Hub Group (NasdaqGS:HUBG) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 30, 2025 05:00 PM ET Speaker6Hello, and welcome to the Hub Group Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference call. Phil Yeager, Hub's President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman, and Kevin W. Beth, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, are joining the call. At this time, all participants are on a listen-only mode. A brief question-and-answer session will be followed by the prepared remarks. In order for everyone to have an opportunity to particip ...

Hub Group Overview As required by the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), we have provided herein a reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable measures under GAAP, along with an explanation why management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide relevant and useful information. These non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative to or substitute for, measures determined in accordance with GAAP an ...

Core Insights - J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (JBHT) reported Q3 2025 earnings of $1.76 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.47 and reflecting an 18.1% year-over-year increase [1][11] Financial Performance - Total operating revenues reached $3.05 billion, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.02 billion, but decreased by 0.5% year over year [2][11] - Operating income increased by 8% to $242.7 million, driven by structural cost removal, improved productivity, and lower transportation costs [3][11] Segmental Highlights - Intermodal division revenues were $1.52 billion, down 2% year over year, with a 1% decrease in volume and gross revenue per load [4][5] - Dedicated Contract Services segment revenues grew 2% year over year to $864 million, supported by a 3% improvement in productivity [6][7] - Integrated Capacity Solutions revenues decreased by 1% year over year to $276 million, with an 8% decline in volume but a 9% increase in revenue per load [8][9] - Truckload revenues increased by 10% year over year to $190 million, driven by a 14% increase in load volume [10][11] - Final Mile Services revenues fell 5% year over year to $206 million, attributed to softness in demand and changes in business mix [12][13] Liquidity and Share Buyback - At the end of Q3 2025, JBHT had cash and cash equivalents of $52.3 million and long-term debt of $902.2 million [14] - The company repurchased nearly 1.6 million shares for $230 million during the quarter, with approximately $107 million remaining under its share repurchase authorization [14]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the impact of tariffs on global supply chains, particularly freight flows from China to the USA, highlighting ongoing volatility and potential near-term weaknesses in imports [1][2][4]. Core Observations - Laden vessels from China to the USA decreased by 5% sequentially and 21% year-over-year (YoY) [3][8]. - Expected imports into the Port of Los Angeles are projected to decline by 15% in the upcoming week, with a further anticipated drop of 31% two weeks later [3][36]. - Rail intermodal volumes on the West Coast saw a 1% YoY decline, indicating a potential shift in import trends [3][43]. - Ocean container rates fell by 10% sequentially and are down 76% YoY, reflecting significant pressure on shipping costs [3][32]. Tariff Impact and Future Projections - The uncertainty surrounding tariffs may lead shippers and retailers to delay orders, potentially resulting in an underwhelming peak season for freight volumes and revenues [5][6]. - A potential re-stock event in 2026 could occur if consumer spending remains resilient during the 2025 holiday season, which would positively impact freight flows and margins [5][6]. Stock Recommendations - The report suggests that transport stocks may face downward pressure in the second half of 2025 if consumer demand does not increase [6][7]. - Freight forwarders like EXPD and CHRW are expected to benefit from volatility and potential surges in demand due to tariff-related delays [6][7]. - Parcel services (UPS and FDX) are also positioned to capitalize on increased demand for air freight during this period [6][7]. Additional Insights - The report emphasizes the importance of analyzing high-frequency data to understand trade volumes and pricing trends, cautioning against drawing conclusions from short-term fluctuations [2][8]. - The Logistics Managers Index indicates that upstream inventories are expanding while downstream retail inventories are contracting, suggesting a potential mismatch in supply chain dynamics [70][71]. - The Supply Chain Congestion Tracker indicates that overall fluidity levels are returning to pre-COVID baselines, reflecting improvements in logistics [48][50]. Conclusion - The ongoing volatility in freight flows from China to the USA, influenced by tariff policies and consumer demand, presents both risks and opportunities for investors in the transport sector. The potential for a re-stock event in 2026 could provide a favorable outlook if consumer resilience persists [5][6].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **transportation industry**, specifically the impact of **US tariffs** on freight flows from **China to the USA** [1][2][5]. Core Observations - **Laden vessels** from China to the USA decreased by **4% sequentially** and **19% year-over-year (YoY)**, indicating a softening trend that may persist through mid-August based on data from the **Port of Los Angeles** [1][5]. - The **tariff-related impacts** are still unfolding, and the upcoming weeks are critical for understanding shipper reactions as the peak season approaches [1][6]. - **Weekly data** can be volatile, but analyzing it over multiple weeks can reveal trends related to tariffs [3][9]. Freight Flow Data - **Container rates** have dropped by **8% sequentially** and are under significant pressure, down **67% YoY** [5][29]. - **Rail intermodal volumes** on the West Coast increased by **1% YoY**, marking the fifth consecutive week of positive growth, suggesting a recovery in logistics following previous disruptions [5][40]. - Planned **TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units)** into the Port of Los Angeles are expected to drop by **3%** in the near term, with a potential **20% increase** two weeks later [5][33]. Future Projections - The **2025 trade scenario** suggests that shippers may delay orders due to uncertainty, which could lead to an underwhelming peak season in terms of volume and revenue [6]. - If a **re-stock event** occurs in 2026, it could significantly benefit freight flows and margins, especially if consumer spending remains strong during the holiday season [6]. Stock Recommendations - **Transport stocks** may face downward pressure in the second half of 2025 if consumer demand does not increase [8]. - **Freight forwarders** like **EXPD** and **CHRW** are expected to benefit from volatility and potential surges in demand due to tariff pauses [8]. - **Parcel companies** such as **UPS** and **FDX** are also positioned to gain from increased demand for air freight during peak seasons [8]. Additional Insights - The **Logistics Managers Index** indicates that upstream inventories are expanding, while downstream inventories are contracting, reflecting a complex inventory landscape [69]. - The **Supply Chain Congestion Tracker** remains stable, suggesting fluidity in logistics comparable to pre-COVID levels [48][50]. - The **Big Three ports** (LA, Long Beach, Oakland) experienced a **5% YoY decline** in volumes but a **21% sequential increase** from May to June, indicating a recovery trend [52]. Conclusion - The transportation industry is navigating a challenging environment influenced by tariffs, consumer behavior, and inventory management. The upcoming months will be crucial for assessing the impact on freight flows and stock performance in the sector [1][6][8].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call focuses on the **transportation industry**, particularly the impact of **US tariffs** on freight flows from **China to the USA** [1][2][5]. Core Observations - **Freight Volume Decline**: Laden vessels from China to the USA decreased by **15% sequentially** and **14% year-over-year (YoY)**, indicating a significant slowdown in shipping activity [1][5][13]. - **Port of Los Angeles Data**: Expected sequential imports into the Port of Los Angeles are projected to drop by **15% TEUs** (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) for the week ending August 8, with a potential **5% increase** two weeks later [5][40]. - **Rail Intermodal Volumes**: Rail intermodal volumes on the West Coast increased by **2% YoY**, marking the fourth consecutive week of positive growth, suggesting a recovery in logistics following previous disruptions [5][47]. Tariff Impact and Future Scenarios - **Tariff Effects**: The impact of the recent tariff implementations is still unfolding, with potential scenarios including: 1. A surge in orders ahead of a **90-day tariff pause** in China, leading to inventory buildup [6][11]. 2. A continued slowdown in activity due to uncertainty surrounding tariffs [6][11]. - **High Tariff Rates**: The **30% tariffs** remain high, which could dampen demand over time, especially as e-commerce faces the end of de minimis exemptions [8][11]. Market Predictions - **Transport Stock Outlook**: The analysis suggests three potential scenarios for transport stocks: 1. A significant pull-forward in orders leading to a sharp decline in freight demand in the second half of 2025 if consumer spending decreases [11]. 2. A less pronounced pull-forward, resulting in uncertainty for shippers [11]. 3. Economic stability leading to increased orders as retailers face inventory shortages, which would be beneficial for transport companies [11]. - **Recession Forecast**: Goldman Sachs economists have reduced the recession probability to **30%** and increased GDP outlook for Q4 to **1.3%**, indicating a more resilient consumer environment [11]. Freight Forwarders and Logistics - **Freight Forwarders**: Companies like **EXPD** and **CHRW** are expected to benefit from market volatility and potential surges in demand due to tariff-related shifts [11][12]. - **Parcel Services**: Companies such as **UPS** and **FDX** may also benefit from increased demand for air freight and logistics services during this period [14]. Container Rates and Shipping Trends - **Container Rates**: Container rates from China to the US West Coast remain under pressure, down **66% YoY**, despite being flat sequentially [5][37]. - **TEU Volatility**: TEU volumes from China to the US have shown volatility, with a **13% sequential decrease** and a **3% YoY increase** in the most recent week [21][25]. Conclusion - The transportation industry is currently navigating a complex landscape influenced by tariffs, changing consumer behavior, and fluctuating freight volumes. The next few weeks will be critical in determining the trajectory of shipping activity and the broader economic implications for the sector [1][6][11].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hub Group reported revenue for Q2 2025 at $906 million, an 8% decrease year-over-year and a 1% sequential decline [12] - Adjusted operating income decreased by 7% year-over-year, with an adjusted operating income margin of 4.1%, which is a 10 basis point increase from the previous year [16] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.45, down from $0.47 in Q2 2024 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Intermodal Transportation Services (ITS) revenue declined 6% to $528 million, with intermodal volume growth of 2% offset by lower revenue per load and dedicated revenue [12][17] - Logistics segment revenue decreased 12% to $404 million, primarily due to lower brokerage load counts and revenue per load [9][13] - Final Mile division showed significant growth, onboarding $150 million of net new annualized revenue in Q3 and Q4 [10][45] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Intermodal volume increased 2% year-over-year, with local East down 1%, local West down 2%, TransCon down 6%, and Mexico up over 300% [7] - The company anticipates strong near-term demand trends off the West Coast, indicating an early peak season [6][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Hub Group is focused on executing a strategy of delivering best-in-class services while continuously improving productivity and investing in high-return initiatives [5] - The acquisition of Martin Transport's refrigerated intermodal fleet is aimed at enhancing scale and capacity in a high-growth segment [5][26] - The company plans to continue deploying capital towards long-term growth opportunities and has raised its cost reduction target to $50 million [6][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the second quarter faced challenges due to tariff-driven adjustments and slower import volumes, but contractual services performed well [4][5] - There is uncertainty regarding the duration of elevated import demand, but management believes they are well-positioned to support customers [7][20] - The company expects full-year EPS in the range of $1.80 to $2.05 and revenue between $3.6 billion to $3.8 billion [18][19] Other Important Information - The merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern is seen as a potential growth catalyst for the intermodal industry, with opportunities for improved service and asset utilization [26][27] - Hub Group's strong balance sheet provides flexibility for value-add acquisitions and investments across business lines [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: How significant is the potential for intermodal share gains? - Management indicated that over 30% of their business currently moves in a transcontinental fashion, and they see significant opportunities to improve service and reduce transit times, which could unlock additional value [30][31] Question: How does the company view the guidance for the second half of the year? - Management expects the second half to show similar quarters, with intermodal volumes anticipated to return to a seasonal pattern, supported by new business wins in Final Mile [32][34] Question: What is the impact of the new business onboarding on profitability? - The Final Mile wins are expected to be accretive, with significant revenue contributions anticipated towards the end of Q3 and into Q4 [45][49] Question: How does the company plan to manage costs while preparing for market recovery? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive cost structure while identifying additional cost-saving opportunities, ensuring flexibility to respond to market changes [66][67] Question: What is the outlook for the Dedicated segment? - The Dedicated segment faced challenges due to lost sites and equipment count reductions, but management is optimistic about upcoming onboardings and service quality improvements [68][70]

Hub Group Overview - Hub Group is a leading supply chain solutions provider, offering Intermodal transportation and Logistics services[7] - The company's FY 2024 total revenue was $4 billion, with Intermodal & Transportation Solutions contributing 45% and Logistics contributing 55%[14] - In FY 2024, adjusted operating income was $157 million, with Intermodal & Transportation Solutions contributing 62% and Logistics contributing 38%[14] Q2 2025 Performance - Hub Group's Q2 2025 revenue was $906 million[33] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) for Q2 2025 was $0.45[33] - Adjusted operating income for Q2 2025 was $37 million, representing 4.1% of revenue[33] - Intermodal & Transportation Solutions revenue in Q2 2025 was $528 million, with operating income of $14 million (2.7% of revenue)[40, 41] - Logistics revenue in Q2 2025 was $404 million, with adjusted operating income of $23 million (5.6% of revenue)[46, 47] Financial Position - As of June 30, 2025, Hub Group had a cash balance of $164 million[33, 54] - Net Debt/Adjusted EBITDA was 0.3x, well below the leverage target of 0.75 to 1.25x[33] 2025 Guidance - Hub Group projects 2025 revenue to be between $3.6 to $3.8 billion[67] - The company anticipates 2025 EPS to be between $1.80 to $2.05 per share[67]

Core Insights - Hub Group, Inc. reported a net income of $25 million for Q2 2025, with diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.42, reflecting a decrease in adjusted net income of 6.2% from the previous year [2][4][8] - The company is focused on improving productivity and customer service while navigating challenging market conditions, with a positive outlook on long-term growth opportunities [3][11] Financial Performance - Consolidated revenue for Q2 2025 was $906 million, an 8% decrease from $986 million in Q2 2024, driven by lower revenue per unit in intermodal and brokerage, decreased fuel revenue, and sub-seasonal demand [4][8] - Adjusted operating income for Q2 2025 was $37 million, or 4.1% of revenue, compared to $39.5 million, or 4.0% of revenue, in the prior year [6][9] - The company returned $29 million to shareholders year-to-date through dividends and stock repurchases [10][12] Segment Performance - The Intermodal and Transportation Solutions (ITS) segment generated revenue of $528 million in Q2 2025, down from $561 million in the prior year, with operating income of $14.4 million [7][9] - The Logistics segment reported revenue of $404 million, down from $459 million in the prior year, attributed to lower volume and revenue per load in the brokerage business [8][9] Cost Management - Purchased transportation and warehousing costs were $656 million, a 10% decrease from the prior year, while salaries and benefits increased by 1% to $143 million [5][6] - General and administrative expenses rose due to vendor settlements, while depreciation and amortization costs decreased by 14% to $32 million [5][6] Strategic Initiatives - Hub Group announced an agreement to acquire certain assets from Marten Intermodal, reflecting its opportunistic capital deployment strategy [3][8] - The proposed combination of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern is viewed as a catalyst for growth, enhancing intermodal transportation capabilities [11] 2025 Outlook - The company expects diluted EPS for 2025 to range from $1.80 to $2.05, with estimated revenue between $3.6 billion and $3.8 billion [12]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **transportation industry**, specifically the impact of tariffs on freight flows from **China to the USA** [1][2][3]. Core Observations - **Laden vessels from China to the USA** decreased by **8% week-over-week**, marking the fourth consecutive week of decline after a surge in inbound shipments [1][5]. - Year-over-year (YoY), laden vessels showed a **3% drop** [5]. - **Port of Los Angeles** is expected to see a **22% increase** in sequential imports, followed by a **17% decrease** two weeks later, indicating volatility in shipping patterns [5][40]. - **Rail intermodal volumes** on the West Coast increased by **5% YoY**, suggesting a recovery in logistics following previous declines [5]. - **Container rates** remained flat sequentially but are under significant pressure, down **70% YoY** [5][37]. Trade Scenarios for 2025 - Two potential scenarios for trade in 2025: 1. A surge in orders ahead of a **90-day tariff pause** in China. 2. A slowdown in activity due to uncertainty regarding tariffs and inventory management [6][7]. - The likelihood of a pull-forward surge is seen as more probable, complicating volume and earnings predictions for transportation companies [7]. Tariff Impact - The **30% tariffs** remain high, potentially affecting demand over time, especially as e-commerce faces the end of de minimis exemptions [8]. - Three possible outcomes for transport stocks: 1. A significant pull-forward leading to inventory build-up followed by a drop in freight demand in the second half of 2025. 2. A less pronounced pull-forward, leading to uncertainty for shippers. 3. Economic stability leading to increased orders as retailers face inventory shortages [11]. Freight Forwarders and Logistics - Freight forwarders like **EXPD** and **CHRW** are expected to benefit from volatility and potential surges in demand due to tariff pauses [12]. - **Parcel services** (e.g., **UPS** and **FDX**) may also benefit from increased demand for air freight during this period [14]. Container and TEU Trends - **TEUs** from China to the USA increased by **10% YoY** in the latest week, following a previous decline [21]. - The overall trend in TEUs remains volatile, reflecting the dynamic nature of trade flows [23][27]. Port Activity - **Chinese major port throughput** increased by **3% week-over-week** and **5% YoY**, indicating a slight recovery in port activity [34][35]. - The **Big Three ports** (LA, Long Beach, Oakland) saw a **5% YoY decline** but a **21% sequential increase** from May to June, indicating a recovery trend [57][59]. Inventory and Cost Trends - The **Logistics Managers Index** showed upstream inventory expansion at **66.4** in June, while downstream inventories compressed at **44.2** [72]. - The **inventory cost index** rose to **80.9**, reflecting higher costs associated with inventory management [73]. Conclusion - The transportation industry is currently experiencing significant volatility due to tariff impacts, shifting shipping patterns, and fluctuating demand. Companies in this sector must navigate these challenges while looking for opportunities in freight forwarding and logistics as trade dynamics evolve.