U.S. Xpress Releases Q4 2021 Economic Forecast

Rhea-AI Summary

U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: USX) released its Q4 2021 economic forecast, highlighting key trends in the logistics sector. The forecast points to strong consumer spending, supported by stimulus measures and low interest rates, but questions remain about future purchasing power as stimulus wanes. The report also notes a significant shortage of truck drivers, with estimates of 100,000 fewer drivers by year-end, leading to increased wait times and operational inefficiencies. Additionally, recent legislation may impact the logistics industry over time.

Positive

• Strong consumer spending driven by stimulus and low interest rates.
• Potential long-term benefits from $1 trillion infrastructure legislation.

Negative

• Estimated shortage of 100,000 truck drivers by year-end.
• Increased wait times for drivers affecting operational efficiency.

Persistent pandemic-related challenges continue to impact nation’s supply chain

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: USX) today released its Q4 2021 economic forecast, highlighting a variety of trends and updates specific to the logistics industry. The full, detailed forecast can be found on the Company blog. Two key themes emerged for the remaining weeks of 2021:

1. The overall state of the economy and consumer demand.
   Ample stimulus and unemployment benefits combined with low interest rates have buoyed consumer spending throughout the pandemic. As unemployment numbers continue to drop and stimulus dollars dry up, the question is if consumer purchasing power and sentiment will remain strong over the coming quarters. This holiday shopping season will inform the resilience of the American consumer and the continued durability of the supply chains.
   
2. Continued focus on truckload capacity amidst persistent driver scarcity.
   The American Trucking Associations estimates the industry will be down 100,000 professional truck drivers by year-end. Industrywide, increases in driver pay per mile have not been enough to bring more professional truck drivers into the market. Supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages across the country have contributed to increased wait times for drivers. Tasks such as pickup and drop-off that used to take less than an hour can now take three to four hours. Drivers are paid when freight is moving, and the increased wait times may help to explain why increases in per mile pay haven’t led to increased capacity as they have in previous cycles.

In addition to these key themes, the passage of President Biden’s $1 trillion infrastructure legislation and the recent Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s (OSHA) rule will likely have impacts on the logistics industry, which may take some time to fully realize.

“The past year has placed a spotlight on the nation’s fragile supply chain, with more people understanding the ripple effects of international shipping delays and worker shortages,” said Eric Fuller, President & CEO of U.S. Xpress. “As we begin to turn the corner in this prolonged pandemic, it’s important to recognize the sustained hard work of the nation’s logistics professionals, from truck drivers to retail workers, to all the front-line folks who have kept the country running.”

U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.

Through its subsidiaries, U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: USX) offers customers over-the-road, dedicated, and brokerage services. Founded in 1985, the Company utilizes a combination of smart technology, a modern fleet of tractors, and a network of highly trained, professional drivers to efficiently move freight for a wide variety of customers. U.S. Xpress implements a range of digital initiatives and technology to drive innovation in the industry, streamline the value chain for customers, and improve the overall driver experience. For more, visit usxpress.com.

USX Corporate

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211115005922/en/

Brad Carmony, VP, Brand Communications

(901) 568-3088

bcarmony@usxpress.com

Source: U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.

FAQ

What are the key insights from U.S. Xpress's Q4 2021 forecast?

U.S. Xpress's Q4 2021 forecast highlights strong consumer spending but raises concerns about the sustainability of purchasing power as stimulus measures decline. It also addresses a significant shortage of truck drivers affecting logistics.

How is the truck driver shortage impacting U.S. Xpress?

The truck driver shortage is leading to increased wait times for drivers, which affects operational efficiency and overall capacity in logistics.

What factors could impact U.S. Xpress's business in the coming months?

Factors include the potential effects of President Biden's $1 trillion infrastructure legislation and the ongoing challenges related to supply chain delays and labor shortages.

What are the implications of the current economic environment for U.S. Xpress?

The current economic environment, characterized by low interest rates and stimulus-driven consumer spending, may support U.S. Xpress, but there are risks as stimulus measures taper off.