Covenant Logistics (CVLG) 10-K 3 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 02, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	COVENANT TRANSPORTATION GROUP INC
Document Type	10-K
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Public Float		$107,000,000
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Central Index Key	928658
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Common Class A [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding			15,790,902
Common Class B [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding			2,350,000

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$21,330,000	$9,263,000
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $1,767 in 2014 and $1,736 in 2013	95,943,000	81,242,000
Drivers' advances and other receivables, net of allowance of $1,290 in 2014 and $1,337 in 2013	5,770,000	5,356,000
Inventory and supplies	4,402,000	4,718,000
Prepaid expenses	9,028,000	10,418,000
Assets held for sale	4,268,000	7,073,000
Deferred income taxes	14,713,000	5,234,000
Income taxes receivable	1,309,000	146,000
Total current assets	156,763,000	123,450,000
Property and equipment, at cost	505,345,000	462,376,000
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization	-122,854,000	-132,768,000
Net property and equipment	382,491,000	329,608,000
Other assets, net	14,763,000	13,364,000
Total assets	554,017,000	466,422,000
Current liabilities:
Checks outstanding in excess of bank balances		2,918,000
Accounts payable	9,623,000	8,322,000
Accrued expenses	39,470,000	28,185,000
Current maturities of long-term debt	27,824,000	44,070,000
Current portion of capital lease obligations	1,606,000	8,732,000
Current portion of insurance and claims accrual	17,565,000	17,151,000
Other short-term liabilities	7,999,000
Total current liabilities	104,087,000	109,378,000
Long-term debt	159,531,000	169,491,000
Long-term portion of capital lease obligations	13,372,000	13,186,000
Insurance and claims accrual	23,173,000	13,601,000
Deferred income taxes	73,717,000	59,077,000
Other long-term liabilities	10,933,000	1,329,000
Total liabilities	384,813,000	366,062,000
Stockholders' equity:
Additional paid-in-capital	141,248,000	88,620,000
Treasury stock at cost; 0 and 909,387 shares as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively		-12,319,000
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	-13,101,000	833,000
Retained earnings	40,865,000	23,057,000
Total stockholders' equity	169,204,000	100,360,000
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	554,017,000	466,422,000
Common Class A [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	168,000	145,000
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	$24,000	$24,000

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Accounts receivable allowance (in Dollars)	$1,767	$1,736
Drivers' advances and other receivables, allowance (in Dollars)	$1,290	$1,337
Treasury stock shares	0	909,387
Common Class A [Member]
Par value (in Dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Shares authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Shares issued	15,746,609	13,469,090
Shares Outstanding	15,746,609	12,559,703
Common Class B [Member]
Par value (in Dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Shares issued	2,350,000	2,350,000
Shares Outstanding	2,350,000	2,350,000

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues
Freight revenue	$578,569	$538,933	$527,435
Fuel surcharge revenue	140,411	145,616	146,819
Total revenue	718,980	684,549	674,254
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and related expenses	231,761	218,946	217,080
Fuel expense	168,856	186,002	194,841
Operations and maintenance	47,251	50,043	45,839
Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation	111,772	102,954	85,010
Operating taxes and licenses	10,960	10,969	11,043
Insurance and claims	39,594	30,305	33,133
Communications and utilities	5,806	5,240	4,809
General supplies and expenses	16,950	16,002	16,068
Depreciation and amortization, including gains and losses on disposition of equipment	46,384	43,694	43,222
Total operating expenses	679,334	664,155	651,045
Operating income	39,646	20,394	23,209
Other expenses (income):
Interest expense	10,807	10,400	12,697
Other	-13	-3	-13
Other expenses, net	10,794	10,397	12,684
Equity in income of affiliate	3,730	2,750	1,875
Income before income taxes	32,582	12,747	12,400
Income tax expense	14,774	7,503	6,335
Net income	$17,808	$5,244	$6,065
Basic income per share: (in Dollars per share)	$1.17	$0.35	$0.41
Diluted income per share: (in Dollars per share)	$1.15	$0.35	$0.41
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in Shares)	15,250	14,837	14,742
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in Shares)	15,517	15,039	14,808

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net income	$17,808	$5,244	$6,065
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Unrealized (loss) gain on effective portion of fuel hedges, net of tax of $9,892, $567, and $2,100 in 2014, 2013 and 2012 , respectively	-15,869	909	3,369
Reclassification of fuel hedge losses (gains) into statement of operations, net of tax of $1,206, $247, and $1,932 in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively	1,935	-396	-3,099
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	-13,934	513	270
Comprehensive income	$3,874	$5,757	$6,335

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
UnrP5alizP5d gain on P5ffP5ctivP5 portion of fuP5l hP5dgP5s, tax	$9,892	$567	$2,100
RP5classification of fuP5l hP5dgP5 gains into statP5mP5nt of opP5rations, tax	$1,206	$247	$1,932

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Class A [Member]	Common Class B [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Total
In Thousands	Common Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2011	$143	$24	$89,535	($14,445)	$50	$11,748	$87,055
Net income (loss)						6,065	6,065
Other comprehensive income (loss)					270		270
Stock-based employee compensation cost			1,184				1,184
Issuance of restricted stock, net			-391	490			99
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2012	143	24	90,328	-13,955	320	17,813	94,673
Net income (loss)						5,244	5,244
Other comprehensive income (loss)					513		513
Stock-based employee compensation cost			690				690
Reversal of previously recognized stock-based employee compensation expense			-409				-409
Issuance of restricted stock, net	2		-1,878	1,636			-240
Income tax benefit (deficit) arising from restricted stock vesting			-111				-111
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2013	145	24	88,620	-12,319	833	23,057	100,360
Net income (loss)						17,808	17,808
Other comprehensive income (loss)					-13,934		-13,934
Follow-on stock offering	22		51,498	11,464			62,984
Stock-based employee compensation cost			1,286				1,286
Exercise of stock options			190	408			598
Issuance of restricted stock, net	1		-1,180	447			-732
Income tax benefit (deficit) arising from restricted stock vesting			834				834
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2014	$168	$24	$141,248		($13,101)	$40,865	$169,204

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net income	$17,808	$5,244	$6,065
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for losses on accounts receivable	774	457	904
(Realized gain) deferred gain on sales of equipment to affiliate, net	-33	81	198
Depreciation and amortization	49,043	44,457	48,135
Amortization of deferred financing fees	256	245	492
Unrealized loss (gain) on ineffective portion of fuel hedges	1,510	-55
Cash collateral on fuel hedge	-5,000
Deferred income tax expense	14,681	8,217	6,735
Income tax (benefit) deficit arising from restricted share vesting	-834	111
Casualty premium credit			-4,000
Equity in income of affiliate	-3,730	-2,750	-1,875
Gain on disposition of property and equipment	-2,659	-763	-4,913
Stock-based compensation expense	1,386	381	1,284
Receivables and advances	-16,996	-4,312	-10,415
Prepaid expenses and other assets	1,680	-2,014	4,630
Inventory and supplies	316	-168	61
Insurance and claims accrual	9,986	-2,399	3,979
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	5,556	-6,287	3,821
Net cash flows provided by operating activities	73,744	40,445	55,101
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment	-163,679	-135,896	-41,787
Investment in affiliated company		-500	-2,900
Return of investment in affiliated company	307	65	316
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment	78,776	51,930	57,525
Net cash flows (used in) provided by investing activities	-84,596	-84,401	13,154
Cash flows from financing activities:
Change in checks outstanding in excess of bank balances	-2,918	-5,343	2,298
Debt refinancing costs	-49	-356	-26
Payment of minimum tax withholdings on stock compensation	-832	-340	-9
(Repayments) proceeds of/from borrowings under revolving credit facility, net	-7,010	7,005	-15,885
Repayments of capital lease obligation	-11,492	-2,186	-1,992
Proceeds from issuance of notes payable	115,364	134,192	26,395
Repayments of notes payable	-134,560	-86,488	-76,085
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	598
Proceeds from issuance of stock in follow-on offering, net of offering costs	62,984
Income tax benefit (deficit) arising from restricted share vesting	834	-111
Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities	22,919	46,373	-65,304
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	12,067	2,417	2,951
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	9,263	6,846	3,895
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	21,330	9,263	6,846
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest, net of capitalized interest	10,919	10,328	12,967
Income taxes	571	320	342
Equipment purchased under capital leases	4,552	8,010
Accrued investment in TEL			$500

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	1.     SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Nature of Business and Segments
	Covenant Transportation Group, Inc., a Nevada holding company, together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries offers truckload transportation and brokerage services to customers throughout the continental United States.
	We have one reportable segment, our asset-based truckload services ("Truckload").
	The Truckload segment consists of three asset-based operating fleets that are aggregated because they have similar economic characteristics and meet the aggregation criteria. The three operating fleets that comprise our Truckload segment are as follows: (i) Covenant Transport, Inc. ("Covenant Transport"), our historical flagship operation, which provides expedited long haul, dedicated, temperature-controlled, and regional solo-driver service; (ii) Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc. ("SRT"), which provides primarily long haul and regional temperature-controlled service; and (iii) Star Transportation, Inc. ("Star"), which provides regional solo-driver and dedicated services, primarily in the southeastern United States.
	In addition, our Covenant Transport Solutions, Inc. ("Solutions") subsidiary has service offerings ancillary to our asset-based Truckload services, including: freight brokerage service through freight brokerage agents who are paid a commission for the freight they provide and accounts receivable factoring. The operations consist of several operating segments, which neither individually nor in the aggregate meet the quantitative or qualitative reporting thresholds.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Covenant Transportation Group, Inc., a holding company incorporated in the state of Nevada in 1994, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., an Arkansas corporation; Star Transportation, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Covenant Transport Solutions, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant Logistics, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant Asset Management, Inc., a Nevada corporation; CTG Leasing Company, a Nevada corporation; and IQS Insurance Retention Group, Inc., a Vermont corporation.
	References in this report to "it," "we," "us," "our," the "Company," and similar expressions refer to Covenant Transportation Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Investment in Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC
	Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC ("TEL") is a tractor and trailer equipment leasing company and used equipment reseller. We evaluated our investment in TEL to determine whether it should be recorded on a consolidated basis.  Our percentage of ownership interest (49%), an evaluation of control, and whether a variable interest entity ("VIE") existed were all considered in our consolidation assessment. The analysis provided that we do not control TEL and that TEL is not deemed a VIE. We have accounted for our investment in TEL using the equity method of accounting given our 49% ownership interest and ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. Under the equity method, the cost of our investment is adjusted for our share of equity in the earnings of TEL and reduced by distributions received and our proportionate share of TEL's net income is included in our earnings.
	On a periodic basis, we assess whether there are any indicators that the fair value of our investment in TEL may be impaired. The investment is impaired only if the estimate of the fair value of the investment is less than the carrying value of the investment, and such decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary. To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss would be measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the investment over the fair value of the investment. As a result of TEL's earnings, no impairment indicators were noted that would provide for impairment of our investment.
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue, drivers' wages, and other direct operating expenses generated by our Truckload reportable segment are recognized on the date shipments are delivered to the customer. Revenue includes transportation revenue, fuel surcharges, loading and unloading activities, equipment detention, and other accessorial services.
	Revenue generated by our Solutions subsidiary is recognized upon completion of the services provided. Revenue is recorded on a gross basis, without deducting third party purchased transportation costs, as we act as a principal with substantial risks as primary obligor, except for transactions whereby equipment from our Truckload segment perform the related services, which we record on a net basis in accordance with the related authoritative guidance. Solutions' revenue includes $2.3 million and $1.7 million of revenue in 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to an accounts receivable factoring business started in 2013 to supplement several aspects of our non-asset operations. Revenue for this business is recognized on a net basis after giving effect to receivables payments we make to the factoring client, given we are acting as an agent and are not the primary generator of the factored receivables in these transactions.
	Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make decisions based upon estimates, assumptions, and factors we consider as relevant to the circumstances. Such decisions include the selection of applicable accounting principles and the use of judgment in their application, the results of which impact reported amounts and disclosures. Changes in future economic conditions or other business circumstances may affect the outcomes of our estimates and assumptions. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those anticipated.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at acquisition to be cash equivalents. Additionally, we are also subject to concentrations of credit risk related to deposits in banks in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits.
	Accounts Receivable and Concentration of Credit Risk
	We extend credit to our customers in the normal course of business. We perform ongoing credit evaluations and generally do not require collateral. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at their invoiced amounts, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. We evaluate the adequacy of our allowance for doubtful accounts quarterly. Accounts outstanding longer than contractual payment terms are considered past due and are reviewed individually for collectability. We maintain reserves for potential credit losses based upon its loss history and specific receivables aging analysis. Receivable balances are written off when collection is deemed unlikely.
	Accounts receivable are comprised of a diversified customer base that results in a lack of concentration of credit risk. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, our top ten customers generated 38%, 34%, and 32% of total revenue, respectively. In 2014, one customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue. This customer was serviced by both our Truckload segment and our Solutions subsidiary providing for $82.5 million of total revenue. No customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue in 2013 or 2012. The carrying amount reported in the consolidated balance sheet for accounts receivable approximates fair value based on the fact that the receivables collection averaged approximately 36 days in 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Included in accounts receivable is $15.8 million of factoring receivables at December 31, 2014, net of a $0.2 million allowance for bad debts.  We advance approximately 85% to 95% of each receivable factored and retain the remainder as collateral for collection issues that might arise.  The retained amounts are returned to the clients after the related receivable has been collected. At December 31, 2014, the retained amounts related to factored receivables totaled $0.3 million and were included in accounts payable in the consolidated balance sheet.  Our clients are smaller trucking companies that factor their receivables to us for a fee to facilitate faster cash flow.  We evaluate each client's customer base and only factor specific receivables that meet predefined criteria. The carrying value of the factored receivables approximates the fair value, as the receivables are generally repaid directly to us by the client's customer within 30-40 days due to the combination of the short-term nature of the financing transaction and the underlying quality of the receivables.
	The following table provides a summary (in thousands) of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Years ended	Beginning		Additional		Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance		provisions		and other			balance
		January 1,		to allowance		deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	1,736	$	774	$	(743	)	$	1,767
	2013	$	1,729	$	457	$	(450	)	$	1,736
	2012	$	1,711	$	904	$	(886	)	$	1,729
	Inventories and Supplies
	Inventories and supplies consist of parts, tires, fuel, and supplies. Tires on new revenue equipment are capitalized as a component of the related equipment cost when the tractor or trailer is placed in service and recovered through depreciation over the life of the vehicle. Replacement tires and parts on hand at year end are recorded at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Replacement tires are expensed when placed in service.
	Assets Held for Sale
	Assets held for sale include property and revenue equipment no longer utilized in continuing operations which are available and held for sale. Assets held for sale are no longer subject to depreciation, and are recorded at the lower of depreciated book value or fair market value less selling costs. We periodically review the carrying value of these assets for possible impairment. We expect to sell the majority of these assets within twelve months.
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation for book purposes is determined using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, while depreciation for tax purposes is generally recorded using an accelerated method. Depreciation of revenue equipment is our largest item of depreciation. We generally depreciate new tractors (excluding day cabs) over five years to salvage values of approximately 25% of their cost. We generally depreciate new trailers over six years for refrigerated trailers and ten years for dry van trailers to salvage values of approximately 38% of their cost. We annually review the reasonableness of our estimates regarding useful lives and salvage values of our revenue equipment and other long-lived assets based upon, among other things, our experience with similar assets, conditions in the used revenue equipment market, and prevailing industry practice. Changes in the useful life or salvage value estimates, or fluctuations in market values that are not reflected in our estimates, could have a material effect on our results of operations. Gains and losses on the disposal of revenue equipment are included in depreciation expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
	We lease certain revenue equipment under capital leases with terms of 60 to 84 months. Amortization of leased assets is included in depreciation and amortization expense.
	Although a portion of our tractors are protected by non-binding indicative trade-in values or binding trade-back agreements with the manufacturers, substantially all of our owned trailers are subject to fluctuations in market prices for used revenue equipment. Moreover, our trade-back agreements are contingent upon reaching acceptable terms for the purchase of new equipment. Declines in the price of used revenue equipment or failure to reach agreement for the purchase of new tractors with the manufacturers issuing trade-back agreements could result in impairment of, or losses on the sale of, revenue equipment.
	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, revenue equipment and other long-lived assets are tested for impairment whenever an event occurs that indicates an impairment may exist. Expected future cash flows are used to analyze whether an impairment has occurred. If the sum of expected undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying value of the long-lived asset, then an impairment loss is recognized. We measure the impairment loss by comparing the fair value of the asset to its carrying value. Fair value is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis or the appraised value of the assets, as appropriate.
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	We classify intangible assets into two categories: (i) intangible assets with definite lives subject to amortization and (ii) goodwill. We have no goodwill on our consolidated balance sheet for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. We test intangible assets with definite lives for impairment if conditions exist that indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Such conditions may include an economic downturn in a geographic market or a change in the assessment of future operations. We record an impairment charge when the carrying value of the definite lived intangible asset is not recoverable by the cash flows generated from the use of the asset.
	We determine the useful lives of our identifiable intangible assets after considering the specific facts and circumstances related to each intangible asset. Factors we consider when determining useful lives include the contractual term of any agreement, the history of the asset, our long-term strategy for the use of the asset, any laws or other local regulations which could impact the useful life of the asset, and other economic factors, including competition and specific market conditions. Intangible assets that are deemed to have definite lives are amortized, generally on a straight-line basis, over their useful lives, ranging from 4 to 20 years.
	Insurance and Other Claims
	The primary claims arising against us consist of cargo, liability, personal injury, property damage, workers' compensation, and employee medical expenses. Our insurance program involves self-insurance with high risk retention levels. Due to our significant self-insured retention amounts, we have exposure to fluctuations in the number and severity of claims and to variations between our estimated and actual ultimate payouts. We accrue the estimated cost of the uninsured portion of pending claims and an estimate for allocated loss adjustment expenses including legal and other direct costs associated with a claim. Estimates require judgments concerning the nature and severity of the claim, historical trends, advice from third-party administrators and insurers, the size of any potential damage award based on factors such as the specific facts of individual cases, the jurisdictions involved, the prospect of punitive damages, future medical costs, and inflation estimates of future claims development, and the legal and other costs to settle or defend the claims. We have significant exposure to fluctuations in the number and severity of claims. If there is an increase in the frequency and severity of claims, or we are required to accrue or pay additional amounts if the claims prove to be more severe than originally assessed, or any of the claims would exceed the limits of our insurance coverage, our profitability could be adversely affected.
	In addition to estimates within our self-insured retention layers, we also must make judgments concerning claims where we have third party insurance and for claims outside our coverage limits. Upon settling claims and expenses associated with claims where we have third party coverage, we are generally required to initially fund payment to the claimant and seek reimbursement from the insurer. Receivables from insurers for claims and expenses we have paid on behalf of insurers total $0.1 million and $1.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and are included in drivers' advances and other receivables on our consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, we accrue claims above our self-insured retention and record a corresponding receivable for amounts we expect to collect from insurers upon settlement of such claims. We have $0.6 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as a receivable in other assets and as a corresponding accrual in the long-term portion of insurance and claims accruals on our consolidated balance sheet for claims above our self-insured retention for which we believe it is reasonably assured that the insurers will provide their portion of such claims. We evaluate collectability of the receivables based on the credit worthiness and surplus of the insurers, along with our prior experience and contractual terms with each. If any claim occurrence were to exceed our aggregate coverage limits, we would have to accrue for the excess amount. Our critical estimates include evaluating whether a claim may exceed such limits and, if so, by how much. If one or more claims were to exceed our then effective coverage limits, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected
	Our casualty insurance self-insured retention limit for the primary excess layer of casualty is no more than $1.0 million. Effective April 1, 2013, the policy includes a limit for a single loss of $9.0 million, an aggregate of $18.0 million for each policy year, and a $30.0 million aggregate for the three-year period ended March 31, 2016. Our prior aggregate casualty policy for the three years ended March 31, 2013, included a similar $9.0 million limit per claim and $18.0 million annual limit, with a $27.0 million limit for the three years. Our excess policies cover up to $40.0 million per claim, subject to certain aggregate limits. In addition, our current auto liability policy includes a policy release premium refund of $13.0 million, less any amounts paid on claims by the insurer, for the three years ended March 31, 2016, if we were to commute the policy for the entire three years. A decision with respect to commutation of the policy cannot be made before April 1, 2016 and must be made by June 30, 2016, unless both we and the insurance carrier agree to a commutation prior to the end of the policy term. Management cannot predict whether or not future claims or the development of existing claims will justify a commutation, and accordingly, no related amounts were recorded in 2014.  The previous three-year casualty policy, which expired on March 31, 2013, provided for an annual commutation if certain losses were not met and we elected to commute the policy.  The policy for the twelve months ended March 31, 2013 was not commuted; however, in June 2012 we commuted the policy for the April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012 policy year and as such are responsible for all claims that occurred during that policy year, excluding any claims between $10.0 million and $20.0 million, should such a claim develop. We received a $4.0 million non-cash credit in 2012 related to the commutation, that off-set premiums in 2013 and accordingly reduced our insurance and claims expense.
	We are self-insured on an occurrence/per claim basis for workers' compensation up to the first $1.3 million.  We purchase coverage on an occurrence/per claim basis for any cargo losses in the $0.3 million to $2.0 million layer, with our contracts generally excluding the value of any cargo in excess of $2.0 million. We also maintain a self-insured group medical plan for our Covenant Transport, Solutions, Star, and corporate employees, with annual per individual claimant stop-loss deductible of $0.4 million, while SRT offers a fully insured group health program to its employees. We are completely self-insured for physical damage to our own tractors and trailers.
	Interest
	We capitalize interest on major projects during construction. Interest is capitalized based on the average interest rate on related debt. Capitalized interest was less than $0.1 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, commodity contracts, accounts payable, and debt. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and current debt approximates their fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. The carrying value of the factored receivables approximates the fair value, as the receivables are generally repaid directly to us by the client's customer within 30-40 days due to the combination of the short-term nature of the financing transaction and the underlying quality of the receivables. Interest rates that are currently available to us for issuance of long-term debt with similar terms and remaining maturities are used to estimate the fair value of our long-term debt, which primarily consists of revenue equipment installment notes. The fair value of our revenue equipment installment notes approximated the carrying value at December 31, 2014, as the weighted average interest rate on these notes approximates the market rate for similar debt. Borrowings under our revolving Credit Facility approximate fair value due to the variable interest rate on the facility. Additionally, commodity contracts, which are accounted for as hedge derivatives, as discussed in Note 13, are valued based on the forward rate of the specific indices upon which the contract is being settled and adjusted for counterparty credit risk using available market information and valuation methodologies.
	Income Taxes
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts 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. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We have reflected the necessary deferred tax assets and liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We believe the future tax deductions will be realized principally through future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences and future taxable income, except for when a valuation allowance has been provided as discussed in Note 9.
	In the ordinary course of business there is inherent uncertainty in quantifying our income tax positions. We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management's evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting dates. For those tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements. Potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized as a component of income tax expense.
	Our policy is to recognize income tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting based on the ordering provisions of the tax law as prescribed by the Internal Revenue Code, including indirect tax effects, if any.
	Lease Accounting and Off-Balance Sheet Transactions
	We issue residual value guarantees in connection with the operating leases we enter into for certain of our revenue equipment. These leases provide that if we do not purchase the leased equipment from the lessor at the end of the lease term, then we are liable to the lessor for an amount equal to the shortage (if any) between the proceeds from the sale of the equipment and an agreed value. To the extent the expected value at the lease termination date is lower than the residual value guarantee, we would accrue for the difference over the remaining lease term. We believe that proceeds from the sale of equipment under operating leases would exceed the payment obligation on substantially all operating leases. The estimated values at lease termination involve management judgments. As leases are entered into, determination as to the classification as an operating or capital lease involves management judgments on residual values and useful lives.
	Capital Structure
	The shares of Class A and B common stock are substantially identical except that the Class B shares are entitled to two votes per share and immediately convert to Class A shares if beneficially owned by anyone other than our Chief Executive Officer or certain members of his immediate family, while Class A shares are entitled to one vote per share. The terms of any future issuances of preferred shares will be set by our Board of Directors.
	Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income generally includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Comprehensive income for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was comprised of the net income plus the unrealized gain or loss on the effective portion of diesel fuel hedges and the reclassified fuel hedge gains or losses into earnings.
	IncomePer Share
	Basic income per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted income per share reflects the dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in our earnings. The calculation of diluted earnings per share excludes a de minimus number of unexercised options and a de minimus number of unvested shares since the effect of any assumed exercise of the related awards would be anti-dilutive for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Income per share is the same for both Class A and Class B shares.
The following table sets forth the calculation of net income per share included in the consolidated statements of operations for each of the three years ended December 31:
(in thousands except per share data)
	2014		2013		2012
Numerator:
Net income	$	17,808	$	5,244	$	6,065
Denominator:
Denominator for basic income per share – weighted-average shares		15,250		14,837		14,742
Effect of dilutive securities:
Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested restricted shares		266		202		66
Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested employee stock options		1		-		-
Denominator for diluted income per share adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions		15,517		15,039		14,808
Net income per share:
Basic income per share	$	1.17	$	0.35	$	0.41
Diluted income per share	$	1.15	$	0.35	$	0.41
Stock-Based Employee Compensation
We issue several types of stock-based compensation, including awards that vest based on service and performance conditions or a combination of the conditions. Performance-based awards vest contingent upon meeting certain performance criteria established by the Compensation Committee. All awards require future service and thus forfeitures are estimated based on historical forfeitures and the remaining term until the related award vests. Determining the appropriate amount to expense in each period is based on likelihood and timing of achieving the stated targets for performance-based awards and requires judgment, including forecasting future financial results. The estimates are revised periodically based on the probability and timing of achieving the required performance and adjustments are made as appropriate. Awards that are only subject to time vesting provisions are amortized using the straight-line method.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
We periodically utilize derivative instruments to manage exposure to changes in fuel prices. At inception of a derivative contract, we document relationships between derivative instruments and hedged items, as well as our risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various derivative transactions, and assess hedge effectiveness. We record derivative financial instruments in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability at fair value. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, or if a derivative ceases to be a highly effective hedge, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded in other comprehensive income, and reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion is recorded in other income or expense.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued converged guidance on recognizing revenue in contracts with customers. The new guidance establishes a single core principle in the Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, which is the recognition of revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This guidance will affect any reporting organization that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of non-financial assets. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2016, and early adoption is not permitted. The Company is continuing to evaluate the new guidance and plans to provide additional information about its expected financial impact at a future date.
On August 27, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU No. 2014-15. This standard provides guidance on determining when and how to disclose going-concern uncertainties in the financial statements. The new standard requires management to perform interim and annual assessments of an entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the new guidance and plans to provide additional information about its expected impact at a future date.

Note_2_Liquidity

Note 2 - Liquidity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Liquidity [Abstract]
Liquidity [Text Block]	2.     LIQUIDITY
	Our business requires significant capital investments over the short-term and the long-term. Recently, we have financed our capital requirements with borrowings under our Third Amended and Restated Credit Facility (“Credit Facility”), cash flows from operations, long-term operating leases, capital leases, secured installment notes with finance companies, proceeds from our follow-on stock offering, and proceeds from the sale of our used revenue equipment in 2014 and 2013. We had working capital (total current assets less total current liabilities) of $52.7 million and $14.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Based on our expected financial condition, net capital expenditures, and results of operations and related net cash flows, we believe our working capital and sources of liquidity will be adequate to meet our current and projected needs for at least the next year.
	We had no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2014, undrawn letters of credit outstanding of approximately $34.3 million, and available borrowing capacity of $60.7 million. We do not expect to experience material liquidity constraints in the foreseeable future or on a long-term basis, based on our anticipated financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, continued availability of our Credit Facility, secured installment notes, and other sources of financing that we expect will be available to us.

Note_3_Fair_Value_of_Financial

Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	3.     FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	Fair value is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Accordingly, fair value is a market-based measurement that is determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. The fair value of the hedge derivative asset was determined based on quotes from the counterparty which were verified by comparing them to the exchange on which the related futures are traded, adjusted for counterparty credit risk. A three-tier fair value hierarchy is used to prioritize the inputs in measuring fair value as follows:
	●	Level 1. Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;
	●	Level 2. Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and
	●	Level 3. Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.
	(in thousands)		December 31,
	Hedge derivative (liability) asset		2014 (1)			2013
	Fair Value of Derivative		$	(22,720	)	$	1,412
	Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)			-			-
	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		$	(22,720	)	$	1,412
	Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			-			-
		-1	Excludes cash collateral of $5.0 million provided by the Company to the counterparty.

Note_4_Stockbased_Compensation

Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	4.     STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
	On February 21, 2014, the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors approved, subject to stockholder approval, a third amendment (the "Third Amendment") to the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the "Incentive Plan").  The Third Amendment (i) provides that the maximum aggregate number of shares of Class A common stock available for grant of awards under the Incentive Plan from and after May 29, 2014, shall not exceed 750,000, plus any remaining available shares of the 800,000 shares previously made available under the second amendment to the Incentive Plan (the "Second Amendment"), and any expirations, forfeitures, cancellations, or certain other terminations of shares approved for grant under the Third Amendment or the Second Amendment previously reserved, plus any remaining expirations, forfeitures, cancellations, or certain other terminations of such shares, and (ii) re-sets the term of the Incentive Plan to expire with respect to the ability to grant new awards on March 31, 2023.  The Compensation Committee also re-approved, subject to stockholder re-approval, the material terms of the performance-based goals under the Incentive Plan so that certain incentive awards granted thereunder would continue to qualify as exempt "performance-based compensation" under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m).  The Company's stockholders approved the adoption of the Third Amendment and re-approved the material terms of the performance-based goals under the Incentive Plan at the Company's 2014 Annual Meeting held on May 29, 2014.
	The Incentive Plan permits annual awards of shares of our Class A common stock to executives, other key employees, non-employee directors, and eligible participants under various types of options, restricted share awards, or other equity instruments. At December 31, 2014, 675,021 of the aforementioned 1,550,000 shares were available for award under the amended Incentive Plan. No participant in the Incentive Plan may receive awards of any type of equity instruments in any calendar-year that relates to more than 200,000 shares of our Class A common stock. No awards may be made under the Incentive Plan after March 31, 2023. To the extent available, we have issued treasury stock to satisfy all share-based incentive plans.
	Included in salaries, wages, and related expenses within the consolidated statements of operations is stock-based compensation expense of $1.3 million, $0.3 million, and $1.2 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Included in general supplies and expenses within the consolidated statements of operations is stock-based compensation expenses for non-employee directors of $0.1 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012. All stock compensation expense recorded in 2014, 2013, and 2012 relates to restricted shares given no options were granted during these periods. Associated with stock compensation expense was $0.8 million income tax benefit, $0.1 million income tax deficit, and less than $0.1 million income tax benefit in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, related to the exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting, resulting in related changes in taxable income and offsetting changes to additional paid in capital.
	The Incentive Plan allows participants to pay the federal and state minimum statutory tax withholding requirements related to awards that vest or allows the participant to deliver to us shares of Class A common stock having a fair market value equal to the minimum amount of such required withholding taxes. To satisfy withholding requirements for shares that vested, certain participants elected to deliver to us 39,676, 53,188, and 1,940 Class A common stock shares, which were withheld at weighted average per share prices of $20.97, $6.41, and $4.60 based on the closing prices of our Class A common stock on the dates the shares vested in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, in lieu of the federal and state minimum statutory tax withholding requirements. We remitted $0.8 million, $0.3 million, and less than $0.1 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, to the proper taxing authorities in satisfaction of the employees' minimum statutory withholding requirements. The payment of minimum tax withholdings on stock compensation are reflected within the issuances of restricted shares from treasury stock in the accompanying consolidated statement of stockholders' equity.
	The following table summarizes our restricted share award activity for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
		Number of			Weighted
		stock			average grant
		awards			date fair
		(in thousands)			value
	Unvested at December 31, 2011		468		$	8.27
	Granted		383		$	4.48
	Vested		(40	)	$	4.19
	Forfeited		(47	)	$	7.64
	Unvested at December 31, 2012		764		$	6.62
	Granted		263		$	5.6
	Vested		(200	)	$	8.12
	Forfeited		(50	)	$	5.56
	Unvested at December 31, 2013		777		$	5.95
	Granted		136		$	12.27
	Vested		(137	)	$	7.43
	Forfeited		(134	)	$	7.8
	Unvested at December 31, 2014		642		$	6.6
	The unvested shares at December 31, 2014 will vest based on when and if the related vesting criteria are met for each award. All awards require continued service to vest, noting that 276,321 of these awards vest solely based on continued service, which vest in varying increments between 2015 and 2017. Performance based awards account for 366,117 of the unvested shares at December 31, 2014, of which 256,684 shares have no unrecognized compensation cost as they relate to performance for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 32,463 shares relate to performance for the year ended December 31, 2016 and accordingly have no unrecognized compensation cost as they have not yet been evaluated for likelihood of vesting for purposes of compensation cost recognition.
	The fair value of restricted share awards that vested in 2014, 2013, and 2012 was approximately $2.9 million, $1.2 million, and $0.1 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately $1.6 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to 276,321 service-based and 76,970 2015 performance-based restricted share awards, which is probable to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 20 months. All restricted shares awarded to executives and other key employees pursuant to the Incentive Plan have voting and other stockholder-type rights, but will not be issued until the relevant restrictions are satisfied.
	The following table summarizes our stock option activity for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
		Number of			Weighted		Weighted average		Aggregate intrinsic
		options (in			average		remaining		value
		thousands)			exercise price		contractual term		(in thousands)
							(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		437		$	14.66		2.1	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		-			-
	Options forfeited		(104	)	$	12.27
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		333		$	15.67		1.5	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		-			-
	Options forfeited		(112	)	$	17.14
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		221		$	14.98		1	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		(45	)	$	13.64
	Options forfeited		(100	)	$	21.71
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		76		$	14.73		0.5	$	945
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014		76		$	14.73		0.5	$	945

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment

Note 5 - Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	5.     PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
	A summary of property and equipment, at cost, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:
	(in thousands)	Estimated		2014		2013
		Useful Lives
		(in years)
	Revenue equipment		10-Mar	$	418,574	$	372,968
	Communications equipment		10-May		8,248		9,084
	Land and improvements		0-10		18,820		19,009
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		Jul-40		37,217		41,876
	Construction in-progress		-		2,976		1,859
	Other		2-7		19,510		17,580
				$	505,345	$	462,376
	Depreciation expense was $49.0 million, $44.2 million, and $47.8 million, in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The aforementioned depreciation expense excludes net gains on the sale of property and equipment totaling $2.7 million, $0.8 million, and $4.9 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, which are presented net in depreciation and amortization expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
	We lease certain revenue equipment under capital leases with terms of 60 to 84 months. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, property and equipment included capitalized leases, which had capitalized costs of $33.8 million and $29.4 million and accumulated amortization of $10.6 million and $7.6 million, respectively. Amortization of these leased assets is included in depreciation and amortization expense in the consolidated statement of operations and totaled $3.0 million, $2.2 million, and $2.1 million during 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

Note_6_Goodwill_and_Other_Asse

Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	6.     GOODWILL AND OTHER ASSETS
	We have no goodwill on our consolidated balance sheet.
	A summary of other assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:
	(in thousands)	2014			2013
	Customer relationships		3,490			3,490
	Less: accumulated amortization of intangibles		(3,255	)		(3,164	)
	Net intangible assets		235			326
	Investment in TEL		12,192			8,737
	Other long-term receivables		575			631
	Deposits		546			732
	Deferred loan costs, net		724			931
	Hedge derivative asset		-			1,412
	Other, net		491			595
		$	14,763		$	13,364
	Amortization expenses of intangible assets were $0.1 million, $0.2 million, and $0.3 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Approximate intangible amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:
			(In thousands)
	2015		$	66
	2016			48
	2017			35
	2018			25
	2019			18
	Thereafter		$	43

Note_7_Debt

Note 7 - Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	7.     DEBT
	Current and long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	(in thousands)	31-Dec-14				31-Dec-13
		Current		Long-Term		Current		Long-Term
	Borrowings under Credit Facility	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	7,010
	Revenue equipment installment notes; weighted average interest rate of 3.8% at December 31, 2014, and 4.7% December 31, 2013, due in monthly installments with final maturities at various dates ranging from January 2015 to January 2022, secured by related revenue equipment		27,550		155,832		43,745		158,596
	Real estate note; interest rate of 2.5% and 2.4% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, due in monthly installments with fixed maturity at December 2018, secured by related real-estate		166		3,608		217		3,693
	Other note payable, interest rate of 3.0% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, with fixed maturity at November 2016		108		91		108		192
	Total debt		27,824		159,531		44,070		169,491
	Principal portion of capital lease obligations, secured by related revenue equipment		1,606		13,372		8,732		13,186
	Total debt and capital lease obligations	$	29,430	$	172,903	$	52,802	$	182,677
	In September 2008, we and substantially all of our subsidiaries (collectively, the "Borrowers") entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Facility with Bank of America, N.A., as agent (the "Agent") and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ("JPM," and together with the Agent, the "Lenders").
	The Credit Facility was originally structured as an $85.0 million revolving credit facility, with an accordion feature that, so long as no event of default exists, allows us to request an increase in the revolving credit facility of up to $50.0 million.  The Credit Facility includes, within our $85.0 million revolving credit facility, a letter of credit sub facility in an aggregate amount of $85.0 million and a swing line sub facility in an aggregate amount equal to the greater of $10.0 million or 10% of the Lenders' aggregate commitments under the Credit Facility from time-to-time.
	In January 2013, we entered into an eighth amendment, which was effective December 31, 2012, to the Credit Facility which, among other things, (i) increased the revolver commitment to $95.0 million, (ii) extended the maturity date from September 2014 to September 2017, (iii) eliminated the availability block of $15.0 million, (iv) improved pricing for revolving borrowings by amending the applicable margin as set forth below (beginning January 1, 2013), (v) improved the unused line fee pricing to 0.375% per annum when availability is less than $50.0 million and 0.5% per annum when availability is at or over such amount (beginning January 1, 2013), (vi) provided that the fixed charge coverage ratio covenant will be tested only during periods that commence when availability is less than or equal to the greater of 12.5% of the revolver commitment or $11.9 million, (vii) eliminated the consolidated leverage ratio covenant, (viii) reduced the level of availability below which cash dominion applies to the greater of 15% of the revolver commitment or $14.3 million, (ix) added deemed amortization of real estate and eligible revenue equipment included in the borrowing base to the calculation of fixed charge coverage ratio, (x) amended certain types of permitted debt to afford additional flexibility, and (xi) allowed for stock repurchases in an aggregate amount not exceeding $5.0 million, and (xii) removed certain restrictions relating to the purchase of up to the remaining 51% equity interest in TEL, provided that certain conditions are met.  In exchange for these amendments, the Borrowers agreed to pay fees of $0.3 million. Based on availability as of December 31, 2014, there was no fixed charge coverage requirement
	In August 2014, we obtained a ninth amendment to the Credit Facility, which allows for the disposition of certain parcels of real property and the acquisition of other real property. Additionally, in September 2014, we obtained a tenth amendment to the Credit Facility, which, among other things, amended certain provisions of the Credit Facility and related security documents to facilitate the Borrowers' entry into fuel hedging arrangements.
	Borrowings under the Credit Facility are classified as either "base rate loans" or "LIBOR loans."  Base rate loans accrue interest at a base rate equal to the greater of the Agent's prime rate, the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or LIBOR plus 1.0%, plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.5% to 1.25%; while LIBOR loans accrue interest at LIBOR, plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.5% to 2.25%.  The applicable rates are adjusted quarterly based on average pricing availability.  The unused line fee is also adjusted quarterly between 0.375% and 0.5% based on the average daily amount by which the Lenders' aggregate revolving commitments under the Credit Facility exceed the outstanding principal amount of revolver loans and the aggregate undrawn amount of all outstanding letters of credit issued under the Credit Facility.  The obligations under the Credit Facility are guaranteed by us and secured by a pledge of substantially all of our assets, with the notable exclusion of any real estate or revenue equipment pledged under other financing agreements, including revenue equipment installment notes and capital leases.
	Borrowings under the Credit Facility are subject to a borrowing base limited to the lesser of (A) $95.0 million, minus the sum of the stated amount of all outstanding letters of credit; or (B) the sum of (i) 85% of eligible accounts receivable, plus (ii) the lesser of (a) 85% of the appraised net orderly liquidation value of eligible revenue equipment, (b) 95% of the net book value of eligible revenue equipment, or (c) 35% of the Lenders' aggregate revolving commitments under the Credit Facility, plus (iii) the lesser of (a) $25.0 million or (b) 65% of the appraised fair market value of eligible real estate.  We had no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2014, undrawn letters of credit outstanding of approximately $34.3 million, and available borrowing capacity of $60.7 million.
	The Credit Facility includes usual and customary events of default for a facility of this nature and provides that, upon the occurrence and continuation of an event of default, payment of all amounts payable under the Credit Facility may be accelerated, and the Lenders' commitments may be terminated.  If an event of default occurs under the Credit Facility and the Lenders cause all of the outstanding debt obligations under the Credit Facility to become due and payable, this could result in a default under other debt instruments that contain acceleration or cross-default provisions. The Credit Facility contains certain restrictions and covenants relating to, among other things, debt, dividends, liens, acquisitions and dispositions outside of the ordinary course of business, and affiliate transactions. Failure to comply with the covenants and restrictions set forth in the Credit Facility could result in an event of default.
	Capital lease obligations are utilized to finance a portion of our revenue equipment and are entered into with certain finance companies who are not parties to our Credit Facility. The leases in effect at December 31, 2014 terminate in January 2015 through December 2021 and contain guarantees of the residual value of the related equipment by us. As such, the residual guarantees are included in the related debt balance as a balloon payment at the end of the related term as well as included in the future minimum capital lease payments. These lease agreements require us to pay personal property taxes, maintenance, and operating expenses.
	Pricing for the revenue equipment installment notes is quoted by the respective financial affiliates of our primary revenue equipment suppliers and other lenders at the funding of each group of equipment acquired and include fixed annual rates for new equipment under retail installment contracts. The notes included in the funding are due in monthly installments with final maturities at various dates ranging from January 2015 to January 2022. The notes contain certain requirements regarding payment, insuring of collateral, and other matters, but do not have any financial or other material covenants or events of default except certain notes totaling $174.6 million are cross-defaulted with the Credit Facility. Additionally, a portion of the abovementioned fuel hedge contracts totaling $12.8 million at December 31, 2014, is cross-defaulted with the Credit Facility. Additional borrowings from the financial affiliates of our primary revenue equipment suppliers and other lenders are available to fund most new tractors expected to be delivered in 2015, while any other property and equipment purchases, including trailers, will be funded with a combination of available cash, notes, operating leases, capital leases, and/or from the Credit Facility.
	As of December 31, 2014, the scheduled principal payments of debt, excluding capital leases for which future payments are discussed in Note 8 are as follows:
		(in thousands)
	2015	$	27,824
	2016		34,331
	2017		38,544
	2018		53,478
	2019		25,659
	Thereafter	$	7,519

Note_8_Leases

Note 8 - Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]	8.     LEASES
	We have operating lease commitments for office and terminal properties, revenue equipment, and computer and office equipment and capital lease commitments for revenue equipment, exclusive of owner/operator rentals and month-to-month equipment rentals, summarized for the following fiscal years (in thousands):
		Operating		Capital
	2015	$	13,589	$	2,096
	2016		11,927		4,336
	2017		8,487		1,507
	2018		5,599		1,507
	2019		3,737		1,507
	Thereafter		18,142		5,963
	Total minimum lease payments	$	61,481	$	16,916
	Less: amount representing interest				(1,938	)
	Present value of minimum lease payments				14,978
	Less: current portion				(1,606	)
	Capital lease obligations, long-term			$	13,372
	A portion of our operating leases of tractors and trailers contain residual value guarantees under which we guarantee a certain minimum cash value payment to the leasing company at the expiration of the lease. We estimate that the undiscounted value of the residual guarantees is approximately $4.0 million and $9.9 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The residual guarantees at December 31, 2014 expire between August 2018 and February 2019. We expect our residual guarantees to approximate the market value at the end of the lease term. Additionally, certain leases contain cross-default provisions with other financing agreements and additional charges if the unit's mileage exceeds certain thresholds defined in the lease agreement.
	Rental expense is summarized as follows for each of the three years ended December 31:
	(in thousands)	2014		2013			2012
	Revenue equipment rentals	$	20,935	$	22,991		$	19,746
	Building and lot rentals		3,561		4,044			3,714
	Other equipment rentals		317		362			679
		$	24,813	$	27,397		$	24,139

Note_9_Income_Taxes

Note 9 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	9.     INCOME TAXES
	Income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is comprised of:
	(in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Federal, current	$	(94	)	$	(816	)	$	(707	)
	Federal, deferred		12,830			7,560			6,897
	State, current		187			102			307
	State, deferred		1,851			657			(162	)
		$	14,774		$	7,503		$	6,335
	Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is summarized below:
	(in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Computed "expected" income tax expense	$	11,404		$	4,462		$	4,340
	State income taxes, net of federal income tax effect		1,075			421			409
	Per diem allowances		2,304			2,422			2,550
	Tax contingency accruals		(104	)		(496	)		(444	)
	Valuation allowance (release), net		18			684			(251	)
	Tax credits		(112	)		(250	)		(407	)
	Other, net		189			260			138
	Actual income tax expense	$	14,774		$	7,503		$	6,335
	Income tax expense varies from the amount computed by applying the federal corporate income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes primarily due to state income taxes, net of federal income tax effect, adjusted for permanent differences, the most significant of which is the effect of the per diem pay structure for drivers.  Drivers who meet the requirements to receive per diem receive non-taxable per diem pay in lieu of a portion of their taxable wages.  This per diem program increases our drivers' net pay per mile, after taxes, while decreasing gross pay, before taxes.  As a result, salaries, wages, and employee benefits are slightly lower and our effective income tax rate is higher than the statutory rate.  Generally, as pre-tax income increases, the impact of the driver per diem program on our effective tax rate decreases, because aggregate per diem pay becomes smaller in relation to pre-tax income, while in periods where earnings are at or near breakeven, the impact of the per diem program on our effective tax rate is significant.  Due to the partially nondeductible effect of per diem pay, our tax rate will fluctuate in future periods based on fluctuations in earnings.
	The temporary differences and the approximate tax effects that give rise to our net deferred tax liability at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
	(in thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Insurance and claims	$	16,153		$	11,691
	Net operating loss carryovers		18,160			13,681
	Other		7,750			6,035
	Deferred fuel hedge		8,144			-
	Valuation allowance		(1,001	)		(983	)
	Total deferred tax assets		49,206			30,424
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Property and equipment		(103,186	)		(76,280	)
	Other		(2,186	)		(4,793	)
	Prepaid expenses		(2,838	)		(3,194	)
	Total net deferred tax liabilities		(108,210	)		(84,267	)
	Net deferred tax liability	$	(59,004	)	$	(53,843	)
	Deferred taxes are classified in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet based on the nature of the related asset or liability as current or long-term, such that current deferred tax assets and liabilities provide a net asset of $14.7 million, while long-term deferred tax assets and liabilities provide a net liability of $73.7 million.  The net deferred tax liability of $59.0 million primarily relates to differences in cumulative book versus tax depreciation of property and equipment, partially off-set by net operating loss carryovers and insurance claims that have been reserved but not paid. The carrying value of our deferred tax assets assumes that we will be able to generate, based on certain estimates and assumptions, sufficient future taxable income in certain tax jurisdictions to utilize these deferred tax benefits.  If these estimates and related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to establish a valuation allowance against the carrying value of the deferred tax assets, which would result in additional income tax expense.  On a periodic basis, we assess the need for adjustment of the valuation allowance.  Based on forecasted taxable income resulting from the reversal of deferred tax liabilities, primarily generated by accelerated depreciation for tax purposes in prior periods, and tax planning strategies available to us, no valuation allowance has been established at December 31, 2014 or 2013, except for $1.0 million, for each year, related to certain state net operating loss and capital loss carry-forwards.  If these estimates and related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to modify our valuation allowance against the carrying value of the deferred tax assets.
	The activity in the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets (in thousands) is as follows:
	Years ended	Beginning			Additional			Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance			provisions			and other			balance
		January 1,			to allowance			deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	983		$	401		$	(383	)	$	1,001
	2013	$	299		$	684		$	-		$	983
	As of December 31, 2014, we had a $1.6 million liability recorded for unrecognized tax benefits, which includes interest and penalties of $0.7 million. We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in tax expense. As of December 31, 2013, we had a $1.8 million liability recorded for unrecognized tax benefits, which included interest and penalties of $0.8 million. Interest and penalties recognized for uncertain tax positions provided for a $0.1 million benefit in 2014, and a $0.3 million benefit in each of 2013 and 2012.
	The following tables summarize the annual activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1,	$	1,060		$	1,563		$	1,979
	Increases related to prior year tax positions		246			-			-
	Decreases related to prior year positions		-			-			-
	Increases related to current year tax positions		42			24			2
	Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities		(126	)		-			-
	Decreases related to lapsing of statute of limitations		(227	)		(527	)		(418	)
	Balance as of December 31,	$	995		$	1,060		$	1,563
	If recognized, $1.1 million and $1.2 million of unrecognized tax benefits would impact our effective tax rate as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Any prospective adjustments to our reserves for income taxes will be recorded as an increase or decrease to our provision for income taxes and would impact our effective tax rate.
	Our 2011 through 2014 tax years remain subject to examination by the IRS for U.S. federal tax purposes, our major taxing jurisdiction. In the normal course of business, we are also subject to audits by state and local tax authorities. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular tax matter, we believe that our reserves reflect the more likely than not outcome of known tax contingencies. We adjust these reserves, as well as the related interest, in light of changing facts and circumstances. Settlement of any particular issue would usually require the use of cash. Favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to our annual tax rate in the year of resolution. We do not expect any significant increases or decreases for uncertain income tax positions during the next year.
	Our federal net operating loss carryforwards are available to offset future federal taxable income, if any, through 2030, while our state net operating loss carryforwards and state tax credits expire over various periods through 2032 based on jurisdiction.

Note_10_Equity_Method_Investme

Note 10 - Equity Method Investment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investment [Abstract]
Equity Method Investment [Text Block]	10.     EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENT
	In May 2011, we acquired a 49.0% interest in TEL for $1.5 million in cash. Additionally, TEL's majority owners were eligible to receive an earn-out of up to $4.5 million for TEL's results through December 31, 2012, of which $1.0 million was earned based on TEL's 2011 results and $2.4 million was earned based on TEL's 2012 results. The earn-out payments increased our investment balance and there are no additional earn-outs payable for future results.
	TEL is a tractor and trailer equipment leasing company and used equipment reseller. We have not guaranteed any of TEL's debt and have no obligation to provide funding, services, or assets. Under the agreement, we have an option to acquire 100% of TEL until May 31, 2016, by purchasing the majority owners' interest based on a multiple of TEL's average earnings before interest and taxes, adjusted for certain items including cash and debt balances as of the acquisition date. Subsequent to May 31, 2016, TEL's majority owners have the option to acquire our interest based on the same terms detailed above. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, we sold tractors and trailers to TEL for $14.0 million and $16.0 million, respectively, and received $2.7 million and $2.4 million, respectively, for providing various maintenance services, certain back-office functions, and for miscellaneous equipment. We reversed previously deferred gains totaling less than $0.1 million and deferred gains of $0.1 million for the years ending December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, representing 49% of the gains on units sold to TEL less any gains previously deferred and recognized when the equipment was sold to a third party.  Deferred gains totaling $0.8 million at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, are being carried as a reduction in our investment in TEL. We had a receivable from TEL for 2014 and 2013 of $2.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively, related to cash disbursements made pursuant to our performance of certain back-office and maintenance functions on TEL's behalf.
	We have accounted for our investment in TEL using the equity method of accounting and thus our financial results include our proportionate share of TEL's net income, or $3.7 million in 2014, $2.8 million in 2013, and $1.9 million in 2012. We received an equity distribution from TEL for $0.3 million in 2014, less than $0.1 million in 2013, and $0.3 million in 2012, which was distributed to each member based on its respective ownership percentage in order to satisfy estimated tax payments resulting from TEL's earnings.  The distribution is the result of TEL being a limited liability company and thus its earnings are attributed to its members for tax purposes and are taxed for federal and certain state income on the members' respective tax returns. Our investment in TEL, totaling $12.2 million and $8.7 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, is included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Our investment in TEL is comprised of the $4.9 million cash investment noted above and our equity in TEL's earnings since our investment, partially offset by dividends received since our investment for minimum tax withholdings as noted above and the abovementioned deferred gains on sales of equipment to TEL.
	See TEL's summarized financial information subsequent to our investment below.
	(in thousands)	As of the years ended December 31,
		2014		2013
	Current Assets	$	14,525	$	9,160
	Non-current Assets		64,731		40,296
	Current Liabilities		16,733		13,456
	Non-current Liabilities		45,687		26,101
	Total Equity	$	16,836	$	9,899
	(in thousands)	As of the years ended December 31,
	2014		2013		2012
	Revenue	$	90,197	$	58,484	$	53,459
	Operating Expenses		79,771		50,878		48,382
	Operating Income		10,426		7,606		5,077
	Net Income	$	7,564	$	5,643	$	3,850

Note_11_Deferred_Profit_Sharin

Note 11 - Deferred Profit Sharing Employee Benefit Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Compensation Related Costs, General [Text Block]	11.     DEFERRED PROFIT SHARING EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN
	We have a deferred profit sharing and savings plan under which all of our employees with at least six months of service are eligible to participate. Employees may contribute a percentage of their annual compensation up to the maximum amount allowed by the Internal Revenue Code. We may make discretionary contributions as determined by a committee of our Board of Directors. We made no contributions in 2014, 2013, and 2012 to the profit sharing and savings plan. The Board approved the suspension of employee matching "discretionary" contributions to be made beginning early in 2009 for an indefinite time period, noting that the match was reinstated effective January 2015.

Note_12_Related_Party_Transact

Note 12 - Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	12.     RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
	See Note 10 for discussions of the related party transactions associated with TEL.

Note_13_Derivative_Instruments

Note 13 - Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]	13.     DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
	We engage in activities that expose us to market risks, including the effects of changes in fuel prices. Financial exposures are evaluated as an integral part of our risk management program, which seeks, from time-to-time, to reduce the potentially adverse effects that the volatility of fuel markets may have on operating results. In an effort to seek to reduce the variability of the ultimate cash flows associated with fluctuations in diesel fuel prices, we periodically enter into various derivative instruments, including forward futures swap contracts (which we refer to as "fuel hedge contracts"). Historically diesel fuel has not been a traded commodity on the futures market so heating oil has been used as a substitute, as prices for both generally move in similar directions. Recently, however, we have been able to enter into hedging contracts with respect to both heating oil and ultra low sulfur diesel ("ULSD"). Under these contracts, we pay a fixed rate per gallon of heating oil or ULSD and receive the monthly average price of New York heating oil per the New York Mercantile Exchange ("NYMEX") and Gulf Coast ULSD, respectively. The retrospective and prospective regression analyses provided that changes in the prices of diesel fuel and heating oil and diesel fuel and ULSD were each deemed to be highly effective based on the relevant authoritative guidance except for a small portion of our hedge contracts, which we determined to be ineffective on a prospective basis. Consequently, we recognized approximately $1.4 million of additional fuel expense in 2014 to mark the related liability to market. We do not engage in speculative transactions, nor do we hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.
	We recognize all derivative instruments at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets. Our derivative instruments are designated as cash flow hedges, thus the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivatives is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income and will be reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The effective portion of the derivative represents the change in fair value of the hedge that offsets the change in fair value of the hedged item. To the extent the change in the fair value of the hedge does not perfectly offset the change in the fair value of the hedged item, the ineffective portion of the hedge is immediately recognized in our consolidated statements of operations. Ineffectiveness is calculated using the cumulative dollar offset method as an estimate of the difference in the expected cash flows of the respective fuel hedge contracts (heating oil or ULSD) compared to the changes in the all-in cash outflows required for the diesel fuel purchases.
	At December 31, 2014, we had forward futures swap contracts on approximately 12.6 million, 12.1 million, and 3.0 million gallons of diesel to be purchased in 2015, 2016, and 2017, respectively, or approximately 23%, 22%, and 5% of our projected annual 2015, 2016, and 2017 fuel requirements, respectively.
	The fair value of the contracts that were in effect at December 31, 2014 and 2013, of approximately $22.7 million and $1.4 million, respectively, are included in other liabilities and other assets, respectively, in the consolidated balance sheet, are included in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax.  Changes in the fair values of these instruments can vary dramatically based on changes in the underlying commodity prices, as has been evident in the second half of 2014. For example, during 2014, market "spot" prices for ultra-low sulfur diesel peaked at a high of approximately $3.08 per gallon and hit a low price of approximately $1.58 per gallon. During 2013, market spot prices ranged from a high of $3.29 per gallon to a low of $2.72 per gallon. Market price changes can be driven by factors such as supply and demand, inventory levels, weather events, refinery capacity, political agendas, the value of the U.S. dollar, geopolitical events, and general economic conditions, among other items.
	Additionally, $3.1 million, $0.6 million, and $3.1 million were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income to our results from operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, related to 2014 losses and 2013 and 2012 gains. Of the $3.1 million reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014, $1.5 million related to losses on contracts that expired or were sold and for which we completed the forecasted transaction by purchasing the hedged diesel fuel, $1.4 million and approximately $0.2 million were recorded as additional fuel expense related to contracts for which the hedging relationship was no longer deemed to be effective on a prospective basis and unfavorable ineffectiveness on the contracts that existed at December 31, 2014, respectively. The ineffectiveness was calculated using the cumulative dollar offset method as an estimate of the difference in the expected cash flows of the respective fuel hedge contracts compared to the changes in the all-in cash outflows required for the diesel fuel purchases. The calculation of ineffectiveness excludes approximately $0.1 million from the assessment of hedge ineffectiveness as a result of the related contracts being in an under-hedged position as of the date of the calculation.
	Based on the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of December 31, 2014 and the expected timing of the purchases of the diesel hedged, we expect to reclassify approximately $8.0 million, net of tax, on derivative instruments from accumulated other comprehensive loss into our results from operations during the next year due to the actual diesel fuel purchases.  The amounts actually realized will be dependent on the fair values as of the date of settlement.
	We perform both a prospective and retrospective assessment of the effectiveness of our hedge contracts at inception and quarterly, including assessing the possibility of counterparty default.  If we determine that a derivative is no longer expected to be highly effective, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively and recognize subsequent changes in the fair value of the hedge in earnings.  As a result of our effectiveness assessment at inception, quarterly, and at December 31, 2014 and 2013, we believe our hedge contracts have been and will continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, with the exception of the abovementioned contracts.
	Outstanding financial derivative instruments expose us to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties to the agreements. We do not expect any of the counterparties to fail to meet their obligations.  Our credit exposure related to these financial instruments is represented by the fair value of contracts reported as assets.  To manage credit risk, we review each counterparty's audited financial statements and credit ratings and obtain references.
	If our fuel derivative instruments are in a net liability position with the counterparty and cash collateral is required, the cash collateral amounts provided are netted against the fair value of current outstanding derivative instruments. At December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, $5.0 million and $0.0 cash collateral deposits, respectively, were provided by us in connection with our outstanding fuel derivative instruments.

Note_14_Accumulated_Other_Comp

Note 14 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]	14.     ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income ("AOCI") is comprised of net income and other adjustments, including changes in the fair value of certain derivative financial instruments qualifying as cash flow hedges.
	The following tables summarize the change in the components of our AOCI balance for the periods presented (in thousands; presented net of tax):
	Details about	Amount Reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31,									Affected Line Item in the
	AOCI Components										Statement of Operations
		2014			2013			2012
	(Losses) gains on cash flow hedges
	Commodity derivative contracts	$	(3,141	)	$	643		$	5,031		Fuel expense
			1,206			(247	)		(1,932	)	Income tax expense
		$	(1,935	)	$	396		$	3,099		Net of tax

Note_15_Commitments_and_Contin

Note 15 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	15.     COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
	From time-to-time, we are a party to ordinary, routine litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, most of which involves claims for personal injury and property damage incurred in connection with the transportation of freight. We maintain insurance to cover liabilities arising from the transportation of freight for amounts in excess of certain self-insured retentions. In management's opinion, our potential exposure under pending legal proceedings is adequately provided for in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
	On August 26, 2014, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio issued a pre-trial decision in a lawsuit against SRT relating to a cargo claim incurred in 2008. The court awarded the plaintiff approximately $5.9 million plus prejudgment interest and costs and denied a cross-motion for summary judgment by SRT.  Previously, the court had ruled in favor of SRT on all but one count before overturning its earlier decision and ruling in favor of the plaintiff.  SRT filed a Notice of Appeal with the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals on September 24, 2014 and that appeal is currently being briefed by the parties with oral arguments to be scheduled in the months ahead.  As a result of this decision and pending final outcome of the appeal, we increased the reserve for this claim by approximately $7.5 million to approximately $8.1 million during the third quarter of 2014.
	We had $34.3 million and $39.0 million of outstanding and undrawn letters of credit as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The letters of credit are maintained primarily to support our insurance programs.
	Effective April 2013, we entered into an auto liability policy with a three-year term. The policy retains the $1.0 million per claim limit for the primary excess layer of our auto liability program, with no changes to the excess policies. Similar to the prior policy, the current policy contains a commutation option; however, this option is only available after the completion of the three-year policy term, unless both we and the insurance carrier agree to a commutation prior to the end of the policy term.
	We had commitments outstanding at December 31, 2014, to acquire revenue equipment totaling approximately $116.8 million in 2014 versus commitments at December 31, 2013 of approximately $0.2 million. These commitments are cancelable, subject to certain adjustments in the underlying obligations and benefits. These purchase commitments are expected to be financed by operating leases, capital leases, long-term debt, proceeds from sales of existing equipment, and/or cash flows from operations.
	See "Critical Accounting Policies And Estimates – Insurance and Other Claims" under Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.

Note_16_Segment_Information

Note 16 - Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	16.     SEGMENT INFORMATION
	As previously discussed, we have one reportable segment, our asset-based truckload services or Truckload. Our other operations consist of several operating segments, which neither individually nor in the aggregate meet the quantitative or qualitative reporting thresholds. As a result, these operations are grouped in "Other" in the tables below.
	The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Substantially all intersegment sales prices are market based. We evaluate performance based on operating income of the respective business units.
	"Unallocated Corporate Overhead" includes expenses that are incidental to our activities and are not specifically allocated to one of the segments.
	The following tables summarize our segment information:
	Year Ended December 31, 2014		Truckload			Other			Unallocated Corporate			Consolidated
									Overhead
	Revenue		$	663,001		$	59,796		$	-		$	722,797
	Intersegment revenue			-			(3,817	)		-			(3,817	)
	Operating income (loss)			54,151			3,894			(18,399	)		39,646
	Depreciation and amortization			45,669			59			656			46,384
	Total assets			463,900			27,338			62,779			554,017
	Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)			87,871			14			1,570			89,455
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Revenue		$	644,403		$	51,702		$	-		$	690,327
	Intersegment revenue			-			(5,778	)		-			(5,778	)
	Operating income (loss)			27,746			1,271			(8,623	)		20,394
	Depreciation and amortization			42,848			72			775			43,694
	Total assets			402,637			20,883			42,902			466,422
	Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)			90,336			10			1,630			91,976
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Revenue		$	647,986		$	33,250		$	-		$	681,236
	Intersegment revenue			-			(6,982	)		-			(6,982	)
	Operating income (loss)			34,185			(741	)		(10,235	)		23,209
	Depreciation and amortization			42,015			26			1,181			43,222
	Total assets			363,223			11,963			25,046			400,232
	Capital expenditures, net			(16,677	)		-			939			(15,738	)
		-1	Includes equipment purchased under capital leases.

Note_17_Quarterly_Results_of_O

Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	17.     QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
			(in thousands except per share amounts)
	Quarters ended		Mar. 31,			June 30,		Sep. 30,		Dec. 31,
			2014			2014		2014 (3)		2014
	Total revenue		$	160,957		$	173,654	$	177,581	$	206,788
	Operating income			354			9,056		5,586		24,650
	Net income (loss)			(1,374	)		3,780		1,857		13,545
	Basic and diluted (loss) income per share			-			-		-		-
	Basic (loss) income per share (1)			(0.09	)		0.25		0.12		0.84
	Diluted (loss) income per share (1)			(0.09	)		0.25		0.12		0.82
			(in thousands except per share amounts)
	Quarters ended		Mar. 31,			June 30,		Sep. 30,		Dec. 31,
			2013 (2)			2013		2013		2013
	Total revenue		$	164,731		$	172,488	$	170,843	$	176,487
	Operating income			(715	)		6,350		5,882		8,877
	Net (loss) income			(1,959	)		1,891		1,973		3,339
	Basic and diluted (loss) income per share			(0.13	)		0.13		0.13		0.22
	Basic (loss) income per share			-			-		-		-
	Diluted (loss) income per share			-			-		-		-
	-1	Quarter totals do not aggregate to annual results due to the dilution related to the follow-on stock offering.
	-2	Includes $2.4 million gain on the sale of a terminal property.
	-3	Includes $7.5 million increase to claims reserves for a 2008 cargo claim.

Accounting_Policies_by_Policy_

Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Covenant Transportation Group, Inc., a holding company incorporated in the state of Nevada in 1994, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., an Arkansas corporation; Star Transportation, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Covenant Transport Solutions, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant Logistics, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant Asset Management, Inc., a Nevada corporation; CTG Leasing Company, a Nevada corporation; and IQS Insurance Retention Group, Inc., a Vermont corporation.
	References in this report to "it," "we," "us," "our," the "Company," and similar expressions refer to Covenant Transportation Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Investment in Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC
	Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC ("TEL") is a tractor and trailer equipment leasing company and used equipment reseller. We evaluated our investment in TEL to determine whether it should be recorded on a consolidated basis.  Our percentage of ownership interest (49%), an evaluation of control, and whether a variable interest entity ("VIE") existed were all considered in our consolidation assessment. The analysis provided that we do not control TEL and that TEL is not deemed a VIE. We have accounted for our investment in TEL using the equity method of accounting given our 49% ownership interest and ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. Under the equity method, the cost of our investment is adjusted for our share of equity in the earnings of TEL and reduced by distributions received and our proportionate share of TEL's net income is included in our earnings.
	On a periodic basis, we assess whether there are any indicators that the fair value of our investment in TEL may be impaired. The investment is impaired only if the estimate of the fair value of the investment is less than the carrying value of the investment, and such decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary. To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss would be measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the investment over the fair value of the investment. As a result of TEL's earnings, no impairment indicators were noted that would provide for impairment of our investment.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue, drivers' wages, and other direct operating expenses generated by our Truckload reportable segment are recognized on the date shipments are delivered to the customer. Revenue includes transportation revenue, fuel surcharges, loading and unloading activities, equipment detention, and other accessorial services.
	Revenue generated by our Solutions subsidiary is recognized upon completion of the services provided. Revenue is recorded on a gross basis, without deducting third party purchased transportation costs, as we act as a principal with substantial risks as primary obligor, except for transactions whereby equipment from our Truckload segment perform the related services, which we record on a net basis in accordance with the related authoritative guidance. Solutions' revenue includes $2.3 million and $1.7 million of revenue in 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to an accounts receivable factoring business started in 2013 to supplement several aspects of our non-asset operations. Revenue for this business is recognized on a net basis after giving effect to receivables payments we make to the factoring client, given we are acting as an agent and are not the primary generator of the factored receivables in these transactions.
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make decisions based upon estimates, assumptions, and factors we consider as relevant to the circumstances. Such decisions include the selection of applicable accounting principles and the use of judgment in their application, the results of which impact reported amounts and disclosures. Changes in future economic conditions or other business circumstances may affect the outcomes of our estimates and assumptions. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those anticipated.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at acquisition to be cash equivalents. Additionally, we are also subject to concentrations of credit risk related to deposits in banks in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits.
Loans and Leases Receivable, Allowance for Loan Losses Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accounts Receivable and Concentration of Credit Risk
	We extend credit to our customers in the normal course of business. We perform ongoing credit evaluations and generally do not require collateral. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at their invoiced amounts, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. We evaluate the adequacy of our allowance for doubtful accounts quarterly. Accounts outstanding longer than contractual payment terms are considered past due and are reviewed individually for collectability. We maintain reserves for potential credit losses based upon its loss history and specific receivables aging analysis. Receivable balances are written off when collection is deemed unlikely.
	Accounts receivable are comprised of a diversified customer base that results in a lack of concentration of credit risk. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, our top ten customers generated 38%, 34%, and 32% of total revenue, respectively. In 2014, one customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue. This customer was serviced by both our Truckload segment and our Solutions subsidiary providing for $82.5 million of total revenue. No customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue in 2013 or 2012. The carrying amount reported in the consolidated balance sheet for accounts receivable approximates fair value based on the fact that the receivables collection averaged approximately 36 days in 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Included in accounts receivable is $15.8 million of factoring receivables at December 31, 2014, net of a $0.2 million allowance for bad debts.  We advance approximately 85% to 95% of each receivable factored and retain the remainder as collateral for collection issues that might arise.  The retained amounts are returned to the clients after the related receivable has been collected. At December 31, 2014, the retained amounts related to factored receivables totaled $0.3 million and were included in accounts payable in the consolidated balance sheet.  Our clients are smaller trucking companies that factor their receivables to us for a fee to facilitate faster cash flow.  We evaluate each client's customer base and only factor specific receivables that meet predefined criteria. The carrying value of the factored receivables approximates the fair value, as the receivables are generally repaid directly to us by the client's customer within 30-40 days due to the combination of the short-term nature of the financing transaction and the underlying quality of the receivables.
	The following table provides a summary (in thousands) of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Years ended	Beginning		Additional		Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance		provisions		and other			balance
		January 1,		to allowance		deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	1,736	$	774	$	(743	)	$	1,767
	2013	$	1,729	$	457	$	(450	)	$	1,736
	2012	$	1,711	$	904	$	(886	)	$	1,729
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Inventories and Supplies
	Inventories and supplies consist of parts, tires, fuel, and supplies. Tires on new revenue equipment are capitalized as a component of the related equipment cost when the tractor or trailer is placed in service and recovered through depreciation over the life of the vehicle. Replacement tires and parts on hand at year end are recorded at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Replacement tires are expensed when placed in service.
Assets Held for Sale Policy [Policy Text Block]	Assets Held for Sale
	Assets held for sale include property and revenue equipment no longer utilized in continuing operations which are available and held for sale. Assets held for sale are no longer subject to depreciation, and are recorded at the lower of depreciated book value or fair market value less selling costs. We periodically review the carrying value of these assets for possible impairment. We expect to sell the majority of these assets within twelve months.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation for book purposes is determined using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, while depreciation for tax purposes is generally recorded using an accelerated method. Depreciation of revenue equipment is our largest item of depreciation. We generally depreciate new tractors (excluding day cabs) over five years to salvage values of approximately 25% of their cost. We generally depreciate new trailers over six years for refrigerated trailers and ten years for dry van trailers to salvage values of approximately 38% of their cost. We annually review the reasonableness of our estimates regarding useful lives and salvage values of our revenue equipment and other long-lived assets based upon, among other things, our experience with similar assets, conditions in the used revenue equipment market, and prevailing industry practice. Changes in the useful life or salvage value estimates, or fluctuations in market values that are not reflected in our estimates, could have a material effect on our results of operations. Gains and losses on the disposal of revenue equipment are included in depreciation expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
	We lease certain revenue equipment under capital leases with terms of 60 to 84 months. Amortization of leased assets is included in depreciation and amortization expense.
	Although a portion of our tractors are protected by non-binding indicative trade-in values or binding trade-back agreements with the manufacturers, substantially all of our owned trailers are subject to fluctuations in market prices for used revenue equipment. Moreover, our trade-back agreements are contingent upon reaching acceptable terms for the purchase of new equipment. Declines in the price of used revenue equipment or failure to reach agreement for the purchase of new tractors with the manufacturers issuing trade-back agreements could result in impairment of, or losses on the sale of, revenue equipment.
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, revenue equipment and other long-lived assets are tested for impairment whenever an event occurs that indicates an impairment may exist. Expected future cash flows are used to analyze whether an impairment has occurred. If the sum of expected undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying value of the long-lived asset, then an impairment loss is recognized. We measure the impairment loss by comparing the fair value of the asset to its carrying value. Fair value is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis or the appraised value of the assets, as appropriate.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	We classify intangible assets into two categories: (i) intangible assets with definite lives subject to amortization and (ii) goodwill. We have no goodwill on our consolidated balance sheet for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. We test intangible assets with definite lives for impairment if conditions exist that indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Such conditions may include an economic downturn in a geographic market or a change in the assessment of future operations. We record an impairment charge when the carrying value of the definite lived intangible asset is not recoverable by the cash flows generated from the use of the asset.
	We determine the useful lives of our identifiable intangible assets after considering the specific facts and circumstances related to each intangible asset. Factors we consider when determining useful lives include the contractual term of any agreement, the history of the asset, our long-term strategy for the use of the asset, any laws or other local regulations which could impact the useful life of the asset, and other economic factors, including competition and specific market conditions. Intangible assets that are deemed to have definite lives are amortized, generally on a straight-line basis, over their useful lives, ranging from 4 to 20 years.
Insurance and Other Claims [Policy Text Block]	Insurance and Other Claims
	The primary claims arising against us consist of cargo, liability, personal injury, property damage, workers' compensation, and employee medical expenses. Our insurance program involves self-insurance with high risk retention levels. Due to our significant self-insured retention amounts, we have exposure to fluctuations in the number and severity of claims and to variations between our estimated and actual ultimate payouts. We accrue the estimated cost of the uninsured portion of pending claims and an estimate for allocated loss adjustment expenses including legal and other direct costs associated with a claim. Estimates require judgments concerning the nature and severity of the claim, historical trends, advice from third-party administrators and insurers, the size of any potential damage award based on factors such as the specific facts of individual cases, the jurisdictions involved, the prospect of punitive damages, future medical costs, and inflation estimates of future claims development, and the legal and other costs to settle or defend the claims. We have significant exposure to fluctuations in the number and severity of claims. If there is an increase in the frequency and severity of claims, or we are required to accrue or pay additional amounts if the claims prove to be more severe than originally assessed, or any of the claims would exceed the limits of our insurance coverage, our profitability could be adversely affected.
	In addition to estimates within our self-insured retention layers, we also must make judgments concerning claims where we have third party insurance and for claims outside our coverage limits. Upon settling claims and expenses associated with claims where we have third party coverage, we are generally required to initially fund payment to the claimant and seek reimbursement from the insurer. Receivables from insurers for claims and expenses we have paid on behalf of insurers total $0.1 million and $1.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and are included in drivers' advances and other receivables on our consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, we accrue claims above our self-insured retention and record a corresponding receivable for amounts we expect to collect from insurers upon settlement of such claims. We have $0.6 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as a receivable in other assets and as a corresponding accrual in the long-term portion of insurance and claims accruals on our consolidated balance sheet for claims above our self-insured retention for which we believe it is reasonably assured that the insurers will provide their portion of such claims. We evaluate collectability of the receivables based on the credit worthiness and surplus of the insurers, along with our prior experience and contractual terms with each. If any claim occurrence were to exceed our aggregate coverage limits, we would have to accrue for the excess amount. Our critical estimates include evaluating whether a claim may exceed such limits and, if so, by how much. If one or more claims were to exceed our then effective coverage limits, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected
	Our casualty insurance self-insured retention limit for the primary excess layer of casualty is no more than $1.0 million. Effective April 1, 2013, the policy includes a limit for a single loss of $9.0 million, an aggregate of $18.0 million for each policy year, and a $30.0 million aggregate for the three-year period ended March 31, 2016. Our prior aggregate casualty policy for the three years ended March 31, 2013, included a similar $9.0 million limit per claim and $18.0 million annual limit, with a $27.0 million limit for the three years. Our excess policies cover up to $40.0 million per claim, subject to certain aggregate limits. In addition, our current auto liability policy includes a policy release premium refund of $13.0 million, less any amounts paid on claims by the insurer, for the three years ended March 31, 2016, if we were to commute the policy for the entire three years. A decision with respect to commutation of the policy cannot be made before April 1, 2016 and must be made by June 30, 2016, unless both we and the insurance carrier agree to a commutation prior to the end of the policy term. Management cannot predict whether or not future claims or the development of existing claims will justify a commutation, and accordingly, no related amounts were recorded in 2014.  The previous three-year casualty policy, which expired on March 31, 2013, provided for an annual commutation if certain losses were not met and we elected to commute the policy.  The policy for the twelve months ended March 31, 2013 was not commuted; however, in June 2012 we commuted the policy for the April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012 policy year and as such are responsible for all claims that occurred during that policy year, excluding any claims between $10.0 million and $20.0 million, should such a claim develop. We received a $4.0 million non-cash credit in 2012 related to the commutation, that off-set premiums in 2013 and accordingly reduced our insurance and claims expense.
	We are self-insured on an occurrence/per claim basis for workers' compensation up to the first $1.3 million.  We purchase coverage on an occurrence/per claim basis for any cargo losses in the $0.3 million to $2.0 million layer, with our contracts generally excluding the value of any cargo in excess of $2.0 million. We also maintain a self-insured group medical plan for our Covenant Transport, Solutions, Star, and corporate employees, with annual per individual claimant stop-loss deductible of $0.4 million, while SRT offers a fully insured group health program to its employees. We are completely self-insured for physical damage to our own tractors and trailers.
Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Interest
	We capitalize interest on major projects during construction. Interest is capitalized based on the average interest rate on related debt. Capitalized interest was less than $0.1 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, commodity contracts, accounts payable, and debt. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and current debt approximates their fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. The carrying value of the factored receivables approximates the fair value, as the receivables are generally repaid directly to us by the client's customer within 30-40 days due to the combination of the short-term nature of the financing transaction and the underlying quality of the receivables. Interest rates that are currently available to us for issuance of long-term debt with similar terms and remaining maturities are used to estimate the fair value of our long-term debt, which primarily consists of revenue equipment installment notes. The fair value of our revenue equipment installment notes approximated the carrying value at December 31, 2014, as the weighted average interest rate on these notes approximates the market rate for similar debt. Borrowings under our revolving Credit Facility approximate fair value due to the variable interest rate on the facility. Additionally, commodity contracts, which are accounted for as hedge derivatives, as discussed in Note 13, are valued based on the forward rate of the specific indices upon which the contract is being settled and adjusted for counterparty credit risk using available market information and valuation methodologies.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts 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. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We have reflected the necessary deferred tax assets and liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We believe the future tax deductions will be realized principally through future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences and future taxable income, except for when a valuation allowance has been provided as discussed in Note 9.
	In the ordinary course of business there is inherent uncertainty in quantifying our income tax positions. We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management's evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting dates. For those tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements. Potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized as a component of income tax expense.
	Our policy is to recognize income tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting based on the ordering provisions of the tax law as prescribed by the Internal Revenue Code, including indirect tax effects, if any.
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Lease Accounting and Off-Balance Sheet Transactions
	We issue residual value guarantees in connection with the operating leases we enter into for certain of our revenue equipment. These leases provide that if we do not purchase the leased equipment from the lessor at the end of the lease term, then we are liable to the lessor for an amount equal to the shortage (if any) between the proceeds from the sale of the equipment and an agreed value. To the extent the expected value at the lease termination date is lower than the residual value guarantee, we would accrue for the difference over the remaining lease term. We believe that proceeds from the sale of equipment under operating leases would exceed the payment obligation on substantially all operating leases. The estimated values at lease termination involve management judgments. As leases are entered into, determination as to the classification as an operating or capital lease involves management judgments on residual values and useful lives.
Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Capital Structure
	The shares of Class A and B common stock are substantially identical except that the Class B shares are entitled to two votes per share and immediately convert to Class A shares if beneficially owned by anyone other than our Chief Executive Officer or certain members of his immediate family, while Class A shares are entitled to one vote per share. The terms of any future issuances of preferred shares will be set by our Board of Directors.
Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income generally includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Comprehensive income for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was comprised of the net income plus the unrealized gain or loss on the effective portion of diesel fuel hedges and the reclassified fuel hedge gains or losses into earnings.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	IncomePer Share
	Basic income per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted income per share reflects the dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in our earnings. The calculation of diluted earnings per share excludes a de minimus number of unexercised options and a de minimus number of unvested shares since the effect of any assumed exercise of the related awards would be anti-dilutive for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Income per share is the same for both Class A and Class B shares.
	The following table sets forth the calculation of net income per share included in the consolidated statements of operations for each of the three years ended December 31:
	(in thousands except per share data)
		2014		2013		2012
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	17,808	$	5,244	$	6,065
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic income per share – weighted-average shares		15,250		14,837		14,742
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested restricted shares		266		202		66
	Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested employee stock options		1		-		-
	Denominator for diluted income per share adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions		15,517		15,039		14,808
	Net income per share:
	Basic income per share	$	1.17	$	0.35	$	0.41
	Diluted income per share	$	1.15	$	0.35	$	0.41
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	Stock-Based Employee Compensation
	We issue several types of stock-based compensation, including awards that vest based on service and performance conditions or a combination of the conditions. Performance-based awards vest contingent upon meeting certain performance criteria established by the Compensation Committee. All awards require future service and thus forfeitures are estimated based on historical forfeitures and the remaining term until the related award vests. Determining the appropriate amount to expense in each period is based on likelihood and timing of achieving the stated targets for performance-based awards and requires judgment, including forecasting future financial results. The estimates are revised periodically based on the probability and timing of achieving the required performance and adjustments are made as appropriate. Awards that are only subject to time vesting provisions are amortized using the straight-line method.
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	We periodically utilize derivative instruments to manage exposure to changes in fuel prices. At inception of a derivative contract, we document relationships between derivative instruments and hedged items, as well as our risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various derivative transactions, and assess hedge effectiveness. We record derivative financial instruments in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability at fair value. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, or if a derivative ceases to be a highly effective hedge, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded in other comprehensive income, and reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion is recorded in other income or expense.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued converged guidance on recognizing revenue in contracts with customers. The new guidance establishes a single core principle in the Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, which is the recognition of revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This guidance will affect any reporting organization that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of non-financial assets. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2016, and early adoption is not permitted. The Company is continuing to evaluate the new guidance and plans to provide additional information about its expected financial impact at a future date.
	On August 27, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU No. 2014-15. This standard provides guidance on determining when and how to disclose going-concern uncertainties in the financial statements. The new standard requires management to perform interim and annual assessments of an entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the new guidance and plans to provide additional information about its expected impact at a future date.

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_1

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	Years ended	Beginning		Additional		Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance		provisions		and other			balance
		January 1,		to allowance		deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	1,736	$	774	$	(743	)	$	1,767
	2013	$	1,729	$	457	$	(450	)	$	1,736
	2012	$	1,711	$	904	$	(886	)	$	1,729
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	(in thousands except per share data)
		2014		2013		2012
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	17,808	$	5,244	$	6,065
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic income per share – weighted-average shares		15,250		14,837		14,742
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested restricted shares		266		202		66
	Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested employee stock options		1		-		-
	Denominator for diluted income per share adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions		15,517		15,039		14,808
	Net income per share:
	Basic income per share	$	1.17	$	0.35	$	0.41
	Diluted income per share	$	1.15	$	0.35	$	0.41

Note_3_Fair_Value_of_Financial1

Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	December 31,
	Hedge derivative (liability) asset	2014 (1)			2013
	Fair Value of Derivative	$	(22,720	)	$	1,412
	Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		-			-
	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)	$	(22,720	)	$	1,412
	Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		-			-

Note_4_Stockbased_Compensation1

Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]		Number of			Weighted
		stock			average grant
		awards			date fair
		(in thousands)			value
	Unvested at December 31, 2011		468		$	8.27
	Granted		383		$	4.48
	Vested		(40	)	$	4.19
	Forfeited		(47	)	$	7.64
	Unvested at December 31, 2012		764		$	6.62
	Granted		263		$	5.6
	Vested		(200	)	$	8.12
	Forfeited		(50	)	$	5.56
	Unvested at December 31, 2013		777		$	5.95
	Granted		136		$	12.27
	Vested		(137	)	$	7.43
	Forfeited		(134	)	$	7.8
	Unvested at December 31, 2014		642		$	6.6
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]		Number of			Weighted		Weighted average		Aggregate intrinsic
		options (in			average		remaining		value
		thousands)			exercise price		contractual term		(in thousands)
							(in years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011		437		$	14.66		2.1	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		-			-
	Options forfeited		(104	)	$	12.27
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012		333		$	15.67		1.5	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		-			-
	Options forfeited		(112	)	$	17.14
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013		221		$	14.98		1	$	-
	Options granted		-			-
	Options exercised		(45	)	$	13.64
	Options forfeited		(100	)	$	21.71
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014		76		$	14.73		0.5	$	945
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014		76		$	14.73		0.5	$	945

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_

Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	Estimated		2014		2013
		Useful Lives
		(in years)
	Revenue equipment		10-Mar	$	418,574	$	372,968
	Communications equipment		10-May		8,248		9,084
	Land and improvements		0-10		18,820		19,009
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		Jul-40		37,217		41,876
	Construction in-progress		-		2,976		1,859
	Other		2-7		19,510		17,580
				$	505,345	$	462,376

Note_6_Goodwill_and_Other_Asse1

Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Assets [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	2014			2013
	Customer relationships		3,490			3,490
	Less: accumulated amortization of intangibles		(3,255	)		(3,164	)
	Net intangible assets		235			326
	Investment in TEL		12,192			8,737
	Other long-term receivables		575			631
	Deposits		546			732
	Deferred loan costs, net		724			931
	Hedge derivative asset		-			1,412
	Other, net		491			595
		$	14,763		$	13,364
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]			(In thousands)
	2015		$	66
	2016			48
	2017			35
	2018			25
	2019			18
	Thereafter		$	43

Note_7_Debt_Tables

Note 7 - Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	31-Dec-14				31-Dec-13
		Current		Long-Term		Current		Long-Term
	Borrowings under Credit Facility	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	7,010
	Revenue equipment installment notes; weighted average interest rate of 3.8% at December 31, 2014, and 4.7% December 31, 2013, due in monthly installments with final maturities at various dates ranging from January 2015 to January 2022, secured by related revenue equipment		27,550		155,832		43,745		158,596
	Real estate note; interest rate of 2.5% and 2.4% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, due in monthly installments with fixed maturity at December 2018, secured by related real-estate		166		3,608		217		3,693
	Other note payable, interest rate of 3.0% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, with fixed maturity at November 2016		108		91		108		192
	Total debt		27,824		159,531		44,070		169,491
	Principal portion of capital lease obligations, secured by related revenue equipment		1,606		13,372		8,732		13,186
	Total debt and capital lease obligations	$	29,430	$	172,903	$	52,802	$	182,677
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]		(in thousands)
	2015	$	27,824
	2016		34,331
	2017		38,544
	2018		53,478
	2019		25,659
	Thereafter	$	7,519

Note_8_Leases_Tables

Note 8 - Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Operating and Capital Leases [Table Text Block]		Operating		Capital
	2015	$	13,589	$	2,096
	2016		11,927		4,336
	2017		8,487		1,507
	2018		5,599		1,507
	2019		3,737		1,507
	Thereafter		18,142		5,963
	Total minimum lease payments	$	61,481	$	16,916
	Less: amount representing interest				(1,938	)
	Present value of minimum lease payments				14,978
	Less: current portion				(1,606	)
	Capital lease obligations, long-term			$	13,372
Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	2014		2013			2012
	Revenue equipment rentals	$	20,935	$	22,991		$	19,746
	Building and lot rentals		3,561		4,044			3,714
	Other equipment rentals		317		362			679
		$	24,813	$	27,397		$	24,139

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Tables

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Tables) [Line Items]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Federal, current	$	(94	)	$	(816	)	$	(707	)
	Federal, deferred		12,830			7,560			6,897
	State, current		187			102			307
	State, deferred		1,851			657			(162	)
		$	14,774		$	7,503		$	6,335
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Computed "expected" income tax expense	$	11,404		$	4,462		$	4,340
	State income taxes, net of federal income tax effect		1,075			421			409
	Per diem allowances		2,304			2,422			2,550
	Tax contingency accruals		(104	)		(496	)		(444	)
	Valuation allowance (release), net		18			684			(251	)
	Tax credits		(112	)		(250	)		(407	)
	Other, net		189			260			138
	Actual income tax expense	$	14,774		$	7,503		$	6,335
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Insurance and claims	$	16,153		$	11,691
	Net operating loss carryovers		18,160			13,681
	Other		7,750			6,035
	Deferred fuel hedge		8,144			-
	Valuation allowance		(1,001	)		(983	)
	Total deferred tax assets		49,206			30,424
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Property and equipment		(103,186	)		(76,280	)
	Other		(2,186	)		(4,793	)
	Prepaid expenses		(2,838	)		(3,194	)
	Total net deferred tax liabilities		(108,210	)		(84,267	)
	Net deferred tax liability	$	(59,004	)	$	(53,843	)
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	Years ended	Beginning			Additional			Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance			provisions			and other			balance
		January 1,			to allowance			deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	1,736		$	774		$	(743	)	$	1,767
	2013	$	1,729		$	457		$	(450	)	$	1,736
	2012	$	1,711		$	904		$	(886	)	$	1,729
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1,	$	1,060		$	1,563		$	1,979
	Increases related to prior year tax positions		246			-			-
	Decreases related to prior year positions		-			-			-
	Increases related to current year tax positions		42			24			2
	Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities		(126	)		-			-
	Decreases related to lapsing of statute of limitations		(227	)		(527	)		(418	)
	Balance as of December 31,	$	995		$	1,060		$	1,563
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Tables) [Line Items]
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	Years ended	Beginning			Additional			Write-offs			Ending
	December 31:	balance			provisions			and other			balance
		January 1,			to allowance			deductions			December 31,
	2014	$	983		$	401		$	(383	)	$	1,001
	2013	$	299		$	684		$	-		$	983

Note_10_Equity_Method_Investme1

Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Tables) (Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance Sheet [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Tables) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	As of the years ended December 31,
		2014		2013
	Current Assets	$	14,525	$	9,160
	Non-current Assets		64,731		40,296
	Current Liabilities		16,733		13,456
	Non-current Liabilities		45,687		26,101
	Total Equity	$	16,836	$	9,899
Income Statement [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Tables) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	(in thousands)	As of the years ended December 31,
	2014		2013		2012
	Revenue	$	90,197	$	58,484	$	53,459
	Operating Expenses		79,771		50,878		48,382
	Operating Income		10,426		7,606		5,077
	Net Income	$	7,564	$	5,643	$	3,850

Note_14_Accumulated_Other_Comp1

Note 14 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]	Details about	Amount Reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31,									Affected Line Item in the
	AOCI Components										Statement of Operations
		2014			2013			2012
	(Losses) gains on cash flow hedges
	Commodity derivative contracts	$	(3,141	)	$	643		$	5,031		Fuel expense
			1,206			(247	)		(1,932	)	Income tax expense
		$	(1,935	)	$	396		$	3,099		Net of tax

Note_16_Segment_Information_Ta

Note 16 - Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	Year Ended December 31, 2014	Truckload			Other			Unallocated Corporate			Consolidated
								Overhead
	Revenue	$	663,001		$	59,796		$	-		$	722,797
	Intersegment revenue		-			(3,817	)		-			(3,817	)
	Operating income (loss)		54,151			3,894			(18,399	)		39,646
	Depreciation and amortization		45,669			59			656			46,384
	Total assets		463,900			27,338			62,779			554,017
	Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)		87,871			14			1,570			89,455
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Revenue	$	644,403		$	51,702		$	-		$	690,327
	Intersegment revenue		-			(5,778	)		-			(5,778	)
	Operating income (loss)		27,746			1,271			(8,623	)		20,394
	Depreciation and amortization		42,848			72			775			43,694
	Total assets		402,637			20,883			42,902			466,422
	Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)		90,336			10			1,630			91,976
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Revenue	$	647,986		$	33,250		$	-		$	681,236
	Intersegment revenue		-			(6,982	)		-			(6,982	)
	Operating income (loss)		34,185			(741	)		(10,235	)		23,209
	Depreciation and amortization		42,015			26			1,181			43,222
	Total assets		363,223			11,963			25,046			400,232
	Capital expenditures, net		(16,677	)		-			939			(15,738	)

Note_17_Quarterly_Results_of_O1

Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]		(in thousands except per share amounts)
	Quarters ended	Mar. 31,			June 30,		Sep. 30,		Dec. 31,
		2014			2014		2014 (3)		2014
	Total revenue	$	160,957		$	173,654	$	177,581	$	206,788
	Operating income		354			9,056		5,586		24,650
	Net income (loss)		(1,374	)		3,780		1,857		13,545
	Basic and diluted (loss) income per share		-			-		-		-
	Basic (loss) income per share (1)		(0.09	)		0.25		0.12		0.84
	Diluted (loss) income per share (1)		(0.09	)		0.25		0.12		0.82
		(in thousands except per share amounts)
	Quarters ended	Mar. 31,			June 30,		Sep. 30,		Dec. 31,
		2013 (2)			2013		2013		2013
	Total revenue	$	164,731		$	172,488	$	170,843	$	176,487
	Operating income		(715	)		6,350		5,882		8,877
	Net (loss) income		(1,959	)		1,891		1,973		3,339
	Basic and diluted (loss) income per share		(0.13	)		0.13		0.13		0.22
	Basic (loss) income per share		-			-		-		-
	Diluted (loss) income per share		-			-		-		-

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_2

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended										12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	31-May-11
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Segments											1
Number of Asset Based Operating Fleets Aggregated in a Segment											3
Revenues	$206,788,000	$177,581,000	[1]	$173,654,000	$160,957,000	$176,487,000	$170,843,000	$172,488,000	$164,731,000	[2]	$718,980,000	$684,549,000	$674,254,000
Number of Major Customers												0
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	95,943,000					81,242,000					95,943,000	81,242,000
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	1,767,000					1,736,000					1,767,000	1,736,000	1,729,000	1,711,000
Goodwill	0					0					0	0	0
Drivers Advances And Other Receivables Net Of Allowance	5,770,000					5,356,000					5,770,000	5,356,000
Auto Policy Release Premium Refund											13,000,000
Non-cash Premium Credit Related to Commutation of Policies													4,000,000
Workers Compensation Self Insurance Per Claim											1,300,000
Employee Annual Insuarnce Deductible Per Claim											400,000
Interest Costs Capitalized											100,000	0.1	100,000
Non-asset Operations [Member] | Solutions [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Revenues											2,300,000	1,700,000
Factoring Receivables [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	15,800,000										15,800,000
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	200,000										200,000
Receivables from Insurers [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Drivers Advances And Other Receivables Net Of Allowance	100,000					1,000,000					100,000	1,000,000
Tractors [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life											5 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Salvage Value, Percentage	25.00%										25.00%
Refrigerated Trailers [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life											6 years
Dry Van Trailers [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life											10 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Salvage Value, Percentage	38.00%										38.00%
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life											3 years
Capital Leases of Lessee, Term of Contract											60 months
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life											10 years
Capital Leases of Lessee, Term of Contract											84 months
Collateral for Collection Issues [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Accounts Payable	300,000										300,000
Self Insurance [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Other Assets	600,000					600,000					600,000	600,000
Primary Excess Layer of Casualty [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	1,000,000										1,000,000
Single Loss [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	9,000,000								9,000,000		9,000,000
Each Policy Year [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	18,000,000								18,000,000		18,000,000
Aggregate for 3 Years Ended March 31, 2016 [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	30,000,000										30,000,000
Aggregate for 3 Years Ended March 31, 2013 [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense									27,000,000
Unspecified Customer [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Revenues											82,500,000
Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	49.00%										49.00%				49.00%
Sales Revenue, Net [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage											38.00%	34.00%	32.00%
Number of Major Customers											1		0
Minimum [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Cash Advance for Factoring Receivables, Percentage	85.00%										85.00%
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life											4 years
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	10,000,000										10,000,000
Cargo Losses Purchased Coverage Per Claim											300,000
Self Insured Cargo											2,000,000
Maximum [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Cash Advance for Factoring Receivables, Percentage	95.00%										95.00%
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life											20 years
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense	20,000,000										20,000,000
Per Claim Excess Policy Coverage											40,000,000
Cargo Losses Purchased Coverage Per Claim											$2,000,000
[1]	Includes $7.5 million increase to claims reserves for a 2008 cargo claim.
[2]	Includes $2.4 million gain on the sale of a terminal property.

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_3

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Abstract]
Beginning balance January 1	$1,736	$1,729	$1,711
Additional provisions to allowance	774	457	904
Write-offs and other deductions	-743	-450	-886
Ending balance December 31	$1,767	$1,736	$1,729

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_4

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - Calculation of Earnings Per Share (USD $)	3 Months Ended													12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Numerator:
Net income (in Dollars)	$13,545		$1,857	[1]	$3,780		($1,374)		$3,339	$1,973	$1,891	($1,959)	[2]	$17,808	$5,244	$6,065
Denominator:
Denominator for basic income per share b weighted-average shares														15,250	14,837	14,742
Effect of dilutive securities:
Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested restricted shares														266	202	66
Equivalent shares issuable upon conversion of unvested employee stock options														1	0	0
Denominator for diluted income per share adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions														15,517	15,039	14,808
Basic income per share (in Dollars per share)	$0.84	[3]	$0.12	[1],[3]	$0.25	[3]	($0.09)	[3]						$1.17	$0.35	$0.41
Diluted income per share (in Dollars per share)	$0.82	[3]	$0.12	[1],[3]	$0.25	[3]	($0.09)	[3]						$1.15	$0.35	$0.41
[1]	Includes $7.5 million increase to claims reserves for a 2008 cargo claim.
[2]	Includes $2.4 million gain on the sale of a terminal property.
[3]	Quarter totals do not aggregate to annual results due to the dilution related to the follow-on stock offering.

Note_2_Liquidity_Details

Note 2 - Liquidity (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Liquidity [Abstract]
Working Capital (Deficit)	$52,700,000	$14,100,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	34,300,000	39,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$60,700,000

Note_3_Fair_Value_of_Financial2

Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Net	$5,000,000	$0

Note_3_Fair_Value_of_Financial3

Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value of Derivatives	($22,720)	[1]	$1,412
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value of Derivatives	0	[1]	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value of Derivatives	-22,720	[1]	1,412
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Note 3 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value of Derivatives	$0	[1]	$0
[1]	Excludes cash collateral of $5.0 million provided by the Company to the counterparty.

Note_4_Stockbased_Compensation2

Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	29-May-14
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized	1,550,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	675,021
Maximum Number Of Shares Of Class A Common Stock Awarded To Any Participant In The Incentive Plan In Any Calendar Year	200,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	0	0	0
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation	$800,000		$100,000
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Deficiency from Share-based Compensation	-834,000	111,000
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation	832,000	340,000	9,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	642,000	777,000	764,000	468,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value	2,900,000	1,200,000	100,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	1,600,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	20 months
Salaries, Wages, and Related Expenses [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	1,300,000	300,000	1,200,000
General Supplies and Expenses [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	100,000	100,000	100,000
Common Class A [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation	39,676	53,188	1,940
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Per Share Weighted Average Price of Shares Purchased	$20.97	$6.41	$4.60
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation	$800,000	$300,000	$100,000
Service-based Vesting [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	276,321
Performance Shares [Member] | Relate to Performance for Year Ended Dec 31, 2014 [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	256,684
Performance Shares [Member] | Relate to Performance for Year Ended Dec 31, 2016 [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	32,463
Performance Shares [Member] | Unrecognized Compensation Expense [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	76,970
Performance Shares [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	366,117
Third Amendment [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized					750,000
Second Amendment [Member]
Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized					800,000

Note_4_Stockbased_Compensation3

Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) - Restricted Stock Activity (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Restricted Stock Activity [Abstract]
Number of stock awards - unvested	642	777	764	468
Weighted average grant date fair value - unvested	$6,600	$5,950	$6,620	$8,270
Number of stock awards - granted	136	263	383
Weighted average grant date fair value - granted	$12,270	$5,600	$4,480
Number of stock awards - vested	-137	-200	-40
Weighted average grant date fair value - vested	$7,430	$8,120	$4,190
Number of stock awards - forfeited	-134	-50	-47
Weighted average grant date fair value - forfeited	$7,800	$5,560	$7,640

Note_4_Stockbased_Compensation4

Note 4 - Stock-based Compensation (Details) - Stock Options Activity (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stock Options Activity [Abstract]
Number of options outstanding	76	221	333	437
Weighted average exercise price of options outstanding	$14.73	$14.98	$15.67	$14.66
Weighted average remaining contractual term of options outstanding	6 months	1 year	1 year 6 months	2 years 36 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding	$945
Exercisable at December 31, 2014	76
Exercisable at December 31, 2014	$14.73
Exercisable at December 31, 2014	6 months
Exercisable at December 31, 2014	$945
Number of options exercised	-45
Weighted average exercise price of options exercised	$13.64
Number of options forfeited	-100	-112	-104
Weighted average exercise price of options forfeited	$21.71	$17.14	$12.27

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_1

Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) [Line Items]
Depreciation	$49,000,000	$44,200,000	$47,800,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment	33,000	-81,000	-198,000
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	33,800,000	29,400,000
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation	10,600,000	7,600,000
Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense	3,000,000	2,200,000	2,100,000
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) [Line Items]
Capital Leases of Lessee, Term of Contract	84 months
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) [Line Items]
Capital Leases of Lessee, Term of Contract	60 months
Net in Depreciation and Amortization Expense [Member]
Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment	$2,700,000	$800,000	$4,900,000

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_2

Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details) - Property and Equipment, at Cost (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	505,345	$462,376
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	3 years
Revenue Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	10 years
Revenue Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	418,574	372,968
Office Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	5 years
Office Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	10 years
Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	8,248	9,084
Land and Land Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	0 years
Land and Land Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	10 years
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	18,820	19,009
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	7 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	40 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	37,217	41,876
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	2,976	1,859
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	2 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives	7 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	19,510	$17,580

Note_6_Goodwill_and_Other_Asse2

Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	$0	$0	$0
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$100,000	$200,000	$300,000

Note_6_Goodwill_and_Other_Asse3

Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Assets (Details) - Summary of Other Assets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Other Assets [Abstract]
Customer relationships	$3,490	$3,490
Less: accumulated amortization of intangibles	-3,255	-3,164
Net intangible assets	235	326
Investment in TEL	12,192	8,737
Other long-term receivables	575	631
Deposits	546	732
Deferred loan costs, net	724	931
Hedge derivative asset		1,412
Other, net	491	595
	$14,763	$13,364

Note_6_Goodwill_and_Other_Asse4

Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Assets (Details) - Future Amortization Expenses of Intangible Assets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Future Amortization Expenses of Intangible Assets [Abstract]
2015	$66
2016	48
2017	35
2018	25
2019	18
Thereafter	$43

Note_7_Debt_Details

Note 7 - Debt (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 29, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2008	31-May-11
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)				$85,000,000
Line Of Credit Facility, Maximum Increase In Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)				50,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Availability Block Removed (in Dollars)	15,000,000
Line Of Credit Facility, Revolver Commitment Amount (in Dollars)		25,000,000
Line Of Credit Facility, Availability As Percentage Of Revolver Commitment		35.00%
Maximum Stock Repurchase Aggregate Amount Allowed Pursuant To Credit Facility Agreement (in Dollars)	5,000,000
Debt Instrument, Fee Amount (in Dollars)			300,000
Percent Of Eligible Accounts Receivable		85.00%
Percent of Appraised Net Orderly Liquidation Value of Eligible Revenue Equipment		85.00%
Percent of Net Book Value of Eligible Revenue Equipment		95.00%
Percent Of Appraised Fair Market Value Of Eligible Real Estate		65.00%
Long-term Line of Credit (in Dollars)		0
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount (in Dollars)		34,300,000	39,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)		60,700,000
Debt, Secured with a Cross Default Feature (in Dollars)		174,600,000
Commodity Contract Asset, Current (in Dollars)		12,800,000
Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member] | Eighth Amendment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	51.00%
Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage		49.00%			49.00%
Eighth Amendment [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)	95,000,000
Base Rate Loans [Member] | Federal Funds Rate [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		0.50%
Base Rate Loans [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.00%
Base Rate Loans [Member] | Applicable Margin [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.25%
Base Rate Loans [Member] | Applicable Margin [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		0.50%
LIBOR [Member] | Applicable Margin [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		2.25%
LIBOR [Member] | Applicable Margin [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.50%
Letter of Credit [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)				85,000,000
Swing Line Sub Facility [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)				10,000,000
Percent of Aggregate Commitments Under Credit Facility				10.00%
When Availability Is Less Than $50 Million [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.38%
When Availability Is At Least $50 Million [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.50%
Testing of Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Covenant [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	12.50%
Line Of Credit Facility, Revolver Commitment Amount (in Dollars)	11,900,000
Cash Dominion Applies [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility, Revolver Commitment Amount (in Dollars)	$14,300,000
Line Of Credit Facility, Availability As Percentage Of Revolver Commitment	15.00%
Maximum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.50%
Minimum [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.38%

Note_7_Debt_Details_Current_an

Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowings under Credit Facility	$0	$0
Borrowings under Credit Facility		7,010
Notes payable, current	27,824	44,070
Notes payable, long-term	159,531	169,491
Principal portion of capital lease obligations, secured by related revenue equipment	1,606	8,732
Principal portion of capital lease obligations, secured by related revenue equipment	13,372	13,186
Total debt and capital lease obligations	29,430	52,802
Total debt and capital lease obligations	172,903	182,677
Revenue Equipment Installment Notes [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable, current	27,550	43,745
Notes payable, long-term	155,832	158,596
Real Estate Note [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable, current	166	217
Notes payable, long-term	3,608	3,693
Other Note Payable [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable, current	108	108
Notes payable, long-term	$91	$192

Note_7_Debt_Details_Current_an1

Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt (Parentheticals)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenue Equipment Installment Notes [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt (Parentheticals) [Line Items]
Interest rate on notes payable, current	3.80%	4.70%
Interest rate on notes payable, long-term	3.80%	4.70%
Real Estate Note [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt (Parentheticals) [Line Items]
Interest rate on notes payable, current	2.50%	2.40%
Interest rate on notes payable, long-term	2.50%	2.40%
Other Note Payable [Member]
Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Current and Long-term Debt (Parentheticals) [Line Items]
Interest rate on notes payable, current	3.00%	3.00%
Interest rate on notes payable, long-term	3.00%	3.00%

Note_7_Debt_Details_Future_Deb

Note 7 - Debt (Details) - Future Debt Payments (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Future Debt Payments [Abstract]
2015	$27,824
2016	34,331
2017	38,544
2018	53,478
2019	25,659
Thereafter	$7,519

Note_8_Leases_Details

Note 8 - Leases (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]
Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Residual Value of Leased Assets	$4	$9.90

Note_8_Leases_Details_Future_P

Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Future Payments of Leases (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Future Payments of Leases [Abstract]
2015	$13,589
2015	2,096
2016	11,927
2016	4,336
2017	8,487
2017	1,507
2018	5,599
2018	1,507
2019	3,737
2019	1,507
Thereafter	18,142
Thereafter	5,963
Total minimum lease payments	61,481
Total minimum lease payments	16,916
Less: amount representing interest	-1,938
Present value of minimum lease payments	14,978
Less: current portion	-1,606	-8,732
Capital lease obligations, long-term	$13,372	$13,186

Note_8_Leases_Details_Summary_

Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Summary of Rental Expense (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Summary of Rental Expense [Line Items]
Rental expense	$24,813	$27,397	$24,139
Revenue Equipment [Member]
Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Summary of Rental Expense [Line Items]
Rental expense	20,935	22,991	19,746
Land and Building [Member]
Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Summary of Rental Expense [Line Items]
Rental expense	3,561	4,044	3,714
Other Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Note 8 - Leases (Details) - Summary of Rental Expense [Line Items]
Rental expense	$317	$362	$679

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	35.00%
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current	$14,700,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent	73,717,000	59,077,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	59,004,000	53,843,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	1,001,000	983,000
Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Current	1,600,000	1,800,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	700,000	800,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	14,774,000	7,503,000	6,335,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	1,100,000	1,200,000
Interest and Penalties Recognized for Uncertain Tax Positions [Member]
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	100,000	-300,000	-300,000
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	0	0
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$1,000,000	$1,000,000

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details_Co

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) - Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract]
Federal, current	($94)	($816)	($707)
Federal, deferred	12,830	7,560	6,897
State, current	187	102	307
State, deferred	1,851	657	-162
	$14,774	$7,503	$6,335

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details_In

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) - Income Tax Reconcilliation (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Reconcilliation [Abstract]
Computed "expected" income tax expense	$11,404	$4,462	$4,340
State income taxes, net of federal income tax effect	1,075	421	409
Per diem allowances	2,304	2,422	2,550
Tax contingency accruals	-104	-496	-444
Valuation allowance (release), net	18	684	-251
Tax credits	-112	-250	-407
Other, net	189	260	138
Actual income tax expense	$14,774	$7,503	$6,335

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details_De

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Insurance and claims	$16,153	$11,691
Net operating loss carryovers	18,160	13,681
Other	7,750	6,035
Deferred fuel hedge	8,144
Valuation allowance	-1,001	-983
Total deferred tax assets	49,206	30,424
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	-103,186	-76,280
Other	-2,186	-4,793
Prepaid expenses	-2,838	-3,194
Total net deferred tax liabilities	-108,210	-84,267
Net deferred tax liability	($59,004)	($53,843)

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details_Ac

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) - Activity in Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets (Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Beginning balance January 1	$983	$299
Additional provisions to allowance	401	684
Write-offs and other deductions	-383
Ending balance December 31	$1,001	$983

Note_9_Income_Taxes_Details_Un

Note 9 - Income Taxes (Details) - Unrecognized Tax Benefits Acitivity (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Acitivity [Abstract]
Balance as of January 1,	$1,060	$1,563	$1,979
Balance as of December 31,	995	1,060	1,563
Increases related to prior year tax positions	246	0
Decreases related to prior year positions	0	0	0
Increases related to current year tax positions	42	24	2
Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities	-126	0	0
Decreases related to lapsing of statute of limitations	($227)	($527)	($418)

Note_10_Equity_Method_Investme2

Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	20 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	31-May-11	31-May-11	Dec. 31, 2012
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	$3,730,000	$2,750,000	$1,875,000
Accrued Liabilities, Current	39,470,000	28,185,000
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment	78,776,000	51,930,000	57,525,000
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions	307,000	65,000	316,000
Equity Method Investments	12,192,000	8,737,000
Services Provided [Member] | Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	2,700,000	2,400,000
Based On 2011 Results [Member] | Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability				1,000,000	1,000,000
Based On 2012 Results [Member] | Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments				2,400,000
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Option To Acquire Interest In Equity Method Investment, Percentage of Ownership	100.00%
Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member] | Reduction In TEI Investment [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Deferred Gain on Sale of Property	800,000	800,000
Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	49.00%			49.00%	49.00%
Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments					1,500,000	4,900,000
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High				4,500,000	4,500,000
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	3,700,000	2,800,000	1,900,000
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment	14,000,000	16,000,000
Deferred Gain on Sale of Property	100,000	100,000
Due from Related Parties	2,200,000	1,900,000
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions	300,000	100,000	300,000
Equity Method Investments	12,200,000	8,700,000
Earnout [Member]
Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Accrued Liabilities, Current	$0

Note_10_Equity_Method_Investme3

Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) - TELbs Summarized Financial Information - Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
TELbs Summarized Financial Information - Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Current Assets	$14,525	$9,160
Non-current Assets	64,731	40,296
Current Liabilities	16,733	13,456
Non-current Liabilities	45,687	26,101
Total Equity	$16,836	$9,899

Note_10_Equity_Method_Investme4

Note 10 - Equity Method Investment (Details) - TELbs Summarized Financial Information - Income Statement (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
TELbs Summarized Financial Information - Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$90,197	$58,484	$53,459
Operating Expenses	79,771	50,878	48,382
Operating Income	10,426	7,606	5,077
Net Income	$7,564	$5,643	$3,850

Note_11_Deferred_Profit_Sharin1

Note 11 - Deferred Profit Sharing Employee Benefit Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$0	$0	$0

Note_13_Derivative_Instruments1

Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Assets at Fair Value	$22,700,000	$1,400,000
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net	-3,100,000	600,000	3,100,000
Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness, Net	100,000
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months	8,000,000
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Net	5,000,000	0
Gallons of Diesel [Member] | Fuel Requirements 2015 [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held	12,600,000
Gallons of Diesel [Member] | Fuel Requirements 2016 [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held	12,100,000
Gallons of Diesel [Member] | Fuel Requirements 2017 [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held	3,000,000
Gallons of Diesel [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Underlying, Derivative Volume (in Dollars per Item)	3.08	3.29
Gallons of Diesel [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Underlying, Derivative Volume (in Dollars per Item)	1.58	2.72
Fuel Requirements 2015 [Member] | Gallons of Diesel [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Percent of Projected Fuel Requirements	23.00%
Fuel Requirements 2016 [Member] | Gallons of Diesel [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Percent of Projected Fuel Requirements	22.00%
Fuel Requirements 2017 [Member] | Gallons of Diesel [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Percent of Projected Fuel Requirements	5.00%
Hedge Contracts Ineffectiveness [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative, Additional Fuel Expense	1,400,000
Expired or Sold contracts [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net	-1,500,000
Additional Fuel Expense, no Longer Deemed to be Effective [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net	-1,400,000
Additional Fuel Expense, Unfavorable Ineffectiveness [Member]
Note 13 - Derivative Instruments (Details) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net	($200,000)

Note_14_Accumulated_Other_Comp2

Note 14 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Details) - Components of AOCI (Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member], Commodity Contract [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
	($1,935)	$396	$3,099
Fuel Expense [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Commodity derivative contracts	-3,141	643	5,031
Income Tax Expense [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
	$1,206	($247)	($1,932)

Note_15_Commitments_and_Contin1

Note 15 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 26, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Note 15 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount			$34.30	$39
Self Insurance Reserve			1
Revenue Equipment [Member]
Note 15 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) [Line Items]
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed			116.8	0.2
Cargo Claim [Member]
Note 15 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) [Line Items]
Litigation Settlement, Amount	-5.9
Increase (Decrease) in Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserve	$7.50	$8.10

Note_16_Segment_Information_De

Note 16 - Segment Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of Reportable Segments	1

Note_16_Segment_Information_De1

Note 16 - Segment Information (Details) - Segment Information (USD $)	3 Months Ended										12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue	$206,788	$177,581	[1]	$173,654	$160,957	$176,487	$170,843	$172,488	$164,731	[2]	$718,980	$684,549	$674,254
Operating income (loss)	24,650	5,586	[1]	9,056	354	8,877	5,882	6,350	-715	[2]	39,646	20,394	23,209
Total assets	554,017					466,422					554,017	466,422
Operating Segments [Member] | Truckload [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue											663,001	644,403	647,986
Operating income (loss)											54,151	27,746	34,185
Depreciation and amortization											45,669	42,848	42,015
Total assets	463,900					402,637					463,900	402,637	363,223
Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)											87,871	90,336	-16,677
Operating Segments [Member] | Other Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue											59,796	51,702	33,250
Operating income (loss)											3,894	1,271	-741
Depreciation and amortization											59	72	26
Total assets	27,338					20,883					27,338	20,883	11,963
Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)											14	10
Operating Segments [Member] | Corporate Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)											-18,399	-8,623	-10,235
Depreciation and amortization											656	775	1,181
Total assets	62,779					42,902					62,779	42,902	25,046
Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)											1,570	1,630	939
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue											722,797	690,327	681,236
Operating income (loss)											39,646	20,394	23,209
Depreciation and amortization											46,384	43,694	43,222
Total assets	554,017					466,422					554,017	466,422	400,232
Capital expenditures (proceeds), net (1)											89,455	91,976	-15,738
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Other Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue											-3,817	-5,778	-6,982
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue											($3,817)	($5,778)	($6,982)
[1]	Includes $7.5 million increase to claims reserves for a 2008 cargo claim.
[2]	Includes $2.4 million gain on the sale of a terminal property.

Note_17_Quarterly_Results_of_O2

Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Aug. 26, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment	$33,000	($81,000)	($198,000)
Terminal Property [Member]
Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment				2,400,000
Cargo Claim [Member]
Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserve					$7,500,000	$8,100,000

Note_17_Quarterly_Results_of_O3

Note 17 - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) - Quarterly Results of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended													12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Results of Operations [Abstract]
Total revenue	$206,788		$177,581	[1]	$173,654		$160,957		$176,487	$170,843	$172,488	$164,731	[2]	$718,980	$684,549	$674,254
Operating income	24,650		5,586	[1]	9,056		354		8,877	5,882	6,350	-715	[2]	39,646	20,394	23,209
Net income (loss)	$13,545		$1,857	[1]	$3,780		($1,374)		$3,339	$1,973	$1,891	($1,959)	[2]	$17,808	$5,244	$6,065
Basic and diluted (loss) income per share (in Dollars per share)									$0.22	$0.13	$0.13	($0.13)	[2]
Basic (loss) income per share (1) (in Dollars per share)	$0.84	[3]	$0.12	[1],[3]	$0.25	[3]	($0.09)	[3]						$1.17	$0.35	$0.41
Diluted (loss) income per share (1) (in Dollars per share)	$0.82	[3]	$0.12	[1],[3]	$0.25	[3]	($0.09)	[3]						$1.15	$0.35	$0.41
[1]	Includes $7.5 million increase to claims reserves for a 2008 cargo claim.
[2]	Includes $2.4 million gain on the sale of a terminal property.
[3]	Quarter totals do not aggregate to annual results due to the dilution related to the follow-on stock offering.