Universal Logistics (ULH) 10-K 16 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 02, 2015	Jun. 27, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	UACL
Entity Registrant Name	Universal Truckload Services, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1308208
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		29,997,784
Entity Public Float			$199.70

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$8,001	$10,223
Marketable securities	14,309	11,626
Accounts receivable-net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,207 and $2,688, respectively	151,107	132,001
Other receivables	13,856	17,966
Due from affiliates	1,562	2,283
Prepaid income taxes	2,719	7,988
Prepaid expenses and other	19,340	16,426
Deferred income taxes	5,386	4,876
Total current assets	216,280	203,389
Property and equipment, net	178,069	142,656
Goodwill	74,484	74,589
Intangible assets-net of accumulated amortization of $34,340 and $24,345, respectively	53,820	62,807
Other assets	6,361	6,695
Total assets	529,014	490,136
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	57,448	46,487
Due to affiliates	2,896	3,618
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	22,341	21,072
Insurance and claims	20,704	22,719
Current maturities of capital lease obligations	1,051	1,592
Current portion of long-term debt	9,593	5,482
Total current liabilities	114,033	100,970
Long-term liabilities:
Long-term debt	225,705	232,018
Capital lease obligations, net of current maturities	1,980	3,051
Deferred income taxes	45,883	43,748
Other long-term liabilities	4,252	4,784
Total long-term liabilities	277,820	283,601
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, no par value. Authorized 100,000,000 shares; 30,856,506 and 30,746,067 shares issued; 29,997,784 and 30,114,324 shares outstanding, respectively	30,857	30,746
Paid-in capital	2,448	1,074
Treasury stock, at cost; 858,722 and 631,743 shares, respectively	-14,953	-9,322
Retained earnings	117,913	80,952
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
Unrealized holding gain on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes of $1,642 and $1,433, respectively	2,888	2,476
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,992	-361
Total shareholders' equity	137,161	105,565
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$529,014	$490,136

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$5,207	$2,688
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization	34,340	24,345
Common stock, par value	$0	$0
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	30,856,506	30,746,067
Common stock, shares outstanding	29,997,784	30,114,324
Treasury stock, shares	858,722	631,743
Income tax expense on unrealized holding gain on available-for-sale securities	$1,642	$1,433

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating revenues:
Transportation services, including related party amounts of $138, $195 and $298, respectively	$769,308	$706,998	$741,650
Value-added services	284,496	195,086	174,975
Intermodal services, including related party amounts of $170, $9,605 and $2,346, respectively	137,717	131,408	120,381
Total operating revenues	1,191,521	1,033,492	1,037,006
Operating expenses:
Purchased transportation and equipment rent, including related party amounts of $930, $311 and $285, respectively	615,327	560,024	592,493
Direct personnel and related benefits, including related party amounts of $16,623, $14,398 and $14,410, respectively	205,905	178,441	163,069
Commission expense	43,922	39,248	42,157
Operating expenses (exclusive of items shown separately), including related party amounts of $1,233, $1,590 and $3,623, respectively	115,154	79,263	71,117
Occupancy expense, including related party amounts of $10,472, $11,352 and $10,787, respectively	26,520	20,049	19,275
Selling, general, and administrative, including related party amounts of $3,736, $3,617 and $3,829, respectively	44,814	33,046	41,159
Insurance and claims, including related party amounts of $18,102, $16,949 and $17,842, respectively	25,991	19,242	20,342
Depreciation and amortization	33,053	19,686	18,237
Total operating expenses	1,110,686	948,999	967,849
Income from operations	80,835	84,493	69,157
Interest income	46	130	241
Interest expense	-8,229	-4,166	-4,224
Other non-operating income	447	459	2,778
Income before provision for income taxes	73,099	80,916	67,952
Provision for income taxes	27,729	30,344	20,264
Net income	45,370	50,572	47,688
Earnings per common share:
Basic	$1.51	$1.68	$1.59
Diluted	$1.51	$1.68	$1.59
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	30,013	30,064	30,032
Diluted	30,044	30,160	30,036
Dividends paid per common share	$0.28	$0.14
Pre-merger dividends paid per common share			$1
Pro Forma earnings per common share-"C" corporation status (unaudited):
Pro Forma provision for income taxes due to LINC Logistics Company conversion to "C" corporation			$11,059
Earnings per common share:
Basic			$1.22
Diluted			$1.22

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc1

Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Transportation services, related party amounts	$138	$195	$298
Intermodal services, related party amounts	170	9,605	2,346
Operating expenses, related party amounts	1,233	1,590	3,623
Purchased transportation [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	930	311	285
Direct personnel and related benefits [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	16,623	14,398	14,410
Operating expenses [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	1,233	1,590	3,623
Occupancy expense [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	10,472	11,352	10,787
Selling, general, and administrative [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	3,736	3,617	3,829
Insurance and claims [Member]
Operating expenses, related party amounts	$18,102	$16,949	$17,842

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$45,370	$50,572	$47,688
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments arising during the period, net of income taxes	412	1,546	566
Realized gains on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income, net of income taxes		-68	-1,176
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,631	-227	312
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,219	1,251	-298
Total comprehensive income	$44,151	$51,823	$47,390

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$45,370	$50,572	$47,688
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	33,053	19,686	18,237
Gain on sale of marketable equity securities		-107	-2,189
Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment	233	-117	45
Amortization of debt issuance costs	693
Change in the fair value of acquisition related contingent consideration			16
Non-cash charges incurred from LINC			2,442
Stock-based compensation	1,485	585	586
Provision for doubtful accounts	3,504	1,515	1,190
Deferred income taxes	1,433	2,495	4,389
Change in assets and liabilities:
Trade and other accounts receivable	-19,857	767	-8,076
Prepaid income taxes, prepaid expenses and other assets	984	-3,594	1,276
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, insurance and claims and other current liabilities	13,027	-15,152	7,922
Due to/from affiliates, net	-1	837	-3,769
Other long-term liabilities	-532	103	646
Net cash provided by operating activities	79,392	57,590	70,403
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	-59,784	-17,035	-29,566
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment	1,326	1,790	987
Purchases of marketable securities	-2,063	-24	-19
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities		520	7,500
Affiliate notes receivables-LINC			-5,000
Proceeds from affiliate notes receivable-LINC			5,000
Acquisitions of businesses	-2,648	-121,057	-850
Net cash used in investing activities	-63,169	-135,806	-21,948
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowing-revolving debt	134,228	48,218	94,871
Repayments of debt-revolving debt	-134,358	-52,218	-44,871
Proceeds from borrowing-term debt	2,500	95,500	82,000
Repayments of debt-term debt	-4,572		-69,061
Proceeds from borrowing-UBS facility	791
Repayments of debt-UBS facility	-791
Distributions to LINC shareholders			-95,985
Dividends paid	-8,409	-4,209
Pre-merger dividends paid			-15,499
Payment of capital lease obligations	-1,349	-42
Purchases of treasury stock	-5,631	-6	-991
Payment of earnout obligations related to acquisitions		-24	-206
Capitalized financing costs		-1,230	-1,752
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-17,591	85,989	-51,494
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-854	-104	82
Net increase (decrease) in cash	-2,222	7,669	-2,957
Cash and cash equivalents-beginning of period	10,223	2,554	5,511
Cash and cash equivalents-end of period	8,001	10,223	2,554
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest	7,379	3,595	2,990
Cash paid for income taxes	20,833	31,236	12,759
Distributions to LINC shareholders:
Purchase adjustment pursuant to merger agreement			10,102
Distribution for shareholder state tax withholding			383
Dividends paid	8,409	4,209
Net cash paid			95,985
Acquisition of businesses:
Fair value of assets acquired, net of cash	1,270	156,741	1,100
Liabilities assumed		-33,738
Fair value of acquisition obligations		-2,196	-250
Payment of acquisition obligations	1,378	250
Net cash paid for acquisition of businesses	2,648	121,057	850
LINC Logistics Company [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Dividends paid			-58,500
Distributions to LINC shareholders:
Payment of dividend payable			27,000
Dividends paid			$58,500

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common stock [Member]	Paid-in capital [Member]	Treasury stock [Member]	Retained earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
In Thousands
Balances at Dec. 31, 2011	$94,871	$30,649	$65,387	($8,325)	$5,998	$1,162
Net income	47,688				47,688
Comprehensive income (loss)	-298					-298
Dividends paid	-15,499				-15,499
Dividends declared by LINC	-58,500				-58,500
LINC distribution for state tax withholding	-383				-383
LINC purchase adjustment	-10,102		-10,102
Termination of LINC's S-Corp status			-55,285		55,285
Stock based compensation	586	36	550
Purchases of treasury stock	-991			-991
Balances at Dec. 31, 2012	57,372	30,685	550	-9,316	34,589	864
Net income	50,572				50,572
Comprehensive income (loss)	1,251					1,251
Dividends paid	-4,209				-4,209
Issuance of common stock		25	-25
Stock based compensation	585	36	549
Purchases of treasury stock	-6			-6
Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	105,565	30,746	1,074	-9,322	80,952	2,115
Net income	45,370				45,370
Comprehensive income (loss)	-1,219					-1,219
Dividends paid	-8,409				-8,409
Issuance of common stock		20	-20
Stock based compensation	1,485	91	1,394
Purchases of treasury stock	-5,631			-5,631
Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$137,161	$30,857	$2,448	($14,953)	$117,913	$896

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha1

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Pre-merger dividends paid per common share			$1
Dividends paid per share	$0.28	$0.14

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	-1	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
		(a)	Business
	Universal Truckload Services, Inc., referred to herein as Universal, or us, we or the Company, through its subsidiaries, is a leading asset-light provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Colombia. We provide our customers with supply chain solutions that can be scaled to meet their changing demands. We offer our customers with a broad array of services across their entire supply chain, including transportation, value-added, and intermodal services. Our customized solutions and flexible business model are designed to provide us with a highly variable cost.
		(b)	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Effective on December 31, 2014, the Company executed a plan to reduce the number of its subsidiaries, re-naming and re-branding our principal surviving operating subsidiaries. The organizational streamlining plan included the statutory merger of certain subsidiaries, along with the transfer of certain business units between subsidiaries. At December 31, 2014, we conducted our operation through the following operating and support subsidiaries: Cavalry Logistics, LLC, Diversified Contract Services, Inc., Flint Special Services, Inc., LGSI Equipment of Indiana, LLC, LINC Logistics, LLC, LINC Ontario, Ltd., Logistics Insight Corp., Logistics Insight Corporation S. de R.L. de C.V., Logistics Insight GmbH, Louisiana Transportation, Inc., Mason Dixon Intermodal, Inc., ULINC Staffing de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V., Universal Dedicated, Inc., Universal Logistics Solutions International, Inc., Universal Logistics Solutions Canada, Ltd., Universal Management Services, Inc., Universal Specialized, Inc., Universal Truckload, Inc., UT Rent A Car, Inc., UTS Realty, LLC, UTSI Finance, Inc., Westport Holding, LLC and Westport Axle Corporation. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Through December 31, 2004, Universal was a wholly-owned subsidiary of CenTra, Inc. On December 31, 2004, CenTra distributed all of Universal’s common stock to Matthew T. Moroun and a trust controlled by Manuel J. Moroun, collectively the Morouns, the sole shareholders of CenTra, Inc. CenTra, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates are referred to as “CenTra.” Subsequent to the initial public offering in 2005, the Morouns retained and continue to hold a controlling interest in Universal. The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the historical financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of the Company and are not necessarily indicative of what the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows would have been had the Company operated as an unaffiliated company during the periods presented.
	Our fiscal year consists of four quarters, each with thirteen weeks.
		(c)	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management of the Company to make a number of estimates and assumptions related to the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations; carrying amounts of property and equipment and intangible assets; marketable securities; valuation allowances for receivables; and liabilities related to insurance and claim costs. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
		(d)	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term, highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less.
	It is our policy to record checks issued in excess of funds on deposit as accounts payable for balance sheet presentation, and include the changes in these positions as cash flows from operating activities in the statements of cash flows. At December 31, 2014, accounts payable included reclassification of checks issued in excess of funds on deposit in the amount of $13.4 million. At December 31, 2013, funds on deposit were in excess of checks issued and no reclassification was necessary. The change in the amount of checks issued in excess of funds on deposit of $13.4 million, $(13.4) million, and $3.4 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, is included in cash flows from operating activities in the statements of cash flows as a change in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities.
		(e)	Marketable Securities
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, marketable securities, all of which are available-for-sale, consist of common and preferred stocks. Marketable securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), except for losses from impairments which are determined to be other-than-temporary. Realized gains and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary on available-for-sale securities are included in the determination of net income and are included in other non-operating income (expense), at which time the average cost basis of these securities are adjusted to fair value. Fair values are based on quoted market prices at the reporting date. Interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities are included in other non-operating income (expense). During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company made purchases of securities totaling $2.1 million, but did not sell any marketable securities. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, we received proceeds of $0.5 million and $7.5 million from the sale of marketable securities with a combined cost of $0.4 million $5.3 million resulting in a realized gain of $0.1 million and $2.2 million, respectively.
	The cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities by type were as follows (in thousands):
			Cost			Gross			Gross			Fair
						unrealized			unrealized			Value
						holding			holding
						gains			(losses)
	At December 31, 2014
	Equity Securities		$	9,779		$	4,825		$	(295	)	$	14,309
	At December 31, 2013
	Equity Securities		$	7,717		$	3,974		$	(65	)	$	11,626
	Included in equity securities at December 31, 2014 were securities with a book basis of $1.8 million and a cumulative loss position of $0.3 million, the impairment of which we consider to be temporary. We consider several factors in determining as to whether declines in value are judged to be temporary or other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the decline, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the specific issuers and the industries in which they operate, and our intent and ability to hold these securities. We may incur future impairment charges if declines in market values continue and/or worsen and impairments are no longer considered temporary.
	The fair value and gross unrealized holding losses of our marketable securities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired aggregated by type and length of time they have been in a continuous unrealized loss position were as follows (in thousands):
			Less than 12 Months						12 Months or Greater					Total
			Fair			Unrealized			Fair			Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
			Value			Losses			Value			Losses		Value		Losses
	At December 31, 2014
	Equity securities		$	1,380		$	197		$	146		$	98	$	1,526	$	295
	At December 31, 2013
	Equity securities		$	167		$	3		$	289		$	62	$	456	$	65
	At December 31, 2014, our portfolio of equity securities in a continuous loss position, the impairment of which we consider to be temporary, consists primarily of common stocks in the oil and gas, banking, communications, steel, and transportation industries. The fair value and unrealized losses are distributed in sixteen publicly traded companies, with no single industry or company representing a material or concentrated unrealized loss. We have evaluated the near-term prospects of the various industries, as well as the specific issuers within our portfolio, in relation to the severity and duration of the impairments, and based on that evaluation, and our ability and intent to hold these investments for a reasonable period of time to allow for a recovery of fair value, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2014.
	The Company from time to time invests cash in excess of its current needs in marketable securities, much of which is held in equity securities, which are actively traded on public exchanges. It is our philosophy to minimize the risk of capital loss without foregoing the potential for capital appreciation through investing in value-and-income oriented investments. However, holding equity securities subjects us to fluctuations in the market value of our investment portfolio based on current market prices, and a decline in market prices or other unstable market conditions could cause a loss in the value of our marketable securities classified as available-for-sale.
		(f)	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable are recorded at the net invoiced amount, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts, and do not bear interest. They include unbilled amounts for services rendered in the respective period but not yet billed to the customer until a future date, which typically occurs within one month. In order to reflect customer receivables at their estimated net realizable value, we record charges against revenue based upon current information. These charges generally arise from rate changes, errors, and revenue adjustments that may arise from contract disputes or differences in calculation methods employed by the customer. The allowance for doubtful accounts is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. We determine the allowance based on historical write-off experience and the aging of our outstanding accounts receivable. Balances are considered past due based on invoiced terms. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. We do not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to our customers. Accounts receivable from affiliates are shown separately and include trade receivables from the sale of services to affiliates.
		(g)	Inventories
	Included in prepaid expenses and other is inventory used in a portion of our value-added service operations. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method. Provisions for excess and obsolete inventories are based on our assessment of excess and obsolete inventory on a product-by-product basis.
	At December 31, inventory consists of the following (in thousands):
			2014			2013
	Raw materials and supplies		$	6,903		$	3,197
	Finished goods			1,347			428
			$	8,250		$	3,625
		(h)	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
	Description		Life in Years
	Transportation equipment			5 - 15
	Other operating assets			3 - 15
	Information technology equipment			2 - 5
	Buildings and related assets			10 - 39
	The amounts recorded for depreciation expense were $23.1 million, $17.6 million, and $15.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Tire repairs, replacement tires, replacement batteries, consumable tools used in our logistics services, and routine repairs and maintenance on vehicles are expensed as incurred. Parts and fuel inventories are included in prepaid expenses and other. We capitalize certain costs associated with vehicle repairs and maintenance that materially extend the life or increase the value of the vehicle or pool of vehicles.
		(i)	Intangible Assets
	Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of customer contracts and agent and customer relationships that have been acquired in business combinations. These assets are amortized either over the period of economic benefit or on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related intangible asset. The estimated useful lives of these intangible assets range from one to nineteen years. The weighted average amortization period for customer contracts is approximately two years, and the weighted average amortization period for agent and customer relationships is approximately fifteen years. Collectively, the weighted average amortization period of assets subject to amortization is approximately twelve years. The useful lives of acquired trademarks are indefinite and, therefore, not subject to amortization.
	Our identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
			2014			2013
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks		$	2,500		$	2,500
	Definite Lived Intangibles:
	Agent and customer relationships			65,060			64,052
	Customer contracts			20,600			20,600
	Less: accumulated amortization			(34,340	)		(24,345	)
	Intangible assets, net		$	51,320		$	60,307
	Total Identifiable Intangible Assets		$	53,820		$	62,807
Estimated amortization expense by year is as follows (in thousands):
2015		$	9,102
2016			7,423
2017			5,995
2018			2,519
2019			2,254
Thereafter			24,027
Total		$	51,320
The amounts recorded for amortization expense were $9.9 million, $2.1 million, and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	(j)	Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired in connection with the Company’s acquisitions. Under FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, Topic 805 “Business Combinations”, we are required to test goodwill for impairment annually (in our third fiscal quarter) or more frequently, whenever events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit with goodwill below its carrying amount. We have the option to first assess qualitative factors such as current performance and overall economic conditions to determine whether or not it is necessary to perform a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. If we choose that option, we would not be required perform Step 1 of the test unless we determine that, based on a qualitative assessment, it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If we determine that it is more likely than not, or if we choose not to perform a qualitative assessment, then we may then proceed with Step 1 of the two-step impairment test. In the quantitative goodwill test, a company compares the carrying value of a reporting unit to its fair value. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value, a second step is performed, which compares the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying value, to determine the amount of impairment. During the third quarter of 2014, we completed our goodwill impairment testing by performing a qualitative assessment. Based on the results of this test, no impairment loss was recognized.
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
Balance as of January 1, 2013		$	17,965
Westport Acquisition			56,624
Balance as of December 31, 2013			74,589
Bull’s Eye acquisitions			163
Westport adjustments			(268	)
Balance as of December 31, 2014		$	74,484
At both December 31, 2014 and 2013, $18.2 million and $18.0 million of goodwill was recorded in our transportation segment, respectively. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, $56.3 million and $56.6 million of goodwill was recorded in our logistics segment, respectively.
	(k)	Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, other than goodwill, and indefinite lived intangibles such as property and equipment and purchased intangible assets subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances require a long-lived asset to be tested for possible impairment, we first compare the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by a long-lived asset to its carrying value. If the carrying value of the long-lived asset is deemed to not be recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment charge is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques including discounted cash flow models, quoted market prices and independent third-party appraisals. Changes in management’s judgment relating to salvage values and/ or estimated useful lives could result in greater or lesser annual depreciation expense or impairment charges in the future. Indefinite lived intangibles are tested for impairment annually by comparing the carrying value of the assets to their fair value.
	(l)	Contingent Consideration
Contingent consideration arrangements granted in connection with a business combination are evaluated to determine whether contingent consideration is, in substance, additional purchase price of an acquired enterprise or compensation for services, use of property or profit sharing. Additional purchase price is added to the fair value of consideration transferred in the business combination and compensation is included in operating expenses in the period it is incurred. Contingent consideration is remeasured to fair value at each reporting date until the contingency is resolved.
	(m)	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
For cash equivalents, accounts receivables, accounts payable, and accrued expenses, the carrying amounts are reasonable estimates of fair value as the assets are readily redeemable or short-term in nature and the liabilities are short-term in nature. Marketable securities, consisting primarily of equity securities, are carried at fair market value as determined by quoted market prices. Our senior debt and line of credit consists of variable rate borrowings. The carrying value of these borrowings approximates fair value because the applicable interest rates are adjusted frequently based on short-term market rates.
	(n)	Deferred Compensation
Deferred compensation relates to our bonus plans. Annual bonuses may be awarded to certain operating, sales and management personnel based on overall Company performance and achievement of specific employee or departmental objectives. Such bonuses are typically paid in annual installments over a five-year period. All bonus amounts earned by and due to employees in the current year are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities. Those that are payable in subsequent years are included in other long-term liabilities.
	(o)	Closing Costs
Our customers may discontinue or alter their business activity in a location earlier than anticipated, prompting us to exit a customer-dedicated facility. We recognize exit costs associated with operations that close or are identified for closure as an accrued liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Such charges include lease termination costs, employee termination charges, asset impairment charges, and other exit-related costs associated with a plan approved by management. If we close an operating facility before its lease expires, costs to terminate a lease are recognized when an early termination provision is exercised, or we record a liability for non-cancellable lease obligations based on the fair value of remaining lease payments, reduced by any existing or prospective sublease rentals. Employee termination costs are recognized in the period that the closure is communicated to affected employees. The recognition of exit and disposal charges requires us to make certain assumptions and estimates as to the amount and timing of such charges. Subsequently, adjustments are made for changes in estimates in the period in which the change becomes known.
	(p)	Revenue and Related Expenses
We are the primary obligor when rendering transportation services, value-added services and intermodal services, and we assume the corresponding credit risk with customers. We have discretion in setting sales prices and, as a result, our earnings may vary. In addition, we have discretion to choose and negotiate terms with our multiple suppliers for the services ordered by our customers. This includes owner-operators with whom we contract to deliver our transportation services. As such, revenue and the related purchased transportation and commissions are recognized on a gross basis when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred at the receiver’s location or for service arrangements after the related services have been rendered, the revenue and related expenses are fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Fuel surcharges, where separately identifiable, of $119.7 million, $118.6 million and $115.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in operating revenues.
Revenues and associated costs for the sales of axles and machined components are recognized when title has passed and the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred, which is at the time of shipment.
Our customer contracts could involve multiple revenue-generating activities performed for the same customer. When several contracts are entered into with the same customer in a short period of time, we evaluate whether these contracts should be considered as a single, multiple element contract for revenue recognition purposes. Criteria we consider that may result in the aggregation of contracts include whether such contracts are actually entered into within a short period of time, whether services in multiple contracts are interrelated, or if the negotiation and terms of one contract show or include consideration for another contract or contracts. Our current contracts have not been required to be aggregated, as they are negotiated independently on a standalone basis. Our customers typically choose their vendor and award business at the conclusion of a competitive bidding process for each service. As a result, although we evaluate customer purchase orders and agreements for multiple elements and aggregation of individual contracts into a multiple element arrangement, our current contracts do not meet the criteria required for multiple element contract accounting.
	(q)	Insurance & Claims
Insurance and claims expense represents charges for premiums and the accruals made for claims within our self-insured retention amounts. The accruals are primarily related to auto liability, general liability, cargo and equipment damage, and service failure claims. A liability is recognized for the estimated cost of all self-insured claims including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims based on historical experience and for claims expected to exceed our policy limits. We may also make accruals for personal injury and property damage to third parties, and workers’ compensation claims if a claim exceeds our insurance coverage. Such accruals are based upon individual cases and estimates of ultimate losses, incurred but not reported losses, and losses arising from known claims ultimately settling in excess of insurance coverage using loss development factors based upon industry data and past experience. Since the reported accrual is an estimate, the ultimate liability may be different from the amount recorded. If adjustments to previously established accruals are required, such amounts are included in operating expenses in the current period. We maintain insurance with licensed insurance carriers. Legal expenses related to auto liability claims are covered under our insurance policy. We are responsible for all other legal expenses related to claims.
In brokerage arrangements, our exposure to liability associated with accidents incurred by other third-party carriers, who haul freight on our behalf, is reduced by various factors including the extent to which the third party providers maintain their own insurance coverage.
Our insurance expense varies primarily based upon the frequency and severity of our accident experience, insurance rates, coverage limits, and self-insured retention amounts.
	(r)	Stock Based Compensation
We record compensation expense for the grant of stock based awards. Compensation expense is measured at the grant date, based on the calculated fair value of the award, and recognized as an expense over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the grant). No stock based awards were granted in 2014 or 2013. During 2012, the Company granted 178,137 shares of restricted stock to certain employees with a market price at the date of grant of $16.42.
	(s)	Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2011. In addition, we file income tax returns in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. Historically, we have been responsible for filing separate state, local and foreign income tax returns for our self and our subsidiaries. We are no longer subject to state or foreign jurisdiction income tax examinations for years before 2010 and 2009, respectively.
We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and penalties in other operating expenses.
	(t)	Foreign Currency Translation
The financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries operating in Mexico and Canada are prepared to conform to U.S. GAAP and translated into U.S. Dollars by applying a current exchange rate. The local currency has been determined to be the functional currency. Items appearing in the Consolidated Statements of Income are translated using average exchange rates during each period. Assets and liabilities of international operations are translated at period-end exchange rates. Translation gains and losses are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of shareholders’ equity.
	(u)	Segment Information
We report our financial results in two reportable segments, the transportation segment and the logistics segment, based on the nature of the underlying customer commitment and the types of investments required to support these commitments. This presentation reflects the manner in which management evaluates our operating segments, including an evaluation of economic characteristics and applicable aggregation criteria.
Operations aggregated in our transportation segment are associated with individual freight shipments coordinated by our agents, company-managed terminals and specialized services operations. In contrast, operations aggregated in our logistics segment deliver value-added services or transportation services to specific customers on a dedicated basis, generally pursuant to contract terms of one year or longer. Other non-reportable operating segments are comprised of the Company’s subsidiaries that provide support services to other subsidiaries and to owner-operators, including shop maintenance and equipment leasing.
	(v)	Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments, which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities with high quality financial institutions. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. Our customers are generally concentrated in the automotive, wind energy, building materials, machinery and metals industries. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, aggregate sales in the automotive industry totaled 28.4%, 33.8% and 30.7% of revenue, respectively. In 2014, General Motors accounted for approximately 9.7% of our total operating revenues and sales to our top 10 customers, including General Motors, totaled 36.1%.
	(w)	Unaudited Pro Forma Earnings Per Share
Prior to its acquisition by Universal on October 1, 2012, LINC was an S Corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, LINC had no U.S. federal income tax liability, but had state and local liabilities in certain jurisdictions attributable to earnings as an S Corporation. Pro forma basic and diluted earnings per share have been computed to give effect to the termination of LINC’s S Corporation status and acquisition by Universal, which changes the provision for income taxes for each period presented. We assume a blended statutory federal, state and local rate of 38.5% in 2012.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented (in thousands, except per share data):
		2012
Net income		$	47,688
Pro forma provision for income taxes due to LINC’s conversion to a “C” corporation			11,059
Pro forma net income		$	36,629
Pro forma earnings per common share:
Basic		$	1.22
Diluted		$	1.22
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic			30,032
Diluted			30,036
	(x)	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment, which provided new guidance related to reporting discontinued operations. This new standard raises the threshold for a disposal to qualify as a discontinued operation and requires new disclosures of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014. Early adoption is permitted but only for disposals that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which provided new accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. The objective of ASU 2014-09 is to establish a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and will supersede most of the existing revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In applying the new guidance, an entity will (1) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determine the transaction price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the contract’s performance obligations; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. ASU 2014-09 applies to all contracts with customers except those that are within the scope of other topics in the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. The new guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim periods within those periods)
beginning after December 15, 2016 for public companies. Early adoption is not permitted. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or modified approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. We are evaluating the effect, if any, that adopting this new accounting standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Business_Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations	-2	Business Combinations
	Acquisitions Accounted for Using the Purchase Method
	In September 2014, we acquired certain assets of Bull’s-Eye Express, Inc. and its several affiliated companies, or Bull’s-Eye, based in Albany, Missouri through a Limited Asset Purchase Agreement for $1.6 million. Bull’s-Eye is a regional provider of industrial equipment transportation and freight consolidation services and is strategically positioned to service customers in the Midwest. As of December 31, 2014, $1.3 million of the purchase price was paid in cash and an additional $0.3 million consisted of partial forgiveness of a debt due to us. Pursuant to the acquisition, Bull’s-Eye operates as part of Universal Truckload, Inc.
	The pro forma effect of this acquisition has been omitted, as the effect is immaterial to the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Intangible assets		$	1,007
	Property and equipment			400
	Goodwill (tax deductible)			163
			$	1,570
	The intangible assets acquired represent the acquired companies’ customer relationships and are being amortized over a period of seven years.
	The operating results of the Bull’s-Eye have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Income since its acquisition date; however, it has not been separately disclosed as it is deemed immaterial.
	Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the estimated fair value assigned to the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets of the businesses acquired, and the expected synergies to be achieved through the integration of the acquired companies into Universal.
	In December 2013, we acquired Westport USA Holding, LLC (“Westport”) for $123.0 million in cash, subject to a working capital adjustment after closing. Pursuant to the terms of the Unit Purchase Agreement, Westport was acquired on a cash-free, debt-free basis. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Westport provides value-added warehousing and component distribution services to U.S. manufacturers of Class 4-8 trucks, RVs and super-duty trucks. Westport also machines and distributes steering knuckles and axle components for the automotive industry. During 2014, we finalized the working capital adjustment and made a final payment of $1.4 million in cash. We used available cash and borrowings under our Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement to finance the acquisition (see Note 6 “Debt”).
	The acquisition of Westport was accounted for in accordance with ASC 805 “Business Combinations.” Assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their estimated fair values as of December 19, 2013, with the remaining unallocated purchase price recorded as goodwill. The goodwill recorded is included in our logistics segment, and is non-deductible for income tax purposes. The estimated useful lives of these intangible assets ranged from five months to nineteen years. The final allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Current assets		$	24,492
	Property and equipment			17,081
	Goodwill			56,356
	Intangible assets			57,800
	Other long-term assets			474
	Current liabilities			(2,932	)
	Capital lease obligations			(5,164	)
	Deferred tax liabilities, net			(25,083	)
			$	123,024
	The intangible assets acquired represent Westport’s acquired trademarks, customer contracts and customer relationships. The acquired customer contracts and customer relationships are being amortized over a period from five months to nineteen years. The useful lives of acquired trademarks are indefinite and, therefore, not subject to amortization.
	The following unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations for the twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 present consolidated information of the Company as if Westport was acquired on January 1, 2012 (in thousands, except per share data):
			Pro Forma Twelve			Pro Forma Twelve
			Months Ended			Months Ended
			December 31, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Operating revenues		$	1,121,459		$	1,095,393
	Operating income		$	93,972		$	66,848
	Net Income		$	54,791		$	44,143
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic		$	1.82		$	1.47
	Diluted		$	1.82		$	1.47
	The unaudited pro forma consolidated results for the twelve-month periods were prepared using the acquisition method of accounting and are based on the historical financial information of Westport and the Company. The historical financial information has been adjusted to give effect to pro forma adjustments that are: (i) directly attributable to the acquisition, (ii) factually supportable and (iii) expected to have a continuing impact on the combined results. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are presented for illustrative purposes and do not purport to represent what the financial position or results of operations would actually have been had we acquired Westport on January 1, 2012.
	The acquisition of Westport strategically enhances our customer base by further penetrating industrial markets, specifically to manufacturers of medium and heavy-duty trucks. We believe that Westport’s value-added services and limited capital requirements fit nicely into our business model and long-term growth strategy. The operating results of Westport have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Income since its acquisition date. Included in our operating results during the year ended December 31, 2013 are transaction and other acquisition related costs totaling $0.7 million, which are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	In May 2012, we acquired certain assets of TFX Incorporated, or TFX, based in Durham, North Carolina through a Limited Asset Purchase Agreement for approximately $1.1 million. TFX is primarily a regional provider of intermodal transportation services strategically positioned to service the primary port areas on the East Coast and the key railheads and major manufacturing centers of the Southern and Midwestern United States. We used available cash and cash equivalents to finance acquisition. Pursuant to the acquisition, TFX operates as part of Mason Dixon Intermodal, Inc.
	The pro forma effect of this acquisition has been omitted, as the effect is immaterial to the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Intangible assets		$	657
	Property and equipment			200
	Goodwill (tax deductible)			243
			$	1,100
	The intangible assets acquired represent the acquired companies’ customer relationships and are being amortized over a period of seven years.
	The operating results of the TFX have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Income since its acquisition date; however, it has not been separately disclosed as it is deemed immaterial.
	Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the estimated fair value assigned to the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets of the businesses acquired, and the expected synergies to be achieved through the integration of the acquired companies into Universal.
	Acquisition Accounted for Between Entities Under Common Control
	In October 2012, we completed the acquisition of LINC whereby each outstanding share of LINC common stock was converted into the right to receive consideration consisting of 0.700 of a share of common stock of the Company and cash in lieu of fractional shares. This resulted in the issuance of 14,527,332 shares of the Company’s common stock. Our majority shareholders beneficially owned, in the aggregate, 100% of the common stock of LINC. The transaction was accounted for using the guidance for transactions between entities under common control as described in ASC Topic 805—“Business Combinations”, which resulted in the Company presenting the transaction at carryover basis and prior periods were retroactively restated.
	Upon closing the merger with LINC on October 1, 2012, we borrowed approximately $149.1 million to repay LINC’s outstanding indebtedness and dividends payable. During 2012, we also expensed transaction fees and other costs related to the merger totaling $8.4 million, which are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Accounts_Receivable

Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable	-3	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable amounts appearing in the financial statements include both billed and unbilled receivables. We bill customers in accordance with contract terms, which may result in a brief timing difference between when revenue is recognized and when invoices are rendered. Unbilled receivables, which usually are billed within one month, totaled $11.6 million and $12.8 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
			2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year		$	2,688		$	2,515		$	3,874
	Provision for doubtful accounts			3,504			1,515			1,190
	Acquisition of businesses			—			163			—
	Uncollectible accounts written off			(985	)		(1,505	)		(2,549	)
	Balance at end of year		$	5,207		$	2,688		$	2,515

Property_and_Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	-4	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment at December 31 consists of the following (in thousands):
			2014			2013
	Transportation equipment		$	186,344		$	151,395
	Land, buildings and related assets			67,472			68,653
	Other operating assets			54,433			43,624
	Information technology equipment			15,261			14,427
	Construction in process			4,169			2,163
				327,679			280,262
	Less accumulated depreciation			(149,610	)		(137,606	)
	Total		$	178,069		$	142,656

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	-5	Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
	Accrued expenses consist of the following items at December 31 (in thousands):
			2014		2013
	Payroll related items		$	8,827	$	8,080
	Driver escrow liabilities			4,519		6,099
	Commissions, taxes and other			8,995		6,893
	Total		$	22,341	$	21,072

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	-6	Debt
	Debt is comprised of the following (in thousands):
			Interest Rates  at		December 31,
			December 31, 2014		2014				2013
	Outstanding Debt:
	Syndicated credit facility
	$120 million revolving credit facility		LIBOR + 1.85%		$	59,500			$	60,000
	Swing Line sub-facility		Prime   + 0.85%			370				—
	$60 million equipment financing facility		LIBOR + 2.35%			55,428				57,500
	$50 million term loan		LIBOR + 3.00%			50,000				50,000
	$70 million term loan B		LIBOR + 3.00%			70,000				70,000
	UBS secured borrowing facility		LIBOR + 1.10%			—				—
						235,298				237,500
	Less current portion					9,593				5,482
	Total long-term debt				$	225,705			$	232,018
	Syndicated credit facility
	On December 19, 2013, we entered into a Second Amendment (the “Amendment”) to our Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement dated August 28, 2012, (the “Credit Agreement”) with and among the lenders parties thereto and Comerica Bank, as administrative agent, to provide for aggregate borrowing facilities of up to $300 million. The Amendment modifies the Credit Agreement to allow for additional borrowings of $70 million under a new term loan and a $10 million increase in the revolving credit facility. The Credit Agreement, as amended, consists of a $120 million revolving credit facility (which amount may be increased by up to $20 million upon request of the Company and approval of the lenders), a $60 million equipment credit facility, a $50 million term loan, and a $70 million term loan B. Additionally, the Credit Agreement provides for up to $5 million in letters of credit, which letters of credit reduce availability under the revolving credit facility.
	On December 19, 2013, we used available cash, $70 million in proceeds from the new term loan, $25 million in proceeds from our revolving credit facility, and $25.5 million in additional borrowings from our existing equipment credit facility to pay the aggregate cash consideration and expenses related to the acquisition of Westport (see Note 2 “Business Combinations”).
	$120 million Revolving Credit Facility
	The revolving credit facility is available to refinance existing indebtedness and to finance working capital through, and mature on, August 28, 2017. Two interest rate options are applicable to advances borrowed pursuant to the facility: Eurodollar-based advances and base rate advances. Eurodollar-based advances bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin, which varies from 1.35% to 2.10% based on our ratio of total debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), as defined. As an alternative, base rate advances bear interest at a base rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin, which also varies based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA in a range from 0.35% to 1.10%. The base rate is the greater of the prime rate announced by Comerica Bank, the federal funds effective rate plus 1.0%, or the daily adjusting LIBOR rate plus 1.0%. At December 31, 2014, interest accrued at 2.02% based on 30-day LIBOR.
	To support daily borrowing and other operating requirements, the revolving credit facility contains a $10.0 million Swing Line sub-facility and a $5.0 million letter of credit sub-facility. On June 3, 2013, we executed an amendment to our Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement (the “First Amendment”) which split the availability on the Swing Line between two existing lenders, Comerica Bank and KeyBank. The SwingLine was split to provide for borrowings of up to $7.0 million from Comerica Bank and $3.0 million from KeyBank, so long as the Comerica Bank and KeyBank advances do not exceed $10.0 million in the aggregate. Swing Line borrowings incur interest at either the base rate plus the applicable margin or, alternatively, at a quoted rate offered by the applicable Swing Line lender in its sole discretion. At December 31, 2014, there was $0.4 million outstanding under the Swing Line and interest accrued at 4.10% based on the prime rate. We did not have any letters of credit issued against the revolving credit facility.
	Interest on the unpaid balance of all revolving credit facility and swing line base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears commencing on October 1, 2012, and on the first day of each October, January, April and July thereafter. Interest on the unpaid balance of each Eurodollar-based advance of the revolving credit facility is payable on the last day of the applicable Eurodollar interest period. Interest on the unpaid balance of each quoted rate based advance of the swing line is payable on the last day of the applicable quoted rate interest period.
	The revolving credit facility is subject to a facility fee, which is payable quarterly in arrears, of either 0.25% or 0.50%, depending on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. Other than in connection with Eurodollar-based advances or quoted rate advances that are paid off and terminated prior to an applicable interest period, there are no premiums or penalties resulting from prepayment. Borrowings outstanding at any time under the revolving credit facility are limited to the value of eligible accounts receivable of our principal operating subsidiaries, pursuant to a monthly borrowing base certificate. At December 31, 2014, our $59.5 million revolver advance was secured by, among other assets, net eligible accounts receivable totaling $122.4 million, of which, $104.1 million were available for borrowing against pursuant to the agreement.
	$60 million Equipment Credit Facility
	The equipment credit facility is available to refinance existing indebtedness and to finance capital expenditures including in connection with acquisitions. Borrowings under the equipment credit facility may be made until August 28, 2015, and such borrowings shall be repaid in quarterly installments equal to 1/28th of the aggregate amount of borrowings under the equipment credit facility commencing on January 1, 2014.
	The two interest rate options that apply to revolving credit facility advances also apply to equipment credit facility advances. Eurodollar-based advances bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin, which varies from 1.60% to 2.60% based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. Base rate advances bear interest at a base rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin, which also varies based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA in a range from 0.60% to 1.60%. The equipment credit facility is subject to an unused fee, which is payable quarterly in arrears, of 0.50%. At December 31, 2014, interest accrued at 2.52% based on 30-day LIBOR.
	Interest on the unpaid balance of all equipment credit facility base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears commencing on October 1, 2012, and on the first day of each October, January, April and July thereafter. Interest on the unpaid balance of each Eurodollar-based advance of the equipment credit facility is payable on the last day of the applicable Eurodollar interest period.
	$50 million Term Loan
	Proceeds of the term loan were advanced on October 1, 2012 and used to refinance existing indebtedness of LINC. The outstanding principal balance is due on August 28, 2017, to the extent not already reduced by mandatory or optional prepayments. The applicable interest rate on the effective date of the term loan indebtedness was the base rate. Base rate advances bear interest at a defined base rate plus an applicable margin which varies from 1.50% to 2.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. Thereafter, we may convert base rate advances to Eurodollar-based advances, which bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin which varies from 2.50% to 3.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. At December 31, 2014, interest accrued at 3.17% based on 30-day LIBOR.
	Interest on the unpaid principal of all term loan base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears commencing on October 1, 2012, and on the first day of each October, January, April and July thereafter. Interest on the unpaid principal of each Eurodollar-based advance of the term loan is payable on the last day of the applicable Eurodollar interest period.
	$70 million Term Loan B
	Proceeds of the term loan were advanced on December 19, 2013 and used to finance the acquisition of Westport. The outstanding principal balance is due on August 28, 2017, to the extent not already reduced by mandatory or optional prepayments. The applicable interest rate on the effective date of the term loan indebtedness was the base rate. Base rate advances bear interest at a defined base rate plus an applicable margin which varies from 1.50% to 2.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. Thereafter, we may convert base rate advances to Eurodollar-based advances, which bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin which varies from 2.50% to 3.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA. At December 31, 2014, interest accrued at 3.17% based on 30-day LIBOR.
	Interest on the unpaid principal of all term loan base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears commencing on January 1, 2014, and on the first day of each January, April, July and October thereafter. Interest on the unpaid principal of each Eurodollar-based advance of the term loan is payable on the last day of the applicable Eurodollar interest period.
	The Credit Agreement requires us to repay the borrowings made under the term loan facilities and the equipment credit facility as follows: 50% (which percentage shall be reduced to 0% subject to the Company attaining a certain leverage ratio) of our annual excess cash flow, as defined; 100% of net cash proceeds of certain asset sales; and 100% of certain insurance and condemnation proceeds. Mandatory prepayments of the term loans were $1.0 million as of December 31, 2014. We may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under each of the facilities at any time, subject to certain customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR-based borrowings. In addition, we may elect to permanently terminate or reduce all or a portion of the revolving credit facility.
	All obligations under the Credit Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by the Company’s material U.S. subsidiaries, and the obligations of the Company and such subsidiaries under the Credit Agreement and such guarantees are secured by, subject to certain exceptions, substantially all of their assets. The Credit Agreement also may, in certain circumstances, limit our ability to pay dividends or distributions. The Credit Agreement includes annual, quarterly and ad hoc financial reporting requirements and financial covenants requiring the Company to maintain maximum leverage ratios and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, as well as customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. Specifically, we may not exceed a maximum senior debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined, of 2.5:1 and a maximum total debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined, of 3.0:1. We must also maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio, as defined, of not less than 1.25:1. As of December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with its debt covenants.
	UBS Secured Borrowing Facility
	We also maintain a secured borrowing facility at UBS Financial Services, Inc., or UBS, using our marketable securities as collateral for the short-term line of credit. The line of credit bears an interest rate equal to LIBOR plus 1.10% (effective rate of 1.27% at December 31, 2014), and interest is adjusted and billed monthly. No principal payments are due on the borrowing; however, the line of credit is callable at any time. The amount available under the line of credit is based on a percentage of the market value of the underlying securities. If the equity value in the account falls below the minimum requirement, we must restore the equity value, or UBS may call the line of credit. We did not have any amounts outstanding under our line of credit at December 31, 2014 or 2013, and the maximum available borrowings under the line of credit were $6.9 million and $5.4 million, respectively.
	Maturities
	The following table reflects the maturities of our principal repayment obligations as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	Years Ending		Revolving				Swing Line				Equipment		Term		Term		Total
	31-Dec		Credit				Sub-Facility				Financing		Loan		Loan B
			Facility								Facility
	2015		$	—			$	—			$	8,571	$	1,022	$	—	$	9,593
	2016			—				—				8,571		—		—		8,571
	2017			59,500				370				38,286		48,978		70,000		217,134
	Total		$	59,500			$	370			$	55,428	$	50,000	$	70,000	$	235,298

Fair_Value_Measurement_and_Dis

Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures
	-7	Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures
	ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”, defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and expanded disclosures with respect to fair value measurements.
	ASC Topic 820 also establishes a three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:
		•		Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
		•		Level 2—Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
		•		Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.
	We have segregated all financial assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the most appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date in the tables below (in thousands):
			December 31, 2014
			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
									Measurement
	Assets
	Cash equivalents		$	21	$	—	$	—	$	21
	Marketable securities			14,309		—		—		14,309
	Total Assets		$	14,330	$	—	$	—	$	14,330
			December 31, 2013
			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
									Measurement
	Assets
	Cash equivalents		$	117	$	—	$	—	$	117
	Marketable securities			11,626		—		—		11,626
	Total Assets		$	11,743	$	—	$	—	$	11,743
	The valuation techniques used to measure fair value for the items in the tables above are as follows:
		•		Cash equivalents—This category consists of money market funds which are listed as Level 1 assets and measured at fair value based on quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
		•		Marketable securities—Marketable securities represent equity securities, which consist of common and preferred stocks, are actively traded on public exchanges and are listed as Level 1 assets. Fair value was measured based on quoted prices for these securities in active markets.
	Our senior debt and line of credit consists of variable rate borrowings. We categorize borrowings under the credit agreement and line of credit as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The carrying value of these borrowings approximate fair value because the applicable interest rates are adjusted frequently based on short-term market rates.

Transactions_with_Affiliates

Transactions with Affiliates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Transactions with Affiliates	-8	Transactions with Affiliates
	Through December 31, 2004, Universal was a wholly-owned subsidiary of CenTra, Inc. On December 31, 2004, CenTra distributed all of Universal’s common stock to the shareholders of CenTra. Subsequent to our initial public offering in 2005, our majority shareholders retained and continue to hold a controlling interest in Universal. CenTra provides administrative support services to Universal, including legal, human resources, and tax services. The cost of these services is based on the actual or estimated utilization of the specific service. Management believes these charges are reasonable. However, the costs of these services charged to Universal are not necessarily indicative of the costs that would have been incurred if Universal had internally performed or acquired these services as a separate unaffiliated entity.
	In addition to the administrative support services described above, Universal purchases other services from affiliates. Following is a schedule of cost incurred and included in operating expenses for services provided by affiliates for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
			2014		2013		2012
	Administrative support services		$	2,459	$	2,367	$	2,535
	Truck fueling and maintenance			1,320		1,774		3,850
	Real estate rent and related costs			10,472		11,352		10,787
	Insurance and employee benefit plans			36,073		32,710		33,657
	Contracted transportation services			930		311		285
	Total		$	51,254	$	48,514	$	51,114
	In connection with our transportation services, we also routinely cross the Ambassador Bridge between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario, and we pay tolls and other fees to certain related entities which are under common control with CenTra. CenTra also charges us for the direct variable cost of various maintenance, fueling and other operational support costs for services delivered at their trucking terminals that are geographically remote from our own facilities. Such activities are billed when incurred, paid on a routine basis, and reflect actual labor utilization, repair parts costs or quantities of fuel purchased.
	A significant number of our transportation and logistics service operations are located at facilities leased from affiliates. At 43 facilities, occupancy is based on either month-to-month or contractual, multi-year lease arrangements which are billed and paid monthly. Leasing properties provided by an affiliate that owns a substantial commercial property portfolio affords us significant operating flexibility. However, we are not limited to such arrangements. See Note 10, “Leases” for further information regarding the cost of leased properties.
	We purchase workers’ compensation, property and casualty, cargo, warehousing and other general liability insurance from an insurance company controlled by our majority shareholders. Our employee health care benefits and 401(k) programs are also provided by this affiliate.
	Other services from affiliates, including leased real estate, insurance and employee benefit plans, and contracted transportation services, are delivered to us on a per-transaction-basis or pursuant to separate contractual arrangements provided in the ordinary course of business. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, amounts due to affiliates were $2.9 million and $3.6 million, respectively. In our Consolidated Balance Sheets, we record our insured claims liability and the related recovery from an affiliate insurance provider in insurance and claims, and other receivables. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were $10.7 million and $15.8 million, respectively, included in each of these accounts for insured claims.
	We incurred approximately $0.5 million of costs in both 2014 and 2013 relating to underwritten public offerings of our common stock. Under the Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of July 25, 2012 with our majority shareholders, we were responsible to pay for the cost of the offering. After deducting the underwriting discount and offering expenses, we did not have any remaining proceeds from the sales of our common stock.
	During 2014, we purchased ten used tractors and one used trailer from an affiliate totaling approximately $0.8 million. During 2013, we purchased 39 used tractors from an affiliate for approximately $1.6 million.
	We have retained the law firm of Sullivan Hincks & Conway to provide legal services. Daniel C. Sullivan, a member of our Board, is a partner at Sullivan Hincks & Conway. Not included in the table above are amounts paid for legal services during 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $92,000, $7,000 and $144,000, respectively.
	Services provided by Universal to Affiliates
	We may assist our affiliates with selected transportation and logistics services in connection with their specific customer contracts or purchase orders. Truck fueling and administrative expenses are presented net in operating expense. Following is a schedule of services provided to CenTra and affiliates for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
			2014		2013		2012
	Transportation and intermodal services		$	308	$	9,800	$	2,644
	Truck fueling and maintenance			87		184		227
	Administrative and customer support services			71		113		111
	Total		$	466	$	10,097	$	2,982
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, amounts due from affiliates were $1.6 million and $2.3 million, respectively.
	During 2014, we sold forty-one used trailers to an affiliate for approximately $82,000, and recognized an $82,000 gain on the sale of those trailers.
	Also during 2014, we acquired selected assets, operations and businesses in connection with international border crossing freight processing, customs documentation and compliance services from an affiliate for approximately $100,000.
	In October 2012, we completed the acquisition of LINC. Our principal shareholders beneficially owned, in the aggregate, 100% of the common stock of LINC. See Note 2 “Business Combinations—Acquisition Accounted for Between Entities Under Common Control”.
	On March 12, 2015, we entered into a Service Level Agreement with Data System Services, LLC, a related party, to provide IT infrastructure and services to host our accounting system in a data center environment. Initial setup costs are approximately $0.2 million and recurring annual costs are estimated at $0.2 million, based on our anticipated number of users.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	-9	Income Taxes
	A summary of income related to U.S. and non-U.S. operations are as follows (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Operations
	U.S. Domestic		$	70,079		$	74,697		$	63,427
	Foreign			3,020			6,219			4,525
	Total pre-tax income		$	73,099		$	80,916		$	67,952
	The provision for income taxes attributable to income from continuing operations for the years ended December 31 consists of the following (in thousands):
			2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	U.S. Federal		$	20,822		$	22,797		$	12,554
	State			4,838			3,609			1,740
	Foreign			590			1,442			1,586
				26,250			27,848			15,880
	Deferred:
	U.S. Federal			489			1,922			4,155
	State			891			524			354
	Foreign			99			50			(125	)
				1,479			2,496			4,384
	Total		$	27,729		$	30,344		$	20,264
	Deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31 consist of the following (in thousands):
			2014						2013
			Current			Long-term			Current			Long-term
	Domestic deferred tax assets:
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		$	1,391		$	—		$	578		$	—
	Other assets			—			3,083			—			1,018
	Accrued expenses			5,285			—			5,826			—
	Total domestic deferred tax assets			6,676			3,083			6,404			1,018
	Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
	Prepaid expenses			(1,290	)		—			(1,528	)		—
	Marketable securities			—			(1,687	)		—			(1,480	)
	Intangible assets			—			(18,404	)		—			(21,248	)
	Property and equipment			—			(29,061	)		—			(22,261	)
	Total domestic deferred tax liabilities			(1,290	)		(49,152	)		(1,528	)		(44,989	)
	Foreign deferred tax asset
	Other assets			—			590			—			624
	Valuation allowance—foreign			—			(404	)		—			(401	)
	Total foreign deferred tax asset			—			186			—			223
	Net deferred tax asset (liability)		$	5,386		$	(45,883	)	$	4,876		$	(43,748	)
	In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the domestic and foreign deferred tax assets will not be realized. The deferred tax assets and liabilities were reviewed separately by jurisdictions when measuring the need for valuation allowances. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income (both ordinary income and taxable capital gains) during the periods in which those temporary differences reverse. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Based upon the level of historical taxable income, reversal of existing taxable temporary differences, projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the domestic deferred tax assets are expected to reverse, and our ability to generate future capital gains, management believes it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of these deductible differences. Thus, no valuation allowance has been established for the domestic deferred tax assets. Based on the anticipated earnings projections of the foreign subsidiaries, management has recorded a full valuation allowance for the deferred tax assets associated with the German subsidiary.
	The company has not provided for U.S. income taxes on foreign subsidiaries undistributed earnings since they are expected to be reinvested indefinitely outside the U.S. It is not possible to predict the amount of U.S. income taxes that might be payable if these earnings were eventually repatriated. As of December 31, 2014, the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries was approximately $9.8 million.
	The amount of the domestic and foreign deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income are reduced or capital gains contemplated under tax planning strategies are not realized.
	Income tax expense attributable to income from continuing operations differs from the statutory rates as follows:
			2014			2013			2012
	Federal statutory rate			35	%		35	%		35	%
	S-Corp earnings taxed at shareholder level			0	%		0	%		-14	%
	Non-deductible (benefit) expense			-2	%		-1	%		3	%
	LINC tax status change			0	%		0	%		4	%
	State, net of federal benefit			5	%		3	%		2	%
	Foreign			0	%		0	%		0	%
	Effective tax rate			38	%		37	%		30	%
	Prior to LINC’s acquisition by Universal on October 1, 2012, LINC was an S Corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, LINC had no U.S. federal income tax liability, but had state and local liabilities in certain jurisdictions attributable to earnings as an S Corporation. See Note 1(w) “Unaudited Pro Forma Earnings Per Share”. The merger transaction resulted in a termination of the S election for LINC, and LINC is now treated as a C corporation subject to federal income taxes. The tax rate adjustment accounts for the periods before the change in LINC’s federal tax status. Additionally, in connection with the acquisition by a C Corporation, we recorded the federal component of the deferred tax accounts resulting in the recognition of additional income tax expense of $2.5 million.
	As of December 31, 2014, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefit representing uncertainty in certain tax positions was $0.4 million. These uncertain tax positions are based on recognition thresholds and measurement attributes for the financial statement recognition and measurements of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Any prospective adjustments to our accrual for uncertain tax positions will be recorded as an increase or decrease to the provision for income taxes and would impact our effective tax rate. At December 31, 2014, there are no positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits would significantly increase or decrease within 12 months. As of December 31, 2014, the amount of accrued interest and penalties was $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
	The changes in our gross unrecognized tax benefits during the years ended December 31 are as follows (in thousands):
			2014			2013			2012
	Unrecognized tax benefit—beginning of year		$	652		$	741		$	687
	Increases related to prior year tax positions			4			137			12
	Increases related to current year tax positions			13			15			42
	Decreases related to prior year tax positions			(255	)		(241	)		—
	Settlements with taxing authorities			—			—			—
	Lapse of statutes of limitations			—			—			—
	Unrecognized tax benefit—end of year		$	414		$	652		$	741

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	-10	Leases
	We lease office space, warehouses, freight distribution centers, terminal yards and equipment under non-cancelable capital and operating lease arrangements. Except where we deliver services within facilities provided by our customers, we lease all warehouse and freight distribution centers used in our logistics operations, often in connection with a specific customer program. Where facilities are substantially dedicated to a single customer and our lease is with an independent property owner, we attempt to align lease terms with the expected duration of the underlying customer program. Except as described in Note 8, “Transactions with Affiliates”, facilities rented from affiliates are generally occupied pursuant to month-to-month lease agreements.
	In most cases, we expect our facility leases will be renewed or replaced by other leases in the ordinary course of business. Where possible, we contractually secure the recovery of certain occupancy costs, including rent, during the term of a customer program. Future minimum rental payments pursuant to leases that have an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
					Operating Leases
	Years Ending December 31		Capital		With		With Third		Total
			Leases		Affiliates		Parties
	2015		$	1,191	$	5,956	$	10,478	$	17,625
	2016			988		4,136		4,857		9,981
	2017			731		2,904		3,699		7,334
	2018			380		810		1,206		2,396
	2019			—		338		—		338
	Thereafter			—		—		—		—
	Total required payments			3,290	$	14,144	$	20,240	$	37,674
	Less amounts representing interest (1.4% to 4.7%)			259
	Present value of minimum lease payments			3,031
	Less current maturities			1,051
			$	1,980
	At December 31, 2014, assets under capital leases, consisting primarily of machinery and equipment, had a cost of approximately $6.9 million and accumulated amortization of $0.9 million. At December 31, 2013, assets under capital leases, consisting primarily of machinery and equipment, had a cost of approximately $6.9 million and accumulated amortization of $0.1 million. Included in depreciation and amortization expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is amortization expense of $0.8 million and $0.1 million, respectively. There were no assets under capital lease at December 31, 2012.
	Rental expense for facilities, vehicles and other equipment leased from third parties under operating leases approximated $21.9 million, $14.4 million and $10.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Comprehensive_Income

Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income	-11	Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income includes the following for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
			2014			2013			2012
	Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments arising during the period:
	Gross amount		$	620		$	2,160		$	1,383
	Income tax (expense) benefit			(208	)		(614	)		(817	)
	Net of tax amount		$	412		$	1,546		$	566
	Realized (gains) on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income:
	Gross amount		$	—		$	(107	)	$	(2,189	)
	Income tax expense			—			39			1,013
	Net of tax amount		$	—		$	(68	)	$	(1,176	)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments		$	(1,631	)	$	(227	)	$	312
	The unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale investments represent mark-to-market adjustments net of related income taxes.

Retirement_Plans

Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Retirement Plans	-12	Retirement Plans
	We offer 401(k) defined contribution plans to our employees. The plans are administered by a company controlled by our principal shareholders and include different matching provisions depending on which subsidiary or affiliate is involved. In the plans available to certain employees not subject to collective bargaining agreements, we matched contributions up to $600 annually for each employee who is not considered highly compensated through December 31, 2008, after which some matching contributions were suspended as a response to market conditions at certain subsidiaries. Three other 401(k) plans are provided to employees of specific operations and offer matching contributions that range from zero to $2,080 per participant annually. The total expense for contributions for 401(k) plans, including plans related to collective bargaining agreements, was $0.4 million for the each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	Great American Lines, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, maintained a Simplified Employee Pension Plan, which is a defined contribution plan and covers all full-time employees. Eligibility requirements include completion of one year of service and attaining the age of 21. Contributions to the plan are at management’s discretion. No contributions were made under this plan for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.
	In connection with a collective bargaining agreement that covered 9 Canadian employees at December 31, 2014, we are required to make defined contributions into the Canada Wide Industrial Pension Plan. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the required contributions totaled approximately $30,000 and $38,000, respectively.

Stock_Based_Compensation

Stock Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Based Compensation	-13	Stock Based Compensation
	On April 23, 2014, our Board of Directors adopted the 2014 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan, or the Plan. The Plan was approved by our shareholders at the 2014 Annual Meeting and became effective as of the date it was adopted by the Board of Directors. The Plan replaced our 2004 Stock Incentive Plan and carried forward the shares of common stock that remained available for issuance under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. The grants may be made in the form of stock options, restricted stock bonuses, restricted stock purchase rights, stock appreciation rights, phantom stock units, restricted stock units or unrestricted common stock. Restricted stock awards currently outstanding under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan will remain outstanding in accordance with the terms of that plan.
	On December 20, 2012, the Company granted 178,137 shares of restricted stock to certain of its employees under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. The restricted stock grants vested 20% on December 20, 2012, and an additional 20% will vest on each anniversary of the grant through December 20, 2016, subject to continued employment of the grantee with the Company. A grantee’s vesting may be accelerated under certain conditions, including retirement.
	A summary of the status of our non-vested shares as of December 31, 2014, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2014, is presented below:
			Shares			Weighted
						Average
						Grant Date
						Fair Value
	Nonvested at January 1, 2014			106,885		$	16.42
	Granted			—		$	—
	Vested			(90,439	)	$	16.42
	Forfeited			—		$	—
	Balance at December 31, 2014			16,446		$	16.42
	As of December 31, 2014, there was $0.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the year ended December 31, 2014 was $1.5 million.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	-14	Commitments and Contingencies
	Our principal commitments relate to long-term real estate leases and payment obligations to equipment vendors.
	We are involved in certain claims and pending litigation arising from the ordinary conduct of business. We also provide accruals for claims within our self-insured retention amounts. Based on the knowledge of the facts, and in certain cases, opinions of outside counsel, in the Company’s opinion the resolution of these claims and pending litigation will not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	At December 31, 2014, approximately 36% of our employees in the United States, Mexico and Canada are subject to collective bargaining agreements that are renegotiated periodically, 20% of which are subject to contracts that expire in 2015.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	-15	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per common share amounts are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, excluding outstanding non-vested restricted stock. Diluted earnings per common share include dilutive common stock equivalents determined by the treasury stock method. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there were 31,230, 95,656 and 4,597 weighted average non-vested shares of restricted stock, respectively, included in the denominator for the calculation of diluted earnings per share.

Quarterly_Financial_Data_unaud

Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)	-16	Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)
			2014
			1st quarter		2nd  quarter		3rd quarter		4th quarter
			(in thousands, except per share information)
	Operating revenue		$	279,364	$	307,549	$	302,128	$	302,480
	Operating income			14,629		24,413		23,000		18,793
	Income before income taxes			13,143		22,075		21,052		16,829
	Provision for income taxes			5,019		8,442		7,958		6,310
	Net income		$	8,124	$	13,633	$	13,094	$	10,519
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic		$	0.27	$	0.45	$	0.44	$	0.35
	Diluted		$	0.27	$	0.45	$	0.44	$	0.35
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic			30,112		30,054		29,947		29,946
	Diluted			30,158		30,092		29,982		29,952
			2013
			1st quarter		2nd  quarter		3rd quarter		4th quarter
			(in thousands, except per share information)
	Operating revenue		$	248,109	$	264,172	$	261,663	$	259,548
	Operating income			19,251		23,629		22,480		19,133
	Income before income taxes			18,283		22,828		21,491		18,314
	Provision for income taxes			6,909		8,674		7,749		7,012
	Net income		$	11,374	$	14,154	$	13,742	$	11,302
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic		$	0.38	$	0.47	$	0.46	$	0.38
	Diluted		$	0.38	$	0.47	$	0.46	$	0.38
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic			30,054		30,054		30,065		30,083
	Diluted			30,196		30,196		30,118		30,127

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	-17	Segment Reporting
	We report our financial results in two reportable segments, the transportation segment and the logistics segment, based on the nature of the underlying customer commitment and the types of investments required to support these commitments. This presentation reflects the manner in which management evaluates our operating segments, including an evaluation of economic characteristics and applicable aggregation criteria.
	Operations aggregated in our transportation segment are associated with individual freight shipments coordinated by our agents, company-managed terminals and specialized services operations. In contrast, operations aggregated in our logistics segment deliver value-added services or transportation services to specific customers on a dedicated basis, generally pursuant to contract terms of one year or longer. Other non-reportable operating segments are comprised of the Company’s subsidiaries that provide support services to other subsidiaries and to owner-operators, including shop maintenance and equipment leasing.
	The following tables summarize information about our reportable segments as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014		Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues		$	778,603	$	412,507	$	411		$	1,191,521
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues			5,160		7,473		—			12,633
	Depreciation and amortization			11,256		21,507		290			33,053
	Income from operations			34,931		50,892		(4,988	)		80,835
	Capital expenditures			16,444		42,413		927			59,784
	Total assets			246,190		247,155		35,669			529,014
	2013		Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues		$	705,557	$	327,498	$	437		$	1,033,492
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues			679		179		—			858
	Depreciation and amortization			11,557		7,861		268			19,686
	Income from operations			28,537		58,724		(2,768	)		84,493
	Capital expenditures			9,084		6,426		1,525			17,035
	Total assets			221,428		229,947		38,761			490,136
	2012		Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues		$	747,313	$	289,268	$	425		$	1,037,006
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues			514		83		—			597
	Depreciation and amortization			12,066		5,957		214			18,237
	Income from operations			30,623		49,497		(10,963	)		69,157
	Capital expenditures			15,463		12,927		1,176			29,566
	Total assets			226,896		77,563		22,910			327,369
	We provide a portfolio of transportation and logistics services to a wide range of customers throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and to a lesser extent, Europe and other countries around the world. Revenues for selected services as provided to the chief operating decision maker are as follows (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014		2013		2012
	Transportation services		$	769,308	$	706,998	$	741,650
	Value-added services			284,496		195,086		174,975
	Intermodal services			137,717		131,408		120,381
	Total		$	1,191,521	$	1,033,492	$	1,037,006
	Revenues are attributed to geographic areas based upon completion of the underlying service at the point of delivery. In some instances, we are paid one rate for “round-trip” services that originate and terminate in Canada, but have destinations in the United States. In those instances we allocate half of the total revenue to Canada and half to the United States (in thousands).
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014		2013		2012
	United States		$	1,153,154	$	992,511	$	999,668
	Mexico			24,860		23,440		20,266
	Canada			9,786		14,029		13,407
	Europe			2,419		2,278		2,057
	Other			1,302		1,234		1,608
	Total		$	1,191,521	$	1,033,492	$	1,037,006
	Net long-lived property and equipment assets are presented in the table below (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014		2013
	United States		$	172,360	$	134,951
	Mexico			5,671		7,640
	Canada			38		65
	Total		$	178,069	$	142,656

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	-18	Subsequent Events
	On February 19, 2015, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share of common stock, which is payable to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 2, 2015 and was paid on March 12, 2015. Declaration of future cash dividends is subject to final determination by the Board of Directors each quarter after its review of our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, any legal or contractual restrictions on the payment of dividends and other factors the Board of Directors deems relevant.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Business

(a)

Business

Universal Truckload Services, Inc., referred to herein as Universal, or us, we or the Company, through its subsidiaries, is a leading asset-light provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Colombia. We provide our customers with supply chain solutions that can be scaled to meet their changing demands. We offer our customers with a broad array of services across their entire supply chain, including transportation, value-added, and intermodal services. Our customized solutions and flexible business model are designed to provide us with a highly variable cost.

Basis of Presentation

(b)

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Effective on December 31, 2014, the Company executed a plan to reduce the number of its subsidiaries, re-naming and re-branding our principal surviving operating subsidiaries. The organizational streamlining plan included the statutory merger of certain subsidiaries, along with the transfer of certain business units between subsidiaries. At December 31, 2014, we conducted our operation through the following operating and support subsidiaries: Cavalry Logistics, LLC, Diversified Contract Services, Inc., Flint Special Services, Inc., LGSI Equipment of Indiana, LLC, LINC Logistics, LLC, LINC Ontario, Ltd., Logistics Insight Corp., Logistics Insight Corporation S. de R.L. de C.V., Logistics Insight GmbH, Louisiana Transportation, Inc., Mason Dixon Intermodal, Inc., ULINC Staffing de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V., Universal Dedicated, Inc., Universal Logistics Solutions International, Inc., Universal Logistics Solutions Canada, Ltd., Universal Management Services, Inc., Universal Specialized, Inc., Universal Truckload, Inc., UT Rent A Car, Inc., UTS Realty, LLC, UTSI Finance, Inc., Westport Holding, LLC and Westport Axle Corporation. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Through December 31, 2004, Universal was a wholly-owned subsidiary of CenTra, Inc. On December 31, 2004, CenTra distributed all of Universal’s common stock to Matthew T. Moroun and a trust controlled by Manuel J. Moroun, collectively the Morouns, the sole shareholders of CenTra, Inc. CenTra, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates are referred to as “CenTra.” Subsequent to the initial public offering in 2005, the Morouns retained and continue to hold a controlling interest in Universal. The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the historical financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of the Company and are not necessarily indicative of what the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows would have been had the Company operated as an unaffiliated company during the periods presented.

Our fiscal year consists of four quarters, each with thirteen weeks.

Use of Estimates

(c)

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management of the Company to make a number of estimates and assumptions related to the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations; carrying amounts of property and equipment and intangible assets; marketable securities; valuation allowances for receivables; and liabilities related to insurance and claim costs. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

(d)

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term, highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

It is our policy to record checks issued in excess of funds on deposit as accounts payable for balance sheet presentation, and include the changes in these positions as cash flows from operating activities in the statements of cash flows. At December 31, 2014, accounts payable included reclassification of checks issued in excess of funds on deposit in the amount of $13.4 million. At December 31, 2013, funds on deposit were in excess of checks issued and no reclassification was necessary. The change in the amount of checks issued in excess of funds on deposit of $13.4 million, $(13.4) million, and $3.4 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, is included in cash flows from operating activities in the statements of cash flows as a change in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities.

Marketable Securities

(e)

Marketable Securities

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, marketable securities, all of which are available-for-sale, consist of common and preferred stocks. Marketable securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), except for losses from impairments which are determined to be other-than-temporary. Realized gains and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary on available-for-sale securities are included in the determination of net income and are included in other non-operating income (expense), at which time the average cost basis of these securities are adjusted to fair value. Fair values are based on quoted market prices at the reporting date. Interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities are included in other non-operating income (expense). During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company made purchases of securities totaling $2.1 million, but did not sell any marketable securities. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, we received proceeds of $0.5 million and $7.5 million from the sale of marketable securities with a combined cost of $0.4 million $5.3 million resulting in a realized gain of $0.1 million and $2.2 million, respectively.

The cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities by type were as follows (in thousands):

Cost

Gross

Gross

Fair

unrealized

unrealized

Value

holding

holding

gains

(losses)

At December 31, 2014

Equity Securities

$

9,779

$

4,825

$

(295

)

$

14,309

At December 31, 2013

Equity Securities

$

7,717

$

3,974

$

(65

)

$

11,626

Included in equity securities at December 31, 2014 were securities with a book basis of $1.8 million and a cumulative loss position of $0.3 million, the impairment of which we consider to be temporary. We consider several factors in determining as to whether declines in value are judged to be temporary or other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the decline, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the specific issuers and the industries in which they operate, and our intent and ability to hold these securities. We may incur future impairment charges if declines in market values continue and/or worsen and impairments are no longer considered temporary.

The fair value and gross unrealized holding losses of our marketable securities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired aggregated by type and length of time they have been in a continuous unrealized loss position were as follows (in thousands):

Less than 12 Months

12 Months or Greater

Total

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

At December 31, 2014

Equity securities

$

1,380

$

197

$

146

$

98

$

1,526

$

295

At December 31, 2013

Equity securities

$

167

$

3

$

289

$

62

$

456

$

65

At December 31, 2014, our portfolio of equity securities in a continuous loss position, the impairment of which we consider to be temporary, consists primarily of common stocks in the oil and gas, banking, communications, steel, and transportation industries. The fair value and unrealized losses are distributed in sixteen publicly traded companies, with no single industry or company representing a material or concentrated unrealized loss. We have evaluated the near-term prospects of the various industries, as well as the specific issuers within our portfolio, in relation to the severity and duration of the impairments, and based on that evaluation, and our ability and intent to hold these investments for a reasonable period of time to allow for a recovery of fair value, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2014.

The Company from time to time invests cash in excess of its current needs in marketable securities, much of which is held in equity securities, which are actively traded on public exchanges. It is our philosophy to minimize the risk of capital loss without foregoing the potential for capital appreciation through investing in value-and-income oriented investments. However, holding equity securities subjects us to fluctuations in the market value of our investment portfolio based on current market prices, and a decline in market prices or other unstable market conditions could cause a loss in the value of our marketable securities classified as available-for-sale.

Accounts Receivable

(f)

Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable are recorded at the net invoiced amount, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts, and do not bear interest. They include unbilled amounts for services rendered in the respective period but not yet billed to the customer until a future date, which typically occurs within one month. In order to reflect customer receivables at their estimated net realizable value, we record charges against revenue based upon current information. These charges generally arise from rate changes, errors, and revenue adjustments that may arise from contract disputes or differences in calculation methods employed by the customer. The allowance for doubtful accounts is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. We determine the allowance based on historical write-off experience and the aging of our outstanding accounts receivable. Balances are considered past due based on invoiced terms. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. We do not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to our customers. Accounts receivable from affiliates are shown separately and include trade receivables from the sale of services to affiliates.

Inventories

(g)

Inventories

Included in prepaid expenses and other is inventory used in a portion of our value-added service operations. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method. Provisions for excess and obsolete inventories are based on our assessment of excess and obsolete inventory on a product-by-product basis.

At December 31, inventory consists of the following (in thousands):

2014

2013

Raw materials and supplies

$

6,903

$

3,197

Finished goods

1,347

428

$

8,250

$

3,625

Property and Equipment

(h)

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

Description

Life in Years

Transportation equipment

5 - 15

Other operating assets

3 - 15

Information technology equipment

2 - 5

Buildings and related assets

10 - 39

The amounts recorded for depreciation expense were $23.1 million, $17.6 million, and $15.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Tire repairs, replacement tires, replacement batteries, consumable tools used in our logistics services, and routine repairs and maintenance on vehicles are expensed as incurred. Parts and fuel inventories are included in prepaid expenses and other. We capitalize certain costs associated with vehicle repairs and maintenance that materially extend the life or increase the value of the vehicle or pool of vehicles.

Intangible Assets

(i)

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of customer contracts and agent and customer relationships that have been acquired in business combinations. These assets are amortized either over the period of economic benefit or on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related intangible asset. The estimated useful lives of these intangible assets range from one to nineteen years. The weighted average amortization period for customer contracts is approximately two years, and the weighted average amortization period for agent and customer relationships is approximately fifteen years. Collectively, the weighted average amortization period of assets subject to amortization is approximately twelve years. The useful lives of acquired trademarks are indefinite and, therefore, not subject to amortization.

Our identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):

2014

2013

Indefinite Lived Intangibles:

Trademarks

$

2,500

$

2,500

Definite Lived Intangibles:

Agent and customer relationships

65,060

64,052

Customer contracts

20,600

20,600

Less: accumulated amortization

(34,340

)

(24,345

)

Intangible assets, net

$

51,320

$

60,307

Total Identifiable Intangible Assets

$

53,820

$

62,807

Estimated amortization expense by year is as follows (in thousands):

2015

$

9,102

2016

7,423

2017

5,995

2018

2,519

2019

2,254

Thereafter

24,027

Total

$

51,320

The amounts recorded for amortization expense were $9.9 million, $2.1 million, and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Goodwill

(j)

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired in connection with the Company’s acquisitions. Under FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, Topic 805 “Business Combinations”, we are required to test goodwill for impairment annually (in our third fiscal quarter) or more frequently, whenever events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit with goodwill below its carrying amount. We have the option to first assess qualitative factors such as current performance and overall economic conditions to determine whether or not it is necessary to perform a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. If we choose that option, we would not be required perform Step 1 of the test unless we determine that, based on a qualitative assessment, it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If we determine that it is more likely than not, or if we choose not to perform a qualitative assessment, then we may then proceed with Step 1 of the two-step impairment test. In the quantitative goodwill test, a company compares the carrying value of a reporting unit to its fair value. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value, a second step is performed, which compares the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying value, to determine the amount of impairment. During the third quarter of 2014, we completed our goodwill impairment testing by performing a qualitative assessment. Based on the results of this test, no impairment loss was recognized.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):

Balance as of January 1, 2013

$

17,965

Westport Acquisition

56,624

Balance as of December 31, 2013

74,589

Bull’s Eye acquisitions

163

Westport adjustments

(268

)

Balance as of December 31, 2014

$

74,484

At both December 31, 2014 and 2013, $18.2 million and $18.0 million of goodwill was recorded in our transportation segment, respectively. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, $56.3 million and $56.6 million of goodwill was recorded in our logistics segment, respectively.

Long-Lived Assets

(k)

Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets, other than goodwill, and indefinite lived intangibles such as property and equipment and purchased intangible assets subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances require a long-lived asset to be tested for possible impairment, we first compare the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by a long-lived asset to its carrying value. If the carrying value of the long-lived asset is deemed to not be recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment charge is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques including discounted cash flow models, quoted market prices and independent third-party appraisals. Changes in management’s judgment relating to salvage values and/ or estimated useful lives could result in greater or lesser annual depreciation expense or impairment charges in the future. Indefinite lived intangibles are tested for impairment annually by comparing the carrying value of the assets to their fair value.

Contingent Consideration

(l)

Contingent Consideration

Contingent consideration arrangements granted in connection with a business combination are evaluated to determine whether contingent consideration is, in substance, additional purchase price of an acquired enterprise or compensation for services, use of property or profit sharing. Additional purchase price is added to the fair value of consideration transferred in the business combination and compensation is included in operating expenses in the period it is incurred. Contingent consideration is remeasured to fair value at each reporting date until the contingency is resolved.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

(m)

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

For cash equivalents, accounts receivables, accounts payable, and accrued expenses, the carrying amounts are reasonable estimates of fair value as the assets are readily redeemable or short-term in nature and the liabilities are short-term in nature. Marketable securities, consisting primarily of equity securities, are carried at fair market value as determined by quoted market prices. Our senior debt and line of credit consists of variable rate borrowings. The carrying value of these borrowings approximates fair value because the applicable interest rates are adjusted frequently based on short-term market rates.

Deferred Compensation

(n)

Deferred Compensation

Deferred compensation relates to our bonus plans. Annual bonuses may be awarded to certain operating, sales and management personnel based on overall Company performance and achievement of specific employee or departmental objectives. Such bonuses are typically paid in annual installments over a five-year period. All bonus amounts earned by and due to employees in the current year are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities. Those that are payable in subsequent years are included in other long-term liabilities.

Closing Costs

(o)

Closing Costs

Our customers may discontinue or alter their business activity in a location earlier than anticipated, prompting us to exit a customer-dedicated facility. We recognize exit costs associated with operations that close or are identified for closure as an accrued liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Such charges include lease termination costs, employee termination charges, asset impairment charges, and other exit-related costs associated with a plan approved by management. If we close an operating facility before its lease expires, costs to terminate a lease are recognized when an early termination provision is exercised, or we record a liability for non-cancellable lease obligations based on the fair value of remaining lease payments, reduced by any existing or prospective sublease rentals. Employee termination costs are recognized in the period that the closure is communicated to affected employees. The recognition of exit and disposal charges requires us to make certain assumptions and estimates as to the amount and timing of such charges. Subsequently, adjustments are made for changes in estimates in the period in which the change becomes known.

Revenue and Related Expenses

(p)

Revenue and Related Expenses

We are the primary obligor when rendering transportation services, value-added services and intermodal services, and we assume the corresponding credit risk with customers. We have discretion in setting sales prices and, as a result, our earnings may vary. In addition, we have discretion to choose and negotiate terms with our multiple suppliers for the services ordered by our customers. This includes owner-operators with whom we contract to deliver our transportation services. As such, revenue and the related purchased transportation and commissions are recognized on a gross basis when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred at the receiver’s location or for service arrangements after the related services have been rendered, the revenue and related expenses are fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Fuel surcharges, where separately identifiable, of $119.7 million, $118.6 million and $115.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in operating revenues.

Revenues and associated costs for the sales of axles and machined components are recognized when title has passed and the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred, which is at the time of shipment.

Our customer contracts could involve multiple revenue-generating activities performed for the same customer. When several contracts are entered into with the same customer in a short period of time, we evaluate whether these contracts should be considered as a single, multiple element contract for revenue recognition purposes. Criteria we consider that may result in the aggregation of contracts include whether such contracts are actually entered into within a short period of time, whether services in multiple contracts are interrelated, or if the negotiation and terms of one contract show or include consideration for another contract or contracts. Our current contracts have not been required to be aggregated, as they are negotiated independently on a standalone basis. Our customers typically choose their vendor and award business at the conclusion of a competitive bidding process for each service. As a result, although we evaluate customer purchase orders and agreements for multiple elements and aggregation of individual contracts into a multiple element arrangement, our current contracts do not meet the criteria required for multiple element contract accounting.

Insurance & Claims

(q)

Insurance & Claims

Insurance and claims expense represents charges for premiums and the accruals made for claims within our self-insured retention amounts. The accruals are primarily related to auto liability, general liability, cargo and equipment damage, and service failure claims. A liability is recognized for the estimated cost of all self-insured claims including an estimate of incurred but not reported claims based on historical experience and for claims expected to exceed our policy limits. We may also make accruals for personal injury and property damage to third parties, and workers’ compensation claims if a claim exceeds our insurance coverage. Such accruals are based upon individual cases and estimates of ultimate losses, incurred but not reported losses, and losses arising from known claims ultimately settling in excess of insurance coverage using loss development factors based upon industry data and past experience. Since the reported accrual is an estimate, the ultimate liability may be different from the amount recorded. If adjustments to previously established accruals are required, such amounts are included in operating expenses in the current period. We maintain insurance with licensed insurance carriers. Legal expenses related to auto liability claims are covered under our insurance policy. We are responsible for all other legal expenses related to claims.

In brokerage arrangements, our exposure to liability associated with accidents incurred by other third-party carriers, who haul freight on our behalf, is reduced by various factors including the extent to which the third party providers maintain their own insurance coverage.

Our insurance expense varies primarily based upon the frequency and severity of our accident experience, insurance rates, coverage limits, and self-insured retention amounts.

Stock Based Compensation

(r)

Stock Based Compensation

We record compensation expense for the grant of stock based awards. Compensation expense is measured at the grant date, based on the calculated fair value of the award, and recognized as an expense over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the grant). No stock based awards were granted in 2014 or 2013. During 2012, the Company granted 178,137 shares of restricted stock to certain employees with a market price at the date of grant of $16.42.

Income Taxes

(s)

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2011. In addition, we file income tax returns in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. Historically, we have been responsible for filing separate state, local and foreign income tax returns for our self and our subsidiaries. We are no longer subject to state or foreign jurisdiction income tax examinations for years before 2010 and 2009, respectively.

We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and penalties in other operating expenses.

Foreign Currency Translation

(t)

Foreign Currency Translation

The financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries operating in Mexico and Canada are prepared to conform to U.S. GAAP and translated into U.S. Dollars by applying a current exchange rate. The local currency has been determined to be the functional currency. Items appearing in the Consolidated Statements of Income are translated using average exchange rates during each period. Assets and liabilities of international operations are translated at period-end exchange rates. Translation gains and losses are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of shareholders’ equity.

Segment Information

(u)

Segment Information

We report our financial results in two reportable segments, the transportation segment and the logistics segment, based on the nature of the underlying customer commitment and the types of investments required to support these commitments. This presentation reflects the manner in which management evaluates our operating segments, including an evaluation of economic characteristics and applicable aggregation criteria.

Operations aggregated in our transportation segment are associated with individual freight shipments coordinated by our agents, company-managed terminals and specialized services operations. In contrast, operations aggregated in our logistics segment deliver value-added services or transportation services to specific customers on a dedicated basis, generally pursuant to contract terms of one year or longer. Other non-reportable operating segments are comprised of the Company’s subsidiaries that provide support services to other subsidiaries and to owner-operators, including shop maintenance and equipment leasing.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

(v)

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments, which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities with high quality financial institutions. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral. Our customers are generally concentrated in the automotive, wind energy, building materials, machinery and metals industries. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, aggregate sales in the automotive industry totaled 28.4%, 33.8% and 30.7% of revenue, respectively. In 2014, General Motors accounted for approximately 9.7% of our total operating revenues and sales to our top 10 customers, including General Motors, totaled 36.1%.

Unaudited Pro Forma Earnings Per Share

(w)

Unaudited Pro Forma Earnings Per Share

Prior to its acquisition by Universal on October 1, 2012, LINC was an S Corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, LINC had no U.S. federal income tax liability, but had state and local liabilities in certain jurisdictions attributable to earnings as an S Corporation. Pro forma basic and diluted earnings per share have been computed to give effect to the termination of LINC’s S Corporation status and acquisition by Universal, which changes the provision for income taxes for each period presented. We assume a blended statutory federal, state and local rate of 38.5% in 2012.

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented (in thousands, except per share data):

2012

Net income

$

47,688

Pro forma provision for income taxes due to LINC’s conversion to a “C” corporation

11,059

Pro forma net income

$

36,629

Pro forma earnings per common share:

Basic

$

1.22

Diluted

$

1.22

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:

Basic

30,032

Diluted

30,036

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

(x)

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment, which provided new guidance related to reporting discontinued operations. This new standard raises the threshold for a disposal to qualify as a discontinued operation and requires new disclosures of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014. Early adoption is permitted but only for disposals that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which provided new accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. The objective of ASU 2014-09 is to establish a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and will supersede most of the existing revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In applying the new guidance, an entity will (1) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determine the transaction price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the contract’s performance obligations; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. ASU 2014-09 applies to all contracts with customers except those that are within the scope of other topics in the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. The new guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim periods within those periods)

beginning after December 15, 2016 for public companies. Early adoption is not permitted. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or modified approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. We are evaluating the effect, if any, that adopting this new accounting standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Cost, Gross Unrealized Holding Gains Losses, and Fair Value of Available-for-Sale Securities	The cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities by type were as follows (in thousands):
		Cost			Gross			Gross			Fair
					unrealized			unrealized			Value
					holding			holding
					gains			(losses)
	At December 31, 2014
	Equity Securities	$	9,779		$	4,825		$	(295	)	$	14,309
	At December 31, 2013
	Equity Securities	$	7,717		$	3,974		$	(65	)	$	11,626
Schedule of Gross Unrealized Holding Losses and Fair Value of Marketable Securities	The fair value and gross unrealized holding losses of our marketable securities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired aggregated by type and length of time they have been in a continuous unrealized loss position were as follows (in thousands):
		Less than 12 Months						12 Months or Greater					Total
		Fair			Unrealized			Fair			Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
		Value			Losses			Value			Losses		Value		Losses
	At December 31, 2014
	Equity securities	$	1,380		$	197		$	146		$	98	$	1,526	$	295
	At December 31, 2013
	Equity securities	$	167		$	3		$	289		$	62	$	456	$	65
Schedule of Inventories	At December 31, inventory consists of the following (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Raw materials and supplies	$	6,903		$	3,197
	Finished goods		1,347			428
		$	8,250		$	3,625
Estimated Useful Lives of Assets	Property and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
	Description	Life in Years
	Transportation equipment		5 - 15
	Other operating assets		3 - 15
	Information technology equipment		2 - 5
	Buildings and related assets		10 - 39
Schedule of Identifiable Intangible Assets	Our identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks	$	2,500		$	2,500
	Definite Lived Intangibles:
	Agent and customer relationships		65,060			64,052
	Customer contracts		20,600			20,600
	Less: accumulated amortization		(34,340	)		(24,345	)
	Intangible assets, net	$	51,320		$	60,307
	Total Identifiable Intangible Assets	$	53,820		$	62,807
Estimated Amortization Expense by Year	Estimated amortization expense by year is as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	9,102
	2016		7,423
	2017		5,995
	2018		2,519
	2019		2,254
	Thereafter		24,027
	Total	$	51,320
Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
	Balance as of January 1, 2013	$	17,965
	Westport Acquisition		56,624
	Balance as of December 31, 2013		74,589
	Bull’s Eye acquisitions		163
	Westport adjustments		(268	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	74,484
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented (in thousands, except per share data):
		2012
	Net income	$	47,688
	Pro forma provision for income taxes due to LINC’s conversion to a “C” corporation		11,059
	Pro forma net income	$	36,629
	Pro forma earnings per common share:
	Basic	$	1.22
	Diluted	$	1.22
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic		30,032
	Diluted		30,036

Business_Combinations_Tables

Business Combinations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Pro Forma Consolidated Results of Operations Regarding Acquisition	The following unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations for the twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 present consolidated information of the Company as if Westport was acquired on January 1, 2012 (in thousands, except per share data):
		Pro Forma Twelve			Pro Forma Twelve
		Months Ended			Months Ended
		December 31, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Operating revenues	$	1,121,459		$	1,095,393
	Operating income	$	93,972		$	66,848
	Net Income	$	54,791		$	44,143
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic	$	1.82		$	1.47
	Diluted	$	1.82		$	1.47
Bull's-Eye Express, Inc. [Member]
Schedule of Allocation of Purchase Price	The pro forma effect of this acquisition has been omitted, as the effect is immaterial to the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Intangible assets	$	1,007
	Property and equipment		400
	Goodwill (tax deductible)		163
		$	1,570
Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Schedule of Allocation of Purchase Price	The final allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Current assets	$	24,492
	Property and equipment		17,081
	Goodwill		56,356
	Intangible assets		57,800
	Other long-term assets		474
	Current liabilities		(2,932	)
	Capital lease obligations		(5,164	)
	Deferred tax liabilities, net		(25,083	)
		$	123,024
TFX Incorporated [Member]
Schedule of Allocation of Purchase Price	The pro forma effect of this acquisition has been omitted, as the effect is immaterial to the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
	Intangible assets	$	657
	Property and equipment		200
	Goodwill (tax deductible)		243
		$	1,100

Accounts_Receivable_Tables

Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Summary of Activity in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year	$	2,688		$	2,515		$	3,874
	Provision for doubtful accounts		3,504			1,515			1,190
	Acquisition of businesses		—			163			—
	Uncollectible accounts written off		(985	)		(1,505	)		(2,549	)
	Balance at end of year	$	5,207		$	2,688		$	2,515

Property_and_Equipment_Tables

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment at December 31 consists of the following (in thousands):
		2014			2013
	Transportation equipment	$	186,344		$	151,395
	Land, buildings and related assets		67,472			68,653
	Other operating assets		54,433			43,624
	Information technology equipment		15,261			14,427
	Construction in process		4,169			2,163
			327,679			280,262
	Less accumulated depreciation		(149,610	)		(137,606	)
	Total	$	178,069		$	142,656

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur1

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following items at December 31 (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Payroll related items	$	8,827	$	8,080
	Driver escrow liabilities		4,519		6,099
	Commissions, taxes and other		8,995		6,893
	Total	$	22,341	$	21,072

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Details of Debt	Debt is comprised of the following (in thousands):
		Interest Rates  at		December 31,
		December 31, 2014		2014				2013
	Outstanding Debt:
	Syndicated credit facility
	$120 million revolving credit facility	LIBOR + 1.85%		$	59,500			$	60,000
	Swing Line sub-facility	Prime   + 0.85%			370				—
	$60 million equipment financing facility	LIBOR + 2.35%			55,428				57,500
	$50 million term loan	LIBOR + 3.00%			50,000				50,000
	$70 million term loan B	LIBOR + 3.00%			70,000				70,000
	UBS secured borrowing facility	LIBOR + 1.10%			—				—
					235,298				237,500
	Less current portion				9,593				5,482
	Total long-term debt			$	225,705			$	232,018
Summary of Maturities of Principal Repayment Obligations	The following table reflects the maturities of our principal repayment obligations as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
	Years Ending	Revolving				Swing Line				Equipment		Term		Term		Total
	31-Dec	Credit				Sub-Facility				Financing		Loan		Loan B
		Facility								Facility
	2015	$	—			$	—			$	8,571	$	1,022	$	—	$	9,593
	2016		—				—				8,571		—		—		8,571
	2017		59,500				370				38,286		48,978		70,000		217,134
	Total	$	59,500			$	370			$	55,428	$	50,000	$	70,000	$	235,298

Fair_Value_Measurement_and_Dis1

Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	We have segregated all financial assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the most appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date in the tables below (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
								Measurement
	Assets
	Cash equivalents	$	21	$	—	$	—	$	21
	Marketable securities		14,309		—		—		14,309
	Total Assets	$	14,330	$	—	$	—	$	14,330
		December 31, 2013
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
								Measurement
	Assets
	Cash equivalents	$	117	$	—	$	—	$	117
	Marketable securities		11,626		—		—		11,626
	Total Assets	$	11,743	$	—	$	—	$	11,743

Transactions_with_Affiliates_T

Transactions with Affiliates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Amounts Charged to UTSI	Following is a schedule of cost incurred and included in operating expenses for services provided by affiliates for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
		2014		2013		2012
	Administrative support services	$	2,459	$	2,367	$	2,535
	Truck fueling and maintenance		1,320		1,774		3,850
	Real estate rent and related costs		10,472		11,352		10,787
	Insurance and employee benefit plans		36,073		32,710		33,657
	Contracted transportation services		930		311		285
	Total	$	51,254	$	48,514	$	51,114
Schedule of Services Provided to Affiliates	Following is a schedule of services provided to CenTra and affiliates for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
		2014		2013		2012
	Transportation and intermodal services	$	308	$	9,800	$	2,644
	Truck fueling and maintenance		87		184		227
	Administrative and customer support services		71		113		111
	Total	$	466	$	10,097	$	2,982

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Income Related to U.S. and Non-U.S. Operations	A summary of income related to U.S. and non-U.S. operations are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Operations
	U.S. Domestic	$	70,079		$	74,697		$	63,427
	Foreign		3,020			6,219			4,525
	Total pre-tax income	$	73,099		$	80,916		$	67,952
Provision for Income Taxes Attributable to Income from Continuing Operations	The provision for income taxes attributable to income from continuing operations for the years ended December 31 consists of the following (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	U.S. Federal	$	20,822		$	22,797		$	12,554
	State		4,838			3,609			1,740
	Foreign		590			1,442			1,586
			26,250			27,848			15,880
	Deferred:
	U.S. Federal		489			1,922			4,155
	State		891			524			354
	Foreign		99			50			(125	)
			1,479			2,496			4,384
	Total	$	27,729		$	30,344		$	20,264
Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities	Deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31 consist of the following (in thousands):
		2014						2013
		Current			Long-term			Current			Long-term
	Domestic deferred tax assets:
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1,391		$	—		$	578		$	—
	Other assets		—			3,083			—			1,018
	Accrued expenses		5,285			—			5,826			—
	Total domestic deferred tax assets		6,676			3,083			6,404			1,018
	Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
	Prepaid expenses		(1,290	)		—			(1,528	)		—
	Marketable securities		—			(1,687	)		—			(1,480	)
	Intangible assets		—			(18,404	)		—			(21,248	)
	Property and equipment		—			(29,061	)		—			(22,261	)
	Total domestic deferred tax liabilities		(1,290	)		(49,152	)		(1,528	)		(44,989	)
	Foreign deferred tax asset
	Other assets		—			590			—			624
	Valuation allowance—foreign		—			(404	)		—			(401	)
	Total foreign deferred tax asset		—			186			—			223
	Net deferred tax asset (liability)	$	5,386		$	(45,883	)	$	4,876		$	(43,748	)
Income Tax Expense Attributable to Income from Continuing Operations Differs from Statutory Rates	Income tax expense attributable to income from continuing operations differs from the statutory rates as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Federal statutory rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	S-Corp earnings taxed at shareholder level		0	%		0	%		-14	%
	Non-deductible (benefit) expense		-2	%		-1	%		3	%
	LINC tax status change		0	%		0	%		4	%
	State, net of federal benefit		5	%		3	%		2	%
	Foreign		0	%		0	%		0	%
	Effective tax rate		38	%		37	%		30	%
Changes in Company's Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The changes in our gross unrecognized tax benefits during the years ended December 31 are as follows (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Unrecognized tax benefit—beginning of year	$	652		$	741		$	687
	Increases related to prior year tax positions		4			137			12
	Increases related to current year tax positions		13			15			42
	Decreases related to prior year tax positions		(255	)		(241	)		—
	Settlements with taxing authorities		—			—			—
	Lapse of statutes of limitations		—			—			—
	Unrecognized tax benefit—end of year	$	414		$	652		$	741

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments Under Non-Cancelable Capital Leases and Operating Leases	Future minimum rental payments pursuant to leases that have an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
				Operating Leases
	Years Ending December 31	Capital		With		With Third		Total
		Leases		Affiliates		Parties
	2015	$	1,191	$	5,956	$	10,478	$	17,625
	2016		988		4,136		4,857		9,981
	2017		731		2,904		3,699		7,334
	2018		380		810		1,206		2,396
	2019		—		338		—		338
	Thereafter		—		—		—		—
	Total required payments		3,290	$	14,144	$	20,240	$	37,674
	Less amounts representing interest (1.4% to 4.7%)		259
	Present value of minimum lease payments		3,031
	Less current maturities		1,051
		$	1,980

Comprehensive_Income_Tables

Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Components of Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive income includes the following for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments arising during the period:
	Gross amount	$	620		$	2,160		$	1,383
	Income tax (expense) benefit		(208	)		(614	)		(817	)
	Net of tax amount	$	412		$	1,546		$	566
	Realized (gains) on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income:
	Gross amount	$	—		$	(107	)	$	(2,189	)
	Income tax expense		—			39			1,013
	Net of tax amount	$	—		$	(68	)	$	(1,176	)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	(1,631	)	$	(227	)	$	312

Stock_Based_Compensation_Table

Stock Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of Status of Nonvested Shares	A summary of the status of our non-vested shares as of December 31, 2014, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2014, is presented below:
		Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
					Fair Value
	Nonvested at January 1, 2014		106,885		$	16.42
	Granted		—		$	—
	Vested		(90,439	)	$	16.42
	Forfeited		—		$	—
	Balance at December 31, 2014		16,446		$	16.42

Quarterly_Financial_Data_unaud1

Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Quarterly Financial Data		2014
		1st quarter		2nd  quarter		3rd quarter		4th quarter
		(in thousands, except per share information)
	Operating revenue	$	279,364	$	307,549	$	302,128	$	302,480
	Operating income		14,629		24,413		23,000		18,793
	Income before income taxes		13,143		22,075		21,052		16,829
	Provision for income taxes		5,019		8,442		7,958		6,310
	Net income	$	8,124	$	13,633	$	13,094	$	10,519
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic	$	0.27	$	0.45	$	0.44	$	0.35
	Diluted	$	0.27	$	0.45	$	0.44	$	0.35
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic		30,112		30,054		29,947		29,946
	Diluted		30,158		30,092		29,982		29,952
		2013
		1st quarter		2nd  quarter		3rd quarter		4th quarter
		(in thousands, except per share information)
	Operating revenue	$	248,109	$	264,172	$	261,663	$	259,548
	Operating income		19,251		23,629		22,480		19,133
	Income before income taxes		18,283		22,828		21,491		18,314
	Provision for income taxes		6,909		8,674		7,749		7,012
	Net income	$	11,374	$	14,154	$	13,742	$	11,302
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic	$	0.38	$	0.47	$	0.46	$	0.38
	Diluted	$	0.38	$	0.47	$	0.46	$	0.38
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic		30,054		30,054		30,065		30,083
	Diluted		30,196		30,196		30,118		30,127

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of Company's Reportable Segment Information	The following tables summarize information about our reportable segments as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	2014	Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues	$	778,603	$	412,507	$	411		$	1,191,521
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues		5,160		7,473		—			12,633
	Depreciation and amortization		11,256		21,507		290			33,053
	Income from operations		34,931		50,892		(4,988	)		80,835
	Capital expenditures		16,444		42,413		927			59,784
	Total assets		246,190		247,155		35,669			529,014
	2013	Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues	$	705,557	$	327,498	$	437		$	1,033,492
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues		679		179		—			858
	Depreciation and amortization		11,557		7,861		268			19,686
	Income from operations		28,537		58,724		(2,768	)		84,493
	Capital expenditures		9,084		6,426		1,525			17,035
	Total assets		221,428		229,947		38,761			490,136
	2012	Transportation		Logistics		Other			Total
	Operating revenues	$	747,313	$	289,268	$	425		$	1,037,006
	Eliminated inter-segment revenues		514		83		—			597
	Depreciation and amortization		12,066		5,957		214			18,237
	Income from operations		30,623		49,497		(10,963	)		69,157
	Capital expenditures		15,463		12,927		1,176			29,566
	Total assets		226,896		77,563		22,910			327,369
Revenues for Selected Services by Operating Segments	Revenues for selected services as provided to the chief operating decision maker are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Transportation services	$	769,308	$	706,998	$	741,650
	Value-added services		284,496		195,086		174,975
	Intermodal services		137,717		131,408		120,381
	Total	$	1,191,521	$	1,033,492	$	1,037,006
Revenues Attributed to Geographic Areas	Revenues are attributed to geographic areas
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	United States	$	1,153,154	$	992,511	$	999,668
	Mexico		24,860		23,440		20,266
	Canada		9,786		14,029		13,407
	Europe		2,419		2,278		2,057
	Other		1,302		1,234		1,608
	Total	$	1,191,521	$	1,033,492	$	1,037,006
Net Long-Lived Property and Equipment Assets by Geographic Areas	Net long-lived property and equipment assets are presented in the table below (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013
	United States	$	172,360	$	134,951
	Mexico		5,671		7,640
	Canada		38		65
	Total	$	178,069	$	142,656

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 20, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Checks issued in excess of funds on deposit		$13,400,000	0
Change in checks issued in excess of funds on deposit		13,400,000	-13,400,000	3,400,000
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities			520,000	7,500,000
Purchases of marketable securities		-2,063,000	-24,000	-19,000
Cost on sale of marketable securities			400,000	5,300,000
Realized gain on sale of marketable securities			100,000	2,200,000
Equity securities at book value		1,800,000
Temporary impairment loss of equity securities		300,000
Number of investments in publicly traded companies		16
Depreciation expense		23,100,000	17,600,000	15,200,000
Weighted average amortization period		12 years
Amounts recorded for amortization expense		9,900,000	2,100,000	3,000,000
Goodwill		74,484,000	74,589,000	17,965,000
Deferred compensation bonus annual installments		5 years
Fuel surcharges		119,700,000	118,600,000	115,200,000
Recognized income tax positions		50.00%
Number of reportable segments		2
Assumed blended Federal, State and local income tax rate				38.50%
Customer contracts [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Weighted average amortization period		2 years
Agent and customer relationships [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Weighted average amortization period		15 years
Customer Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues from major customers		28.40%	33.80%	30.70%
Transportation [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Goodwill		18,200,000	18,000,000
Logistics [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Goodwill		$56,300,000	56,600,000
General Motors [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues from major customers		9.70%
Top Ten Customers [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues from major customers		36.10%
Minimum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives		1 year
Maximum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives		19 years
Restricted stock [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Granted shares of restricted stock	178,137	0	0	178,137
Granted shares of restricted stock Per share		$0		$16.42

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Cost, Gross Unrealized Holding Gains Losses, and Fair Value of Available-for-Sale Securities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Equity Securities, Cost	$9,779	$7,717
Equity Securities, Gross unrealized holding gains	4,825	3,974
Equity Securities, Gross unrealized holding (losses)	-295	-65
Equity Securities, Fair Value	$14,309	$11,626

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Gross Unrealized Holding Losses and Fair Value of Marketable Securities (Detail) (Equity securities [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Equity securities, Less than 12 Months Fair Value	$1,380	$167
Equity securities, Less than 12 Months Unrealized Losses	197	3
Equity securities, 12 Months or Greater Fair Value	146	289
Equity securities, 12 Months or Greater Unrealized Losses	98	62
Equity securities, Total, Fair Value	1,526	456
Equity securities, Total, Unrealized Losses	$295	$65

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Inventories (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Raw materials and supplies	$6,903	$3,197
Finished goods	1,347	428
Inventory, Net	$8,250	$3,625

Summary_of_Significant_Account7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Lives of Assets (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum [Member] | Transportation equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	5 years
Minimum [Member] | Other operating assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Information technology equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	2 years
Minimum [Member] | Buildings and related assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Transportation equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	15 years
Maximum [Member] | Other operating assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	15 years
Maximum [Member] | Information technology equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	5 years
Maximum [Member] | Buildings and related assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	39 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Identifiable Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Less: accumulated amortization	($34,340)	($24,345)
Intangible assets, net	51,320	60,307
Total Identifiable Intangible Assets	53,820	62,807
Agent and customer relationships [Member]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets gross	65,060	64,052
Customer contracts [Member]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets gross	20,600	20,600
Trademarks [Member]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite lived intangible assets excluding goodwill	$2,500	$2,500

Summary_of_Significant_Account9

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Amortization Expense by Year (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
2015	$9,102
2016	7,423
2017	5,995
2018	2,519
2019	2,254
Thereafter	24,027
Intangible assets, net	$51,320	$60,307

Recovered_Sheet1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance			$17,965
Ending Balance	74,484	74,589	17,965
Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business Acquisitions		56,624
Business Adjustments	-268
Bull's-Eye Express, Inc. [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business Acquisitions	$163

Recovered_Sheet2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income	$10,519	$13,094	$13,633	$8,124	$11,302	$13,742	$14,154	$11,374	$45,370	$50,572	$47,688
Pro forma provision for income taxes due to LINC's conversion to a "C" corporation											11,059
Pro forma net income											$36,629
Pro forma earnings per common share:
Basic											$1.22
Diluted											$1.22
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic											30,032
Diluted											30,036

Business_Combinations_Addition

Business Combinations - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Oct. 01, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	31-May-12
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition related costs				$700,000
Amortization period of intangible assets acquired		12 years
Issuance of common stock for acquisition shares	14,527,332
Common stock converted into rights in consideration	0.7
Percentage of common stock owned by majority shareholders	100.00%				100.00%
Minimum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of intangible assets		1 year
Minimum [Member] | Customer Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of intangible assets		5 months
Maximum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of intangible assets		19 years
Maximum [Member] | Customer Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of intangible assets		19 years
LINC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition related costs						8,400,000
Funds borrowed to repay outstanding indebtedness and dividends payable							149,100,000
Bull's-Eye Express, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cost of acquisition			1,600,000
Business acquisition cost of acquired entity available cash paid		1,300,000
Business acquisition debt forgiveness		300,000
Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cost of acquisition		1,400,000		123,000,000
TFX Incorporated [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Assets acquired for acquisition		$1,100,000						$1,100,000
TFX Incorporated [Member] | Customer relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amortization period of intangible assets acquired		7 years

Business_Combinations_Schedule

Business Combinations - Schedule of Allocation of Purchase Price (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 19, 2013	31-May-12
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Bull's-Eye Express, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$400
Goodwill	163
Intangible assets	1,007
Total assets and liabilities acquired	1,570
Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current assets		24,492
Property and equipment		17,081
Goodwill		56,356
Intangible assets		57,800
Other long-term assets		474
Current liabilities		-2,932
Capital lease obligations		-5,164
Deferred tax liabilities, net		-25,083
Total assets and liabilities acquired		123,024
TFX Incorporated [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Property and equipment	200
Goodwill	243
Intangible assets	657
Total assets acquired	$1,100		$1,100

Business_Combinations_Schedule1

Business Combinations - Schedule of Pro Forma Consolidated Results of Operations Regarding Acquisition (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Operating revenues	$1,121,459	$1,095,393
Operating income	93,972	66,848
Net Income	$54,791	$44,143
Basic	$1.82	$1.47
Diluted	$1.82	$1.47

Accounts_Receivable_Additional

Accounts Receivable - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]
Total unbilled receivables	$11.60	$12.80
Unbilled receivables billing period	1 month

Accounts_Receivable_Summary_of

Accounts Receivable - Summary of Activity in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Receivables [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of year	$2,688	$2,515	$3,874
Provision for doubtful accounts	3,504	1,515	1,190
Acquisition of businesses		163
Uncollectible accounts written off	-985	-1,505	-2,549
Balance at end of year	$5,207	$2,688	$2,515

Property_and_Equipment_Schedul

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$327,679	$280,262
Less accumulated depreciation	-149,610	-137,606
Total	178,069	142,656
Transportation equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	186,344	151,395
Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	67,472	68,653
Other operating assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	54,433	43,624
Information technology equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	15,261	14,427
Construction in process [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$4,169	$2,163

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur2

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities - Schedule of Accrued Expenses (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Payroll related items	$8,827	$8,080
Driver escrow liabilities	4,519	6,099
Commissions, taxes and other	8,995	6,893
Total	$22,341	$21,072

Debt_Details_of_Debt_Detail

Debt - Details of Debt (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Outstanding Debt:
Long-term debt	$235,298	$237,500
Less current portion	9,593	5,482
Total long-term debt	225,705	232,018
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	LIBOR + 1.85%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	59,500	60,000
Syndicated Credit Facility. Swing Line sub-facility [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	Prime + 0.85%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	370
Syndicated credit facility, $60 million equipment financing facility [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	LIBOR + 2.35%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	55,428	57,500
Syndicated credit facility, $50 million term loan [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	LIBOR + 3.00%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	50,000	50,000
Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	LIBOR + 3.00%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	$70,000	$70,000
UBS secured borrowing facility [Member]
Outstanding Debt:
Credit facility, Interest Rates	LIBOR + 1.10%

Debt_Details_of_Debt_Parenthet

Debt - Details of Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 19, 2013
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	120	$120
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	1.85%
Syndicated Credit Facility. Swing Line sub-facility [Member] | Prime [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	0.85%
Syndicated credit facility, $60 million equipment financing facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	60	60
Syndicated credit facility, $60 million equipment financing facility [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	2.35%
Syndicated credit facility, $50 million term loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	50	50
Syndicated credit facility, $50 million term loan [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	3.00%
Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	70
Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	3.00%
UBS secured borrowing facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	1.10%
UBS secured borrowing facility [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate above variable base rate	1.10%

Debt_Syndicated_Credit_Facilit

Debt - Syndicated Credit Facility - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 19, 2013
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Proceeds from credit facility	$134,228,000	$48,218,000	$94,871,000
Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility additional borrowings				25,500,000
Syndicated credit facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				300,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Proceeds from credit facility				25,000,000
Second Amendment [Member] | Syndicated credit facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Increase in revolving credit facility				10,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	70,000,000
Credit facility additional borrowing capacity				70,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member] | Westport USA Holding, LLC [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility additional borrowing capacity				70,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	120,000,000			120,000,000
Increase in revolving credit facility				20,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $60 million equipment financing facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	60,000,000			60,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $50 million term loan [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	50,000,000			50,000,000
Term Loan B [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				70,000,000
Letters of credit [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	5,000,000
Letters of credit [Member] | Syndicated credit facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity				$5,000,000

Debt_Revolving_Credit_Facility

Debt - Revolving Credit Facility - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	Option
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Letters of credit issued against revolving credit facility	$0
Comerica Bank Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	7,000,000
Key Bank Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	3,000,000
Letters of credit [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	5,000,000
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility maturity date	28-Aug-15
Number of interest rate options	2
Federal funds effective rate plus	1.00%
Adjusting LIBOR rate plus	LIBOR + 1.85%
Interest rate above LIBOR	1.00%
Interest accrued percentage	2.02%
Debt instrument, carrying amount	59,500,000	60,000,000
Credit facility, secured by accounts receivable	122,400,000
Credit facility available for borrowings pursuant to the agreement	104,100,000
Premiums or penalties resulting from prepayment	0
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Facility fee	0.25%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Facility fee	0.50%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Eurodollar-based [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin, which varies from 1.35% to 2.10% based on our ratio of total debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"), as defined.
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Eurodollar-based [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.35%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Eurodollar-based [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.10%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Base rate [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Base rate advances bear interest at a base rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin, which also varies based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA in a range from 0.35% to 1.10%.
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Base rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	0.35%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | Base rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.10%
Syndicated credit facility, $120 million revolving credit facility [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.85%
Adjusting LIBOR rate plus	LIBOR + 1.00%
Swing Line Sub-Facility [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Interest accrued percentage	4.10%
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	10,000,000
Credit facility, outstanding	$400,000

Debt_Equipment_Credit_Facility

Debt - Equipment Credit Facility - Additional Information (Detail) (Syndicated credit facility, $60 million equipment financing facility [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	Installment
	Option
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, expiration date	28-Aug-15
Frequency of installments	Quarterly
Number of installments	28
Number of interest rate options	2
Credit facility fees percentage	0.50%
Interest accrued percentage	2.52%
Eurodollar-based [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Eurodollar-based advances bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin, which varies from 1.60% to 2.60% based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.60%
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.60%
Base rate [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Base rate advances bear interest at a base rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin, which also varies based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA in a range from 0.60% to 1.60%.
Base rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	0.60%
Base rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.60%

Debt_Term_Loan_Additional_Info

Debt - Term Loan - Additional Information (Detail) (Syndicated credit facility, $50 million term loan [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, expiration date	28-Aug-17
Interest accrued percentage	3.17%
Base rate [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Base rate advances bear interest at a defined base rate plus an applicable margin which varies from 1.50% to 2.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
Base rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.50%
Base rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.25%
Eurodollar-based [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Which bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin which varies from 2.50% to 3.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.50%
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	3.25%

Debt_Term_Loan_B_Additional_In

Debt - Term Loan B - Additional Information (Detail) (Syndicated credit facility, $70 million term loan B [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Credit facility, expiration date	28-Aug-17
Interest accrued percentage	3.17%
Repayments of borrowings under term loan facility	50% (which percentage shall be reduced to 0% subject to the Company attaining a certain leverage ratio) of our annual excess cash flow, as defined; 100% of net cash proceeds of certain asset sales; and 100% of certain insurance and condemnation proceeds.
Prepayment of term loan	$1
Maximum senior debt to EBITDA	2.5
Maximum total debt to EBITDA	3
Fixed charge coverage ratio	1.25
Eurodollar-based [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Which bear interest at 30, 60 or 90-day LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin which varies from 2.50% to 3.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.50%
Eurodollar-based [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	3.25%
Base rate [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, interest rate description	Base rate advances bear interest at a defined base rate plus an applicable margin which varies from 1.50% to 2.25%, based on our ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
Base rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.50%
Base rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facilities [Line Items]
Margin rate	2.25%

Debt_UBS_Secured_Borrowing_Fac

Debt - UBS Secured Borrowing Facility - Additional Information (Detail) (UBS secured borrowing facility [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
UBS secured borrowing facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin rate	1.10%
Effective rate, percentage	1.27%
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	$6,900,000	$5,400,000
Principal payments outstanding	$0

Debt_Summary_of_Maturities_of_

Debt - Summary of Maturities of Principal Repayment Obligations (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2015	$9,593
2016	8,571
2017	217,134
Total	235,298
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2017	59,500
Total	59,500
Swing Line Sub-Facility [Member]
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2017	370
Total	370
Equipment Financing Facility [Member]
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2015	8,571
2016	8,571
2017	38,286
Total	55,428
Term Loan [Member]
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2015	1,022
2017	48,978
Total	50,000
Term Loan B [Member]
Debt Maturities [Line Items]
2017	70,000
Total	$70,000

Fair_Value_Measurement_and_Dis2

Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures - Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	$14,309	$11,626
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	21	117
Marketable securities	14,309	11,626
Total Assets	14,330	11,743
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	21	117
Marketable securities	14,309	11,626
Total Assets	$14,330	$11,743

Transactions_with_Affiliates_S

Transactions with Affiliates - Schedule of Amounts Charged to UTSI (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	$51,254	$48,514	$51,114
Administrative support services [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	2,459	2,367	2,535
Truck fueling and maintenance [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	1,320	1,774	3,850
Real estate rent and related costs [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	10,472	11,352	10,787
Insurance and employee benefit plans [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	36,073	32,710	33,657
Contracted transportation services [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cost incurred for services provided by CenTra and affiliates	$930	$311	$285

Transactions_with_Affiliates_A

Transactions with Affiliates - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 12, 2015	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 01, 2012
	Tractor	Tractor
	Trailers
	Facility
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Occupancy of facilities either on monthly or contractual basis	43
Due to affiliates	$2,896,000	$3,618,000
Insurance, claims and other receivables	10,700,000	15,800,000
Costs related to an underwritten public offering	500,000	500,000
Number of used tractors purchased	10	39
Cost of tractors purchased from an affiliate	800,000	1,600,000
Number of used trailer purchased	1
Amounts paid for legal services	92,000	7,000	144,000
Due from affiliates	1,562,000	2,283,000
Number of used trailers sold	41
Gain Loss on sale of Trailers	82,000
Percentage of common stock owned by principal shareholders					100.00%	100.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Service Level Agreement with Data System Services, LLC, [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Initial cost of service level agreement				200,000
Annual cost of service level agreement				200,000
Freight [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Assets Acquiring Charges	$100,000

Transactions_with_Affiliates_S1

Transactions with Affiliates - Schedule of Services Provided to Affiliates (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Services provided to affiliates	$466	$10,097	$2,982
Transportation and intermodal services [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Services provided to affiliates	308	9,800	2,644
Truck fueling and maintenance [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Services provided to affiliates	87	184	227
Administrative and customer support services [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Services provided to affiliates	$71	$113	$111

Income_Taxes_Summary_of_Income

Income Taxes - Summary of Income Related to U.S. and Non-U.S. Operations (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before provision for income taxes	$16,829	$21,052	$22,075	$13,143	$18,314	$21,491	$22,828	$18,283	$73,099	$80,916	$67,952
U.S. Domestic [Member]
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before provision for income taxes									70,079	74,697	63,427
Foreign [Member]
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before provision for income taxes									$3,020	$6,219	$4,525

Income_Taxes_Provision_for_Inc

Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes Attributable to Income from Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current:
U.S. Federal									$20,822	$22,797	$12,554
State									4,838	3,609	1,740
Foreign									590	1,442	1,586
Current income taxes provision, Total									26,250	27,848	15,880
Deferred:
U.S. Federal									489	1,922	4,155
State									891	524	354
Foreign									99	50	-125
Deferred income taxes provision, Total									1,479	2,496	4,384
Total	$6,310	$7,958	$8,442	$5,019	$7,012	$7,749	$8,674	$6,909	$27,729	$30,344	$20,264

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Income_T

Income Taxes - Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current [Member]
Domestic deferred tax assets:
Deferred tax assets	$6,676	$6,404
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	-1,290	-1,528
Foreign deferred tax asset
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	5,386	4,876
Current [Member] | Accrued expenses [Member]
Domestic deferred tax assets:
Deferred tax assets	5,285	5,826
Current [Member] | Prepaid expenses [Member]
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	-1,290	-1,528
Current [Member] | Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member]
Domestic deferred tax assets:
Deferred tax assets	1,391	578
Long-term [Member]
Domestic deferred tax assets:
Deferred tax assets	3,083	1,018
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	-49,152	-44,989
Foreign deferred tax asset
Valuation allowance-foreign	-404	-401
Deferred tax assets	186	223
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	-45,883	-43,748
Long-term [Member] | Other assets [Member]
Domestic deferred tax assets:
Deferred tax assets	3,083	1,018
Foreign deferred tax asset
Deferred tax assets	590	624
Long-term [Member] | Property and equipment [Member]
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	-29,061	-22,261
Long-term [Member] | Marketable securities [Member]
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	-1,687	-1,480
Long-term [Member] | Intangible assets [Member]
Domestic deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities	($18,404)	($21,248)

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	$9,800,000
Recognition of additional income tax expense	2,500,000
Unrecognized tax benefit in certain tax positions	414,000	652,000	741,000	687,000
Accrued interest	100,000
Accrued penalties	$100,000

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Expens

Income Taxes - Income Tax Expense Attributable to Income from Continuing Operations Differs from Statutory Rates (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
S-Corp earnings taxed at shareholder level	0.00%	0.00%	-14.00%
Non-deductible (benefit) expense	-2.00%	-1.00%	3.00%
LINC tax status change	0.00%	0.00%	4.00%
State, net of federal benefit	5.00%	3.00%	2.00%
Foreign	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Effective tax rate	38.00%	37.00%	30.00%

Income_Taxes_Changes_in_Compan

Income Taxes - Changes in Company's Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefit - beginning of year	$652	$741	$687
Increases related to prior year tax positions	4	137	12
Increases related to current year tax positions	13	15	42
Decreases related to prior year tax positions	-255	-241
Settlements with taxing authorities	0	0	0
Lapse of statutes of limitations	0	0	0
Unrecognized tax benefit - end of year	$414	$652	$741

Leases_Schedule_of_Future_Mini

Leases - Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments Under Non-Cancelable Capital Leases and Operating Leases (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due [Line Items]
2015	$1,191
2016	988
2017	731
2018	380
2019	0
Thereafter	0
Total required payments	3,290
Less amounts representing interest (1.4% to 4.7%)	259
Present value of minimum lease payments	3,031
Present value of minimum lease payments	3,031
Less current maturities	1,051	1,592
Capital leases future minimum rental payment, Total	1,980	3,051
2015	17,625
2016	9,981
2017	7,334
2018	2,396
2019	338
Thereafter	0
Total required payments	37,674
Operating Leases with Affiliates [Member]
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due [Line Items]
2015	5,956
2016	4,136
2017	2,904
2018	810
2019	338
Thereafter	0
Total required payments	14,144
Operating Leases With Third Parties [Member]
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due [Line Items]
2015	10,478
2016	4,857
2017	3,699
2018	1,206
Thereafter	0
Total required payments	$20,240

Leases_Schedule_of_Future_Mini1

Leases - Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments Under Non-Cancelable Capital Leases and Operating Leases (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum [Member]
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due [Line Items]
Capital leases interest rate	1.40%
Maximum [Member]
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due [Line Items]
Capital leases interest rate	4.70%

Leases_Additional_Information_

Leases - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Lease Disclosure [Line Items]
Assets under capital leases			$0
Amortization expense capital leased assets	800,000	100,000
Rental expense for facilities, vehicles and other equipment leased from third parties	21,900,000	14,400,000	10,700,000
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Lease Disclosure [Line Items]
Assets under capital leases	6,900,000	6,900,000
Amortization expense capital leased assets	$900,000	$100,000

Comprehensive_Income_Component

Comprehensive Income - Components of Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments, Gross amount	$620	$2,160	$1,383
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments, Income tax (expense) benefit	-208	-614	-817
Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments, Net of tax amount	412	1,546	566
Realized (gains) on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income, Gross amount		-107	-2,189
Realized (gains) on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income, Income tax expense		39	1,013
Realized (gains) on available-for-sale investments reclassified into income, Net of tax amount		-68	-1,176
Foreign currency translation adjustments	($1,631)	($227)	$312

Retirement_Plans_Additional_In

Retirement Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2008
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Pension plan contribution				$600
Expense of retirement plans	400,000	400,000	400,000
Minimum eligibility service for defined contribution plan	1 year
Eligibility age for defined contribution plan	21 years
Employer contributions to defined contribution plan	0	0	0
Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Matching contributions offered to employee	0
Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Matching contributions offered to employee	2,080
Canadian [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Number of employees covered	9
Required contributions into Canada Wide Industrial Pension Plan	$30,000	$38,000

Stock_Based_Compensation_Addit

Stock Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 20, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock grants vested	20.00%
Additional restricted stock grants vested per year				20.00%
Total unrecognized compensation cost		0.3
Weighted-average period of cost expected to be recognized		2 years
Total fair value of shares vested		1.5
Restricted stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares of restricted stock granted	178,137	0	0	178,137

Stock_Based_Compensation_Summa

Stock Based Compensation - Summary of Status of Nonvested Shares (Detail) (Restricted stock [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 20, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Nonvested, Beginning Balance		106,885
Shares, Granted	178,137	0	0	178,137
Shares, Vested		-90,439
Shares, Forfeited		0
Shares, Ending Balance		16,446	106,885
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance		$16.42
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted		$0		$16.42
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested		$16.42
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited		$0
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance		$16.42	$16.42

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member], Unionized Employees Concentration Risk [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member] | Unionized Employees Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of employees collective bargaining agreements	36.00%
Percentage of employees agreements that expire in 2015	20.00%

Earnings_Per_Share_Additional_

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average non-vested shares of restricted shares	31,230	95,656	4,597

Recovered_Sheet3

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Summary of Quarterly Financial Data (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating revenue	$302,480	$302,128	$307,549	$279,364	$259,548	$261,663	$264,172	$248,109	$1,191,521	$1,033,492	$1,037,006
Operating income	18,793	23,000	24,413	14,629	19,133	22,480	23,629	19,251	80,835	84,493	69,157
Income before income taxes	16,829	21,052	22,075	13,143	18,314	21,491	22,828	18,283	73,099	80,916	67,952
Provision for income taxes	6,310	7,958	8,442	5,019	7,012	7,749	8,674	6,909	27,729	30,344	20,264
Net income	$10,519	$13,094	$13,633	$8,124	$11,302	$13,742	$14,154	$11,374	$45,370	$50,572	$47,688
Earnings per common share:
Basic	$0.35	$0.44	$0.45	$0.27	$0.38	$0.46	$0.47	$0.38	$1.51	$1.68	$1.59
Diluted	$0.35	$0.44	$0.45	$0.27	$0.38	$0.46	$0.47	$0.38	$1.51	$1.68	$1.59
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	29,946	29,947	30,054	30,112	30,083	30,065	30,054	30,054	30,013	30,064	30,032
Diluted	29,952	29,982	30,092	30,158	30,127	30,118	30,196	30,196	30,044	30,160	30,036

Segment_Reporting_Additional_I

Segment Reporting - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segment	2

Segment_Reporting_Summary_of_C

Segment Reporting - Summary of Company's Reportable Segment Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$302,480	$302,128	$307,549	$279,364	$259,548	$261,663	$264,172	$248,109	$1,191,521	$1,033,492	$1,037,006
Depreciation and amortization									33,053	19,686	18,237
Income from operations	18,793	23,000	24,413	14,629	19,133	22,480	23,629	19,251	80,835	84,493	69,157
Capital expenditures									59,784	17,035	29,566
Total assets	529,014				490,136				529,014	490,136	327,369
Transportation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization									11,256	11,557	12,066
Income from operations									34,931	28,537	30,623
Capital expenditures									16,444	9,084	15,463
Total assets	246,190				221,428				246,190	221,428	226,896
Logistics [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization									21,507	7,861	5,957
Income from operations									50,892	58,724	49,497
Capital expenditures									42,413	6,426	12,927
Total assets	247,155				229,947				247,155	229,947	77,563
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization									290	268	214
Income from operations									-4,988	-2,768	-10,963
Capital expenditures									927	1,525	1,176
Total assets	35,669				38,761				35,669	38,761	22,910
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									1,191,521	1,033,492	1,037,006
Operating Segments [Member] | Transportation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									778,603	705,557	747,313
Operating Segments [Member] | Logistics [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									412,507	327,498	289,268
Operating Segments [Member] | Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									411	437	425
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									12,633	858	597
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Transportation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									5,160	679	514
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Logistics [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									$7,473	$179	$83

Segment_Reporting_Revenues_for

Segment Reporting - Revenues for Selected Services by Operating Segments (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Transportation services									$769,308	$706,998	$741,650
Value-added services									284,496	195,086	174,975
Intermodal services									137,717	131,408	120,381
Total operating revenues	$302,480	$302,128	$307,549	$279,364	$259,548	$261,663	$264,172	$248,109	$1,191,521	$1,033,492	$1,037,006

Segment_Reporting_Revenues_Att

Segment Reporting - Revenues Attributed to Geographic Areas (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	$302,480	$302,128	$307,549	$279,364	$259,548	$261,663	$264,172	$248,109	$1,191,521	$1,033,492	$1,037,006
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									1,153,154	992,511	999,668
Mexico [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									24,860	23,440	20,266
Canada [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									9,786	14,029	13,407
Europe [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									2,419	2,278	2,057
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									$1,302	$1,234	$1,608

Segment_Reporting_Net_LongLive

Segment Reporting - Net Long-Lived Property and Equipment Assets by Geographic Areas (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, total	$178,069	$142,656
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, total	172,360	134,951
Mexico [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, total	5,671	7,640
Canada [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, total	$38	$65

Subsequent_Events_Additional_I

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 12, 2015	Feb. 19, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends paid per common share	$0.28	$0.14
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Quarterly cash dividend declared per common stock				$0.07
Dividends paid per common share			$0.07
Dividends payable, recorded date				2-Mar-15
Dividends payable, date to be paid				12-Mar-15