors are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The modified retrospective approach includes a number of optional practical expedients that companies may elect to apply. These practical expedients relate to the identification and classification of leases that commenced before the effective date, initial direct costs for leases that commenced before the effective date, and the ability to use hindsight in evaluating lessee options to extend or terminate a lease or to purchase the underlying asset. The transition guidance also provides specific guidance for sale and leaseback transactions, build-to-suit leases, leveraged leases, and amounts previously recognized in accordance with the business combinations guidance for leases. The new standard is effective for public companies for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
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In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments–Overall (Subtopic 825-10).This update was issued to enhance the reporting model for financial instruments regarding certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure. The update (i) requires equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method or that are consolidated) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income; (ii) simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment; (iii) eliminates the requirement for an entity to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost; (iv) requires an entity to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes; and (v) requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or in the accompanying notes to the financial statements. These provisions are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods. The standard is to be applied using a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the year of adoption. We are currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This update requires noncurrent classification of all deferred tax assets and liabilities for all public entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The update provides for early adoption for all entities as of the beginning of an annual period.  For the year ended December 31, 2015, we early adopted ASU 2015-17 and present all deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current on a prospective basis.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Stock Compensation - Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. The amendments in this update require performance targets that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as performance conditions that affect the vesting of the award. We adopted this amendment as of January 1, 2016, and do not expect the adoption to have an impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The main objective of this update is to require revenue recognition to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which we expect to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance in this update supersedes virtually all present U.S. GAAP guidance on revenue recognition. The amendments to the standard require the use of more estimates and judgments than the present standards and require additional disclosures. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date for the revenue recognition standard. The accounting standard will now be effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating this standard and our existing revenue recognition policies to determine which of our customer arrangements in the scope of the guidance will be affected by the new requirements and what impact they would have on our condensed consolidated financial statements upon adoption of this standard.
 
 
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Item 2.                      Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report contains certain statements that may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such statements are subject to the safe harbor created by those sections and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended.  All statements, other than statements of historical or current fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including without limitation: any projections of earnings, revenues, cash flows, dividends, capital expenditures, or other financial items; any statement of plans, strategies, and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning proposed acquisition plans, new services or developments; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; and any statements of belief and any statement of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.  In this Item 2, statements relating to the ability of our infrastructure to support future growth, the flexibility of our model to adapt to market conditions, our ability to recruit and retain qualified drivers, our ability to react to market conditions, our ability to gain market share, future tractor prices, potential acquisitions, our equipment purchasing plans and equipment turnover, the expected freight environment and economic trends, whether we grow organically, our ability to obtain favorable pricing terms from vendors and suppliers, expected liquidity and methods for achieving sufficient liquidity, future fuel prices, future third-party service provider relationships and availability, future compensation arrangements with independent contractors and drivers, our expected need or desire to incur indebtedness, expected sources of liquidity for capital expenditures and allocation of capital, expected tractor trade-ins, expected sources of working capital and funds for acquiring revenue equipment, expected capital expenditures, future asset utilization, future capital requirements, future trucking capacity, future consumer spending, expected freight demand and volumes, future rates, future depreciation and amortization, expected tractor and trailer fleet age, regulatory changes and the impact thereof, and future purchased transportation expense, among others, are forward-looking statements. Such statements may be identified by their use of terms or phrases such as "believe," "may," "could," "expects," "estimates," "projects," "anticipates," "plans," "intends," "hope," and similar terms and phrases.  Forward-looking statements are based on currently available operating, financial, and competitive information.  Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified, which could cause future events and actual results to differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements.  Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors," set forth in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, along with any supplements in Part II below, and various disclosures in our press releases, stockholder reports, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-Q.  You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.  We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or any change in the events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Introduction

Business Overview

We offer a broad range of full truckload transportation and logistics services with one of North America's largest tractor fleets, operated through a nationwide network of service centers, and contractual access to thousands of third-party capacity providers.  We have grown substantially by increasing the geographic reach of our service center network and by expanding the breadth of our services for customers.  Our Trucking segment provides truckload transportation, including dedicated services, of various products, goods, and materials for our diverse customer base through our Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Drayage operating units.  The Brokerage and Intermodal operating units of our Logistics segment provide a multitude of shipment solutions, including additional sources of truckload capacity and alternative transportation modes, by utilizing our vast network of third-party capacity providers and rail providers, as well as certain logistics, freight management, and other non-trucking services.  Our objective is to operate our Trucking and Logistics business with industry-leading margins and growth while providing safe, high-quality, cost-effective solutions for our customers.
 
 
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Our results of operations are affected by industry-wide economic factors and by our capital allocation, sales and marketing, operating, and spending decisions.  Industry-wide economic factors, such as freight demand, truckload and rail intermodal capacity, fuel prices, inventory levels, industrial production, government regulation, and unemployment rates, create an environment against which must make decisions.  Our decisions in areas such as allocating capital to Trucking or Logistics, driver wages, customer acquisition or retention and freight rates, investments in technology, hiring and compensation of non-driving associates, and age of fleet are made against this background.  We measure the results through key metrics, such as the number of tractors we operate, our revenue per tractor (which includes primarily our revenue per total mile and our number of miles per tractor), freight volumes brokered to third-party capacity providers (including our rail partners), driver and independent contractor recruitment and retention, and our ability to control costs on a company-wide basis, as measured by cost per mile in our Trucking segment and Adjusted Operating Ratio in both segments.  Our success depends on our ability to efficiently and effectively manage our resources in providing transportation and logistics solutions to our customers in light of such factors.  We evaluate the growth opportunities for each of our Trucking and Logistics businesses based on customer demand and supply chain trends, availability of drivers and third-party capacity providers, expected returns on invested capital, expected net cash flows, and our company-specific capabilities.

Recent Consolidated Results of Operations and Quarter-End Financial Condition

Our consolidated results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015, were as follows:

Total Revenue decreased 6.3%, to $272.1 million from $290.3 million;
   
Revenue, before fuel surcharge, decreased 1.4%, to $253.6 million from $257.2 million;
   
Net income attributable to Knight decreased 23.7%, to $22.6 million from $29.6 million; and
   
Net earnings attributable to Knight per diluted share decreased to $0.28 per share from $0.36 per share.

The freight environment was less attractive in the first quarter of 2016 compared with the same quarter in 2015.  We attribute the change to excess trucking capacity, higher inventory levels, and weak U.S. industrial production.  Freight volumes and revenue per loaded mile remained relatively stable during the first quarter compared with the 2015 quarter.  Opportunities in the non-contract market were challenged by weak demand trends and additional price competition, particularly from non-asset brokers.

During the first quarter of 2016, our Trucking segment decreased revenue, excluding trucking fuel surcharge, 1.4% and achieved an adjusted operating ratio of 82.0% compared to 79.2% in the first quarter of 2015.  Productivity, as measured by average revenue per tractor, before fuel surcharge, increased 0.2% in the first quarter of 2016 compared to the first quarter of 2015.  This improvement is attributed to essentially flat average revenue per loaded mile, a 1.8% increase in average miles per tractor, offset by an increase in non-paid empty mile percentage of 120 basis points.

The logistics segment produced an operating ratio of 94.8% in the first quarter in 2016 compared to 92.4% for the same quarter in 2015, on slightly lower revenue.   During the quarter, the operating income of the logistics segment was negatively impacted by $1.9 million as a result of exiting our agriculture sourcing business.  Excluding the impact of exiting the agriculture sourcing business, the logistics segment operated at a 90.2% operating ratio during the first quarter.   Also compared to the same quarter last year, gross margins in our brokerage business expanded 350 basis points while load volume grew by 31.0%, which resulted in operating income increasing 13.7%.  Brokerage revenue decreased 9.2% when compared to the same quarter last year as increased load volume was offset by a decline in revenue per load as a result of lower fuel surcharge, a shorter length of haul, and lower non-contract pricing.
 
 
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In the first quarter of 2016, we returned $32.2 million to our shareholders in the form of quarterly cash dividends and stock buy-backs and ended the quarter with $730.6 million of shareholders' equity. In the first quarter of 2016, we generated $67.6 million in cash flow from operations and used $11.7 million for capital expenditures net of equipment sales.

Our liquidity is not materially affected by off-balance sheet transactions.  See the discussion under "Off-Balance Sheet Transactions" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for a description of our off-balance sheet transactions.

Consolidated Revenue and Expenses

We primarily generate revenue by transporting freight for our customers in our Trucking segment or arranging for the transportation of customer freight by third party capacity providers in our Logistics segment.  Our operating revenue is reported under "Results of Operations" and categorized as (i) Trucking revenue, net of fuel surcharge, (ii) Trucking fuel surcharge revenue, and (iii) Logistics revenue.  Trucking revenue, net of fuel surcharge, and Trucking fuel surcharge revenue is largely generated by the trucking services provided by our three Trucking operating units (Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Drayage) whereas Logistics revenue is mostly generated by the logistics services provided by our two Logistics operating units (Brokerage and Intermodal). We also provide logistics, freight management, sourcing, and other non-trucking services, such as used equipment sales and leasing to independent contractors and third-parties, through our Logistics business.

The operating revenue and operating expenses of our Trucking and Logistics segments are similarly affected by factors that generally relate to, among other things, overall economic and weather conditions in the United States, customer inventory levels, specific customer demand, the levels of truckload and rail intermodal capacity, and availability of qualified drivers, independent contractors, and third-party capacity providers.

To reduce our risk to fuel price fluctuations in our Trucking segment, we have a fuel surcharge program under which we obtain from our customers additional fuel surcharges that generally recover a majority, but not all, of the increased fuel costs; however, we cannot ensure whether current recovery levels will continue in the future.  In discussing our overall and segment-based results of operations, because changes in fuel costs typically cause fuel surcharge revenue to fluctuate, we identify Trucking fuel surcharge revenue separately and omit fuel surcharge revenue from our statistical calculations.  We believe that omitting this potentially volatile source of revenue provides a more meaningful comparison of our operating results from period to period.

The following table sets forth revenue and operating income between the Trucking and Logistics segments for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. (Dollar amounts in thousands)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Revenues:
   $       %      $       %  
Trucking Segment
  $ 217,956       80.1 %   $ 235,290       81.1 %
Logistics Segment
    58,609       21.5       57,848       19.9  
Subtotal
    276,565               293,138          
Intersegment Eliminations Trucking
    (38 )     0.0       (18 )     0.0  
Intersegment Eliminations Logistics
    (4,439 )     (1.6 )     (2,839 )     (1.0 )
Total
  $ 272,088       100 %   $ 290,281       100 %
                                 
Operating Income:
                               
Trucking Segment
  $ 35,922       92.8 %   $ 42,147       91.0 %
Logistics Segment
    2,805       7.2       4,157       9.0  
Total
  $ 38,727       100 %   $ 46,304       100 %
 
 
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Trucking Strategy and Segment Information

Our Trucking operating strategy is to achieve a high level of asset utilization within a highly disciplined operating system while maintaining strict controls over our cost structure.  To achieve these goals, we operate primarily in high-density, predictable freight lanes in select geographic regions and attempt to develop and expand our customer base around each of our service centers by providing multiple truckload services for each customer.  This operating strategy allows us to take advantage of the large amount of freight transported in regional markets.  Our service centers enable us to better serve our customers and work more closely with our driving associates.  We operate a premium, modern fleet to appeal to drivers and customers, reduce maintenance expenses and driver and equipment downtime, and enhance our fuel and other operating efficiencies.  We employ technology in a cost-effective manner to assist us in controlling operating costs and enhancing revenue.

Trucking revenue is generated by our Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Drayage operating units.  Generally, we are paid a predetermined rate per mile or per load for our Trucking services.  Additional revenues are generated by charging for tractor and trailer detention, loading and unloading activities, dedicated services, and other specialized services, as well as through the collection of fuel surcharges to mitigate the impact of increases in the cost of fuel.  The main factors that affect our Trucking revenue are the revenue per mile we receive from our customers, the percentage of miles for which we are compensated, and the number of loaded miles we generate with our equipment.

Effectively controlling our expenses is an important element of maximizing our profitability.  The most significant expenses of our Trucking segment are primarily variable and include fuel and fuel taxes, driver-related expenses (such as wages, benefits, training, and recruitment) and costs associated with independent contractors (which are primarily included in purchased transportation expense recorded on the "Purchased transportation" line of our condensed consolidated statements of income).  Expenses that have both fixed and variable components include maintenance expense (which includes costs for replacement tires for our revenue equipment) and our total cost of insurance and claims.  These expenses generally vary with the miles we travel but also have a controllable component based on safety, fleet age, efficiency, and other factors.  The main fixed costs for our Trucking segment are the acquisition and depreciation of long-term assets (such as revenue equipment and service centers) and the compensation of non-driver personnel.

The primary measure we use to evaluate the profitability of our Trucking segment is operating ratio, measured both on a GAAP basis (operating expenses expressed as a percentage of revenue) and on a non-GAAP basis that many in our industry use (operating expenses, net of Trucking fuel surcharge revenue, expressed as a percentage of Trucking revenue, excluding Trucking fuel surcharge revenue).  We believe the second method allows us to more effectively compare periods while excluding the potentially volatile effect of changes in fuel prices.  Non-GAAP operating ratio is not a substitute for GAAP operating ratio. The tables below compare our operating ratio using both methods.

The following table sets forth the Trucking segment operating ratio on a GAAP basis (amount in thousands).

GAAP Presentation:
 
Three Months Ended
 March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Trucking Segment
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 217,956             $ 235,290          
Operating expenses
    182,034       83.5 %     193,143       82.1 %
Operating income
  $ 35,922             $ 42,147          
 
 
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The following table sets forth the Trucking segment operating ratio as if fuel surcharges are excluded from total revenue and instead reported as a reduction of operation expenses, excluding intersegment activity (amount in thousands).

Non-GAAP Presentation(1):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Trucking Segment
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 217,956             $ 235,290          
Less: Trucking fuel surcharge revenue
    (18,505 )             (33,067 )        
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (38 )             (18 )        
Revenue, net of fuel surcharge and intersegment transactions
    199,413               202,205          
Operating expenses
    182,034               193,143          
Less: Trucking fuel surcharge revenue
    (18,505 )             (33,067 )        
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (38 )             (18 )        
Operating expenses, net of fuel surcharge and intersegment transactions
    163,491       82.0 %     160,058       79.2 %
Operating income
  $ 35,922             $ 42,147          

(1)
These items represent non-GAAP financial measures and are not substitutes for, and should be considered in addition to, the GAAP financial measures presented in the previous table.

When evaluating Trucking revenue, we consider the following key operating statistics for each period:  (i) average revenue per tractor; (ii) average length of haul (miles with loaded trailer cargo); (iii) average percentage of empty miles (miles without trailer cargo); and (iv) average number of tractors and trailers in operation.  The following table sets forth certain key operating statistics and certain other statistical data of the Trucking segment for the indicated periods.

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Average revenue per tractor(1)
  $ 42,528     $ 42,436  
Average length of haul (miles)
    496       500  
Non-paid empty mile percent
    12.7 %     11.5 %
Average tractors in operation during period
    4,689       4,765  
Average trailers in operation during period
    11,967       11,393  

(1)
Average revenue per tractor is based on trucking revenue, net of intersegment elimination, and does not include fuel surcharge revenue.

Our Trucking segment requires substantial capital expenditures for purchases of new revenue equipment.  We fund these purchases with cash flows from operations and financing available under our existing line of credit.  We operated an average of 4,689 tractors in the first quarter of 2016, of which 4,276 were company-owned tractors as of March 31, 2016. The average age of our company-owned tractor fleet was 1.7 years at March 31, 2016.  We also operated an average of 11,967 trailers in the first quarter of 2016, with an average age of 4.3 years as of March 31, 2016.  We expect the average age of our trailers to decrease slightly during the remainder of 2016 as we refresh our fleet. Our net property, plant, and equipment at March 31, 2016, was $798.0 million, most of which relates to our Trucking segment. 
 
 
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Our capital expenditures can also affect depreciation expense.  Trucking depreciation relates primarily to our owned tractors, trailers, electronic logging devices and other communication units, and other similar assets.  Changes to these fixed costs are generally attributed to increases or decreases to company-owned equipment and fluctuations in new equipment purchase prices, which have historically been precipitated in part by new or proposed federal and state regulations (such as the EPA engine emissions requirements relating to post-2014 model tractors and the California trailer efficiency requirements).  Depreciation can also be affected by the cost of used equipment that we sell or trade and the replacement of older used equipment.  Our management periodically reviews the condition, average age, and reasonableness of estimated useful lives and salvage values of our equipment and considers such factors in light of our experience with similar assets, used equipment market conditions, and prevailing industry practice.  Total Trucking segment depreciation and amortization expense was approximately $27.4 million in the first quarter of 2016.

Logistics Strategy and Segment Information

Logistics revenue is generated primarily by our Brokerage and Intermodal operating units.  We also provide logistics, freight management and other non-trucking services to our customers through our Logistics business.  We are generally paid a predetermined rate per mile or per load for arranging freight transportation for our customers and providing other Logistics services.  Additional revenue is generated by offering specialized logistics solutions (including, but not limited to, origin management, surge volumes, disaster relief, special projects, and other logistics needs).  Our Logistics revenue is mainly affected by the rates we obtain from customers, the freight volumes we ship through our third-party capacity providers, and our ability to secure qualified third-party capacity providers to transport customer freight.

Our Logistics segment is less asset-intensive and is instead dependent upon capable non-driver personnel, modern and effective information technology, and qualified third-party capacity providers.  The most significant expense of our Logistics segment, which is primarily variable, is the cost of purchased transportation that we pay to third-party capacity providers (including our rail providers) which is included in the "Purchased transportation" line of our condensed consolidated statements of income.  This expense generally varies depending upon truckload and rail capacity, availability of third-party capacity providers, rates charged to customers, and current freight demand and customer shipping needs.  Other Logistics operating expenses are generally fixed and primarily include the compensation and benefits of non-driver personnel (included in salaries, wages and benefits expense recorded on the "Salaries, wages and benefits" line of our condensed consolidated statements of income) and depreciation and amortization expense.

The following table sets forth the Logistics segment revenue, operating expenses, and operating income (amount in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Logistics
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 58,609             $ 57,848          
Operating expenses
    55,804       95.2 %     53,691       92.8 %
Operating income
  $ 2,805             $ 4,157          
 
 
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The following table sets forth the Logistics revenue, operating expenses, and operating income, excluding intersegment transactions (amount in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Logistics
   $       %      $       %  
Revenue
  $ 58,609             $ 57,848          
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (4,439 )             (2,839 )        
Revenue excluding intersegment transactions
    54,170               55,009          
Operating expenses
    55,804               53,691          
Less: Intersegment transactions
    (4,439 )             (2,839 )        
Operating expenses excluding intersegment transactions
    51,365       94.8 %     50,852       92.4 %
Operating income
  $ 2,805             $ 4,157          

We primarily measure the Logistics segment's profitability by reviewing the gross margin percentage (revenue net of intersegment elimination, less purchased transportation expense, expressed as a percentage of revenue, net of intersegment elimination) and the operating income percentage.  The gross margin percentage can be affected by customer rates and the costs of securing third-party capacity providers.  Our third-party capacity providers generally are not subject to long-term or predetermined contracted rates, and our operating results could be affected if the availability of third-party capacity providers or the rates for such providers change in the future. The following table lists the gross margin percentage for our Brokerage and Intermodal businesses combined.

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
 
Combined Brokerage and Intermodal gross margin percent(1)
    18.7 %     16.0 %

(1)
Gross margin percentage is based on revenue net of intersegment elimination.

Our Logistics segment does not require significant capital expenditures and is not asset-intensive like our Trucking segment.  Rather, our Logistics segment depends on effective usage of information systems and technology that enable us to efficiently arrange for the transportation of our customers' freight and remain resourceful and responsive in meeting customer shipping needs.  As our Logistics services evolve, we may incur costs to upgrade, integrate, or expand our information systems and technology.  Total Logistics segment depreciation and amortization expense was approximately $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2016, which is primarily attributed to equipment leased to third parties.

Trends and Outlook

For the remaining first half of 2016, we expect the freight environment to be more challenging than in the same period of the prior two years.  Excess capacity has entered the market, which has led to a more competitive pricing market and fewer non-contract opportunities. We expect to see the market begin to improve in the second half of 2016, as excess capacity exits the market, as indicated by reduced new tractor orders and a soft used equipment market. Market factors that include higher driver wages, lower gain on sale of revenue equipment, and fewer non-contract opportunities may negatively affect our margins in our Trucking and Logistics segments.  In this environment, we plan to limit organic fleet expansion, focus on cost control, and allocate expansion capital toward Logistics.
 
 
Our driver development program remains a primary focus for our management team.  In such an environment, we believe carriers that are well-positioned to develop and retain drivers, withstand supply and demand fluctuations, and provide safe, dependable, and high-quality service to customers will have opportunities to increase freight rates and market share.  We believe domestic and global economic and political conditions present the most direct challenges to improved freight demand.  These threats include the possibility that rising energy prices, an inability of the United States government to timely and adequately address fiscal issues, currency fluctuations, or other factors outside our control could reduce consumer spending or industrial investment, thus negatively affecting freight volumes.

Several issues impacting the trucking industry could also cause our costs to increase for the remainder of 2016. These issues include driver and independent contractor availability, fuel price fluctuations, increases to new tractor and trailer purchase prices, and compliance with new and proposed federal and state regulations.  From a cost perspective, recruiting and retaining sufficient numbers of qualified drivers, independent contractors, and third-party capacity providers may become increasingly costly, equipment prices may continue to rise, and potentially higher fuel prices may not be fully offset by fuel surcharges. In the current economic and regulatory environments, it will be important to allocate equipment to more compensatory shipments, use technology to generate efficiencies, continue to grow our Logistics segment, and effectively manage fuel and other costs.  We believe we have the service center network, modern tractor fleet, comprehensive truckload and logistics services, management team and qualified personnel, technology, intense focus on cost control, and capital resources to successfully overcome these challenges and capitalize on future opportunities.

We expect to utilize the flexibility of our model to react and adapt to market conditions.  We believe we can optimize our model and refine our execution in reaction to, or in anticipation of, transportation market dynamics, particularly the markets for truckload and logistics services that we offer. We plan to continue to evaluate acquisition candidates and other opportunities that create value for our shareholders and further advance our long-term strategy.
 
 
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Results of Operations

The following table sets forth the consolidated statements of income in dollars and as a percentage of total consolidated revenue and the percentage increase or decrease in the dollar amounts of those items compared to the prior year.

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
   
%
Change
 
(Amounts in thousands)
   $       %      $       %    
%
 
Trucking revenue
  $ 199,413       73.3 %   $ 202,205       69.7 %     (1.4 )%
Trucking fuel surcharge revenue
    18,505       6.8       33,067       11.4       (44.0 )
Logistics revenue
    54,170       19.9       55,009       18.9       (1.5 )
Consolidated Revenue
    272,088       100.0       290,281       100.0       (6.3 )
                                         
Operating expenses:
                                       
Salaries, wages and benefits
    83,603       30.7       80,026       27.6       4.5  
Fuel
    26,771       9.9       38,089       13.1       (29.7 )
Operations and maintenance
    18,010       6.6       20,128       6.9       (10.5 )
Insurance and claims
    8,823       3.2       8,933       3.1       (1.2 )
Operating taxes and licenses
    5,487       2.0       5,855       2.0       (6.3 )
Communications
    1,205       0.5       1,140       0.4       5.7  
Depreciation and amortization
    28,402       10.5       27,160       9.3       4.6  
Purchased transportation(1)
    57,785       21.2       59,545       20.5       (3.0 )
Miscellaneous operating expenses
    3,275       1.2       3,101       1.1       5.6  
Total operating expenses
    233,361       85.8       243,977       84.0       (4.4 )
Operating income
    38,727       14.2       46,304       16.0       (16.4 )
Interest income
    94       0.0       132       0.0       (28.8 )
Interest expense
    (301 )     (0.1 )     (283 )     (0.1 )     6.4  
Other income
    1,286       0.5       2,464       0.8       (47.8 )
Total other income (expense)
    1,079       0.4       2,313       0.7       (53.4 )
Income before income taxes
    39,806       14.6       48,617       16.7       (18.1 )
Income taxes
    16,783       6.1       18,675       6.4       (10.1 )
Net income
  $ 23,023       8.5 %   $ 29,942       10.3 %     (23.1 )%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
    (453 )     (0.2 )     (379 )     (0.1 )     19.5  
Net income attributable to Knight Transportation
  $ 22,570       8.3 %   $ 29,563       10.2 %     (23.7 )%

(1)
Purchased transportation expense is comprised of (a) payments to independent contractors, which is primarily attributed to our Trucking segment; (b) payments to third-party capacity providers, which is primarily attributed to our Logistics segment; and (c) payments relating to our logistics, freight management and non-trucking services.

Comparison of Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 to Three Months Ended March 31, 2015.

Operating Revenue

Total revenue decreased 6.3% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, to $272.1 million from $290.3 million for the same three months in 2015. During the first quarter of 2016, we experienced a less robust freight environment when compared to the same quarter in 2015. Although the contracted portion of our freight volume remained relatively stable, non-contract opportunities were challenged by weaker demand and additional competition, which led to a decline in consolidated revenue.

Trucking revenue decreased 1.4% to $199.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, from $202.2 million for the same three months in 2015. Although Trucking revenue decreased due to a less robust freight market, tractor productivity, as measured by average revenue, before fuel surcharge, per tractor, increased 0.2% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same three months in 2015, attributable to a slightly reduced tractor count, an essentially flat average revenue per loaded mile, and a 1.8% increase in average miles per tractor, offset by an increase in non-paid empty mile percentage to 12.7% from 11.5%. We expect the current competitive freight environment to prevail through the remainder of the first half of 2016.  If capacity tightens, however, we expect rates to begin to improve. Any adverse changes in either of these factors, among others, could prevent rate increases or negatively affect existing rates.
 
 
30

 
Trucking fuel surcharge decreased 44.0% to $18.5 million in the first quarter of 2016, from $33.1 million in the same quarter of 2015.  Average fuel prices decreased in the three months ended March 31, 2016, by 29.0% from the same three months in 2015. Typical fuel surcharge programs involve a computation based on the change in national or regional fuel prices.  These programs may update as often as weekly, but typically require a specified minimum change in fuel cost to prompt a change in fuel surcharge revenue for our Trucking segment. Therefore, many of these programs have a time lag between when fuel costs change and when the change is reflected in fuel surcharge revenue for our Trucking segment.

Logistics revenue is primarily generated by our Brokerage and Intermodal operating units. Logistics revenue decreased 1.5% to $54.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, from $55.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015.  The decrease is primarily due to the decrease in revenue of our brokerage business which is the largest component of our Logistics segment. Our brokerage revenue decreased 9.2% in the first quarter of 2016 compared to the same quarter of 2015 as a result of lower fuel surcharge, a shorter length of haul, and lower non-contract pricing. Despite the decline in revenue, our brokerage business grew load volumes 31.0%, expanded gross margins, and increased operating income. We achieved this growth by providing more capacity to our customers through our third-party carriers and rail providers.

Operating Expenses

Salaries, wages and benefits expense, as a percentage of total revenue, increased to 30.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to 27.6% for the same period in 2015. Excluding the effect of lower fuel surcharge revenue, factors contributing to the increase include increases in driver base pay and a shift from purchased transportation expense to driver salaries and wages expense, as a greater percentage of our tractor fleet was comprised of company tractors rather than independent contractors in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same three months in 2015. We believe that the driver market remains challenging and that the implementation of stricter regulations has further reduced the pool of available drivers. We expect that driver pay will continue to be inflationary on a year-over-year basis based on the pay increases that were implemented in 2015. We expect to continue to develop strategies designed to attract and retain safe, high-quality driving associates, including investing in technology and service centers that improve the experience of drivers, and we believe we are well-positioned for further progress developing driving associates in the coming quarters.

Fuel expense, as a percentage of total revenue, decreased to 9.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, from 13.1% in same period of 2015. The U.S. National Average Diesel Fuel Price decreased in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same three months in 2015 by 29.0%. Our fuel efficiency initiatives such as trailer blades, idle-control, updating our fleet with more fuel efficient engines and driver training programs continued to contribute to the reduction in fuel expense. Our fuel surcharge program helps to offset increases in fuel prices, but applies only to loaded miles and typically does not offset empty miles, idle time, and out of route miles driven.  Typical fuel surcharge programs involve a computation based on the change in national or regional fuel prices.  These programs may update as often as weekly, but typically require a specified minimum change in fuel cost to prompt a change in fuel surcharge revenue for our Trucking segment. Therefore, many of these programs have a time lag between when fuel costs change and when the change is reflected in fuel surcharge revenue for our Trucking segment.  Due to this time lag, our fuel expense, net of fuel surcharge, negatively impacts our operating income during periods of sharply rising fuel costs and positively impacts our operating income during periods of falling fuel costs. During the first quarter of 2016 and 2015, fuel prices were falling.  The spread was narrower in the 2016 period, however, and negatively affected our net fuel expense when compared to the 2015 period.
 
 
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Operations and maintenance expense, as a percentage of total revenue, decreased slightly to 6.6% from 6.9% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same period in 2015.  Operations and maintenance expense consists of direct operating expense, equipment maintenance, and tire expense.  During the first quarter of 2016, our direct operating and maintenance costs decreased as a percentage of total revenue, excluding Trucking fuel surcharge, while our tire costs remained relatively flat as compared to the same quarter of 2015 due to improved cost control measures.  Although driver development and recruiting costs remained consistent year-over-year, we expect the driver market to remain competitive in 2016, which could increase future driver development and recruiting costs and negatively affect our operations and maintenance expense.

Insurance and claims expense, as a percentage of total revenue, increased slightly in the three months ended March 31, 2016, to 3.2% from 3.1% for the same three months in 2015. Insurance and claims expense expressed as a percentage of revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, remained consistent year-over-year at 3.5%. Insurance and claims expense consists of premiums for liability, physical damage, and cargo, and will vary based upon the frequency and severity of claims, as well as our level of self-insurance, and premium expense.

Operating taxes and license expense, as a percentage of total revenue, remained flat at 2.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015. This expense line is impacted by changes in various fuel tax rates and registration fees associated with our truck fleet and operating regions.

Communications expense, as a percentage of total revenue, increased slightly to 0.5% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to 0.4% for the same three months in 2015.  Communications expense is comprised of our tractor and trailer tracking systems, information technology systems, and phone systems.

Depreciation and amortization expense, as a percentage of total revenue, increased to 10.5% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, from 9.3% in the three months ended March 31, 2015. This fixed cost as a percentage of total revenue was higher for the three months ended March 31, 2016, in part due to the decrease in fuel surcharge revenue driven by the fall in fuel prices. Depreciation expense as a percentage of total revenue, excluding Trucking fuel surcharge, increased to 11.2% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, from 10.6% in the same three months in 2015. Depreciation expense increased as we continued to refresh our fleet with higher priced equipment and experienced a shift from owner operated trucks to company trucks. Depreciation and amortization expense for our Trucking segment as a percentage of Trucking revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, increased to 13.8% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, from 12.9% for the same three months in 2015.  Our average revenue per tractor increased 0.2% in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same three months of 2015, but was insufficient to offset increases in depreciation as we continued to renew our fleet with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) emission compliant engines, which are more expensive than previous tractors due to compliance with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and EPA emissions standards.  The higher cost of these newer tractors is expected to result in higher depreciation and amortization going forward.  These engines provide substantial emissions reductions, and we believe this investment will contribute to our strategy of maintaining efficiency in our operations by adhering to a relatively consistent tractor trade-in schedule.

Purchased transportation expense, as a percentage of total revenue, increased to 21.2% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, from 20.5% for the same three months of 2015.  Purchased transportation expense is comprised of (i) payments to independent contractors for our Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Drayage operations in our Trucking segment; (ii) payments to third-party capacity providers for our Brokerage operations and to railroads for our Intermodal operations; and (iii) payments relating to logistics, freight management and non-trucking services in our Logistics segment. The increase is due in part to the decrease in fuel surcharge revenue driven by the fall in fuel prices. Purchased transportation expense expressed as a percentage of total revenue, excluding fuel surcharge, decreased to 22.8% in the first quarter in 2016 compared to 23.1% in the same quarter of 2015. Purchased transportation expense attributed to payments to independent contractors in our Trucking segment decreased as more of our tractor fleet was comprised of company tractors in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015. Although purchased transportation expense decreased as expected with the decrease in revenue in our Logistics segment, this decrease was hindered by increased costs associated with exiting our agriculture sourcing business. Purchased transportation costs generally take into account changes in diesel fuel prices, resulting in lower payments during periods of declining fuel prices. We expect purchased transportation will increase as a percentage of revenue if we are successful in continuing to grow our Logistics segment.
 
 
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Miscellaneous operating expenses, as a percentage of total revenue, increased slightly to 1.2% during the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to 1.1% for the same three months in 2015. This increase is primarily due to a decrease in gains from the sale of used equipment that is included in miscellaneous operating expenses.  Gains from the sale of used equipment decreased to $3.2 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016, from $4.7 million in the same three months in 2015. We believe the used equipment market will tighten in the back half of 2016 and help off-set other miscellaneous operating expenses.

As a result of the above factors, our GAAP operating ratio (operating expenses expressed as a percentage of total revenue) was 85.8% for the first quarter of 2016, compared to 84.0% for the same quarter of 2015.  The adjusted operating ratio (non-GAAP) based upon total operating expenses, net of fuel surcharge, as a percentage of total revenue before fuel surcharge, was 84.7% for the first quarter of 2016, as compared to 82.0% for the same quarter of 2015.  Please see the reconciliation table above for a reconciliation of GAAP operating ratio to non-GAAP operating ratio.

Both interest income and interest expense remained constant as a percentage of total revenue. Our borrowing capacity remains at $300.0 million, and our debt balance was reduced by $6.0 million during the three months ended March 31, 2016, to $106.0 million from $112.0 million at December 31, 2015.

Other income decreased to 0.5%, as a percentage of revenue, in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to 0.8% for the same three months of 2015. The decrease is primarily due to lower realized gains on sale of available-for-sale securities.

We provide for income taxes at the statutory federal and state rates, adjusted for certain permanent differences between financial statement income and income for tax reporting.  Our effective tax rate was 42.2% for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 38.4% for the same three months in 2015.

Due to the net result of the preceding financial results, our net income attributable to Knight decreased 23.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same period during 2015.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The growth of our business has required, and will continue to require, significant investment in new revenue equipment.  In our Trucking business, where investments are substantial, the primary investments are in new tractors and trailers and to a lesser extent, in technology, service centers, and working capital.  In our Logistics business, where investments are modest, the primary investments are in technology and working capital.  Our primary sources of liquidity have been funds provided by operations and borrowings under our line of credit.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $67.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $58.3 million provided during the same period in 2015.  The increase for 2016 is primarily due to changes in accounts payable and other current assets balances in the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, offset by the decrease in net income in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to the same three months in 2015.
 
 
33

 
Net cash used in investing activities was $19.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to net cash used of $2.3 million for the same period in 2015. Capital expenditures for the purchase of revenue equipment, office equipment, and land and leasehold improvements, net of equipment sales, was $11.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $5.8 million for the same period in 2015. We also contributed $11.0 million to a new TRP portfolio investment in the first quarter of 2016.  Excluding acquisitions, we currently anticipate capital expenditures, net of trade-ins, of approximately $75.0 million to $90.0 million for the remainder of 2016.  We expect to use our capital expenditure estimate primarily to acquire new revenue equipment.

Net cash used in financing activities was $35.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $54.2 million for the same period in 2015.  Net cash payments towards line of credit borrowings were $6.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $56.0 million in the same period of 2015. We repurchased $27.1 million of our stock in the first quarter of 2016; no stock was repurchased in the same quarter of 2015. Proceeds from exercises of stock options were $2.6 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to $4.9 million in the same period of 2015. We also paid $5.1 million for dividends in the three months ended March 31, 2016, and $5.2 million for the same period of 2015.  We currently expect to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends in the future. Future payment of cash dividends, and the amount of any such dividends, will depend upon our financial condition, results of operations, cash requirements, tax treatment, and certain corporate law requirements, as well as other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

We currently maintain a line of credit that permits revolving borrowings and letters of credit up to an aggregate of $300.0 million and matures on December 1, 2017.  The aggregate amount outstanding under our line of credit was $106.0 million as of March 31, 2016, compared to $112.0 million as of December 31, 2015. Our borrowings under the line of credit are classified as a long-term liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.  We also utilized a portion of our line of credit for letters of credit, which are issued to various regulatory authorities in connection with our self-insurance programs.  The issued but unused letters of credit totaled $27.4 million as of March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015.  Combining the amounts borrowed and letters of credit issued, we had $166.6 million available at March 31, 2016, for future borrowing under our existing line of credit, compared with $160.6 million as of December 31, 2015.  Under our current line of credit agreement, we are obligated to comply with certain financial and other covenants and were in compliance with those covenants as of March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015.

As of March 31, 2016, our cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $21.5 million compared to $8.7 million as of December 31, 2015.  During the next twelve months and beyond, we believe that we will be able to finance our short-term needs for working capital and acquisitions of revenue equipment with cash, cash flows from operations, and financing available under our existing line of credit.  We expect to have significant capital requirements over the long-term, which may require us to incur debt or seek additional equity capital.  The availability of additional capital will depend upon prevailing market conditions, the market price of our common stock, our financial condition and results of operations, and several other factors over which we have limited control.  Nevertheless, based on our recent operating results, current cash position, anticipated future cash flows, and sources of available financing, we do not expect that we will experience any significant liquidity constraints in the foreseeable future.

Off-Balance Sheet Transactions

Our liquidity is not materially affected by off-balance sheet transactions.  Like many other transportation companies, we have periodically utilized operating leases to finance a portion of our revenue equipment requirements and terminal facilities requirements. We lease revenue equipment under non-cancellable operating leases, and we lease some of our service centers and temporary trailer storage under non-cancellable operating leases.  Operating lease expense for such equipment, facilities and trailer storage is reflected in the "Miscellaneous operating expenses" line in our condensed consolidated statements of income, and totaled $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015.
 
 
34

 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires that management make a number of assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses in our condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.  Management bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable.  Although these estimates are based on management's best knowledge of current events and actions that may impact us in the future, actual results may differ from these estimates and assumptions.  Our critical accounting policies are those that affect, or could affect, our financial statements materially and involve a significant level of judgment by management. The accounting policies we deem most critical to us include revenue recognition, which we recognize when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. These conditions are met upon delivery. Furthermore, in accordance with ASC 605-45, Revenue Recognition – Principal Agent Consideration, we account for revenue from our Trucking operations, our Logistics operations, and revenue on freight transported by independent contractors within our Trucking operations on a gross basis. We are the primary obligor in these arrangements, we have the ability to establish prices, we have discretion in selecting the independent contractor or other third party that will perform the service, we have the risk of loss in the event of cargo claims, and we bear the credit risk associated with customer payments.  Accordingly, all such revenue billed to customers is classified as operating revenue and all corresponding payments to carriers for transportation services we arrange in connection with brokerage and intermodal activities, and to independent contractor providers of revenue equipment, are classified as purchased transportation expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of income. Other accounting policies deemed critical include allowance for doubtful accounts, depreciation, claims accrual, accounting for income taxes, and share-based payments. There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates during the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared to those disclosed in Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation," included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Seasonality

In the transportation industry, results of operations generally follow a seasonal pattern. Freight volumes are typically lower from January through the first part of March because some customers reduce their shipments.  In the first quarter of 2016, freight demand showed typical seasonality and was softer than the prior year first quarter when an unusually strong freight market prevailed. Operating expenses generally increase during this time, and the tractor productivity of our fleet, independent contractors, and third-party carriers decreases in the winter months because of decreased fuel efficiency, increased cold weather-related equipment maintenance and repairs, and increased insurance claims and costs attributed to higher accident frequency from harsh weather. During this period, the profitability of our Trucking operations is generally lower than during other parts of the year.  In our Logistics operations, profitability may be lower due to shipping volumes or may improve if we are able to achieve higher gross margins due to the willingness of third-party capacity providers to accept lower rates from us.

Item 3.                      Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk changes in interest rate on debt and from changes in commodity prices.

Under Financial Accounting Reporting Release Number 48 and SEC rules and regulations, we are required to disclose information concerning market risk with respect to foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices. We have elected to make such disclosures, to the extent applicable, using a sensitivity analysis approach, based on hypothetical changes in interest rates and commodity prices. We do not enter into derivatives for speculative purposes, or for which there are no underlying related exposures. Because our operations are mostly confined to the United States, we are not subject to a material amount of foreign currency risk.
 
 
35

 
Interest Rate Risk

We have interest rate risk to the extent we borrow against our line of credit or incur other debt.  At March 31, 2016, our line of credit incurred a variable interest rate, either at the prime rate or LIBOR plus 0.625%, determined by us at the time of borrowing.

Our earnings would be affected by changes in these short-term interest rates.  Risk can be quantified by measuring the financial impact of a near-term adverse increase in short-term interest rates.  At our average level of borrowing for the first three months of 2016, a 1.0% increase in our applicable rate would reduce pretax earnings by approximately $1.0 million on an annualized basis.

Historically, we have invested our excess cash primarily in highly liquid debt instruments of the U.S. government and its agencies, municipalities in the U.S., money market funds, and equity securities (e.g., common stock).  Investments in both fixed rate and floating rate interest earning securities carry a degree of interest rate risk. Fixed rate securities may have their fair market value adversely impacted due to a rise in interest rates, while floating rate securities may produce less income than predicted if interest rates fall. Due in part to these factors, our income from investments may decrease in the future.

Commodity Price Risk

We are subject to commodity price risk with respect to purchases of fuel.  The price and availability of diesel fuel can fluctuate due to market factors that are beyond our control.  Because we do not recover the full amount of fuel price increases, we believe fuel surcharges are effective at mitigating some, but not all, of the risk of high fuel prices.  As of March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015, we did not have any derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to fuel price fluctuations but may use such instruments in the future. At our average level of fuel purchasing during the three months ended March 31, 2016, a 10% increase in the average price per gallon, net of fuel surcharge collection, would decrease pretax earnings, on an annualized basis, by approximately $6.1 million.

Equity Price Risk

In 2013 we acquired 1,304,517 shares of the common stock of USA Truck for the purpose of exploring a business combination with USA Truck. As of March 31, 2016, we held 235,938 shares of USA Truck stock. USA Truck’s common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ, and market prices for equity securities are subject to fluctuation and volatility.  Consequently, the amount realized in the subsequent sale of an investment may significantly differ from the reported market value. Fluctuation in the market price of a security may result from perceived changes in the underlying economic characteristics of the investee, the relative price of alternative investments and general market conditions. Further, our significant holdings in USA Truck common stock make it difficult to quickly liquidate shares without negatively affecting the market price.  Given the $18.84 closing price on March 31, 2016, a 30% reduction in the market price of USA Truck common stock would decrease the value of our holdings by $1.3 million and reduce our Shareholders’ Equity by 0.1%.

Item 4.                      Controls and Procedures

We have established disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) to ensure that material information relating to us, including our consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to the officers who certify our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors.  Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on this evaluation, as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
 
36

 
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended March 31, 2016, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. We base our internal control over financial reporting on the criteria set forth in the 2013 COSO Internal Control: Integrated Framework.

We have confidence in our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting.  Nevertheless, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting will prevent all errors, misstatements, or fraud.  A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.  Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs.  Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.                      Legal Proceedings

We are a party to certain claims and pending litigation arising in the normal course of business.  These proceedings primarily involve claims for personal injury or property damage incurred in the transportation of freight or for personnel matters, as well as certain class action litigation in which the plaintiffs allege claims for failure to provide meal and rest breaks, unpaid wages, unauthorized deductions, and other items.  We maintain insurance to cover liabilities arising from the transportation of freight in amounts in excess of self-insurance retentions. 

Based on our present knowledge of the facts and in certain cases, advice of outside counsel, management believes the resolution of open claims and pending litigation, taking into account existing reserves and accrued liabilities recorded, is not likely to have a materially adverse effect on us. 

Item 1A.                   Risk Factors

While we attempt to identify, manage, and mitigate risks and uncertainties associated with our business, some level of risk and uncertainty will always be present.  Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, in the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors," describes some of the risks and uncertainties associated with our business.  These risks and uncertainties have the potential to materially affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, projected results, and future prospects.
 
 
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Item 2.                      Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
Period
 
(a)
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
   
(b)
Average
Price Paid
per Share
   
(c)
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
   
(d)
Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Jan 1-31, 2016
                       
Common Stock Repurchase Program (1)
    -       -       -       5,831,766  
Other Transactions (2)
    52,773     $ 24.45       -       -  
Feb 1-29, 2016
                               
Common Stock Repurchase Program (1)
    570,888     $ 24.60       570,888       5,260,878  
Other Transactions (2)
    -       -       -       -  
Mar 1-31, 2016
                               
Common Stock Repurchase Program (1)
    524,739     $ 24.91       524,739       4,736,139  
Other Transactions (2)
    1,863     $ 26.25       -       -  
Total
    1,150,263     $ 24.74       1,095,627       4,736,139  
 
(1)
In May 2011, our Board of Directors unanimously authorized the repurchase of up to 10.0 million shares of our common stock.  The repurchase authorization will remain in effect until the share limit is reached or the program is terminated.  See Note 13 to the Condensed Consolidated Unaudited Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for additional information with respect to our share repurchases.
(2)
Other Transactions include restricted shares of our common stock withheld and used to offset tax withholding obligations that occurred upon vesting and release of restricted shares. The withholding of shares was permitted under the applicable award agreement and was not part of any stock repurchase program.

Item 3.                      Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not Applicable

Item 4.                      Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable

Item 5.                      Other Information

Not Applicable
 
 
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Item 6.                      Exhibits

Exhibit No.
 
Description
Exhibit 3
 
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
 
(3.1)
Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company. (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed April 20, 2007.)
 
(3.2)
2013 Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to the Company's Report on Form 8-K dated February 7, 2013 and filed on February 13, 2013.)
Exhibit 4
 
Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures
 
(4.1)
Articles 4, 10, and 11 of the Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to this Report on Form 10-Q.)
 
(4.2)
Sections 2 and 5 of the 2013 Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to this Report on Form 10-Q.)
Exhibit 31
 
Section 302 Certifications
 
(31.1)*
Certification pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by David A. Jackson, the Company's Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer).
 
(31.2)*
Certification pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Adam W. Miller, the Company's Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer).
Exhibit 32
 
Section 906 Certifications
 
(32.1)*
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by David A. Jackson, the Company's Chief Executive Officer.
 
(32.2)*
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Adam W. Miller, the Company's Chief Financial Officer.
Exhibit 101
 
Interactive Data File
 
(101.INS)**
XBRL Instance Document.
 
(101.SCH)**
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
 
(101.CAL)**
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
 
(101.DEF)**
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
 
(101.LAB)**
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
 
(101.PRE)**
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
 
*Filed herewith
 
**In accordance with Regulation S-T, the XBRL-related information in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall be deemed to be "furnished" and not "filed."

 
39


SIGNATURES

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

   
KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC.
     
     
     
Date:  May 6, 2016
By:
/s/ David A. Jackson
   
David A. Jackson
   
Chief Executive Officer and President, in his capacity as such and on behalf of the registrant
     
     
     
Date:  May 6, 2016
By:
/s/ Adam W. Miller
   
Adam W. Miller
   
Chief Financial Officer, in his capacity as such and on behalf of the registrant

 
 
 
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