Saia Q1 Profit Slides - Quick Facts

(RTTNews) - Saia, Inc. (SAIA), a transportation and logistics services provider, Friday reported a decline in first-quarter 2014 net income to $8.58 million, or $0.34 per share, from $9.16 million, or $0.37 per share, last year. On average, 10 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expected earnings per share of $0.30 for the quarter. Analysts' estimates typically exclude one-time items.

On the other hand, operating revenue amounted to $300 million during the first quarter, up 9.5% from $273.8 million reported a year back. Five analysts estimated revenues of $287.21 million for the quarter.

"Saia's first quarter results are very gratifying, given the disruptive weather patterns that challenged our entire industry. Our ability to handle nearly 6% more tons in this year's first quarter while maintaining solid service metrics is a direct result of the talents and commitment of our entire workforce. Saia's customers continue to appreciate our value-proposition and we were able to improve LTL pricing by 2.3% in the quarter," said Saia President and Chief Executive, Rick O'Dell.

He added, "In addition to the harsh weather, quarterly results were further unfavorably impacted by higher accident severity and increased usage of costly purchased transportation. With the operational challenges of the first quarter weather behind us, we are encouraged about our prospects for the remainder of 2014."