Schneider National(SNDR) - 2022 Q4 - Annual Report

Economic Conditions and Industry Challenges - The company is experiencing persistent inflationary pressures, but these are generally expected to decline in the near term due to easing supply chain constraints[65]. - Economic conditions that decrease shipping demand, such as public health crises, could exert downward pressure on rates and equipment utilization[65]. - The trucking industry is facing challenges in attracting and retaining qualified drivers, which may require the company to increase driver compensation and could adversely affect profitability[68]. - The company is subject to intense price competition in a fragmented industry, which could limit growth opportunities and reduce profitability[66]. - The company relies on fuel surcharge programs to mitigate the impact of diesel fuel price fluctuations, but these programs may not fully protect against rising costs[75]. - The average diesel price per gallon in the U.S. increased from $3.26 for fiscal year 2021 to $4.96 for fiscal year 2022, impacting operating costs[234]. Financial Performance - Operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022, were $6,604.4 million, an increase of 17.7% from $5,608.7 million in 2021[256]. - Net income for 2022 was $457.8 million, representing a 12.9% increase compared to $405.4 million in 2021[256]. - The company experienced a significant rise in operating expenses, totaling $6,004.0 million in 2022, up from $5,075.0 million in 2021, reflecting an 18.3% increase[256]. - Basic earnings per share for 2022 were $2.57, up from $2.28 in 2021, marking a 12.7% increase[256]. - Dividends per share increased to $0.32 in 2022 from $0.28 in 2021, reflecting a 14.3% increase[256]. - Cash and cash equivalents rose to $385.7 million in 2022, compared to $244.8 million in 2021, marking a 57.5% increase[259]. - Retained earnings increased significantly to $1,257.8 million in 2022, up from $857.8 million in 2021, reflecting a growth of 46.6%[260]. Acquisitions and Goodwill - The acquisition of deBoer Transportation, Inc. was completed for approximately $34.6 million, resulting in $7.7 million of goodwill recorded within the Truckload segment[300]. - The acquisition of Midwest Logistics Systems, Ltd. was completed for approximately $268.8 million, with $122.7 million of goodwill recorded, adjusted to $104.3 million as of December 31, 2022[304][309]. - Goodwill recorded as a result of acquisitions was $228.2 million as of December 31, 2022, down from $240.5 million in 2021[345]. - The company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $10.6 million in 2021, with accumulated impairment charges totaling $53.2 million as of December 31, 2022[346]. Operational Risks and Challenges - The company has faced unionization efforts, which could lead to increased labor costs and operational disruptions if a significant number of associates opt for union representation[70]. - The company’s brand reputation is crucial for revenue generation, and any adverse publicity could negatively impact brand equity and financial results[73]. - The company is subject to risks from severe weather and climate events that could disrupt operations and increase costs, potentially harming financial results[84]. - The company operates under a dual-class stock structure, with the Schneider family controlling approximately 94% of the voting power, limiting influence from other shareholders[91]. - The company is involved in various legal proceedings, which could adversely affect financial condition and results of operations[113]. Sustainability and Environmental Compliance - The company aims to reduce per-mile CO2 emissions by 7.5% by 2025 and by 60% by 2035 as part of its sustainability goals[116]. - The company is under pressure to establish sustainability goals, particularly regarding decarbonization, which may impact investor and customer support[116]. - The company is subject to various environmental laws and regulations, which could result in substantial fines or penalties if violated[109]. Financial Management and Capital Requirements - The company has significant ongoing capital requirements, and any mismatch between capital investments and customer demand could adversely affect profitability[86]. - The effective tax rate may fluctuate due to changes in regulations and tax laws, which could impact future financial results[87]. - The company operates in a regulated industry, and non-compliance with regulations could materially affect business operations[107]. - The company relies on information technology systems, and disruptions could materially affect business operations and financial results[110]. Debt and Lease Obligations - The average interest rate on unsecured senior notes was 3.93% for 2022, compared to 3.61% for 2021[352]. - The Company entered into a new credit facility with a borrowing capacity of $250.0 million, potentially increasing to $400.0 million through November 2027[352]. - Scheduled future debt principal payments total $205.0 million, with $70.0 million due in 2023[352]. - Total net lease cost for the year ended December 31, 2022, was $41.5 million, an increase of 31.3% from $31.6 million in 2021[360]. - Future lease payments under operating leases total $73.0 million as of December 31, 2022, with the largest payment of $29.3 million due in 2023[364].