Heartland Express (HTLD) 10-Q 11 Aug 14 2014 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Aug. 07, 2014
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'HEARTLAND EXPRESS INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000799233	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	30-Jun-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q2	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	87,777,677

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
CURRENT ASSETS	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$16,142	$17,763
Trade receivables, net	88,158	84,400
Prepaid tires	9,730	6,999
Prepaid shop supplies	3,097	4,194
Other current assets	19,265	11,061
Income tax receivable	0	5,706
Deferred income taxes, net	14,310	14,177
Total current assets	150,702	144,300
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT	'	'
Land and land improvements	22,319	17,069
Buildings	33,196	27,347
Leasehold improvements	7,888	16,134
Furniture and fixtures	2,096	1,829
Shop and service equipment	11,455	10,604
Revenue equipment	572,079	549,415
Construction in progress	579	466
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	649,612	622,864
Less accumulated depreciation	180,590	173,605
Property and equipment, net	469,022	449,259
GOODWILL	100,212	98,686
OTHER INTANGIBLES, NET	17,563	18,746
OTHER ASSETS	13,899	13,850
Assets	751,398	724,841
CURRENT LIABILITIES	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	44,077	26,912
Compensation and benefits	27,007	28,084
Insurance accruals	20,074	20,945
Other accruals	11,572	12,627
Income taxes payable	844	0
Total current liabilities	103,574	88,568
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES	'	'
Income taxes payable	17,585	20,089
Long-term debt	43,000	75,000
Deferred income taxes, net	72,184	61,948
Insurance accruals less current portion	66,203	67,965
Other long-term liabilities	13,618	13,618
Total long-term liabilities	212,590	238,620
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 14)	'	'
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	'	'
Preferred stock, par value $.01; authorized 5,000 shares; none issued	0	0
Capital stock, common, $.01 par value; authorized 395,000 shares; issued 90,689 in 2014 and 2013; outstanding 87,778 in 2014 and 87,705 in 2013, respectively	907	907
Additional paid-in capital	6,443	5,897
Retained earnings	469,069	432,034
Treasury stock, at cost; 2,911 shares in 2014 and 2,984 in 2013, respectively	-41,185	-41,185
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	435,234	397,653
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$751,398	$724,841

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Consolidated Balance Sheets Parentheticals [Abstract]	'	'
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	5,000	5,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	395,000	395,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	90,689	90,689
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	87,778	87,705
Treasury Stock, Shares	2,911	2,984

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Operating Revenue	$226,785	$133,992	$451,265	$268,265
Operating Expenses	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	71,240	40,939	142,185	81,537
Rent and purchased transportation	13,741	1,325	28,252	2,623
Fuel	59,338	38,637	122,563	81,615
Operations and maintenance	9,776	3,828	19,897	9,269
Operating taxes and licenses	5,319	2,468	10,165	4,884
Insurance and claims	4,370	4,744	11,465	7,604
Communications and utilities	1,553	699	3,383	1,472
Depreciation and amortization	26,668	16,930	51,241	31,995
Other operating expenses	7,997	3,691	16,687	7,506
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	-13,859	-8,644	-15,903	-19,823
Total operating expenses	186,143	104,617	389,935	208,682
Operating income	40,642	29,375	61,330	59,583
Interest income	106	129	142	253
Interest expense	-132	0	-287	0
Income before income taxes	40,616	29,504	61,185	59,836
Federal and state income taxes	14,144	10,366	20,634	20,962
Net income	26,472	19,138	40,551	38,874
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	0	600	0	600
Comprehensive income	$26,472	$19,738	$40,551	$39,474
Net income per share	'	'	'	'
Basic	$0.30	$0.23	$0.46	$0.46
Diluted	$0.30	$0.23	$0.46	$0.46
Weighted average shares outstanding	'	'	'	'
Basic	87,728	84,789	87,716	84,780
Diluted	87,900	85,039	87,908	85,042
Dividends declared per share	$0.02	$0.02	$0.04	$0.04

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Capital Stock, Common	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock
In Thousands
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$397,653	$907	$5,897	$432,034	($41,185)
Net income	40,551	0	0	40,551	0
Dividends on common stock, $0.04 per share	-3,516	0	0	-3,516	0
Stock-based compensation	546	0	546	0	0
Balance at Jun. 30, 2014	$435,234	$907	$6,443	$469,069	($41,185)

Consolidated_Statement_of_Stoc

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity Parentheticals (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Dividends declared per share	$0.02	$0.02	$0.04	$0.04

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
OPERATING ACTIVITIES	'	'
Net income	$40,551	$38,874
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	51,779	32,326
Deferred income taxes	10,103	4,710
Amortization of stock-based compensation	546	622
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	-15,903	-19,823
Changes in certain working capital items:	'	'
Trade receivables	-3,758	-3,047
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-2,237	-3,524
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and accrued expenses	-6,979	1,244
Accrued income taxes	4,046	-1,049
Net cash provided by operating activities	78,148	50,333
INVESTING ACTIVITIES	'	'
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	29,432	40,404
Purchases of property and equipment, net of trades	-72,384	-77,156
Maturity, calls and sales of investments	0	9,825
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired	-3,011	0
Change in other assets	-49	11
Net cash used in investing activities	-46,012	-26,916
FINANCING ACTIVITIES	'	'
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock	-1,757	-1,701
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	3,000	0
Repayments on line of credit	-35,000	0
Net cash used in financing activities	-33,757	-1,701
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-1,621	21,716
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	'	'
Beginning of period	17,763	119,838
End of period	16,142	141,554
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION	'	'
Interest paid	306	0
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds	6,486	17,301
Noncash investing and financing activities:	'	'
Fair value of revenue equipment traded	3,335	0
Purchased property and equipment in accounts payable	28,406	214
Common stock dividends declared in accounts payable	$1,759	$1,701

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company, Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned.  All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Heartland Express, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2013 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 3, 2014. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any other interim periods. There were no changes to the Company's significant accounting policies during the six month period ended June 30, 2014.
	Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new accounting guidance, which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The guidance will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP when it becomes effective. The new standard is effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Early application is not permitted. The new guidance permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company is evaluating the effect that the new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it determined the effect of the standard on its ongoing financial reporting.

Use_of_Estimates

Use of Estimates	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Use of Estimates [Abstract]	'
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. There were no significant changes in estimates and assumptions used by management related to our critical accounting policies during the three and six months ended June 30, 2014.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Segment Information
	The Company provides multiple transportation services across the United States (U.S.) and parts of Canada through a nationwide network of regional operating divisions. The operating divisions are operated out of our regional office locations throughout the U.S. The Company offers asset-based transportation services in the dry van and temperature-controlled transportation markets as well as non-asset based brokerage services. Each of the divisions is managed based on similar economic characteristics. Each division provides services to a similar class of customers and is exposed to similar competitive and financial risk factors. As a result of the foregoing, the Company has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate its operating divisions into one reportable segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information. Accordingly, the Company has not presented separate segment financial information.

Cash_and_Cash_Equivalents_Note

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Notes)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and original maturities of three months or less at acquisition. Restricted and designated cash and investments totaled $10.6 million at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. As of June 30, 2014, $10.6 million is included in other non-current assets per the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2013 $0.1 million was included in other current assets and $10.5 million was included in other non-current assets per the consolidated balance sheets.  The restricted funds represent deposits required by state agencies for self-insurance purposes and designated funds that are earmarked for a specific purpose and not for general business use.

Property_Equipment_and_Depreci

Property, Equipment, and Depreciation (Notes)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Property, Plant and Depreciation [Abstract]	'
Property, Equipment, and Depreciation	'
	Property, Equipment, and Depreciation
	Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.  Tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid Tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years.  Depreciation expense of $0.3 million and $0.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 and $0.5 million and $0.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, have been included in communication and utilities in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Depreciation for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors.  The Company recognizes depreciation expense on tractors at 125% declining balance method. New tractors are depreciated to salvage values of $15,000 while new trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000.
	The Company changed to 150% declining balance depreciation from the historical 125% declining balance depreciation for tractors in 2009 due to lower used truck values, higher prices for new equipment, and uncertainty surrounding the reliability and resale value of tractors with 2010 emission-compliant engines. Effective, July 1, 2013, the Company changed depreciation for tractors back to the historical 125% declining balance method as a stable used equipment market supported a return to the Company's historical estimate of depreciation on tractor equipment over its expected useful life. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life. Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by $1.9 million and $3.3 million ($0.01 and $0.02 per share, net of tax effect) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2014, respectively.

Intangible_Assets_and_Goodwill

Intangible Assets and Goodwill	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Intangible Assets and Goodwill	'
	Intangible Assets and Goodwill
	Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of the following at June 30, 2014. There was no change in the gross amount of identifiable intangible assets during the six months ended June 30, 2014. Amortization expense of $0.6 million and $1.2 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 is included in depreciation and amortization per the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The Company did not have any intangible assets subject to amortization during the three and six months ended June 30, 2013.
		Amortization period (years)		Gross Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net intangible assets
				(in thousands)
	Customer relationships	20		$	7,600	$	239	$	7,361
	Tradename	6		7,400		770		6,630
	Covenants not to compete	10		3,100		195		2,905
	Real estate options	2.2		942		275		667
				$	19,042	$	1,479	$	17,563
	Changes in carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	98,686
	Acquisitions	1,526
	Balance at June 30, 2014	$	100,212
	Included in the carrying amount of goodwill at December 31, 2013 was $1.5 million, included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2013 representing a working capital adjustment for additional amounts owed to the sellers of Gordon Trucking, Inc. ("GTI") for the cash balance delivered at closing that exceeded the estimated cash balance of $20.0 million paid at closing on November 11, 2013. The final consideration transferred over the net amount of assets and liabilities recognized on November 11, 2013, (goodwill), was still subject to post closing working capital adjustments at December 31, 2013. The working capital adjustments were finalized on March 21, 2014 resulting in an additional payment of $3.0 million which included the $1.5 million liability recorded at December 31, 2013.
	Goodwill and identifiable intangible assets are tested at least annually for impairment by applying a fair value based analysis in accordance with the authoritative accounting guidance on goodwill and other intangible assets.  The Company’s annual assessment is conducted as of the end of September each year. There were no indicators requiring further assessment that were identified during the six month period ended June 30, 2014.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings per Share
	Basic earnings per share is based upon the weighted average common shares outstanding during each year.  Diluted earnings per share is based on the basic weighted earnings per share with additional weighted common shares for common stock equivalents. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013 the Company had shares of restricted stock outstanding related to shares granted under the 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan. A reconciliation of the numerator (net income) and denominator (weighted average number of shares outstanding of the basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS")) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
		Three months ended June 30, 2014
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	26,472	87,728	$	0.3
	Effect of restricted stock	—		172
	Diluted EPS	$	26,472	87,900	$	0.3
		Three months ended June 30, 2013
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	19,138	84,789	$	0.23
	Effect of restricted stock	—		250
	Diluted EPS	$	19,138	85,039	$	0.23
		Six months ended June 30, 2014
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	40,551	87,716	$	0.46
	Effect of restricted stock	—		192
	Diluted EPS	$	40,551	87,908	$	0.46
		Six months ended June 30, 2013
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	38,874	84,780	$	0.46
	Effect of restricted stock	—		262
	Diluted EPS	$	38,874	85,042	$	0.46

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Share Repurchases [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	Stockholders' Equity
	In September, 2001, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a program to repurchase 15.4 million shares, adjusted for stock splits, of the Company’s common stock in open market or negotiated transactions using available cash, cash equivalents and investments which was subsequently amended in February 2012.  Approximately 3.2 million shares remain authorized for repurchase under the program as of June 30, 2014. There were no shares repurchased in the open market during the three and six months ended June 30, 2014. The authorization remains open at June 30, 2014 and has no expiration date. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice.
	During the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 the Company’s Board of Directors declared regular quarterly dividends totaling $1.8 million, $3.5 million, and $1.7 million, $3.4 million, respectively.  Future payment of cash dividends and the amount of such dividends will depend upon financial conditions, results of operations, cash requirements, tax treatment, and certain corporate law requirements, as well as factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	On July 11, 2011, a Special Meeting of Stockholders of Heartland Express, Inc. was held, at which meeting the approval of the Heartland Express, Inc. 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan (the "Plan") was ratified. The Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Committee"). In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee has the authority to determine all provisions of awards of restricted stock, including, without limitation, the employees of the Company who will receive awards, the number of shares awarded to individual employees, the time or times when awards will be granted, restrictions and other conditions (including, for example, the lapse of time) to which the vesting of awards may be subject, and other terms and conditions and form of agreement to be entered into by the Company and employees subject to awards of restricted stock. The Committee may allocate all or any portion of its responsibilities and powers under the Plan to any one or more of its members, the Chief Executive Officer, or other senior members of management as the Committee deems appropriate. Per the terms of the awards, employees receiving awards will have all of the rights of a stockholder with respect to the unvested restricted shares including, but not limited to, the right to receive such cash dividends, if any, as may be declared on such shares from time to time and the right to vote such shares at any meeting of stockholders of the Company.
	The Plan made available up to 0.9 million shares for the purpose of making restricted stock grants to eligible officers and employees of the Company. As of December 31, 2013 there were 0.4 million shares that had been granted to employees. An additional 0.01 million shares were granted during the three and six months ended June 30, 2014. The shares granted under the Plan during 2011 are service based awards beginning December 14, 2011 and 20% of the awards vest each June 1st through 2016. The shares issued in 2013 and 2014 are also service based awards and generally vest evenly from the date of grant through each June 1st through 2016. Once vested, there are no other restrictions on the awards. Compensation expense associated with these awards is based on the market value of the Company's stock on the grant date. The Company's market closing price on December 14, 2011, grant date, was $13.57 and ranged between $13.86 and $18.18 on the various grant dates for the shares issued in 2013 and ranged between $22.21 and $21.72 for the shares issued in 2014. There were no significant assumptions made in determining the fair value. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards is included in salaries, wages and benefits in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards was $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards was $0.5 million, and 0.6 million, for the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense was $0.9 million at June 30, 2014 which will be recognized over a remaining weighted average period of 1.3 years.
	The following table summarizes the Company's restricted stock award activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013. There were no shares granted, vested, or forfeited in the three months ended March 31, 2014.
		Three and Six months ended June 30, 2014
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	211.6		$	13.81
	Granted	8.5		22.01
	Vested	(72.7	)	—
	Forfeited	—		—
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	147.4		$	14.16
		Six months ended June 30, 2013
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	276.8		$	13.57
	Granted	2		13.86
	Vested	(67.0	)	—
	Forfeited	(8.8	)	13.57
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	203		$	13.57
		Three months ended June 30, 2013
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	274.4		$	13.57
	Granted	2		13.86
	Vested	(67.0	)	—
	Forfeited	(6.4	)	13.57
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	203		$	13.57

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Line of Credit, Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-Term Debt
	On November 11, 2013, the Company entered into a credit agreement by and among Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, (the "Bank"), Heartland Express, Inc. of Iowa (the "Borrower"), GTI, and the other members of the Company's consolidated group, as Guarantors (the "Credit Agreement"). Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Bank provided a five-year, $250.0 million unsecured revolving line of credit (the "Revolver"). The Bank's commitment will decrease to $225.0 million on November 1, 2014, to $200.0 million on November 1, 2015, and to $175.0 million on November 1, 2016 through October 31, 2018.
	The Revolver is unsecured and the Company can not pledge assets of the Company's consolidated group, except for debt associated with permitted acquisitions, new purchase-money debt and capital lease obligations as described in the Credit Agreement. The Revolver matures on October 31, 2018 (the "Maturity Date"). The Borrower has the ability to terminate the commitment at any time at no additional cost to the Borrower. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement can either be, at Borrower's election, (i) one-month or three-month LIBOR (Index) plus 0.625%, floating, or (ii) Prime (Index) plus 0.0%, floating. There is a commitment fee on the unused portion of the Revolver at 0.0625%, due quarterly.
	The Credit Agreement contains customary financial covenants including, but not limited to, (i) a maximum adjusted leverage ratio of 2:1, measured quarterly, (ii) a minimum net income requirement of $1.00, measured quarterly, (iii) a minimum tangible net worth of $200 million requirement, measured quarterly, and (iv) limitations on other indebtedness and liens. The Credit Agreement also includes customary events of default, conditions, representations and warranties, and indemnification provisions. The Company was in compliance with the respective financial covenants at June 30, 2014.
	Long term debt consisted of the following at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		30-Jun-14		31-Dec-13
	Notes payable to Bank under the Revolver	$	43,000	$	75,000
	Long-term debt	$	43,000	$	75,000
	The weighted average variable annual percentage rate (“APR”) for amounts borrowed and outstanding at June 30, 2014 was 0.778%. Borrowing under the line of credit is recorded in "Long-term debt" in the consolidated balance sheets. Outstanding letters of credit associated with the Revolver at June 30, 2014 were $5.5 million. As of June 30, 2014, the line of credit available for future borrowing was $201.5 million.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statements carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis.  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. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in tax rates expected to be in effect when temporary differences reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred taxes is recognized in the period that the change is enacted. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the Company's deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. The Company had no recorded valuation allowance at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.
	The Company recognizes 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.  The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.
	At June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had a total of $12.1 million and $13.4 million in gross unrecognized tax benefits, respectively.  Of this amount, $7.8 million and $8.6 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  Unrecognized tax benefits were a net decrease of $0.8 million and $0.7 million during the three months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Unrecognized tax benefits were a net decrease of $1.3 million and $1.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These net decreases were due mainly to the expiration of certain statutes of limitation net of additions and settlements with respective states.  This had the effect of reducing the effective state tax rate during these respective periods. The total net amount of accrued interest and penalties for such unrecognized tax benefits was $5.4 million and $6.7 million at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and is included in income taxes payable per the consolidated balance sheet.  Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the three month period ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 was a benefit of approximately $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively. Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the six month period ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 was a benefit of approximately $1.2 million and $0.7 million. Income tax expense is increased each period for the accrual of interest on outstanding positions and penalties when the uncertain tax position is initially recorded. Income tax expense is reduced in periods by the amount of accrued interest and penalties associated with reversed uncertain tax positions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations, when applicable or when a position is settled. Income tax expense was reduced during the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 due to reversals of interest and penalties due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations and settlements, net of additions for interest and penalty accruals during the same period. These unrecognized tax benefits relate to risks associated with state income tax filing positions for the Company’s corporate subsidiaries.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		2014
		(in thousands)
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	13,432
	Additions based on tax positions related to current year	488
	Additions for tax positions of prior years	277
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years	—
	Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(2,061		)
	Settlements	—
	Balance at June 30, 2014	$	12,136
	A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is audited and ultimately settled. It is difficult to predict the ultimate outcome or the timing of resolution for uncertain tax positions. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes could result from the expiration of the statute of limitations, examinations or other unforeseen circumstances. The Company does not have any outstanding litigation related to tax matters.  At this time, management’s best estimate of the reasonably possible change in the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits to be a decrease of approximately $0.9 million to a decrease of $1.9 million during the next twelve months mainly due to the expiration of certain statute of limitations, net of additions.  The federal statute of limitations remains open for the years 2011 and forward. Tax years 2004 and forward are subject to audit by state tax authorities depending on the tax code and administrative practice of each state.

Operating_Leases

Operating Leases	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Leases [Abstract]	'
Operating Leases	'
	Operating Leases
	The Company has operating leases for certain revenue equipment. A portion of these leases are with a commercial tractor dealership, owned by a board member and certain employees of the Company. Rent expense for these leases were $2.3 million and $4.6 million, (including related-party rental payments totaling $1.8 million and $3.6 million) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and were included in rent and purchased transportation in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. There was no revenue equipment operating lease expense in the three and six months ended June 30, 2013. The various leases expire from 2014 through 2018.
	The Company leases certain terminal facilities under operating leases from limited liability companies, whose members include a board member and certain employees of the Company and a commercial tractor dealership owned by a board member and certain employees of the Company. The related-party rental payments were entered into as a result of the acquisition of GTI on November 11, 2013. Rent expense for terminal facilities were $1.0 million and $2.1 million, including related-party rental payments totaling $1.0 million and $2.0 million, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and were included in rent and purchased transportation in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. There was no significant terminal rent expense in the three and six months ended June 30, 2013. The various leases expire in 2014 through 2018 and the majority of the terminal leases contain options to renew. The Company also has purchase options on the majority of these facilities. The Company exercised its purchase option on the Lathrop, California terminal and finalized this purchase during the second quarter of 2014. The Company paid $2.8 million to a limited liability company, whose members include a board member and certain employees of the Company as a result of this transaction. The Company has a right of first refusal on the sale of the Pacific, Washington location property by the owners. The Company is responsible for all taxes, insurance, and utilities related to the terminal leases. The Company did not have any significant operating leases prior to the GTI acquisition on November 11, 2013. See Notes 6 and 13 for additional information.

Related_Party

Related Party	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Related Party [Abstract]	'
Related Party	'
	Related Party
	The Company leases terminal facilities for operations under operating leases from certain limited liability companies, whose members include a board member and certain employees of the Company and a commercial tractor dealership owned by a board member and certain employees of the Company. The terminal facility leases have initial five year terms with options to renew and options to purchase with the exception of the Pacific, Washington location which contains a right of first refusal on any sale of the property.
	The Company purchased tractors from and sold tractors to the commercial tractor dealership noted above. The Company has operating leases for certain revenue equipment with the commercial tractor dealership. The Company also purchased parts and services from the same commercial tractor dealership. The Company owed the commercial tractor dealership $0.2 million and $1.3 million, included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities per the consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, for tractors delivered but not paid for prior to June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. The commercial tractor dealership owed the Company $0.5 million, included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities per the consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2014, for tractors traded but not paid for prior to June 30, 2014.
	The Company provides certain administrative services to the commercial tractor dealership. The related payments (receipts) with related parties for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 (in thousands) were as follows:
		Three Months Ended			Six Months Ended
	Payments for tractor purchases	$	505		$	11,988
	Receipts for tractor sales	(1,299		)	(4,497		)
	Revenue equipment lease payments	1,817			3,646
	Payments for parts and services	1,364			2,906
	Terminal lease payments	977			2,005
	Administrative services receipts	(141		)	(282		)
		$	3,223		$	15,766

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	The Company is a party to ordinary, routine litigation and administrative proceedings incidental to its business. In the opinion of management, the Company’s potential exposure under pending legal proceedings is adequately provided for in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
	The total estimated purchase commitments for the remainder of 2014 and 2015 for tractors, net of tractor sale commitments, and trailer equipment, at June 30, 2014 was $105.9 million.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	'
	Subsequent Events
	The Company has evaluated events occurring subsequent to June 30, 2014 through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for disclosure. No events occurred requiring disclosure.

Basis_of_Presentation_Basis_of

Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block]	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company, Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned.  All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Heartland Express, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2013 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 3, 2014. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any other interim periods.
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Segment Information
	The Company provides multiple transportation services across the United States (U.S.) and parts of Canada through a nationwide network of regional operating divisions. The operating divisions are operated out of our regional office locations throughout the U.S. The Company offers asset-based transportation services in the dry van and temperature-controlled transportation markets as well as non-asset based brokerage services. Each of the divisions is managed based on similar economic characteristics. Each division provides services to a similar class of customers and is exposed to similar competitive and financial risk factors. As a result of the foregoing, the Company has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate its operating divisions into one reportable segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information. Accordingly, the Company has not presented separate segment financial information.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and original maturities of three months or less at acquisition.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Depreciation for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors.  The Company recognizes depreciation expense on tractors at 125% declining balance method. New tractors are depreciated to salvage values of $15,000 while new trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000.
	The Company changed to 150% declining balance depreciation from the historical 125% declining balance depreciation for tractors in 2009 due to lower used truck values, higher prices for new equipment, and uncertainty surrounding the reliability and resale value of tractors with 2010 emission-compliant engines. Effective, July 1, 2013, the Company changed depreciation for tractors back to the historical 125% declining balance method as a stable used equipment market supported a return to the Company's historical estimate of depreciation on tractor equipment over its expected useful life. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.
	Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.  Tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid Tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Goodwill and identifiable intangible assets are tested at least annually for impairment by applying a fair value based analysis in accordance with the authoritative accounting guidance on goodwill and other intangible assets.  The Company’s annual assessment is conducted as of the end of September each year.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Earnings per Share
	Basic earnings per share is based upon the weighted average common shares outstanding during each year.  Diluted earnings per share is based on the basic weighted earnings per share with additional weighted common shares for common stock equivalents.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statements carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis.  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. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in tax rates expected to be in effect when temporary differences reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred taxes is recognized in the period that the change is enacted. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the Company's deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized.
Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	The Company recognizes 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.  The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.
Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Subsequent Events
	The Company has evaluated events occurring subsequent to June 30, 2014 through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for disclosure.

Intangible_Assets_and_Goodwill1

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	'
		Amortization period (years)		Gross Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net intangible assets
				(in thousands)
	Customer relationships	20		$	7,600	$	239	$	7,361
	Tradename	6		7,400		770		6,630
	Covenants not to compete	10		3,100		195		2,905
	Real estate options	2.2		942		275		667
				$	19,042	$	1,479	$	17,563
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	'
	Changes in carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	98,686
	Acquisitions	1,526
	Balance at June 30, 2014	$	100,212

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	'
		Three months ended June 30, 2014
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	26,472	87,728	$	0.3
	Effect of restricted stock	—		172
	Diluted EPS	$	26,472	87,900	$	0.3
		Three months ended June 30, 2013
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	19,138	84,789	$	0.23
	Effect of restricted stock	—		250
	Diluted EPS	$	19,138	85,039	$	0.23
		Six months ended June 30, 2014
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	40,551	87,716	$	0.46
	Effect of restricted stock	—		192
	Diluted EPS	$	40,551	87,908	$	0.46
		Six months ended June 30, 2013
		Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
	Basic EPS	$	38,874	84,780	$	0.46
	Effect of restricted stock	—		262
	Diluted EPS	$	38,874	85,042	$	0.46

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Disclosure of restricted stock award activity	'
	The following table summarizes the Company's restricted stock award activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013. There were no shares granted, vested, or forfeited in the three months ended March 31, 2014.
		Three and Six months ended June 30, 2014
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	211.6		$	13.81
	Granted	8.5		22.01
	Vested	(72.7	)	—
	Forfeited	—		—
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	147.4		$	14.16
		Six months ended June 30, 2013
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	276.8		$	13.57
	Granted	2		13.86
	Vested	(67.0	)	—
	Forfeited	(8.8	)	13.57
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	203		$	13.57
		Three months ended June 30, 2013
		Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of period	274.4		$	13.57
	Granted	2		13.86
	Vested	(67.0	)	—
	Forfeited	(6.4	)	13.57
	Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	203		$	13.57

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Line of Credit, Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	'
	Long term debt consisted of the following at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		30-Jun-14		31-Dec-13
	Notes payable to Bank under the Revolver	$	43,000	$	75,000
	Long-term debt	$	43,000	$	75,000

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	'
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		2014
		(in thousands)
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	13,432
	Additions based on tax positions related to current year	488
	Additions for tax positions of prior years	277
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years	—
	Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(2,061		)
	Settlements	—
	Balance at June 30, 2014	$	12,136

Related_Party_Tables

Related Party (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
Related Party [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	'
	The Company provides certain administrative services to the commercial tractor dealership. The related payments (receipts) with related parties for the three and six months ended June 30, 2014 (in thousands) were as follows:
		Three Months Ended			Six Months Ended
	Payments for tractor purchases	$	505		$	11,988
	Receipts for tractor sales	(1,299		)	(4,497		)
	Revenue equipment lease payments	1,817			3,646
	Payments for parts and services	1,364			2,906
	Terminal lease payments	977			2,005
	Administrative services receipts	(141		)	(282		)
		$	3,223		$	15,766

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014
	segments
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Number of Segments	1

Cash_and_Cash_Equivalents_Deta

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]	'	'
Restricted Cash and Investments, Current	'	$0.10
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent	$10.60	$10.50

Property_Equipment_and_Depreci1

Property, Equipment, and Depreciation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amortization Period of Tires	'	'	'2 years	'
Change in estimate financial impact, per share, net of tax	$0.01	'	$0.02	'
Change in estimate financial impact, net of tax	1,900,000	'	3,300,000	'
Tractors	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	15,000	'	15,000	'
Trailers	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	4,000	'	4,000	'
Communications and Utilities Expense	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Depreciation	$300,000	$200,000	$500,000	$300,000

Intangible_Assets_and_Goodwill2

Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Nov. 11, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Change In Gross Amount of Intangible Assets	'	'	$0	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense	591,000	'	1,182,000	'	'	'
Amount recorded for unsettled working capital adjustment	'	'	'	'	'	1,500,000
Cash Acquired from Acquisition	'	'	'	'	-20,000,000	'
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	'	3,011,000	3,011,000	0	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Amount	19,042,000	'	19,042,000	'	'	'
Accumulated Amortization	1,479,000	'	1,479,000	'	'	'
Net Intangible Assets	17,563,000	'	17,563,000	'	'	'
Customer Relationships	'	'	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization period (years)	'	'	'20 years	'	'	'
Gross Amount	7,600,000	'	7,600,000	'	'	'
Accumulated Amortization	239,000	'	239,000	'	'	'
Net Intangible Assets	7,361,000	'	7,361,000	'	'	'
Real Estate	'	'	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization period (years)	'	'	'2 years 2 months 12 days	'	'	'
Gross Amount	942,000	'	942,000	'	'	'
Accumulated Amortization	275,000	'	275,000	'	'	'
Net Intangible Assets	667,000	'	667,000	'	'	'
Noncompete Agreements	'	'	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization period (years)	'	'	'10 years	'	'	'
Gross Amount	3,100,000	'	3,100,000	'	'	'
Accumulated Amortization	195,000	'	195,000	'	'	'
Net Intangible Assets	2,905,000	'	2,905,000	'	'	'
Trade Names	'	'	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization period (years)	'	'	'6 years	'	'	'
Gross Amount	7,400,000	'	7,400,000	'	'	'
Accumulated Amortization	770,000	'	770,000	'	'	'
Net Intangible Assets	$6,630,000	'	$6,630,000	'	'	'

Intangible_Assets_and_Goodwill3

Intangible Assets and Goodwill Changes carrying amount of goodwill (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Abstract]	'
Goodwill, Beginning balance	$98,686
Acquisitions	1,526
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$100,212

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$26,472	$19,138	$40,551	$38,874
Basic EPS, Shares	87,728	84,789	87,716	84,780
Basic EPS, Per Share Amount	$0.30	$0.23	$0.46	$0.46
Effect of restricted stock	0	0	0	'
Effect of restricted stock, Shares	172	250	192	262
Diluted EPS, Net Income	$26,472	$19,138	$40,551	$38,874
Diluted EPS, Shares	87,900	85,039	87,908	85,042
Diluted EPS, Per Share Amount	$0.30	$0.23	$0.46	$0.46

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2001
Share Repurchases [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Stock Repurchase Shares Authorized	'	'	'	'	15,400,000
Share repurchase authorization increase	3,225,000	'	3,225,000	'	'
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	0	'	0	'	'
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash	$1.80	$1.70	$3.50	$3.40	'

Stockholders_Equity_Dividends_

Stockholders' Equity Dividends Paid (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash	$1.80	$1.70	$3.50	$3.40

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		25 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 11, 2011	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
							Maximum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Annual Vesting Percentage	'	'	20.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Stock Awards	$14.16	$13.57	$14.16	$13.57	$13.81	'	'	'	'	'
Weighted average fair value price of stock awards lower	'	'	'	'	'	'	$21.72	'	$22.21	$13.86
Weighted average fair value price of stock awards upper	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$18.18	'	'
Stock-based Compensation	$285,000	$269,000	$546,000	$622,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restricted Stock Shares Authorized	'	'	'	'	'	900,000	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$900,000	'	$900,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition (in years)	'	'	'1 year 4 months 1 day	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unvested at beginning of year, Number of Restricted Stock Awards (in shares)	'	274,400	211,600	276,800	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unvested at beginning of year, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	'	$13.57	$13.81	$13.57	$13.57	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	'	2,000	9,000	2,000	374,000	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	$13.86	$22.01	$13.86	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period	'	-67,000	-73,000	-67,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	$0	$0	$0	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	'	-6,400	0	-8,800	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	$13.57	$0	$13.57	'	'	'	'	'	'
Outstanding (unvested) at end of year, Number of Restricted Stock Awards (in shares)	147,400	203,000	147,400	203,000	211,600	'	'	'	'	'
Outstanding (unvested) at end of year, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	$14.16	$13.57	$14.16	$13.57	$13.81	'	'	'	'	'

LongTerm_Debt_Details

Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Current	$250,000,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, November 1, 2014	225,000,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, November 1, 2015	200,000,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, November 1, 2016	175,000,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.06%	'
Debt Instrument, Covenant, Leverage Ratio	2	'
Debt Covenant, Minimum Net Income Requirement	1	'
Debt Instrument, Minimum Tangible Net Worth	200,000,000	'
Notes payable to Bank under the Revolver	43,000,000	75,000,000
Long-term Debt	43,000,000	75,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	0.78%	'
Line of Credit Facility, Letters of Credit Amount Outstanding	5,500,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$201,500,000	'
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.63%	'
Prime Rate [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.00%	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation Allowance [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Valuation Allowance, Amount	$0	'	$0	'	'
Income Tax Uncertainties [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	7,800,000	'	7,800,000	'	8,600,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)	-800,000	-700,000	-1,300,000	-1,300,000	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	5,400,000	'	5,400,000	'	6,700,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	-500,000	-300,000	-1,200,000	-700,000	'
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Lower Bound	900,000	'	900,000	'	'
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound	1,900,000	'	1,900,000	'	'
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'
Balance beginning of period	'	'	13,432,000	'	'
Additions based on tax positions related to current year	'	'	488,000	'	'
Additions for tax positions of prior years	'	'	277,000	'	'
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	'	'	0	'	'
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	'	'	-2,061,000	'	'
Settlements	'	'	0	'	'
Balance end of period	$12,136,000	'	$12,136,000	'	'

Operating_Leases_Details

Operating Leases (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	8-May-14	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	'	$2,300	$4,600	$0
Related party rental payments	'	3,223	15,766	'
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment	2,800	'	72,384	77,156
Related Party	'	'	'	'
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	'	1,817	3,646	'
Terminal Facilities	'	'	'	'
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	'	1,000	2,100	'
Terminal Facilities | Related Party	'	'	'	'
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	'	977	2,005	'
Related party rental payments	'	1,000	2,000	'
Gordon Trucking Company, Inc [Member]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	'	'	'	$0

Related_Party_Details

Related Party (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Due to Related Parties, Current	$200,000	$200,000	'	$1,300,000
Receipts for tractor sales	'	3,335,000	0	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	2,300,000	4,600,000	0	'
Expenses from transactions with related party	3,223,000	15,766,000	'	'
Due from Related Parties, Current	500,000	500,000	'	'
Related Party	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Payments for tractor purchase	505,000	11,988,000	'	'
Receipts for tractor sales	-1,299,000	-4,497,000	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	1,817,000	3,646,000	'	'
Payments for parts and services	1,364,000	2,906,000	'	'
Administrative services receipts	-141,000	-282,000	'	'
Terminal Facilities	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	1,000,000	2,100,000	'	'
Terminal Facilities | Related Party	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	977,000	2,005,000	'	'
Expenses from transactions with related party	$1,000,000	$2,000,000	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation	$105.90