Release Date: February 11, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• Proficient Auto Logistics Inc (NASDAQ:PAL) achieved approximately 4% growth in both units delivered and total revenue during the fourth quarter compared to the third quarter of 2024.
• The company improved its adjusted operating ratio by 50 basis points despite persistent weak revenues.
• PAL is positioning itself for incremental market share gains, particularly with several OEMs undergoing regional or national bid processes.
• The integration of Magnus Technologies transportation management system across all operating companies is providing key insights into customer base, operational efficiency, and profitability metrics.
• PAL has a strong balance sheet, which is expected to be a differentiating factor in the marketplace, positioning the company well for future growth opportunities.

Negative Points

• The macro auto industry environment remained weak, with a 4% decline in unit volumes for the fourth quarter compared to the same period in 2023.
• Revenue from spot buy opportunities fell significantly, comprising only 5% of total revenue versus 14% a year ago, with a 57% year-over-year decline in revenue per unit from spot buys.
• The spot market premium over contract pricing dropped to 16% in the fourth quarter, compared to over 100% during the first two quarters of the past year.
• January 2025 was challenging due to weak seasonal volume and significant weather events, leading to a 17.5% decline in quarter-to-date unit volumes and revenue compared to the previous year.
• PAL faces inflationary and structural headwinds, such as increased insurance costs and expanded coverage, impacting near-term cost structures.

Q & A Highlights

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Q: Can you provide more details on the market share opportunities following the potential exit of a major competitor? A: We don't have visibility into their revenue levels, but we know they are larger than us fleet-wise. Our market share estimate remains consistent with what was shared during the IPO roadshow, which is in the low teens. (Rick Odell, CEO)

Q: How are you prioritizing volume and network density in your growth strategy? A: Volume that fits our existing network is very attractive, and we are bidding on those opportunities. We are also pursuing adjacent volume that ties into our existing base. We are cautious about entering entirely new markets and would require a concentrated, sustainable level of volume to do so. (Amy Rice, President and COO)

Q: Are you seeing any changes in the spot market opportunities and premiums? A: We are seeing episodic spot opportunities rather than pervasive ones. The spot market premium is currently low, but we expect it to be more typical in the range of 25% to 40% over contract pricing in a more balanced market. (Amy Rice, President and COO)

Q: What is your outlook for capital expenditures in 2025? A: We expect fleet CapEx to be in the range of $25 to $35 million for 2025, similar to the previous year. This will evolve based on opportunities, but that's our current expectation. (Brad Wright, CFO)

Q: How do you view the potential for mergers and acquisitions in the current market? A: We have a pipeline of opportunities that provide synergies and geographical capacity. We are balancing this against other priorities but remain active in the marketplace, expecting 1 to 2 smaller acquisitions this year. (Rick Odell, CEO)

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.