Group 1 - Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (PAL) closed at $9.16, with a 4.9% gain over the past four weeks, and a mean price target of $15.67 suggests a 71.1% upside potential [1] - The mean estimate includes three short-term price targets with a standard deviation of $1.15, indicating a range from a low estimate of $15 (63.8% increase) to a high estimate of $17 (85.6% increase) [2] - Analysts show strong agreement on PAL's ability to report better earnings, with a positive trend in earnings estimate revisions correlating with potential stock upside [4][11] Group 2 - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PAL's current year earnings has increased by 78.8% over the past month, with two estimates revised higher and no negative revisions [12] - PAL holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), placing it in the top 20% of over 4,000 ranked stocks based on earnings estimates, indicating strong potential for upside [13] - While price targets may not be entirely reliable, the direction they imply appears to be a good guide for potential price movement [13]

Core Viewpoint - The article compares Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (PAL) and Expeditors International (EXPD) to determine which stock is more attractive to value investors [1] Group 1: Zacks Rank and Earnings Outlook - Both PAL and EXPD currently have a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a positive earnings outlook due to favorable analyst estimate revisions [3] - The Zacks Rank emphasizes companies with improving earnings estimates, which is a key factor for value investors [2] Group 2: Valuation Metrics - PAL has a forward P/E ratio of 14.65, while EXPD has a forward P/E of 20.70, suggesting PAL is more undervalued [5] - PAL's PEG ratio is 0.98, indicating a better valuation relative to its expected earnings growth compared to EXPD's PEG ratio of 4.76 [5] - PAL's P/B ratio is 0.68, significantly lower than EXPD's P/B of 7.05, further supporting PAL's undervaluation [6] Group 3: Value Grades - Based on the valuation metrics, PAL holds a Value grade of B, while EXPD has a Value grade of D, indicating PAL is the superior value option at this time [6]

Acquisition and Growth Strategy - Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. acquired five operating businesses for approximately $178.5 million in cash and 6,978,191 shares of common stock, with an IPO price of $15.00 per share[21]. - The Company plans to expand service offerings, including regional auto storage yards, to enhance customer relationships and drive future revenue opportunities[36]. - The auto transportation and logistics industry is highly fragmented, presenting opportunities for acquisitions of smaller regional providers to improve network density[40]. Revenue Generation and Customer Concentration - The Company Drivers segment generated revenue from transporting autos through OEM contracts and spot arrangements, with significant operating expenses tied to fuel and driver-related costs[26][29]. - In 2024, 36% of combined revenue came from company-operated vehicles, up from 32% in 2023, indicating a strategy to maximize profitability through owned assets[39]. - Four major customers, General Motors, Glovis, BMW, and Ford, accounted for roughly 49.6% of combined operating revenue in 2024, highlighting customer concentration risk[42]. Operational Efficiency and Asset Management - The Company aims to achieve operating efficiencies through improved asset utilization and enhanced route planning software integration[37]. - The company operates a fleet of approximately 1,145 auto transport vehicles and trailers as of December 31, 2024[50]. - The company has 50 leased facilities for parking, repairing, and maintaining transport vehicles, with potential for higher capacity utilization[49]. - The company aims to consolidate facilities and vehicle storage capacity in the future to enhance operational efficiency[49]. Financial Management and Reporting - Integration of accounting systems across the Founding Companies is underway to centralize financial reporting, with ongoing upgrades anticipated as operations expand[24]. - The Brokered segment's revenue is influenced by customer inventory needs and third-party carrier rates, with significant variable expenses tied to purchased transportation[31][32]. - Seasonal fluctuations in operating results are expected due to factors like auto production timing and customer contract changes, making quarterly results less indicative of future performance[45]. Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management - The company is subject to various federal, state, and local regulations regarding safety, environmental matters, and vehicle maintenance, which could impact operations if not complied with[47]. - The company is committed to maintaining compliance with environmental regulations to avoid potential legal and remediation costs[47]. - Significant inflation has affected the company's operating expenses, particularly in insurance and claims costs, as well as equipment acquisition[281]. - The company has implemented a fuel surcharge program to mitigate the impact of fluctuating fuel prices on operating results[282]. Workforce and Safety - As of December 31, 2024, the company employed around 671 employees and has a network of independent contractors and sub-haulers[52]. - The company emphasizes safety and training through regular driver training, drug testing, and safety bonuses to attract and retain quality employees[48]. Leadership Team - The executive team includes Richard O'Dell as CEO, Amy Rice as President and COO, and Brad Wright as CFO, bringing extensive industry experience[55][56][57].

Core Viewpoint - Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (PAL) is positioned well to potentially beat earnings estimates in its upcoming quarterly report, supported by a strong history of exceeding expectations [1]. Earnings Performance - The company has a solid track record of surpassing earnings estimates, with an average surprise of 28.33% over the last two quarters [2]. - In the last reported quarter, PAL achieved earnings of $0.07 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.06 per share, resulting in a surprise of 16.67% [3]. - In the previous quarter, the company was expected to report earnings of $0.20 per share but delivered $0.28 per share, leading to a surprise of 40% [3]. Earnings Estimates and Predictions - There has been a favorable adjustment in earnings estimates for PAL, with a positive Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) indicating a strong likelihood of an earnings beat [4]. - Stocks with a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) or better have a nearly 70% chance of producing a positive surprise [5]. Earnings ESP Insights - The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate, with the Most Accurate Estimate reflecting the latest analyst revisions [6]. - Currently, PAL has an Earnings ESP of +100%, indicating increased analyst optimism regarding its near-term earnings potential [7]. - A negative Earnings ESP does not necessarily predict an earnings miss but can diminish the predictive power of the metric [7]. Importance of Earnings ESP - While many companies may beat consensus EPS estimates, this alone may not drive stock prices higher; thus, checking a company's Earnings ESP is crucial for investment decisions [8].

Financial Performance - Total Operating Revenue for Q4 2024 was $95.1 million, a 4% increase from Q3 2024 but a 15.9% decrease from Q4 2023[3] - Adjusted Operating Income for Q4 2024 was $1.7 million, compared to $1.1 million in Q3 2024 and $9.4 million in Q4 2023[3] - Total revenue for the full year 2024 was $388.8 million, down from $418.3 million in 2023[6] - Proficient reported a net loss before income taxes of $3,763,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024[22] - Adjusted EBITDA for the same period was $7,462,000, which includes adjustments for interest expense, depreciation, and stock compensation[22] Operational Metrics - Total Units delivered in Q4 2024 were 521,476, a 4% increase from Q3 2024 but a 4% decrease from Q4 2023[3] - The Adjusted Operating Ratio improved to 98.3% in Q4 2024 from 98.8% in Q3 2024, but was higher than 91.7% in Q4 2023[3] - Revenue per unit for Company deliveries in Q4 2024 was $179.22, down from $193.53 in Q4 2023[9] - The dedicated fleet revenue was $3.7 million in Q4 2024, significantly lower than $14.2 million in Q4 2023[10] - The Company reported a full year Adjusted Operating Ratio of 95.0% for 2024, compared to 92.3% for the combined companies in 2023[11] Strategic Initiatives - The Company completed the acquisition of Auto Transport Group (ATG) on August 16, 2024, following its IPO on May 13, 2024[3] - The company plans to utilize net proceeds from its IPO to fund future operating expenses and capital expenditures[18] Risk Factors - Forward-looking statements indicate potential risks related to market dynamics, competition, and operational capacity[18] - Proficient's ability to manage costs and network capacity is crucial for matching future customer volume levels[18] - The company does not guarantee the achievement of its forward-looking plans and intentions[19] - Proficient is subject to various risks including geopolitical developments and changes in international trade policies[18] Cost Management - Interest expense for the quarter was $1,961,000, while depreciation and amortization expense totaled $8,128,000[22] - The company emphasizes the importance of EBITDA as a measure of operating performance and strategic decision-making[20] - There is a focus on recruiting and retaining qualified driving associates and independent contractors to support operations[18]

NEW YORK, Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of  Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. ("Proficient Auto Logistics" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: PAL).  Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.The investigation concerns whether Proficient Auto Logistics and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about ...

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Robbins LLP is investigating Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (NASDAQ: PAL) to determine whether certain Proficient Auto Logistics officers and directors violated securities laws and breached fiduciary duties to shareholders. Proficient Auto Logistics focuses on providing auto transportation and logistics services in North America.What Now: If you own shares of Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. and have lost money in your investment, contact ...

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, DC 20549 FORM 10-Q ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2024 or ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from _______ to _______ 001-42035 (Commission File Number) PROFICIENT AUTO LOGISTICS, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | --- | --- | |----------- ...

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 8-K CURRENT REPORT Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Date of report (date of earliest event reported): October 16, 2024 Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | --- | --- | --- | |--------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ...

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP is investigating whether Proficient Auto Logistics, Inc. (NASDAQ: PAL) or any of its executive officers or others violated securities laws by misrepresenting or failing to timely disclose material, adverse information to investors. The investigation focuses on investors’ losses and whether they may be recovered under federal securities laws. What if I purchased PAL securities? If you purchased securities and suffere ...