Heartland Express (HTLD) 10-Q 9 Aug 17 2017 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Aug. 08, 2017
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	HEARTLAND EXPRESS INC
Entity Central Index Key	799,233
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
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		83,302,592

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 171,292	$ 128,507
Trade receivables, net	43,844	46,844
Prepaid tires	9,586	8,181
Other current assets	24,736	13,841
Income tax receivable	2,983	4,738
Total current assets	252,441	202,111
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Land and land improvements	39,192	39,356
Buildings	48,371	48,371
Leasehold improvements	1,703	1,703
Furniture and fixtures	2,229	2,096
Shop and service equipment	11,222	11,009
Revenue equipment	517,165	556,464
Construction in progress	322	54
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	620,204	659,053
Less accumulated depreciation	246,399	251,405
Property and equipment, net	373,805	407,648
GOODWILL	100,212	100,212
OTHER INTANGIBLES, NET	11,128	12,090
Deferred Income Taxes, Net	1,355	3,785
OTHER ASSETS	12,199	12,382
Assets	751,140	738,228
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	10,040	12,355
Compensation and benefits	22,346	23,320
Insurance accruals	17,890	19,132
Other accruals	12,038	10,727
Total current liabilities	62,314	65,534
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Income taxes payable	7,725	11,954
Deferred income taxes, net	93,416	94,657
Insurance accruals less current portion	56,377	60,257
Total long-term liabilities	157,518	166,868
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 2017 and 2016; outstanding 83,297 in 2017 and 83,287 in 2016, respectively	907	907
Additional paid-in capital	3,452	3,433
Retained earnings	650,987	625,668
Treasury stock, at cost; 7,392 shares in 2017 and 7,402 in 2016, respectively	(124,038)	(124,182)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	531,308	505,826
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$ 751,140	$ 738,228

Consolidated Balance Sheets Con

Consolidated Balance Sheets Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
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	83,297	83,287
Treasury Stock, Shares	7,392	7,402

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating Revenue	$ 129,616	$ 160,791	$ 259,518	$ 323,577
Operating Expenses
Salaries, wages, and benefits	48,642	61,524	97,621	126,990
Rent and purchased transportation	1,820	6,181	4,682	12,881
Fuel	21,289	24,394	43,991	45,588
Operations and maintenance	6,961	6,969	12,830	13,607
Operating taxes and licenses	3,143	3,943	6,435	7,834
Insurance and claims	3,581	4,979	7,361	13,072
Communications and utilities	1,038	1,060	2,136	2,265
Depreciation and amortization	22,604	25,847	45,534	51,552
Other operating expenses	5,524	5,898	10,627	10,831
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(6,299)	(4,511)	(12,375)	(5,800)
Total operating expenses	108,303	136,284	218,842	278,820
Operating income	21,313	24,507	40,676	44,757
Interest income	424	109	713	184
Income before income taxes	21,737	24,616	41,389	44,941
Federal and state income taxes	7,121	8,248	12,736	14,196
Net income	14,616	16,368	28,653	30,745
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	0	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	$ 14,616	$ 16,368	$ 28,653	$ 30,745
Net income per share
Basic	$ 0.18	$ 0.20	$ 0.34	$ 0.37
Diluted	$ 0.18	$ 0.20	$ 0.34	$ 0.37
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic	83,294	83,248	83,293	83,308
Diluted	83,338	83,319	83,337	83,390
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.02	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.04

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - 6 months ended Jun. 30, 2017 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Capital Stock, Common	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 505,826	$ 907	$ 3,433	$ 625,668	$ (124,182)
Net income	28,653	0	0	28,653	0
Dividends on common stock, $0.04 per share	(3,334)	0	0	(3,334)	0
Stock-based compensation, net of tax	163	0	19	0	144
Balance at Jun. 30, 2017	$ 531,308	$ 907	$ 3,452	$ 650,987	$ (124,038)

Consolidated Statement of Stock

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity Parentheticals - $ / shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.02	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.04

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income	$ 28,653	$ 30,745
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	45,565	51,552
Deferred income taxes	1,189	(5,341)
Stock-based compensation	281	0
Amortization of stock-based compensation, net of tax	0	664
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(12,375)	(5,800)
Changes in certain working capital items:
Trade receivables	3,000	4,000
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(5,356)	308
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and accrued expenses	(7,650)	5,696
Accrued income taxes	(2,474)	(3,927)
Net cash provided by operating activities	50,833	77,897
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	48,955	26,744
Purchases of property and equipment, net of trades	(50,213)	(42,353)
Change in designated funds for equipment purchases	(3,521)	0
Change in other assets	183	97
Net cash used in investing activities	(4,596)	(15,512)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Payments of cash dividends	(3,334)	(3,332)
Shares withheld for employee taxes related to stock-based compensation	(118)	0
Repurchases of common stock	0	(14,678)
Net cash used in financing activities	(3,452)	(18,010)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	42,785	44,375
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Beginning of period	128,507	33,232
End of period	171,292	77,607
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds	14,023	23,384
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Purchased property and equipment in accounts payable	1,163	9,334
Sold revenue equipment in other current assets	$ 3,904	$ 2,501

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Basis of Presentation and Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Basis of Presentation and New Accounting Pronouncements Heartland Express, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), is a holding company incorporated in Nevada, which owns all of the stock of Heartland Express Inc. of Iowa, Heartland Express Services, Inc., Heartland Express Maintenance Services, Inc., and A & M Express, Inc. Gordon Trucking, Inc. ("GTI") was merged into Heartland Express Inc. of Iowa effective July 1, 2016. We, and our subsidiaries, operate as one segment. We, together with our subsidiaries, are a short-to-medium haul truckload carrier (predominately 500 miles or less per load) with corporate headquarters in North Liberty, Iowa. We primarily provide nationwide asset-based dry van truckload service for major shippers from Washington to Florida and New England to California. 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 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 notes to the financial statements 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, 2016 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2017. 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, 2017 , except as noted below in regards to the accounting for employee share based payments. In May 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Boards (FASB) issued ASU 2017-09, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting," to provide clarity and reduce diversity and complexity of applying the accounting guidance in Topic 718 to a change in the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. An entity should account for the effects of a modification unless certain criteria are met. The provisions of this update are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements and we expect to adopt this standard prospectively for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2018. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment,” which continues to require an entity to review indicators for impairment, perform qualitative assessments, and analyze the fair value of a reporting unit as compared to the carrying value of goodwill for potential impairment but eliminates or replaces additional tests and assessments within the prior guidance. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted for impairment measurement tests occurring after January 1, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash,” which requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we are unable to predict whether the amount of restricted cash to be included will be material to our statement of cash flows at this time, but we fully intend to include and explain the change in restricted cash upon adoption of the standard. Further ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments,” which addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing the existing diversity in practice. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our consolidated cash flows. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments". This update requires measurement and recognition of expected versus incurred credit losses for financial assets held. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods therein. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements. In March, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting". This update seeks to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities and classification on the statement of cash flows. This update was effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2017 and was adopted accordingly, including forfeitures being recorded as incurred, during the first quarter ended March 31, 2017 and for future periods. The adoption did not have a material impact on our financial statements and prior periods presented have not been adjusted. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases". This update seeks to increase the transparency and comparability among entities by requiring public entities to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. To satisfy the standard’s objective, a lessee will recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term and a lease liability for the obligation to make lease payments. Both the right-of-use asset and lease liability will initially be measured at the present value of the lease payments, with subsequent measurement dependent on the classification of the lease as either a finance or an operating lease. For leases with a term of twelve months or less, a lessee is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. If a lessee makes this election, it should recognize lease expense for such leases generally on a straight-line basis over the lease term. In transition, lessees are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The modified retrospective approach includes a number of optional practical expedients that companies may elect to apply. These practical expedients relate to the identification and classification of leases that commenced before the effective date, initial direct costs for leases that commenced before the effective date, and the ability to use hindsight in evaluating lessee options to extend or terminate a lease or to purchase the underlying asset. The transition guidance also provides specific guidance for sale and leaseback transactions, build-to-suit leases, leveraged leases, and amounts previously recognized in accordance with the business combinations guidance for leases. The new standard is effective for public companies for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. Based on our initial assessment, we believed the impact of adoption of the standard would not have a material impact on our financial statements. We have not yet performed an updated assessment after July 6th, 2017, when we acquired 100% of the outstanding stock of Interstate Distributor Co. of Tacoma, Washington ("IDC"). We expect to complete an updated combined assessment and select a transition method by January 1, 2019, our date of transition.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
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, 2017

Segment Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information We provide truckload services across the United States (U.S.) and parts of Canada. These truckload services are primarily asset-based transportation services in the dry van truckload market, and we also offer truckload temperature-controlled transportation services and non-asset based brokerage services, neither of which are significant to our operations. We exited our non-asset-based freight brokerage business in the first quarter of 2017. Our Chief Operating Decision Maker oversees and manages all of our transportation services, on a combined basis, including previously acquired entities. As a result of the foregoing, we have determined that we have one

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
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. At June 30, 2017 , restricted and designated cash and investments totaled $24.4 million , of which $12.9 million was included in other current assets and $11.5 million was included in other non-current assets in the consolidated balance sheet. Restricted and designated cash and investments totaled $21.7 million at December 31, 2016 , of which $9.3 million was included in other current assets and $12.4 million

Prepaid Tires, Property, Equipm

Prepaid Tires, Property, Equipment and Depreciation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Property, Plant and Depreciation [Abstract]
Property, Equipment, and Depreciation	Prepaid Tires, Property, Equipment, and Depreciation Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. New 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 for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors. We recognize depreciation expense on tractors using the 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

Other Intangible, Net and Goodw

Other Intangible, Net and Goodwill	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets and Goodwill	Other Intangibles, Net and Goodwill All intangible assets determined to have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The useful life of an intangible asset is the period over which the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to future cash flows. There was no change in the gross amount of identifiable intangible assets during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 . Amortization expense of $0.5 million , $1.0 million and $0.5 million , $1.0 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, was included in depreciation and amortization in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following at June 30, 2017 : Amortization period (years) Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Net intangible assets (in thousands) Customer relationships 20 $ 7,600 $ 1,377 $ 6,223 Tradename 6 7,400 4,471 2,929 Covenants not to compete 10 3,100 1,124 1,976 $ 18,100 $ 6,972 $ 11,128 There were no

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
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, 2017 and June 30, 2016 , we had outstanding restricted shares of common stock to certain of our employees under the Company's 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan (the "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, 2017 and June 30, 2016 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data): Three months ended June 30, 2017 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 14,616 83,294 $ 0.18 Effect of restricted stock — 44 Diluted EPS $ 14,616 83,338 $ 0.18 Three months ended June 30, 2016 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 16,368 83,248 $ 0.20 Effect of restricted stock — 71 Diluted EPS $ 16,368 83,319 $ 0.20 Six months ended June 30, 2017 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 28,653 83,293 $ 0.34 Effect of restricted stock — 44 Diluted EPS $ 28,653 83,337 $ 0.34 Six months ended June 30, 2016 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 30,745 83,308 $ 0.37 Effect of restricted stock — 82 Diluted EPS $ 30,745 83,390 $ 0.37

Equity

Equity	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Equity We have a stock repurchase program with 3.3 million shares remaining authorized for repurchase as of June 30, 2017 . There were no shares repurchased in the open market during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and there were zero and 0.9 million shares repurchased during the same periods in 2016 . Repurchases are expected to continue from time to time, as determined by market conditions, cash flow requirements, securities law limitations, and other factors, until the number of shares authorized have been repurchased, or until the authorization is terminated. The share repurchase authorization is discretionary and has no expiration date. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 , our Board of Directors declared regular quarterly dividends totaling $1.7 million , $3.3 million and $1.7 million , $3.3 million

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation In July 2011, a Special Meeting of Stockholders of Heartland Express, Inc. was held, at which meeting the approval of the Plan was ratified. The Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors. 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 our stockholders. The Plan made available up to 0.9 million shares for the purpose of making restricted stock grants to our eligible officers and employees. Shares granted in 2013 through 2017 have various vesting terms that range from immediate to four years from the date of grant. Once vested, there are no other restrictions on the awards. Compensation expense associated with these awards is based on the market value of our stock on the grant date. Our market closing price ranged between $13.86 and $18.18 on the various grant dates for the shares granted in 2013. The Company's market close price ranged between $21.72 and $27.47 on the various grant dates during 2014 , ranged between $19.93 and $27.29 on the various grant dates during 2015 , and ranged between $17.06 and $18.78 on the various grant dates during 2016 . The Company's market close price was $20.53 for the grant date during the six months ended June 30, 2017 . 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 $0.2 million and $0.3 million , for the three and six ended June 30, 2017 . Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards was $0.3 million and $1.0 million for the three and six ended June 30, 2016 , respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense was $0.2 million at June 30, 2017 which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.1 years. The following tables summarize our restricted stock award activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 . Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 44.5 $ 20.33 Granted 3.0 20.53 Vested (7.0 ) 24.03 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 40.5 $ 19.69 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 53.0 $ 21.53 Granted 3.0 20.53 Vested (15.5 ) 25.17 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 40.5 $ 19.69 Three Months Ended June 30, 2016 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 89.0 $ 17.68 Granted 41.0 17.11 Vested (63.2 ) 14.27 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 66.8 $ 20.55 Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 102.4 $ 18.36 Granted 74.0 17.27 Vested (109.6 ) 16.06 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 66.8 $ 20.55

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Line of Credit, Long-Term Debt [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt In November 2013, we entered into a Credit Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, (the “Bank”). Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Bank provided a five-year, $250.0 million unsecured revolving line of credit which may be used for future working capital, equipment financing, and general corporate purposes. The Bank's commitment decreased to $175.0 million on November 1, 2016 through October 31, 2018. The Credit Agreement is unsecured, with a negative pledge against all assets of our consolidated group, except for debt associated with permitted acquisitions, new purchase-money debt and capital lease obligations as described in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement matures on October 31, 2018. 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 monthly. The Credit Agreement contains customary financial covenants including, but not limited to, (i) a maximum adjusted leverage ratio of 2 :1, measured quarterly on a trailing twelve month basis, (ii) a minimum net income requirement of $1.00 , measured quarterly on a trailing twelve month basis, (iii) a minimum tangible net worth of $175.0 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. We were in compliance with the respective financial covenants at June 30, 2017 . We had no outstanding long-term debt at June 30, 2017 or December 31, 2016 . Outstanding letters of credit associated with the revolving line of credit at June 30, 2017 were $3.7 million . As of June 30, 2017 , the line of credit available for future borrowing was $171.3 million

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We use 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 statement 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 effe ct 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. We had no recorded valuation allowance at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 . Our effective tax rate was 32.8% and 33.5% for the three months ended and 30.8% and 31.6% for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 , 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 record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. At June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 , we had a total of $5.9 million and $8.8 million in gross unrecognized tax benefits, respectively included in long-term income taxes payable in the consolidated balance sheet. Of this amount, $4.0 million and $5.7 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 . The net decrease in unrecognized tax benefits was $1.2 million and $1.3 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The net decrease in unrecognized tax benefits was $2.9 million and $1.7 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The net decrease during the three and six month periods of 2017 and 2016 was mainly due to the expiration of certain statues of limitation net of additions and settlements with respective states. This had the effect of decreasing the effective state tax rate during these respective periods. The total net amount of accrued interest and penalties for such unrecognized tax benefits was $1.9 million and $3.2 million at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 and is included in long-term income taxes payable in the consolidated balance sheets. 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. Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the three month period ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 was a net benefit of approximately $0.5 million and $0.9 million , respectively. Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the six month period ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 was a net benefit of approximately $1.3 million and $1.6 million , respectively. Income tax expense decreased during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 due to reductions for the expiration of applicable statute of limitations. These unrecognized tax benefits relate to risks associated with state income tax filing positions for our corporate subsidiaries. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 2017 (in thousands) Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 8,751 Additions based on tax positions related to current year 145 Additions for tax positions of prior years — Reductions for tax positions of prior years (415 ) Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations (2,602 ) Settlements (17 ) Balance at June 30, 2017 $ 5,862 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. We do 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 $1.5 million to a decrease of $2.5 million

Operating Leases

Operating Leases	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Leases	Operating Leases There were no leases for revenue equipment for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017. During 2016, we leased certain revenue equipment of which the majority of these leases were with a commercial tractor dealership, which is partially owned by one of our board members. Rent expense for these leases was $0.3 million and $0.8 million (including related-party rental payments totaling $0.3 million and $0.8 million ), for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 . These expenses were included in rent and purchased transportation in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The leases were terminated in June 2016. We lease certain terminal facilities under operating leases. A portion of these leases are with limited liability companies, whose members include one of our board members and a commercial tractor dealership whose owners include one of our board members. The related-party rental payments were entered into as a result of a previous acquisition. Rent expenses for terminal facilities were $0.5 million and $1.0 million (including related-party rental payments totaling $0.4 million and $0.8 million ), for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 . Rent expenses for terminal facilities were $0.5 million and $1.1 million (including related-party rental payments totaling $0.5 million and $0.9 million ), for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016

Related Party

Related Party	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Related Party [Abstract]
Related Party	Related Party We lease certain terminal facilities for operations under operating leases from certain limited liability companies, whose members include one of our board members and a commercial tractor dealership whose owners include one of our board members. The terminal facility leases have initial five year terms, purchase options and options to renew excluding the lease for Pacific, Washington location. The Pacific, Washington location contains lease renewal options and a right of first refusal on any sale of the property. We have sold trailers to the commercial tractor dealership noted above. We also had operating leases for certain revenue equipment with the commercial tractor dealership and have purchased parts and services from the same commercial tractor dealership. We owed the commercial tractor dealership $0.1 million and $0.1 million , included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 , respectively. The related payments (receipts) with related parties for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands) were as follows: Three months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Payments for tractor purchases $ — $ 4,300 Receipts for trailer sales — — Revenue equipment lease payments — 265 Payments for parts and services 127 246 Terminal lease payments 392 466 $ 519 $ 5,277 Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Payments for tractor purchases $ — $ 4,300 Receipts for trailer sales (12 ) (108 ) Revenue equipment lease payments — 813 Payments for parts and services 236 783 Terminal lease payments 806 931 $ 1,030 $ 6,719

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies We are a party to ordinary, routine litigation and administrative proceedings incidental to its business. In the opinion of management, our potential exposure under pending legal proceedings is adequately provided for in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The total estimated purchase commitments for tractors, net of tractor sale commitments, and trailer equipment as of June 30, 2017 was $63.6 million

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Subsequent Events On July 6, 2017, we acquired 100% of the outstanding stock of Interstate Distributor Co. of Tacoma, Washington ("IDC") from Saltchuk Resources, Inc. ("Saltchuk"). The acquisition allows us to add high quality drivers, experienced personnel, and a strong customer base to our operations. We gained additional traffic density in the West, and our stronger Eastern network will improve service for IDC's customers in the East. We have not completed the initial accounting for the acquisition and we are still collecting certain pre-acquisition financial information to complete our supplemental proforma information. The transaction enterprise value was approximately $113 million and includes approximately $94 million in cash for the equity, $23 million in assumed debt, and $4 million

Basis of Presentation Basis of

Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block]	Basis of Presentation and New Accounting Pronouncements Heartland Express, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), is a holding company incorporated in Nevada, which owns all of the stock of Heartland Express Inc. of Iowa, Heartland Express Services, Inc., Heartland Express Maintenance Services, Inc., and A & M Express, Inc. Gordon Trucking, Inc. ("GTI") was merged into Heartland Express Inc. of Iowa effective July 1, 2016. We, and our subsidiaries, operate as one segment. We, together with our subsidiaries, are a short-to-medium haul truckload carrier (predominately 500 miles or less per load) with corporate headquarters in North Liberty, Iowa. We primarily provide nationwide asset-based dry van truckload service for major shippers from Washington to Florida and New England to California. 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 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 notes to the financial statements 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, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	In May 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Boards (FASB) issued ASU 2017-09, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting," to provide clarity and reduce diversity and complexity of applying the accounting guidance in Topic 718 to a change in the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. An entity should account for the effects of a modification unless certain criteria are met. The provisions of this update are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements and we expect to adopt this standard prospectively for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2018. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment,” which continues to require an entity to review indicators for impairment, perform qualitative assessments, and analyze the fair value of a reporting unit as compared to the carrying value of goodwill for potential impairment but eliminates or replaces additional tests and assessments within the prior guidance. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted for impairment measurement tests occurring after January 1, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash,” which requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we are unable to predict whether the amount of restricted cash to be included will be material to our statement of cash flows at this time, but we fully intend to include and explain the change in restricted cash upon adoption of the standard. Further ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments,” which addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing the existing diversity in practice. The provisions of this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our consolidated cash flows. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments". This update requires measurement and recognition of expected versus incurred credit losses for financial assets held. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods therein. Based on our initial assessment, we believe the impact of adoption of the standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements. In March, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting". This update seeks to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities and classification on the statement of cash flows. This update was effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2017 and was adopted accordingly, including forfeitures being recorded as incurred, during the first quarter ended March 31, 2017 and for future periods. The adoption did not have a material impact on our financial statements and prior periods presented have not been adjusted. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases". This update seeks to increase the transparency and comparability among entities by requiring public entities to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. To satisfy the standard’s objective, a lessee will recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term and a lease liability for the obligation to make lease payments. Both the right-of-use asset and lease liability will initially be measured at the present value of the lease payments, with subsequent measurement dependent on the classification of the lease as either a finance or an operating lease. For leases with a term of twelve months or less, a lessee is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. If a lessee makes this election, it should recognize lease expense for such leases generally on a straight-line basis over the lease term. In transition, lessees are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The modified retrospective approach includes a number of optional practical expedients that companies may elect to apply. These practical expedients relate to the identification and classification of leases that commenced before the effective date, initial direct costs for leases that commenced before the effective date, and the ability to use hindsight in evaluating lessee options to extend or terminate a lease or to purchase the underlying asset. The transition guidance also provides specific guidance for sale and leaseback transactions, build-to-suit leases, leveraged leases, and amounts previously recognized in accordance with the business combinations guidance for leases. The new standard is effective for public companies for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. Based on our initial assessment, we believed the impact of adoption of the standard would not have a material impact on our financial statements. We have not yet performed an updated assessment after July 6th, 2017, when we acquired 100% of the outstanding stock of Interstate Distributor Co. of Tacoma, Washington ("IDC"). We expect to complete an updated combined assessment and select a transition method by January 1, 2019, our date of transition.
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Segment Information We provide truckload services across the United States (U.S.) and parts of Canada. These truckload services are primarily asset-based transportation services in the dry van truckload market, and we also offer truckload temperature-controlled transportation services and non-asset based brokerage services, neither of which are significant to our operations. We exited our non-asset-based freight brokerage business in the first quarter of 2017. Our Chief Operating Decision Maker oversees and manages all of our transportation services, on a combined basis, including previously acquired entities. As a result of the foregoing, we have determined that we have one segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Prepaid Tires, Property, Equipment, and Depreciation Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. New tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years $15,000 while new trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Earnings per Share
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes We use 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 statement 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 effe
Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block]	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%
Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Subsequent Events On July 6, 2017, we acquired 100% of the outstanding stock of Interstate Distributor Co. of Tacoma, Washington ("IDC") from Saltchuk Resources, Inc. ("Saltchuk"). The acquisition allows us to add high quality drivers, experienced personnel, and a strong customer base to our operations. We gained additional traffic density in the West, and our stronger Eastern network will improve service for IDC's customers in the East. We have not completed the initial accounting for the acquisition and we are still collecting certain pre-acquisition financial information to complete our supplemental proforma information. The transaction enterprise value was approximately $113 million and includes approximately $94 million in cash for the equity, $23 million in assumed debt, and $4 million

Other Intangible, Net and Goo24

Other Intangible, Net and Goodwill (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
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 $ 1,377 $ 6,223 Tradename 6 7,400 4,471 2,929 Covenants not to compete 10 3,100 1,124 1,976 $ 18,100 $ 6,972 $ 11,128

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Three months ended June 30, 2017 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 14,616 83,294 $ 0.18 Effect of restricted stock — 44 Diluted EPS $ 14,616 83,338 $ 0.18 Three months ended June 30, 2016 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 16,368 83,248 $ 0.20 Effect of restricted stock — 71 Diluted EPS $ 16,368 83,319 $ 0.20 Six months ended June 30, 2017 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 28,653 83,293 $ 0.34 Effect of restricted stock — 44 Diluted EPS $ 28,653 83,337 $ 0.34 Six months ended June 30, 2016 Net Income (numerator) Shares (denominator) Per Share Amount Basic EPS $ 30,745 83,308 $ 0.37 Effect of restricted stock — 82 Diluted EPS $ 30,745 83,390 $ 0.37

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Disclosure of restricted stock award activity	The following tables summarize our restricted stock award activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 . Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 44.5 $ 20.33 Granted 3.0 20.53 Vested (7.0 ) 24.03 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 40.5 $ 19.69 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 53.0 $ 21.53 Granted 3.0 20.53 Vested (15.5 ) 25.17 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 40.5 $ 19.69 Three Months Ended June 30, 2016 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 89.0 $ 17.68 Granted 41.0 17.11 Vested (63.2 ) 14.27 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 66.8 $ 20.55 Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at beginning of period 102.4 $ 18.36 Granted 74.0 17.27 Vested (109.6 ) 16.06 Forfeited — — Outstanding (unvested) at end of period 66.8 $ 20.55

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 2017 (in thousands) Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 8,751 Additions based on tax positions related to current year 145 Additions for tax positions of prior years — Reductions for tax positions of prior years (415 ) Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations (2,602 ) Settlements (17 ) Balance at June 30, 2017 $ 5,862

Related Party (Tables)

Related Party (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Related Party [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	The related payments (receipts) with related parties for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands) were as follows: Three months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Payments for tractor purchases $ — $ 4,300 Receipts for trailer sales — — Revenue equipment lease payments — 265 Payments for parts and services 127 246 Terminal lease payments 392 466 $ 519 $ 5,277 Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Payments for tractor purchases $ — $ 4,300 Receipts for trailer sales (12 ) (108 ) Revenue equipment lease payments — 813 Payments for parts and services 236 783 Terminal lease payments 806 931 $ 1,030 $ 6,719

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of Segments	1

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Deta

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	$ 24.4	$ 21.7
Restricted Cash and Investments, Current	12.9	9.3
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent	$ 11.5	$ 12.4

Prepaid Tires, Property, Equi31

Prepaid Tires, Property, Equipment and Depreciation (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Amortization Period of Tires	2 years
Tractors [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	$ 15
Trailers [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	$ 4

Other Intangible, Net and Goo32

Other Intangible, Net and Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Change In Gross Amount of Identifiable Intangible Assets			$ 0
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense	$ 500	$ 500	1,000	$ 1,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	0
Gross Amount	18,100		18,100
Accumulated Amortization	6,972		6,972
Net Intangible Assets	11,128		$ 11,128
Customer Relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization period (years)			20 years
Gross Amount	7,600		$ 7,600
Accumulated Amortization	1,377		1,377
Net Intangible Assets	6,223		$ 6,223
Tradename
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization period (years)			6 years
Gross Amount	7,400		$ 7,400
Accumulated Amortization	4,471		4,471
Net Intangible Assets	2,929		$ 2,929
Covenants Not to Compete
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization period (years)			10 years
Gross Amount	3,100		$ 3,100
Accumulated Amortization	1,124		1,124
Net Intangible Assets	$ 1,976		$ 1,976

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income	$ 14,616	$ 16,368	$ 28,653	$ 30,745
Basic EPS, Shares	83,294	83,248	83,293	83,308
Basic EPS, Per Share Amount	$ 0.18	$ 0.20	$ 0.34	$ 0.37
Effect of restricted stock	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Effect of restricted stock, Shares	44	71	44	82
Diluted EPS, Net Income	$ 14,616	$ 16,368	$ 28,653	$ 30,745
Diluted EPS, Shares	83,338	83,319	83,337	83,390
Diluted EPS, Per Share Amount	$ 0.18	$ 0.20	$ 0.34	$ 0.37

Equity (Details)

Equity (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased	3,300		3,300
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	0	0		900
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash	$ 1,700	$ 1,700	$ 3,300	$ 3,300

Stock-Based Compensation (Detai

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jul. 11, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value price of stock awards lower				$ 17.06	$ 19.93	$ 21.72	$ 13.86
weighted average fair value price of stock awards upper			$ 20.53	$ 18.78	$ 27.29	$ 27.47	$ 18.18
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition			1 year 1 month 6 days
Restricted Stock Shares Authorized										900,000
Stock-based Compensation	$ 200	$ 300	$ 300	$ 1,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized								$ 200
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)	44,500	89,000	53,000	102,400
Unvested at beginning of year, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	$ 20.33	$ 17.68	$ 21.53	$ 18.36
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	3,000	41,000	3,000	74,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 20.53	$ 17.11	$ 20.53	$ 17.27
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period	(7,000)	(63,200)	(15,500)	(109,600)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 24.03	$ 14.27	$ 25.17	$ 16.06
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	0	0		0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0
Outstanding (unvested) at end of year, Number of Restricted Stock Awards (in shares)	44,500	89,000	53,000	102,400	102,400			40,500	66,800
Outstanding (unvested) at end of year, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	$ 19.69	$ 20.55	$ 19.69	$ 20.55	$ 18.36

Long-Term Debt (Details)

Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Current	$ 175,000,000	$ 250,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.0625%
Debt Instrument, Covenant, Leverage Ratio	2
Debt Covenant, Minimum Net Income Requirement	$ 1
Debt Covenant, Minimum Tangible Net Worth	175,000,000
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	3,700,000
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	$ 171,300,000
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.625%
Prime Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.00%

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate, Percent	32.80%	33.50%	30.80%	31.60%
Valuation Allowance [Abstract]
Valuation Allowance, Amount	$ 0		$ 0		$ 0
Income Tax Uncertainties [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	4,000		4,000		5,700
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)	(1,200)	$ (1,300)	(2,900)	$ (1,700)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	1,900		1,900		$ 3,200
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	(500)	$ (900)	(1,300)	$ (1,600)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance beginning of period			8,751
Additions based on tax positions related to current year			145
Additions for tax positions of prior years			0
Reductions for tax positions of prior years			(415)
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations			(2,602)
Settlements			(17)
Balance end of period	5,862		5,862
Maximum [Member]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Lower Bound	(2,500)		(2,500)
Minimum [Member]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Lower Bound	$ (1,500)		$ (1,500)

Operating Leases (Details)

Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense		$ 300		$ 800
Related Party
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 0	265	$ 0	813
Terminal Facilities
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	500	500	1,000	1,100
Terminal Facilities | Related Party
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 392	$ 466	$ 806	$ 931

Related Party (Details)

Related Party (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense		$ 300		$ 800
Due to Related Parties, Current	$ 100		$ 100		$ 100
Costs and Expenses, Related Party	519	5,277	1,030	6,719
Related Party
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payments for Tractor Purchase	0	4,300	0	4,300
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	0	265	0	813
Payments for parts and services	127	246	236	783
Terminal Facilities
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	500	500	1,000	1,100
Terminal Facilities | Related Party
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	392	466	806	931
Trailers [Member] | Related Party
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fair value of revenue equipment traded	$ 0	$ 0	$ (12)	$ (108)

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation	$ 63.6

Subsequent Events Acquisition (

Subsequent Events Acquisition (Details) $ in Thousands	Jul. 06, 2017USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	100.00%
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$ 94,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities	23,000
Cash Acquired from Acquisition	4,000
Business Acquisitions, Purchase Price Allocation, Subsequent Years, Remaining Adjustments	$ 113,000