J.B. Hunt Gears Up to Report Q4 Earnings: Is a Beat in Store?

Core Insights - J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (JBHT) is set to report its fourth-quarter 2025 results on January 15, after market close, with an earnings estimate of $1.78 per share, reflecting a 16.34% increase year-over-year [1][5]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for JBHT's fourth-quarter 2025 revenues is projected at $3.09 billion, indicating a 1.68% decline year-over-year [4][5]. - The earnings estimate has been revised upward by 1.14% over the past 60 days [1][5]. - The earnings surprise history shows that JBHT outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in two of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 3.42% [2][3]. Revenue Breakdown - Intermodal revenue is expected to decline by 4.2% to $1.53 billion, attributed to a decrease in loads and changes in customer rates [6][5]. - Dedicated Contract Services segment revenues are estimated at $858 million, reflecting a 2.3% increase, driven by improved productivity [7]. - Integrated Capacity Solutions revenues are projected at $299 million, indicating a 2.9% decrease [8]. - Truckload revenues are expected to rise by 1.6% to $185 million, supported by increased load volume [8]. - Final Mile Services revenues are estimated at $211 million, showing a 7.5% decrease due to weak demand across various end markets [9]. Cost Factors - Higher net interest expenses due to rising interest rates are anticipated to negatively impact JBHT's bottom line [10]. - An expected increase in operating expenses, including transportation costs and employee-related expenses, may also affect profitability [10]. Earnings Prediction Model - The earnings prediction model indicates a potential earnings beat for JBHT, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +1.54% and a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [11].