SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, DC 20549 FORM 10-K (Mark One) [ X ] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED) For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2000 OR [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED). For the transition period from to Commission file number 0-24960 COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Nevada 88-0320154 - ------------------------------------- ------------------------------ (State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) Incorporation or Organization) 400 Birmingham Highway Chattanooga, Tennessee 37419 - ------------------------------------- ------------------------------ (Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 423/821-1212 Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: $0.01 Par Value Class A Common Stock Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES [ X ] NO [ ] Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendments to this Form 10-K. [ ] The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $78.1 million as of March 20, 2001 (based upon the $13.25 per share closing price on that date as reported by Nasdaq). In making this calculation the registrant has assumed, without admitting for any purpose, that all executive officers, directors, and holders of more than 10% of a class of outstanding common stock, and no other persons, are affiliates. As of March 26, 2001, the registrant had 11,600,166 shares of Class A Common Stock and 2,350,000 shares of Class B Common Stock outstanding. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: The information set forth under Part III, Items 10, 11, 12, and 13 of this Report is incorporated by reference from the registrant's definitive proxy statement for the 2001 annual meeting of stockholders that will be filed no later than April 29, 2001. 1 Cross Reference Index The following cross reference index indicates the document and location of the information contained herein and incorporated by reference into the Form 10-K. Document and Location --------------------- Part I ------ Item 1 Business Page 3 herein Item 2 Properties Page 6 herein Item 3 Legal Proceedings Page 6 herein Item 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders Page 7 herein Part II ------- Item 5 Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters Page 7 herein Item 6 Selected Financial Data Page 8 herein Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Page 9 herein Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Page 17 herein Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Page 18 herein Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure Page 18 herein Part III -------- Item 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant Page 2-3 of Proxy Statement Item 11 Executive Compensation Pages 5-8 of Proxy Statement Item 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management Pages 9-10 of Proxy Statement Item 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions Page 4 of Proxy Statement Part IV ------- Item 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K Page 19 herein ____________________________________ This report contains "forward-looking statements." These statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Factors That May Affect Future Results" for additional information and factors to be considered concerning forward-looking statements. 2 PART I ITEM 1. BUSINESS General Covenant Transport, Inc. ("Covenant" or the "Company") is a truckload carrier that offers just-in-time and other premium transportation service for customers throughout the United States. Covenant was founded by David and Jacqueline Parker in 1985 with 25 tractors and 50 trailers. In fifteen years of operating, the Company's fleet has grown to 3,829 tractors and 7,571 trailers, and in 2000 revenue grew to $552.4 million. In recent years, the Company has grown both internally and through acquisitions. The Company has completed nine acquisitions since 1996, including six in the past three years. In August 1998, Covenant purchased certain assets of Gouge Trucking, Inc. ("Gouge"), for approximately $1.0 million. In October 1998, Covenant acquired all of the outstanding stock of Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., a $23 million annual revenue truckload carrier (referred to as "SRT"), located in southwest Arkansas. In September 1999, the Company purchased the trucking assets of ATW, Inc. ("ATW"), a long-haul team service carrier. ATW was based in Greensboro, North Carolina and generated approximately $40 million in annual revenue. In November 1999, the Company purchased all of the outstanding capital stock of Harold Ives Trucking Co. and Terminal Truck Broker, Inc. (together, "Harold Ives"), near Little Rock, Arkansas. In August 2000, the Company purchased certain trucking assets of Con-Way Truckload Services, Inc. ("CTS"), an $80 million annual truckload carrier headquartered in Forth Worth, Texas. At December 31, 2000, the Company's corporate structure included Covenant Transport, Inc., a Nevada holding company organized in May 1994 and its wholly owned subsidiaries: Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation organized in November 1985; Covenant Asset Management, Inc., a Nevada corporation; CIP, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant.com, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., an Arkansas corporation; Tony Smith Trucking, Inc., an Arkansas corporation; Harold Ives Trucking Co., an Arkansas corporation; CVTI Receivables Corp. ("CRC"), a Nevada corporation, and Terminal Truck Broker, Inc., an Arkansas corporation. This report contains forward-looking statements. Additional written or oral forward-looking statements may be made by the Company from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or otherwise. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," and "project," and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statement was made. Such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of that term in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements. Statements in this report, including the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," describe factors, among others, that could contribute to or cause such differences. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements are set forth in "Business" in this report. Operations Covenant approaches its operations as an integrated effort of marketing, customer service, and fleet management. The Company's customer service and marketing personnel emphasize both new account development and expanded service for current customers. Customer service representatives provide day-to-day contact with customers, while the sales force targets driver-friendly freight that will increase lane density. The Company's primary customers include manufacturers, retailers, and other transportation companies. Other transportation companies primarily consist of less than truckload and air freight carriers, third-party freight consolidators, and freight forwarders who seek Covenant's expedited and just-in-time service. In 2000, the transportation industry was the largest industry Covenant served. In the aggregate, subsidiaries of CNF, Inc. accounted for approximately 11% of Covenant's 2000 revenue. No single customer accounted for 10% or more of the Company's revenue in the two fiscal years prior to 2000. 3 Covenant conducts its operations from its headquarters in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The former Bud Meyer and Harold Ives Trucking operations have been centralized in Chattanooga as well. SRT's operations center remains in Ashdown, Arkansas. Fleet managers at each operations center plan load coverage according to customer information requirements and relay pick-up, delivery, routing, and fueling instructions to the Company's drivers. The fleet managers attempt to route most of the Company's trucks over selected operating lanes. The resulting lane density assists the Company in balancing traffic between eastbound and westbound movements, reducing empty miles, and improving the reliability of delivery schedules. Covenant utilizes proven technology, including the Qualcomm OmnitracsTM and SensortracsTM systems, to increase operating efficiency and improve customer service and fleet management. The Omnitracs system is a satellite based tracking and communications system that permits direct communication between drivers and fleet managers. The Omnitracs system also updates the tractor's position every 30 minutes to permit shippers and the Company to locate freight and accurately estimate pick-up and delivery times. The Company uses the Sensortracs system to monitor engine idling time, speed, and performance, and other factors that affect operating efficiency. All of the Company's tractors have been equipped with the Qualcomm systems since 1995 and the Company has added Qualcomm systems, if necessary, to the tractors obtained in its acquisitions. As an additional service to customers, the Company offers electronic data interchange ("EDI"), which allows customers and the Company to communicate electronically, permitting real-time information flow, reductions or eliminations in paperwork, and fewer clerical personnel. With EDI customers can receive updates as to cargo position, delivery times, and other information. Additionally, the Company offers load tracking via the Internet. The Company also allows customers to communicate electronically in order to obtain information regarding delivery, local distribution, and account payment instructions. Since 1997, the Company has used a document imaging system to reduce paperwork and enhance access to important information. Drivers and Other Personnel Driver recruitment, retention, and satisfaction are essential to Covenant's success, and the Company has made each of these factors a primary element of its strategy. Driver-friendly operations are emphasized throughout the Company. The Company has implemented automatic programs to signal when a driver is scheduled to be routed toward home, and fleet managers are assigned specific tractor units, regardless of geographic region, to foster positive relationships between the drivers and their principal contact with the Company. In addition, Covenant has offered per-mile wage increases to Company drivers in each year since 1996, and continues to aggressively seek rate increases from customers in part to fund higher driver pay. Covenant differentiates its primary dry van business from many shorter-haul truckload carriers by its use of driver teams. Driver teams permit the Company to provide expedited service over its long average length of haul, because driver teams are able to handle longer routes and drive more miles while remaining within Department of Transportation ("DOT") safety rules. Management believes that these teams contribute to greater equipment utilization than most carriers with predominately single drivers. The use of teams, however, increases personnel costs as a percentage of revenue and the number of drivers the Company must recruit. At December 31, 2000, teams operated approximately 40% of the Company's tractors. The tractors of SRT and Harold Ives are operated primarily by single drivers. The single driver fleets operate fewer miles per tractor and experience more empty miles but these higher expenses are being offset by higher revenue per loaded mile because of reduced employee expense and the benefits of increased density on Company lanes. Covenant is not a party to a collective bargaining agreement and its employees are not represented by a union. At December 31, 2000, the Company employed approximately 5,750 drivers and approximately 1,097 nondriver personnel. Management believes that the Company has a good relationship with its personnel. Revenue Equipment Management believes that operating high quality, efficient equipment is an important part of providing excellent service to customers. The Company's policy is to operate its tractors while under warranty to minimize repair and 4 maintenance cost and reduce service interruptions caused by breakdowns. The Company also orders most of its equipment with uniform specifications to reduce its parts inventory and facilitate maintenance. The Company's fleet of 3,829 tractors had an average age of 17.7 months at December 31, 2000, and all tractors remained covered by manufacturer's warranties. Management believes that a late model tractor fleet is important to driver recruitment and retention and contributes to operating efficiency. The Company utilizes conventional tractors equipped with large sleeper compartments. During 2000, the trucking industry experienced a substantial decline in the value of used tractors. Covenant believes that it reduced its exposure to the used tractor market in 2001 by negotiating a large trade package on 1998 equipment and extending its trade cycle on remaining revenue equipment. During 2000, the Company decided to begin trading equipment based on mileage. The result is that management believes that basically no equipment will be traded in 2001. At December 31, 2000, the Company's fleet of 7,571 trailers had an average age of 41.3 months. Approximately 85% of the Company's trailers were 53-feet long by 102-inch wide, dry vans. The Company also operated approximately 1,146 53-foot and approximately 17 48-foot temperature-controlled trailers. Competition The United States trucking industry is highly competitive and includes thousands of for-hire motor carriers, none of which dominates the market. Service and price are the principal means of competition in the trucking industry. The Company targets primarily the market segment that demands just-in-time and other premium services. Management believes that this segment generally offers higher freight rates than the segment that is less dependent upon timely service and that the Company's size and use of driver teams are important in competing in this segment. The Company competes to some extent with railroads and rail-truck intermodal service but differentiates itself from rail and rail-truck intermodal carriers on the basis of service because rail and rail-truck intermodal movements are subject to delays and disruptions arising from rail yard congestion, which reduces the effectiveness of such service to customers with time-definite pick-up and delivery schedules. Regulation The Company is a common and contract motor carrier of general commodities. Historically, the Interstate Commerce Commission (the "ICC") and various state agencies regulated motor carriers' operating rights, accounting systems, mergers and acquisitions, periodic financial reporting, and other matters. In 1995, federal legislation preempted state regulation of prices, routes, and services of motor carriers and eliminated the ICC. Several ICC functions were transferred to the DOT. Management does not believe that regulation by the DOT or by the states in their remaining areas of authority has had a material effect on the Company's operations. The Company's employee and independent contractor drivers also must comply with the safety and fitness regulations promulgated by the DOT, including those relating to drug and alcohol testing and hours of service. The DOT has rated the Company "satisfactory," which is the highest safety and fitness rating. The DOT presently is considering proposals to amend the hours-in-service requirements applicable to truck drivers. Any change which reduces the potential or practical amount of time that drivers can spend driving could adversely affect the Company. We are unable to predict the nature of any changes that may be adopted. The DOT also is considering requirements that trucks be equipped with certain equipment that the DOT believes would result in safer operations. The cost of the equipment, if required, could adversely affect the Company's profitability if shippers are unwilling to pay higher rates to fund the purchase of such equipment. The Company's operations are subject to various federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations, implemented principally by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency and similar state regulatory agencies, governing the management of hazardous wastes, other discharge of pollutants into the air and surface and underground waters, and the disposal of certain substances. If the Company should be involved in a spill or other accident involving hazardous substances, if any such substances were found on the Company's property, or if the Company were found to be in violation of applicable laws and regulations, the Company could be responsible for clean-up costs, property damage, and fines or other penalties, any one of which could have a materially adverse effect on the Company. The Company does not utilize any on-site underground fuel storage tanks at any of its locations. Management believes that its operations are in material compliance with current laws and regulations. 5 Fuel Availability and Cost The Company actively manages its fuel costs by routing the Company's drivers through fuel centers with which the Company has negotiated volume discounts. Average fuel prices continued to rise in 2000. During 2000 the cost of fuel was in the range at which the Company received fuel surcharges. Even with the fuel surcharges, the high price of fuel hurt the Company's profitability. Although the Company historically has been able to pass through a substantial part of increases in fuel prices and taxes to customers in the form of higher rates and surcharges, the increases usually are not fully recovered. The Company does not collect surcharges on fuel used for non-revenue miles, out-of-route miles, or fuel used while the tractor is idling. At December 31, 2000, approximately 3% of the Company's projected 2001 purchases of fuel were subject to purchase contracts. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES The Company's headquarters and main terminal are located on approximately 180 acres of property in Chattanooga, Tennessee, that include an office building of approximately 182,000 square feet (including the recent addition referenced below), the Company's approximately 65,000 square-foot principal maintenance facility, a body shop of approximately 16,600 square feet, and a truck wash. The Company initiated work on an approximately 100,000 square foot addition to the office building during the fourth quarter of 1999, which has been completed.. Covenant maintains eighteen terminals located on its major traffic lanes in the following cities, with the facilities noted: --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Driver Terminal Locations Maintenance Recruitment Sales Ownership --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Chattanooga, Tennessee x x x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Lake City, Minnesota Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- French Camp, California x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Long Beach, California Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Dalton, Georgia x x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Pomona, California x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Hutchins, Texas x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- El Paso, Texas Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Laredo, Texas Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Delanco, New Jersey x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Indianapolis, Indiana x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Ashdown, Arkansas x x x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Little Rock, Arkansas x x Owned --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Stuttgart, Arkansas Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Dayton, Ohio x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Charlotte, North Carolina x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- Greensboro, North Carolina x Leased --------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------- -------------------- The terminals provide a base for drivers in proximity to their homes, transfer locations for trailer relays on transcontinental routes, and parking space for equipment dispatch and maintenance. ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND INSURANCE The Company from time to time is a party to litigation arising in the ordinary course of its business, substantially all of which involves claims for personal injury and property damage incurred in the transportation of freight. In 2000, the Company maintained insurance covering losses in excess of a $5,000 deductible from cargo loss, losses in excess of a $2,500 deductible for physical damage claims, and losses in excess of a $5,000 deductible from personal injury and property damage. The Company maintains a workers' compensation plan for its employees. Each of the primary insurance policies has a limit of $1.0 million per occurrence, and the Company carries excess liability coverage, which management believes is adequate. The Company is not aware of any claims or threatened claims that might materially adversely affect its operations or financial position. 6 In the first quarter of 2001, the Company increased its deductibles to a combined $250,000 per occurrence, with each occurrence including the aggregate of liability, cargo, and physical damage coverage. In addition, the Company increased its workers' compensation deductible to $250,000 per occurrence. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS During the fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 2000, no matters were submitted to a vote of security holders. PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS Price Range of Common Stock The Company's Class A Common Stock has been traded on the National Market under the symbol "CVTI." The following table sets forth for the calendar periods indicated the range of high and low sales price for the Company's Class A Common Stock as reported by Nasdaq from January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1999. Period High Low ------ ---- --- Calendar Year 1999 1st Quarter $20.625 $12.375 2nd Quarter $16.000 $11.125 3rd Quarter $18.938 $15.250 4th Quarter $18.250 $13.375 Calendar Year 2000 1st Quarter $18.250 $10.250 2nd Quarter $15.875 $7.563 3rd Quarter $11.000 $7.688 4th Quarter $12.125 $8.000 As of March 26, 2001, the Company had approximately 47 stockholders of record of its Class A Common Stock. However, the Company estimates that it has approximately 2,200 stockholders because a substantial number of the Company's shares are held of record by brokers or dealers for their customers in street names. Dividend Policy The Company has never declared and paid a cash dividend on its common stock. It is the current intention of the Company's Board of Directors to continue to retain earnings to finance the growth of the Company's business rather than to pay dividends. The payment of cash dividends is currently limited by agreements relating to the Company's $120 million line of credit, $25 million in senior notes due October 2005, and the operating lease covering the Company's headquarters and terminal facility. Future payments of cash dividends will depend upon the financial condition, results of operations, and capital commitments of the Company, restrictions under then-existing agreements, and other factors deemed relevant by the Board of Directors. 7 ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA (In thousands except per share and operating data amounts) Years Ended December 31, ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Statement of Operations Data: Revenue $ 236,267 $ 297,861 $ 370,546 $ 472,741 $ 552,429 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages, and related expenses 108,818 131,522 164,589 202,420 239,988 Fuel, oil, and road expenses 55,340 64,910 68,292 84,465 93,581 Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation 605 8,492 24,250 49,260 76,131 Repairs 4,293 5,885 8,366 10,078 13,312 Operating taxes and licenses 6,065 7,514 9,393 10,988 14,169 Insurance 6,115 8,656 10,370 12,458 15,765 Communications and utilities 3,152 3,533 4,328 5,682 7,189 General supplies and expenses 9,673 12,744 15,069 19,109 24,635 Depreciation and amortization 22,139 26,482 30,192 35,591 38,879 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total operating expenses 216,200 269,738 334,849 430,051 523,649 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating income 20,067 28,123 35,697 42,690 28,780 Interest expense 5,987 6,273 5,924 5,513 9,006 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income before income taxes 14,080 21,850 29,773 37,177 19,774 Income tax expense 5,102 8,148 11,490 14,900 7,899 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income $ 8,978 $ 13,702 $ 18,283 $ 22,277 $ 11,875 ============================================================================= Basic earnings per share $ 0.67 $ 1.03 $ 1.27 $ 1.49 $ 0.82 Diluted earnings per share 0.67 1.03 1.27 1.48 0.82 Weighted average common shares Outstanding 13,350 13,360 14,393 14,912 14,404 Adjusted weighted average common shares and assumed conversions 13,353 13,360 14,440 15,028 14,533 outstanding Balance Sheet Data: Net property and equipment $ 144,384 $ 161,621 $ 200,537 $ 269,034 $ 256,049 Total assets 187,148 215,256 272,959 383,974 390,513 Long-term debt, less current maturities 83,110 80,812 84,331 140,497 79,295 Stockholders' equity $ 81,730 $ 95,597 $ 141,522 $ 163,852 $ 167,822 Selected Operating Data: Pretax margin 6.0% 7.3% 8.0% 7.9% 3.6% Average revenue per loaded mile $ 1.09 $ 1.12 $ 1.18 $ 1.20 $ 1.23 Average revenue per total mile $ 1.04 $ 1.07 $ 1.10 $ 1.11 $ 1.13 Average miles per tractor per year 150,778 149,117 144,000 144,601 128,754 Average revenue per tractor per week $ 2,994 $ 3,059 $ 3,045 $ 3,078 $ 2,790 Weighted average tractors for year (1) 1,509 1,866 2,333 2,929 3,759 Total tractors at end of period (1) 1,629 2,136 2,608 3,521 3,829 Total trailers at end of period (1) 3,048 3,948 4,526 6,199 7,571 (1) Includes monthly rental tractors and excludes monthly rental trailers. 8 ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OVERVIEW During the three-year period ended December 31, 2000, the Company increased its revenue at a compounded annual growth rate of 22.9%, as revenue increased from $297.9 million in 1997 to $552.4 million in 2000. A significant increase in fleet size to meet customer demand as well as an increase in the freight rates contributed to revenue growth over this period. In addition to internal growth, the Company completed six acquisitions during the three-year period ended December 31, 2000. The acquired operations generated approximately $200 million in combined revenue. The Company intends to continue to grow both internally and through acquisitions. The main constraints on internal growth are the ability to recruit and retain a sufficient number of qualified drivers and, in times of slower economic growth, to add profitable freight. The Company's acquisitions of SRT, ATW, Harold Ives, and CTS have resulted in changes in several operating statistics and expense categories. These operations use predominately single-driver tractors, as opposed to the primarily team-driver tractor fleet operated by Covenant's long-haul operation. The single driver fleets operate fewer miles per tractor and experience more empty miles. The additional expenses and lower productive miles are offset by generally higher revenue per loaded mile and the reduced employee expense of compensating only one driver. In addition, the Company's refrigerated services must bear additional expenses of fuel for refrigeration units, pallets, and depreciation and interest expense of more expensive trailers associated with temperature controlled service. The Company's operating statistics and expenses are expected to continue to shift in future periods with the mix of single, team, and temperature-controlled operations. In 1997, the Company initiated the use of owner-operators. The Company contracted with an average of 134 owner-operators in 1998, 285 owner-operators in 1999, and 509 owner-operators in 2000. Owner-operators provide a tractor and a driver and bear all operating expenses in exchange for a fixed lease payment per mile. In addition, the Company does not have the capital outlay of purchasing the tractor. The Company also entered into operating leases. In 1998, the Company had 500 tractors and 69 trailers financed under operating leases. In 1999, the Company had 717 tractors and 450 trailers financed under operating leases. In 2000, the Company had 1,090 tractors and 1,541 trailers financed under operating leases. The lease payments to owner-operators and the financing of revenue equipment under operating leases appear as operating expenses under revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation. For leased equipment, expenses associated with owned equipment, such as interest and depreciation, are not incurred; and for owner-operator tractors, driver compensation, fuel, communications, and other expenses are not incurred. Because obtaining equipment from owner-operators and under operating leases effectively shifts financing expenses from interest to "above the line" operating expenses, the Company evaluates its efficiency using pretax margin and net margin rather than operating ratio. Effective July 1, 2000, the Company merged its logistics business with the logistics business of five other transportation companies into Transplace.com, L.L.C. ("Transplace.com"). Transplace.com operates an Internet-based global transportation logistics service and is developing programs for the cooperative purchasing of products, supplies, and services. In the transaction, Covenant contributed its logistics customer list, logistics business software and software licenses, certain intellectual property, and $5.0 million in cash for the initial funding of the venture. In exchange, Covenant received 13% ownership in Transplace.com. Upon completion of the transaction, Covenant ceased operating its own transportation logistics and brokerage business, which consisted primarily of the Terminal Truck Broker, Inc. business acquired in November 1999. The contributed operation generated approximately $5.0 million in net brokerage revenue (gross revenue less purchased transportation expense) received on an annualized basis. The Company recognized approximately $400,000 of pretax earnings related to Transplace.com during 2000. 9 The following table sets forth the percentage relationship of certain items to revenue for each of the three years-ended December 31: 1998 1999 2000 ------------- ------------- ------------- Revenue 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Operating expenses: Salaries, wages, and related expenses 44.4 42.8 43.4 Fuel, oil, and road expenses 18.4 17.9 16.9 Revenue equipment rentals and purchased Transportation 6.5 10.4 13.8 Repairs 2.3 2.1 2.4 Operating taxes and licenses 2.5 2.3 2.6 Insurance 2.8 2.6 2.9 Communications and utilities 1.2 1.2 1.3 General supplies and expenses 4.1 4.0 4.5 Depreciation and amortization 8.1 7.5 7.0 ------------- ------------- ------------- Total operating expenses 90.4 91.0 94.8 ------------- ------------- ------------- Operating income 9.6 9.0 5.2 Interest expense 1.6 1.2 1.6 ------------- ------------- ------------- Income before income taxes 8.0 7.9 3.6 Income tax expense 3.1 3.2 1.4 ------------- ------------- ------------- Net income 4.9% 4.7% 2.1% ============= ============= ============= COMPARISON OF YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000 TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999 Revenue increased $79.7 million (16.9%), to $552.4 million in 2000, from $472.7 million in 1999. The revenue increase was primarily generated by a 28.3% increase in weighted average tractors, to 3,759 in 2000, from 2,929 in 1999, as the Company expanded externally through the acquisitions of the stock of Harold Ives Trucking Co. and the asset acquisitions from ATW and CTS. The Company's average revenue per loaded mile increased to approximately $1.23 in 2000, from $1.20 in 1999. The increase was attributable primarily to per-mile rate increases negotiated by the Company. Revenue per total mile increased to approximately $1.13 in 2000, from $1.11 in 1999. The Company's growth was affected by a 9.4% decrease in revenue per tractor per week to $2,790 in 2000 from $3,078 in 1999. Revenue per tractor per week was reduced because of fewer miles per tractor due to a less robust freight environment than in 1999 and the acquisition of Harold Ives Trucking Co. and CTS, which operated single-driver tractors that generate fewer miles than team-driven tractors. Salaries, wages, and related expenses increased $37.6 million (18.6%), to $240.0 million in 2000, from $202.4 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, salaries, wages, and related expenses increased to 43.4% in 2000, from 42.8% in 1999. Driver wages as a percentage of revenue remained essentially constant at 30.6% in 2000, and 30.7% in 1999. The Company increased driver wages in October 1999 and in April 2000. These increases were offset as the Company utilized more owner-operators and had a larger percentage of single-driver tractors from the operations of SRT, Harold Ives, and CTS, which only have one driver to be compensated. Non-driving employee payroll expense remained essentially constant at 6.2% of revenue in the 2000 period and 6.1% of revenue in the 1999 period. Health insurance, employer paid taxes, and workers' compensation increased to 6.4% of revenue in 2000, from 5.8% in 1999. The increase as a percentage of revenue was primarily the result of increased group health insurance claims in 2000 as compared to 1999. Fuel, oil, and road expenses increased $9.1 million (10.8%), to $93.6 million in 2000, from $84.5 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, fuel, oil, and road expenses decreased to 16.9% in 2000 from 17.9% in 1999. During 2000, average fuel costs for the year increased approximately $0.34 per gallon versus 1999. The increase in 2000 was offset by fuel surcharges, which are included as a reduction in fuel cost, fuel hedges in the form of fixed price purchase commitments, and by the increased usage of owner-operators who pay for their own fuel purchases. Fuel surcharges amounted to nearly $.052 per mile or approximately $25.3 million during 2000 compared with less than one cent per mile or approximately $2.4 million during 1999. The Company's percentage of fuel purchases that are hedged was approximately 18.5% in 1999 and approximately 17.3% for the year 2000. 10 Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased $26.9 million (54.5%), to $76.1 million in 2000, from $49.3 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased to 13.8% in 2000 from 10.4% in 1999. During 1997, the Company began using owner-operators, who provide a tractor and driver and cover all of their operating expenses in exchange for a fixed payment per mile. Accordingly, expenses such as driver salaries, fuel, repairs, depreciation, and interest normally associated with Company-owned equipment are consolidated in revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation when owner-operators are utilized. The Company increased the fleet size of owner-operators to an average of 509 in 2000, compared to 285 in 1999, a 78.6% increase. The Company also entered into additional operating leases. As of December 31, 2000, the Company had financed approximately 1,090 tractors and 1,541 trailers under operating leases as compared to 717 tractors and 450 trailers under operating leases as of December 31, 1999. The equipment leases will increase this expense category in the future, while reducing depreciation and interest expenses. Repairs increased $3.2 million (32.1%), to $13.3 million in 2000, from $10.1 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, repairs increased to 2.4% in 2000, from 2.1% in 1999. The increase was primarily the result of an increase in the number of tractors and trailers damaged in accidents, an increase in the number of tractors and trailers available for routine maintenance due to the slower freight environment, and repair requirements associated with the trade-in of a large number of tractors during the fourth quarter 2000. Operating taxes and licenses increased $3.2 million (28.9%), to $14.2 million in 2000, from $11.0 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, operating taxes and licenses increased to 2.6% in 2000, from 2.3% in 1999, partially due to increased fleet size and additional property taxes related to facilities. Insurance, consisting primarily of premiums for liability, physical damage, and cargo damage insurance, and claims, increased $3.3 million (26.5%), to $15.8 million in 2000, from $12.5 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, insurance increased to 2.9% in 2000, from 2.6% in 1999. The increase was primarily related to the Company experiencing an increase in the cost of one of its insurance lines in July 2000, and the payment of a claim to one of its customers that the insurance company had denied in the amount of approximately $500,000. The Company has other insurance lines that will be due for renewal in the first quarter of 2001. Management expects that an increase in insurance premiums and deductibles will cause this expense category to be higher in future periods. Communications and utilities increased $1.5 million (26.5%), to $7.2 million in 2000, from $5.7 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, communications and utilities remained essentially constant at 1.3% in 2000 as compared to 1.2% in 1999. General supplies and expenses, consisting primarily of headquarters and other terminal lease expense, and driver recruiting expenses, increased $5.5 million (28.9%), to $24.6 million in 2000, from $19.1 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, general supplies and expenses increased to 4.5% in 2000 from 4.0% in 1999. The 2000 increase was primarily the result of expenses incurred from the acquisitions related to ATW, Harold Ives, and CTS, as well as the addition of a driving school located in Arkansas. Depreciation and amortization, consisting primarily of depreciation of revenue equipment, increased $3.3 million (9.2%), to $38.9 million in 2000, from $35.6 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and amortization decreased to 7.0% in 2000, from 7.5% in 1999, because the Company utilized more owner-operators, leased more revenue equipment through operating leases, and extended the depreciable life of the Company's trailers from seven years to eight years to conform with the Company's actual experience of equipment life. These factors offset lower revenue per tractor. Amortization expense relates to deferred debt costs incurred and covenants not to compete from five acquisitions, as well as goodwill from eight acquisitions. Depreciation and amortization expense is net of any gain or loss on the sale of tractors and trailers. Gain on sale of tractors and trailers was approximately $1.0 million in 2000 and $67,000 in 1999. The predictability of any gain/(loss) on the sale of equipment is difficult due to the market value of used equipment varies from year to year. The unpredictability of gains/(losses) could impact depreciation and amortization as a percentage of revenue. In the fourth quarter of 2000, the Company began reserving against tractor values, which will affect this line item in future periods. Interest expense increased $3.5 million (63.4%), to $9.0 million in 2000, from $5.5 million in 1999. As a percentage of revenue, interest expense increased to 1.6% in 2000, from 1.2% in 1999, as the result of higher debt balances related to the acquisitions, the investment in Transplace.com, and the stock repurchase program as well as higher interest rates. The increase was partially offset by utilizing more owner-operators and leasing more revenue equipment. 11 As a result of the foregoing, the Company's pre-tax margin decreased to 3.6% in 2000 compared with 7.9% in 1999. The Company's effective tax rate remained essentially constant at 39.9% in 2000, and 40.1% in 1999. The Company implemented certain tax planning stategies during 2000 and expects to incur an effective tax rate of approximately 38% in 2001. As a result of the factors described above, net income decreased $10.4 million (46.7%), to $11.9 million in 2000 (2.1% of revenue), from $22.3 million in 1999 (4.7% of revenue). COMPARISON OF YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999 TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 Revenue increased $102.2 million (27.6%), to $472.7 million in 1999 from $370.5 million in 1998. The revenue increase was primarily generated by a 25.5% increase in weighted average tractors, to 2,929 in 1999, from 2,333 in 1998, as the Company expanded internally to serve new customers and higher volumes from existing customers, as well as externally through the acquisitions of Gouge in August 1998, SRT in October 1998, ATW in September 1999, and Harold Ives in November 1999. The Company's average revenue per loaded mile increased to approximately $1.20 in 1999, from $1.18 in 1998. The increase was attributable primarily to per-mile rate increases negotiated by the Company. The increase in average revenue per loaded mile more than offset an increase in the empty miles percentage. Revenue per total mile increased to approximately $1.11 in 1999, from $1.10 in 1998. Salaries, wages, and related expenses increased $37.8 million (23.0%), to $202.4 million in 1999, from $164.6 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, salaries, wages, and related expenses decreased to 42.8% in 1999, from 44.4% in 1998. Driver wages as a percentage of revenue decreased to 30.7% in 1999, from 32.3% in 1998, because the Company utilized more owner-operators and a larger percentage of single-driver tractors from the operations of SRT, and Harold Ives, which only have one driver to be compensated. A driver wage increase that went into effect in October 1999, and an additional increase planned for early 2000 are expected to increase driver wages as a percentage of revenue in future periods. The Company experienced an increase in non-driving employee payroll expense to 6.1% of revenue in the 1999 period from 5.5% of revenue in the 1998 period due to the start up of Covenant Transport Logistics and the acquisitions of SRT and Harold Ives. Health insurance, employer paid taxes, and workers' compensation decreased to 5.8% of revenue in 1999, from 6.3% in 1998. The decrease as a percentage of revenue was primarily the result of improved group health insurance rates in 1999 as compared to the 1998 rates. Fuel, oil, and road expenses increased $16.2 million (23.7%), to $84.5 million in 1999, from $68.3 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, fuel, oil, and road expenses decreased to 17.9% in 1999 from 18.4% in 1998. During 1999, average fuel costs for the year increased approximately $0.10 per gallon versus 1998. The increase in 1999 was more than offset by fuel surcharges, fuel hedges, and by the increased usage of owner-operators who pay for their own fuel purchases. However, fuel prices rose sharply during the fourth quarter of 1999 and remain elevated at levels much higher than the average in 1998 or 1999. Thus, fuel, oil, and road expenses are anticipated to increase as a percentage of revenue in 2000. Fuel surcharges amounted to nearly $.006 per mile or approximately $2.4 million during 1999. Fuel surcharges were not triggered during 1998. The Company's percentage of fuel purchases that are hedged was approximately 18.5% in 1999 and is approximately 12% for the year 2000. Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased $25.0 million (103.1%), to $49.3 million in 1999, from $24.3 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased to 10.4% in 1999 from 6.5% in 1998. During 1997, the Company began using owner-operators of revenue equipment, who provide a tractor and driver and cover all of their operating expenses in exchange for a fixed payment per mile. Accordingly, expenses such as driver salaries, fuel, repairs, depreciation, and interest normally associated with Company-owned equipment are consolidated in revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation when owner-operators are utilized. The Company increased the fleet size of owner-operators to an average of 285 in 1999, compared to 134 in 1998, an increase of 112.7%. The Company also entered into additional operating leases. During 1999, an average of approximately 497 tractors were leased compared to an average of approximately 220 leased tractors during 1998. The equipment leases will increase this expense category in the future, while reducing depreciation and interest. The Company also formed a logistics division in the fourth quarter of 1998 that is being reflected in this expense category as well. Repairs increased $1.7 million (20.5%), to $10.1 million in 1999, from $8.4 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, repairs decreased to 2.1% in 1999, from 2.3% in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, repairs decreased due to 12 the increased number of owner-operators who are responsible for their own repairs, which more than offset additional repairs associated with a slight increase in fleet age. Operating taxes and licenses increased $1.6 million (17.0%), to $11.0 million in 1999, from $9.4 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, operating taxes and licenses decreased to 2.3% in 1999, from 2.5% in 1998, due to increased revenue per tractor more efficiently spreading this largely fixed cost. Insurance, consisting primarily of premiums for liability, physical damage, and cargo damage insurance, and claims, increased $2.1 million (20.1%), to $12.5 million in 1999, from $10.4 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, insurance decreased to 2.6% in 1999, from 2.8% in 1998, as the Company continued to reduce premiums per million dollars of revenue. Insurance costs are expected to rise nationwide in 2000, and the Company may be subject to increased costs in this area. General supplies and expenses, consisting primarily of headquarters and other terminal lease expense, driver recruiting expenses, and communications, increased $5.4 million (27.8%), to $24.8 million in 1999, from $19.4 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, general supplies and expenses remained essentially constant at 5.2% in the 1999 and the 1998 periods. Depreciation and amortization, consisting primarily of depreciation of revenue equipment, increased $5.4 million (17.9%), to $35.6 million in 1999, from $30.2 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and amortization decreased to 7.5% in 1999, from 8.1% in 1998, because the Company utilized more owner operators, leased more revenue equipment, and realized an increase in revenue per tractor per week, which more efficiently spread this fixed cost over a larger revenue base. Amortization expense relates to deferred debt costs incurred and covenants not to compete from two 1995, one 1998, and two 1999 business acquisitions, as well as goodwill from two 1997, two 1998, and three 1999 acquisitions. Depreciation and amortization expense is net of any gain or loss on the sale of tractors and trailers. Gain on sale of tractors and trailers was approximately $1.9 million in 1998, and $67,000 in 1999. The market for used tractors deteriorated late in 1999, and into 2000. If the prices for used equipment remain depressed, the Company may recognize less gain or a loss on the sale of its tractors and trailers, which would impact depreciation and amortization as a percentage of revenue. Interest expense decreased $0.4 million (6.9%), to $5.5 million in 1999, from $5.9 million in 1998. As a percentage of revenue, interest expense decreased to 1.2% in 1999, from 1.6% in 1998, as the result of utilizing more owner-operators and leasing more revenue equipment. As a result of the foregoing, the Company's pretax margin remained essentially constant at 7.9% in 1999, compared with 8.0% in 1998. The Company's effective tax rate was 40.1% in 1999, and 38.6% in 1998, due to the Company paying taxes to a greater number of states. As a result of the factors described above, net income increased $4.0 million (21.9%), to $22.3 million in 1999 (4.7% of revenue), from $18.3 million in 1998 (4.9% of revenue). LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES The continued growth of the Company's business has required significant investments in new revenue equipment and upgraded and expanded facilities. The Company historically has financed its expansion requirements with borrowings under a line of credit, cash flows from operations, long-term operating leases, and a small portion with borrowings under installment notes payable to commercial lending institutions and equipment manufacturers. The Company's primary sources of liquidity at December 31, 2000, were funds provided by operations, proceeds under the Securitization Facility (as defined below), and borrowings under its primary credit agreement, which had maximum available borrowing of $120.0 million at December 31, 2000 (the "Credit Agreement"). The Company believes its sources of liquidity are adequate to meet its current and projected needs. The Company's current liabilities increased significantly as a result of the receipt of $62.0 million of proceeds from the Securitization Facility. This increase was partially offset by a decrease on the line of credit facility, which is classified as a long-term liability. As discussed in the financial statement footnotes, the net proceeds under the 13 Securitization Facility are required to be shown as a current liability because the term, subject to annual renewals, is 364 days. The Company's primary sources of cash flow from operations in 2000 were net income increased by depreciation and amortization and deferred income taxes. The most significant uses of cash provided by operations were to fund prepaid expenses (primarily increased insurance deposits and license plates for revenue equipment) and to finance increases in receivables and advances associated with growth in the business. The Company's number of days sales in accounts receivable decreased from 45 days in 1999, to 43 days in 2000. Net cash provided by operating activities was $48.7 million in 2000, and $44.5 million in 1999. Net cash used in investing activities was $41.2 million in 2000 and $80.8 million in 1999. Such amounts were used primarily to acquire additional revenue equipment and expand facilities as the Company expanded its operations. During 2000, the decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily due to the Company acquiring a greater percentage of its revenue equipment through operating leases which do not require a capital outlay for purchasing the equipment. In addition, during the 2000 period, investing activity was used to repurchase company stock, to invest in Transplace.com, and to acquire the assets of CTS. Approximately $7.7 million represented the purchase price for the assets and business of CTS, of which approximately $2.6 million was allocated to goodwill. The Company expects capital expenditures, primarily for revenue equipment (net of trade-ins) to be approximately $25 million in 2001, exclusive of acquisitions. In June 2000, the Company authorized a stock repurchase plan for up to 1.0 million company shares to be purchased in the open market or through negotiated transactions. In July 2000, the Company authorized an additional 500,000 shares to be repurchased. As of December 2000, a total of 971,500 had been purchased with an average price of $8.17. The stock repurchase program has no expiration date. During the third quarter of 2000, the Company merged its logistics business with the logistics business of five other transportation companies into Transplace.com. In the transaction, Covenant contributed its logistics customer list, logistics business software and software licenses, certain intellectual property, and $5.0 million in cash for the initial funding of the venture. In exchange, Covenant received 13% ownership in Transplace.com. Net cash used in financing activities was $6.2 million in the 2000 period, and financing activities in the 1999 period provided approximately $34.5 million. The primary source of cash for 2000 was provided by borrowings under the Credit Agreement and Securitization Facility. The decrease in 2000 was primarily due to the Company entering into operating leases. At December 31, 2000, the Company had outstanding debt of $142.8 million, primarily consisting of $62.0 million in the Securitization Facility, $49.0 million drawn under the Credit Agreement, $25.0 million in 10-year senior notes, $3.5 million in term equipment financing, a $3.0 million interest bearing note to the former primary stockholder of SRT, and $350,000 in notes related to non-compete agreements. Interest rates on this debt range from 6.5% to 9.0%. In December 2000, the Company entered into the Credit Agreement with a group of banks, which matures December 2003. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are based on the banks' base rate or LIBOR and accrue interest based on one, two, or three month LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin that is adjusted quarterly between 0.75% and 1.25% based on cash flow coverage. At December 31, 2000, the margin was 1.00%. The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by the Company and all of the Company's subsidiaries except CVTI Receivables Corp. The Credit Agreement has a maximum borrowing limit of $120.0 million. Borrowings related to revenue equipment are limited to the lesser of 90% of net book value of revenue equipment or $120.0 million. Letters of credit are limited to an aggregate commitment of $10.0 million. The Credit Agreement includes a "security agreement" such that the Credit Agreement may be collateralized by virtually all assets of the Company if a covenant violation occurs. A commitment fee, that is adjusted quarterly between 0.15% and 0.25% per annum based on cash flow coverage, is due on the daily unused portion of the Credit Agreement. In December 2000, the Company entered into a $62 million revolving accounts receivable securitization facility (the "Securitization Facility"). On a revolving basis, the Company sells its interests in its accounts receivable to CVTI Receivables Corp. ("CRC"), a wholly-owned bankruptcy-remote special purpose subsidiary incorporated in Nevada. CRC sells a percentage ownership in such receivables to an unrelated financial entity. The Company can receive up to $62 million of proceeds, subject to eligible receivables and will pay a service fee recorded as interest expense, 14 based on commercial paper interest rates plus an applicable margin of 0.41% per annum and a commitment fee of 0.10% per annum on the daily unused portion of the Facility. The Securitization Facility is subject to annual renewal. As of December 2000, there were $62 million in proceeds received. In December 2000, the Company amended and restated its $25 million note purchase agreement with an insurance company. The notes bear interest at 7.39%, payable semi-annually, and mature on October 1, 2005. Principal payments are due in five equal annual installments beginning in 2001. Proceeds of the notes were used to reduce borrowings under the Credit Agreement. The Company's headquarters facility was completed in December 31, 1996. The cost of the approximately 75 acres and construction of the headquarters and shop buildings was approximately $15 million. The Company financed the land and improvements under a "build to suit" operating lease. This operating lease expires March 2001, and the Company anticipates refinancing the facility under the Credit Agreement. The Company has completed the construction of an approximately 100,000 square foot addition to the office building and has completed improvements on an additional 58 acres of land. The cost of these activities in 2000 was $13.3 million, which was also financed under the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement, Securitization Facility, senior notes, and the headquarters and terminal lease agreement contain certain restrictions and covenants relating to, among other things, dividends, tangible net worth, cash flow, acquisitions and dispositions, and total indebtedness. All of these instruments are cross-defaulted. The Company was in compliance with the agreements at December 31, 2000. INFLATION AND FUEL COSTS Most of the Company's operating expenses are inflation-sensitive, with inflation generally producing increased costs of operations. During the past three years, the most significant effects of inflation have been on revenue equipment prices and the compensation paid to the drivers. Innovations in equipment technology and comfort have resulted in higher tractor prices, and there has been an industry-wide increase in wages paid to attract and retain qualified drivers. The Company historically has limited the effects of inflation through increases in freight rates and certain cost control efforts. In addition to inflation, fluctuations in fuel prices can affect profitability. Fuel expense comprises a larger percentage of revenue for Covenant than many other carriers because of Covenant's long average length of haul. Most of the Company's contracts with customers contain fuel surcharge provisions. Although the Company historically has been able to pass through most long-term increases in fuel prices and taxes to customers in the form of surcharges and higher rates, increases usually are not fully recovered. In the fourth quarter of 1999, fuel prices escalated rapidly and have remained high throughout 2000. This has increased the Company's cost of operating. SEASONALITY In the trucking industry, revenue generally decreases as customers reduce shipments during the winter holiday season and as inclement weather impedes operations. At the same time, operating expenses generally increase, with fuel efficiency declining because of engine idling and weather creating more equipment repairs. For the reasons stated, first quarter net income historically has been lower than net income in each of the other three quarters of the year. The Company's equipment utilization typically improves substantially between May and October of each year because of the trucking industry's seasonal shortage of equipment on traffic originating in California and the Company's ability to satisfy some of that requirement. The seasonal shortage typically occurs between May and August because California produce carriers' equipment is fully utilized for produce during those months and does not compete for shipments hauled by the Company's dry van operation. During September and October, business increases as a result of increased retail merchandise shipped in anticipation of the holidays. 15 The table below sets forth quarterly information reflecting the Company's equipment utilization (miles per tractor per period) during 1998, 1999, and 2000. The Company believes that equipment utilization more accurately demonstrates the seasonality of its business than changes in revenue, which are affected by the timing of deliveries of new revenue equipment. Results of any one or more quarters are not necessarily indicative of annual results or continuing trends. Equipment Utilization Table (Miles Per Tractor Per Period) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ---------------- ------------------- ---------------- ----------------- 1998 34,828 35,796 36,455 36,813 1999 33,739 37,011 37,585 36,132 2000 31,095 31,869 32,948 32,784 FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS A number of factors over which the Company has little or no control may affect the Company's future results. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, the following: Economic Factors - Negative economic factors such as recessions, downturns in customers' business cycles, surplus inventories, inflation, and higher interest rates could impair the Company's operating results by decreasing equipment utilization or increasing costs of operations. Fuel Price - The price of diesel fuel escalated rapidly in late 1999 and continued at high levels throughout 2000. Fuel is one of the Company's largest operating expense, and high fuel prices have a negative impact on the Company's profitability. Continued high fuel prices may affect the Company's future results. Resale of Used Revenue Equipment - The Company historically has recognized a gain on the sale of its revenue equipment. The market for used tractors experienced a sharp drop in late 1999 and into 2000. If the prices for used equipment remain depressed, the Company could find it necessary to dispose of its equipment at lower prices or retain some of its equipment longer, with a resulting increase in operating expenses. Recruitment, Retention, and Compensation of Qualified Drivers - Competition for drivers is intense in the trucking industry. There has been since 1999, and and continues to be an industry-wide shortage of qualified drivers. This shortage could force the Company to significantly increase the compensation it pays to driver employees, curtail the Company's growth, or experience the adverse effects of tractors without drivers. Competition - The trucking industry is highly competitive and fragmented. The Company competes with other truckload carriers, private fleets operated by existing and potential customers, railroads, rail-intermodal service, and to some extent with air-freight service. Competition is based primarily on service, efficiency, and freight rates. Many competitors offer transportation service at lower rates than the Company. The Company's results could suffer if it cannot obtain higher rates than competitors that offer a lower level of service. Regulation - The trucking industry is subject to various governmental regulations. The DOT is considering a proposal that may limit the hours-in-service during which a driver may operate a tractor and a proposal that would require installing certain safety equipment on tractors. Although the Company is unable to predict the nature of any changes in regulations, the cost of any changes, if implemented, may adversely affect the profitability of the Company. Insurance and claims - In 2001 the Company adopted an insurance program with significantly higher deductibles. An increase in the number or severity of accidents, stolen equipment, or other loss events over those anticipated could have a materially adverse effect on the Company's profitability. Acquisitions - A significant portion of the Company's growth has occurred through acquisitions, and acquisitions are an important component of the Company's growth strategy. Management must continue to identify desirable target companies and negotiate, finance, and close acceptable transactions or the Company's growth could suffer. 16 New Accounting Pronouncements - In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. The statement established accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. SFAS No. 133 requires that changes in the derivative's fair value be recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. The Company may engage in hedging activities using futures, forward contracts, options, and swaps to hedge the impact of market fluctuations on energy commodity prices and interest rates. The Company will be required to adopt the standard in 2001 and has determined there will not be any material adverse impact on its results of operations or financial position resulting from the adoption of SFAS No. 133. ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKS The Company is exposed to market risks from changes in (i) certain commodity prices and (ii) certain interest rates on its debt. COMMODITY PRICE RISK Prices and availability of all petroleum products are subject to political, economic, and market factors that are generally outside the Company's control. Because the Company's operations are dependent upon diesel fuel, significant increases in diesel fuel costs could materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations and financial condition. Historically, the Company has been able to recover a portion of short-term fuel price increases from customers in the form of fuel surcharges. The price and availability of diesel fuel can be unpredictable as well as the extent to which fuel surcharges could be collected to offset such increases. For 2000, diesel fuel expenses represented 15.1% of the Company's total operating expenses and 14.3% of total revenue. The Company uses purchase commitments through suppliers to reduce a portion of its exposure to fuel price fluctuations. At December 31, 2000, the national average price of diesel fuel as provided by the U.S. Department of Energy was $1.522 per gallon. At December 31, 2000, the notional amount for purchase commitments during 2001 was 2.3 million gallons. At December 31, 2000, the price of the notional 2.3 million gallons would have produced approximately $400,000 of income to offset increased fuel prices if the price of fuel remained the same as of December 31, 2000. At December 31, 2000, a ten percent change in the price of fuel would increase or decrease the gain on fuel purchase commitments by $300,000. The Company does not enter into contracts with the objective of earning financial gains on price fluctuations, nor does it trade in these instruments when there are no underlying related exposures. INTEREST RATE RISK The Credit Agreement, provided there has been no default, carries a maximum variable interest rate of LIBOR for the corresponding period plus 1.25%. At December 31, 2000, the Company had drawn $49 million under the Credit Agreement, which is subject to variable rates. Considering all debt outstanding, each one-percentage point increase or decrease in LIBOR would affect the Company's pretax interest expense by $490,000 on an annualized basis. 17 ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA The Company's audited consolidated balance sheets, statements of income, cash flows, stockholders' equity, and notes related thereto, are contained at Pages 21 to 35 of this report. The supplementary quarterly financial data follows: Quarterly Financial Data: (In thousands except per share amounts) First Second Third Fourth Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter 2000 2000 2000 2000 --------------- --------------- --------------- -------------- Revenue $ 126,481 $139,398 $141,667 $144,883 Operating income 5,687 7,265 7,435 8,392 Income before taxes 3,384 4,829 5,131 6,430 Income taxes 1,351 1,929 2,053 2,565 Net income 2,033 2,900 3,078 3,865 Net income per share $ 0.14 $ 0.20 $ 0.22 $ 0.28 First Second Third Fourth Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter 1999 1999 1999 1999 --------------- --------------- --------------- -------------- Revenue $ 97,764 $ 113,211 $120,104 $141,662 Operating income 6,731 11,112 12,468 12,379 Income before taxes 5,430 9,887 11,188 10,672 Income taxes 2,181 3,955 4,486 4,278 Net income 3,249 5,932 6,702 6,394 Net income per share $ 0.22 $ 0.40 $ 0.45 $ 0.43 ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE No reports on Form 8-K have been filed within the twenty-four months prior to December 31, 2000, involving a change of accountants or disagreements on accounting and financial disclosure. PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT The information respecting executive officers and directors set forth under the captions "Election of Directors - Information Concerning Directors and Executive Officers" and "Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934" on Pages 2 to 3 and Page 12 of the Registrant's Proxy Statement for the 2001 annual meeting of stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with Rule 14a-6 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Proxy Statement") is incorporated by reference; provided, that the "Audit Committee Report for 2000" and the Stock Performance Graph contained in the Proxy Statement are not incorporated by reference. ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The information respecting executive compensation set forth under the caption "Executive Compensation" on Pages 5 to 8 of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference; provided, that the "Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation" contained in the Proxy Statement is not incorporated by reference. ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT The information respecting security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management set forth under the caption "Security Ownership of Principal Stockholders and Management" on Pages 9 to 10 of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference. 18 ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS The information respecting certain relationships and transactions of management set forth under the captions "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Certain and Relationships and Related Transactions" on Page 4 of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference. PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (a) 1. Financial Statements. The Company's audited consolidated financial statements are set forth at the following pages of this report: Report of Independent Accountants.............................................22 Consolidated Balance Sheets...................................................23 Consolidated Statements of Income.............................................24 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity...............................25 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.........................................26 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements....................................27 2. Financial Statement Schedules. Financial statement schedules are not required because all required information is included in the financial statements. 3. Exhibits. See list under Item 14(c) below, with management compensatory plans and arrangements being listed under Exhibits 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.5, 10.6, and 10.7. (b) Reports on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2000. There were no reports on Form 8-K filed during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2000. (c) Exhibits Exhibit Number Reference Description 3.1 (1) Restated Articles of Incorporation. 3.2 (1) Amended By-Laws dated September 27, 1994. 4.1 (1) Restated Articles of Incorporation. 4.2 (1) Amended By-Laws dated September 27, 1994. 10.1 (1) Incentive Stock Plan filed as Exhibit 10.9. 10.2 (1) 401(k) Plan filed as Exhibit 10.10. 10.3 (2) Amendment No. 2 to the Incentive Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.10. 10.4 (3) Stock Purchase Agreement made and entered into as of November 15, 1999, by and among Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Harold Ives; Marilu Ives, Tommy Ives, Garry Ives, Larry Ives, Sharon Ann Dickson, and the Tommy Denver Ives Irrevocable Trust; Harold Ives Trucking Co.; and Terminal Truck Broker, Inc. 10.5 (4) Outside Director Stock Option Plan, filed as Exhibit A. 10.6 (5) Amendment No. 3 to the Incentive Stock Plan filed as Exhibit 10.10. 10.7 (5) Amendment No. 1 to the Outside Director Stock Option Plan filed as Exhibit 10.11. 10.8 (6) Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated December 13, 2000, 19 among Covenant Asset Management, Inc., Covenant Transport, Inc., and CIG & Co. 10.9 (6) Credit Agreement by and among Covenant Asset Management, Inc., Covenant Transport, Inc., Bank of America, N.A., and Lenders, dated December 13, 2000. 10.10 (6) Loan Agreement dated December 12, 2000, among CVTI Receivables Corp., and Covenant Transport, Inc., Three Pillars Funding Corporation, and Suntrust Equitable Securities Corporation. 10.11 (6) Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of December 12, 2000, among CVTI Receivables Corp., Covenant Transport, Inc., and Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc. 21 (6) List of subsidiaries. 23 (6) Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References: Previously filed as an exhibit to and incorporated by reference from: (1) Form S-1, Registration No. 33-82978, effective October 28, 1994. (2) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1999. (3) Form 8-K for the event dated November 16, 1999. (4) Schedule 14A, filed April 13, 2000. (5) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2000. (6) Filed herewith. 20 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. Date: March 29, 2001 By: /s/ Joey B. Hogan ------------------------------ ---------------------------- Joey B. Hogan Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Signature Position Date /s/ David R. Parker Chairman of the Board, President, David R. Parker and Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) March 29, 2001 /s/ Joey B. Hogan Treasurer and Chief Financial Joey B. Hogan Officer (principal financial and accounting officer) March 29, 2001 /s/ R. H. Lovin, Jr. R. H. Lovin, Jr. Director March 29, 2001 /s/ Michael W. Miller Michael W. Miller Director March 29, 2001 /s/ William T. Alt William T. Alt Director March 29, 2001 /s/ Robert E. Bosworth Robert E. Bosworth Director March 29, 2001 /s/ Hugh O. Maclellan, Jr. Hugh O. Maclellan, Jr. Director March 29, 2001 /s/ Mark A. Scudder Mark A. Scudder Director March 29, 2001 21 REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Covenant Transport, Inc. In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Covenant Transport, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2000 and 1999, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2000, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Knoxville, Tennessee February 2, 2001 COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS DECEMBER 31, 1999 AND 2000 (In thousands except share data) 1999 2000 ------------------- ----------------- ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,046 $ 2,287 Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $1,040 in 1999 and $1,263 in 2000 75,038 72,482 Drivers advances and other receivables 4,789 11,393 Tire and parts inventory 3,046 2,949 Prepaid expenses 9,567 13,914 Deferred income taxes 1,310 2,590 Income taxes receivable 4,506 3,651 ------------------- ----------------- Total current assets 99,302 109,266 Property and equipment, at cost 349,672 356,630 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 80,638 100,581 ------------------- ----------------- Net property and equipment 269,034 256,049 Other assets 15,638 25,198 ------------------- ----------------- Total assets $383,974 $390,513 =================== ================= LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Checks written in excess of bank balance 3,599 - Current maturities of long-term debt 4,218 6,505 Securitization facility - 62,000 Accounts payable 7,260 6,988 Accrued expenses 17,136 17,176 ------------------- ----------------- Total current liabilities 32,213 92,669 Long-term debt, less current maturities 140,497 74,295 Deferred income taxes 47,412 55,727 ------------------- ----------------- Total liabilities 220,122 222,691 Commitments and contingent liabilities Stockholders' equity: Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; 12,564,250 and 12,566,850 shares issued and 12,564,250 and 11,595,350 outstanding as of 1999 and 2000, respectively 126 126 Class B common stock, $.01 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; 2,350,000 shares issued and outstanding as of 1999 and 2000 24 24 Additional paid-in-capital 78,313 78,343 Treasury Stock at cost; 971,500 shares as of December 31, 2000 - (7,935) Retained earnings 85,389 97,264 ------------------- ----------------- Total stockholders' equity 163,852 167,822 ------------------- ----------------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $383,974 $390,513 =================== ================= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1999, AND 2000 (In thousands except per share data) 1998 1999 2000 ---------------- ---------------- --------------- Revenue $ 370,546 $472,741 $552,429 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages, and related expenses 164,589 202,420 239,988 Fuel, oil, and road expenses 68,292 84,465 93,581 Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation 24,250 49,260 76,131 Repairs 8,366 10,078 13,312 Operating taxes and licenses 9,393 10,988 14,169 Insurance 10,370 12,458 15,765 Communications and utilities 4,328 5,682 7,189 General supplies and expenses 15,069 19,109 24,635 Depreciation and amortization, including gain on disposition of equipment 30,192 35,591 38,879 ---------------- ---------------- --------------- Total operating expenses 334,849 430,051 523,649 ---------------- ---------------- --------------- Operating income 35,697 42,690 28,780 Interest expense 5,924 5,513 9,006 ---------------- ---------------- --------------- Income before income taxes 29,773 37,177 19,774 Income tax expense 11,490 14,900 7,899 ---------------- ---------------- --------------- Net income $18,283 $ 22,277 $ 11,875 ================ ================ =============== Basic earnings per share: $1.27 $1.49 $0.82 Diluted earnings per share: $1.27 $1.48 $0.82 Weighted average shares outstanding 14,393 14,912 14,404 Adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions outstanding 14,440 15,028 14,533 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1999, AND 2000 (In thousands) Class A Class B Additional Total Common Common Paid-In Treasury Retained Stockholders' Stock Stock Capital Stock Earnings Equity ------------- ------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ----------------- Balances at December 31, 1997 $ 110 $ 24 $50,634 $ -- $ 44,829 $ 95,597 Exercise of employee stock options -- -- 157 -- -- 157 Stock offering 16 -- 27,470 -- -- 27,486 Net income -- -- -- -- 18,283 18,283 ------------- ------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ----------------- Balances at December 31, 1998 126 24 78,261 -- 63,112 141,523 Exercise of employee stock options -- -- 52 -- -- 52 Net income -- -- -- -- 22,277 22,277 ------------- ------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ----------------- Balances at December 31, 1999 126 24 78,313 -- 85,389 163,852 Exercise of employee stock options -- -- 30 -- -- 30 Stock repurchase -- -- -- (7,935) -- (7,935) Net income -- -- -- -- 11,875 11,875 ------------- ------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ----------------- Balances at December 31, 2000 $126 $ 24 $78,343 $ (7,935) $ 97,264 $ 167,822 ============= ============= =============== ============= ============= ================= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1999, AND 2000 (In thousands) 1998 1999 2000 ------------------------------------------------------- Cash flows from operating activities: Net income $18,283 $22,277 $11,875 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Provision for losses on receivables 456 131 535 Depreciation and amortization 32,075 35,658 39,181 Equity in earnings of affiliate - - 376 Deferred income tax expense 4,146 9,137 6,180 Gain on disposition of property and equipment (1,883) (67) (1,032) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Receivables and advances (12,554) (11,974) (3,965) Prepaid expenses (1,075) (3,321) (4,358) Tire and parts inventory (617) (750) 97 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 1,072 (6,606) (228) ------------------------------------------------------- Net cash provided by operating activities 39,903 44,485 48,661 Cash flows from investing activities: Acquisition of property and equipment (80,303) (101,653) (71,427) Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment 27,760 46,632 51,108 Acquisition of intangibles (220) -- -- Acquisition of business- SRT(A) (6,295) -- -- Acquisition of business- ATW -- (10,775) -- Acquisition of business- Harold Ives(B) -- (15,031) -- Acquisition of business- CTS (Footnote 3) -- -- (7,658) Investment in Transplace.com (Footnote 2) -- -- (5,307) Repurchase of Company stock -- -- (7,935) ------------------------------------------------------- Net cash used in investing activities (59,058) (80,827) (41,219) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from equity offering 27,486 -- -- Exercise of stock option 157 52 30 Proceeds from issuance of debt 84,000 93,500 174,119 Repayments of long-term debt (92,094) (62,503) (176,034) Other (78) (186) (717) Checks in excess of bank balance -- 3,599 (3,599) ------------------------------------------------------- Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities 19,471 34,462 (6,201) ------------------------------------------------------- Net change in cash and cash equivalents 316 (1,880) 1,241 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 2,610 2,926 1,046 ------------------------------------------------------- Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $2,926 $1,046 $2,287 ======================================================= Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash paid during the year for: Interest $6,021 $5,823 $10,410 Income taxes $5,675 $12,108 $2,645 ======================================================= (A) Acquisition of business presented net of acquired cash of $1.5 million and a note payable to former shareholder of acquired company in the amount of $3.0 million. (B) Acquisition of business presented net of acquired cash of $3.9 million and receivable from a former shareholder of acquired company of $3.5 million. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Nature of Business - Covenant Transport, Inc. (the "Company") is a long-haul truckload carrier that offers premium transportation services, such as team and refrigerated services, to customers throughout the United States. Principles of Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, a holding company incorporated in the state of Nevada in 1994, and its wholly-owned operating subsidiaries, Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation; Harold Ives Trucking Co., an Arkansas corporation; Terminal Truck Broker, Inc., an Arkansas corporation (Harold Ives Trucking Co. and Terminal Truck Broker, Inc. referred together as "Harold Ives"); Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., an Arkansas corporation; Tony Smith Trucking, Inc. (Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc. and Tony Smith Trucking, Inc. referred together as "SRT"); Covenant.com, Inc., a Nevada corporation; Covenant Asset Management, Inc., a Nevada corporation; CIP, Inc., a Nevada corporation; and CVTI Receivables Corp., ("CRC") a Nevada corporation. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Revenue Recognition - Revenue, drivers' wages and other direct operating expenses are recognized on the date shipments are delivered to the customer. The Company records revenue on a net basis for transactions on which it functions as a broker and for fuel surcharges. Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Tires and Parts Inventory - Tires on new revenue equipment are capitalized as a component of the related equipment cost when the vehicle 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 method. Replacement tires are expensed when placed in service. Intangible Assets - The Company periodically evaluates the net realizability of the carrying amount of intangible assets. Non-compete agreements are amortized over the life of the agreement, deferred loan costs are amortized over the life of the loan and goodwill is amortized over periods ranging from 20 to 40 years. Property and Equipment - Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Historically, revenue equipment had been depreciated over five to seven years with salvage values ranging from 25% to 33 1/3%. During 2000, the Company extended its estimate for the useful life of its dry van trailers from seven to eight years and increased the salvage value to approximately 48% of cost. The Company based its decision on recent experience and expected future utilization. In accordance with industry practices, gains or losses on disposal of revenue equipment are included in depreciation in the statements of income. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets - The Company ensures that long-lived assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying value or the fair market value less costs to sell. The Company evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets for impairment losses by analyzing the operating performance and future cash flows for those assets. The Company adjusts the net book value of the underlying assets if the sum of expected cash flows is less than book value. 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. The terms of any future issuances of preferred shares will be set by the Board of Directors. Insurance and Other Claims - Losses resulting from claims for personal injury, property damage, cargo loss and damage, and other sources are covered by insurance, subject to deductibles. Losses resulting from uninsured claims are recognized when such losses are known and estimable. Concentrations of Credit Risk - The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and does not require collateral for its accounts receivable. The Company maintains reserves which management believes are adequate to provide for potential credit losses. The Company's customer base spans the continental United States. Sales to one of the Company's customers accounted for approximately 11% of revenue in 2000. Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. New Accounting Pronouncements - In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. The statement established accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. SFAS No. 133 requires that changes in the derivative's fair value be recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. The Company may engage in hedging activities using futures, forward contracts, options, and swaps to hedge the impact of market fluctuations on energy commodity prices and interest rates. The Company will be required to adopt the standard in 2001 and has determined there will not be any material adverse impact on its results of operations or financial position resulting from the adoption of SFAS No. 133. 2. INVESTMENT IN TRANSPLACE.COM Effective July 1, 2000, the Company merged its logistics business with five other transportation companies into a company called Transplace.com ("TPC"). TPC operates an Internet-based global transportation logistics service and is developing programs for the cooperative purchasing of products, supplies, and services. In the transaction, Covenant contributed its logistics customer list, logistics business software and software licenses, certain intellectual property, intangible assets totaling approximately $5.1 million, and $5.0 million in cash for the initial funding of the venture. In exchange, Covenant received 13% ownership in TPC, which is being accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Upon completion of the transaction, Covenant ceased operating its own transportation logistics and brokerage business, which consisted primarily of the Terminal Truck Broker, Inc. business acquired in November 1999. The excess of the Company's share of TPC's net assets over its cost basis is being amortized over twenty years using the straight-line method. 3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS In August 1998, the Company purchased certain assets of Gouge Trucking, Inc. for approximately $1.0 million. In October 1998, the Company purchased all of the outstanding stock of SRT. The acquisition of SRT has been accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the operating results of SRT have been included in the consolidated operating results since the date of acquisition. The purchase price of $10.75 million, net of cash received of approximately $1.5 million and note payable in the amount of $3.0 million to a former shareholder of SRT has been allocated to the net assets acquired based on appraised fair values at the date of acquisition. In September 1999, the Company purchased certain assets of ATW, Inc. for $10.8 million, which included $9.3 million for property and equipment. In November 1999, the Company purchased all of the outstanding stock of Harold Ives. The acquisition of Harold Ives has been accounted for under the purchase method of accounting and goodwill is being amortized over 30 years. Accordingly, the operating results of Harold Ives have been included in the consolidated operating results since the date of acquisition. The purchase price of $22.4 million, net of cash received of $3.9 million and a receivable from an officer of Harold Ives to the acquired company of $3.5 million has been allocated to the net assets acquired based on appraised fair values at the date of acquisition. In August 2000, the Company purchased certain assets of Con-Way Truckload Services, Inc. ("CTS") for approximately $7.7 million, which included approximately $5.2 million for property and equipment. The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and goodwill is being amortized over 40 years. 4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT A summary of property and equipment, at cost, as of December 31, 1999 and 2000 is as follows: (in thousands) 1999 2000 ------------------------ ------------------------ Revenue equipment $313,200 $301,451 Communications equipment 12,624 15,668 Land and improvements 9,359 9,528 Buildings and leasehold improvements 6,708 7,387 Construction in progress 132 13,316 Other 7,649 9,280 ------------------------ ------------------------ $349,672 $356,630 ======================== ======================== Depreciation expense amounts were $31.4 million, $35.1 million and $39.0 million in 1998, 1999, and 2000, respectively. 5. OTHER ASSETS A summary of other assets as of December 31, 1999 and 2000 is as follows: (in thousands) 1999 2000 ----------------- ----------------- Covenants not to compete $2,600 $1,690 Tradename 1,000 330 Goodwill 11,081 11,352 Less accumulated amortization of intangibles (1,498) (2,415) ----------------- ----------------- Net intangible assets 13,183 10,957 Investment in TPC - 10,806 Other 2,455 3,435 ----------------- ----------------- $15,638 $25,198 ================= ================= 6. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SECURITIZATION In December 2000, the Company entered into a $62 million revolving accounts receivable securitization facility (the "Securitization Facility"). On a revolving basis, the Company sells its interests in its accounts receivable to CRC, a wholly-owned bankruptcy-remote special purpose subsidiary. CRC sells a percentage ownership in such receivables to an unrelated financial entity. The transaction does not meet the criteria for sale treatment under Financial Accounting Standard No. 125 and is reflected as a secured borrowing in the financial statements. The Company can receive up to $62 million of proceeds, subject to eligible receivables and will pay a service fee recorded as interest expense, as defined in the agreement. The Company will pay commercial paper interest rates plus an applicable margin on the proceeds received. The Securitization Facility includes certain significant events that could cause amounts to be immediately due and payable in the event of certain ratios. The proceeds received are reflected as a current liability on the consolidated financial statements because of the committed term, subject to annual renewals, is 364 days. As of December 31, 2000, the Company had received $62 million in proceeds, with a weighted average interest rate of 6.6%. 7. LONG-TERM DEBT Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 1999 and 2000: (in thousands) 1999 2000 ----------------- -------------------- Borrowings under $130 million credit agreement $ 96,000 $ -- Borrowings under $120 million credit agreement -- 49,000 10-year senior notes 25,000 25,000 Notes to unrelated individuals for non-compete agreements 550 350 Equipment and vehicle obligations with commercial lending institutions, with fixed interest rates ranging from 6.7% to 9.0% at December 31, 2000 20,165 3,450 Note payable to former SRT shareholder, bearing interest at 6.5% with interest payable quarterly 3,000 3,000 ----------------- -------------------- 144,715 80,800 Less current maturities 4,218 6,505 ----------------- -------------------- $140,497 $74,295 ================= ==================== In December 2000, the Company entered into a credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with a group of banks with maximum borrowings of $120 million, which matures December 13, 2003. The Credit Agreement provides a revolving credit facility with borrowings limited to the lesser of 90% of the net book value of eligible revenue equipment or $120 million. Letters of credit are limited to an aggregate commitment of $10 million. The Credit Agreement is collateralized by an agreement which includes pledged stock of the Company's subsidiaries, inter-company notes, and licensing agreements. A commitment fee is charged on the unused portion of the facility and is adjusted quarterly between 0.15% and 0.25% per annum based on the consolidated leverage ratio is due on the daily unused portion of the Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2000, the fee was 0.20% per annum. The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by Covenant Transport, Inc., a Nevada corporation, Covenant Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation, Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., an Arkansas corporation, Tony Smith Trucking, Inc., an Arkansas corporation, CIP, Inc. a Nevada corporation, Harold Ives Trucking Co., an Arkansas corporation, Terminal Truck Brokers, Inc., an Arkansas corporation, and Covenant.com, Inc., a Nevada corporation. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are based on the banks' base rate or LIBOR and accrue interest based on one, two, or three month LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin that is adjusted quarterly between 0.75% and 1.25% based on a ratio of total debt to trailing cash flow coverage. At December 31, 2000, the margin was 1.00%. During October 1995, the Company placed $25 million in senior notes due October 2005 with an insurance company. The term agreement requires payments for interest semi-annually in arrears with principal payments due in five equal annual installments beginning October 1, 2001. Interest accrues at 7.39% per annum. The Credit Agreement and senior note agreement subject the Company to certain restrictions and covenants related to, among others, dividends, tangible net worth, cash flow, acquisitions and dispositions, and total indebtedness. Maturities of long term debt at December 31, 2000 are as follows (in thousands): 2001 $ 6,505 2002 6,081 2003 54,831 2004 8,383 2005 5,000 8. LEASES The Company has operating lease commitments for office and terminal properties, revenue equipment, computer and office equipment, exclusive of owner/operator rentals, and month-to-month equipment rentals, summarized for the following fiscal years (in thousands): 2001 $22,491 2002 17,554 2003 12,082 2004 4,049 2005 3,949 Rental expense is summarized as follows for each of the three years ended December 31: (in thousands) 1998 1999 2000 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Revenue equipment rentals $ 5,640 $12,102 $16,918 Owner/operator 18,167 35,534 58,969 Terminal rentals 1,277 1,407 1,684 Other equipment rentals 1,290 1,618 2,904 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- $26,374 $ 50,661 $ 80,475 ================ ================ ================ During April 1996, the Company entered into an agreement to lease its headquarters and terminal in Chattanooga under an operating lease. The lease provides for rental payments to be variable based upon LIBOR interest rates for five years. This operating lease expires March 2001, with the Company anticipating financing the lease under the Credit Agreement. Covenant leased property in Chattanooga, Tennessee from the principal stockholder of the Company. Effective July 1, 1997, the monthly rental was approximately $15,000 per month. The Company also leased a property at Greer, South Carolina for annual rent of $12,000 from the principal stockholder. Effective June 1998, these two leases were terminated by the principal stockholder without any penalties or additional payments coming due. Included in terminal rentals are payments of $78,905 for the year ended December 31, 1998, to the principal stockholder of the Company. 9. INCOME TAX Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999, and 2000 is comprised of: (in thousands) 1998 1999 2000 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Federal, current $5,076 $6,154 $1,370 Federal, deferred 4,196 6,705 5,841 State, current 1,773 1,331 87 State, deferred 445 710 601 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- $11,490 $14,900 $7,899 ================ ================ ================ Income tax expense varies from the amount computed by applying the federal corporate income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 as follows: (in thousands) 1998 1999 2000 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Computed "expected" income tax expense $10,420 $13,012 $6,921 Adjustments in income taxes resulting from: State income taxes, net of federal income tax Effect 945 1,487 593 Permanent differences and other, net 125 401 385 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Actual income tax expense $11,490 $14,900 $7,899 ================ ================ ================ The temporary differences and the approximate tax effects that give rise to the Company's net deferred tax liability at December 31, 1999 and 2000 are as follows: (in thousands) 1999 2000 ------------------------ ------------------------ Deferred tax assets: Accounts receivable $ 372 $1,093 Accrued expenses 1,350 256 Alternative minimum tax credits 958 948 Intangible assets -- 293 ------------------------ ------------------------ 2,680 2,590 Deferred tax liability: Property and equipment 47,098 54,953 Adjustments resulting from a change in accounting methods for tax purposes 1,150 774 Unrealized gain on securities 28 -- Intangible assets 506 -- ------------------------ ------------------------ 48,782 55,727 ------------------------ ------------------------ Net deferred tax liability $ 46,102 $ 53,137 ======================== ======================== These amounts are presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as follows: (in thousands) 1999 2000 ------------------------ ------------------------ Current deferred tax asset $1,310 $2,590 Non current deferred tax asset 47,412 55,727 ------------------------ ------------------------ Net deferred tax liability $ 46,102 $ 53,137 ======================== ======================== 10. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Transactions involving related parties not otherwise disclosed herein are as follows: In June 1997, the Company obtained a promissory note in the amount of $480,000 from a significant shareholder. The principal and related interest at the rate of 7% was paid in full in May 1998. In December 1999, the Company purchased approximately 105 acres of land that is adjacent to the corporate headquarters for approximately $890,000 from this shareholder. In February 2000, the Company sold approximately 2.5 acres of land to this shareholder in the amount of $88,000 in the form of a non- interest bearing promissory note with an 18-month term. The Company also chartered an airplane owned by this shareholder in the amount of $262,940 during 1998 and $42,633 during 1999. During 2000, the shareholder chartered an airplane leased by the Company in the amount of $21,198. The Company paid approximately $500,000 to the shareholder related to commissions on the purchase of revenue equipment during 2000. Tenn-Ga Truck Sales, Inc., a corporation wholly owned by a significant shareholder, purchased used tractors and trailers from the Company for approximately $768,000 during 1998, $2.8 million during 1999 and $2.0 million during 2000. During 2000, the Company also leased revenue equipment from Tenn-Ga Truck Sales for approximately $700,000. In March 2000, a trucking company owned by a significant shareholder purchased used trailers from the Company for approximately $1.4 million in exchange for an interest-bearing promissory note, which was repaid in full in November 2000. Subsequently, in June 2000, the Company elected to lease the trailers from the trucking company in the amount of approximately $227,200. In November 2000, due to an increased operational need arising from the CTS acquisition, the Company elected to repurchase the trailers from the trucking company in the amount of approximately $1.3 million. In connection with the TPC investment, the Company made several cash advances to fund the operations of TPC. The balance as of December 31, 2000 was approximately $3.2 million, which included a $2.6 million, 8% interest-bearing promissory note from TPC. 11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES The Company, in the normal course of business, is involved in certain legal matters for which it carries liability insurance. It is management's belief that the losses, if any, from these lawsuits will not have a materially adverse impact on the financial condition, operations, or cash flows of the Company. Financial risks which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist of deposits in banks in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits. The Company's sales are generally made on account without collateral. Repayment terms vary based on certain conditions. The Company maintains reserves which management believes are adequate to provide for potential credit losses. The majority of the Company's customer base spans the United States. The Company monitors these risks and believes the risk of incurring material losses is remote. The Company has entered into minimum purchase agreements for the purchase of diesel fuel. The agreements provide for specified amounts of fuel at contracted prices through 2002. At December 31, 2000, the approximate number of gallons of fuel purchase commitments were as follows: 2001 2,250,000 gallons 2002 1,500,000 gallons 12. EARNINGS PER SHARE The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the calculation of net earnings per share included in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Income: (in thousands except per share data) 1998 1999 2000 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Numerator: Net income $18,283 $22,277 $11,875 ================ ================ ================ Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted-average shares 14,393 14,912 14,404 Effect of dilutive securities: Employee stock options 47 116 129 ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions 14,440 15,028 14,533 ================ ================ ================ ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Basic earnings per share $ 1.27 $ 1.49 $ 0.82 ================ ================ ================ ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Diluted earnings per share $ 1.27 $ 1.48 $ 0.82 ================ ================ ================ 13. STOCK REPURCHASE PLAN In June 2000, the Company authorized a stock repurchase plan for up to 1.0 million Company shares to be purchased in the open market or through negotiated transactions. In July 2000, the Company authorized an additional 500,000 shares to be repurchased. During the second quarter, 792,000 shares were purchased at an average price of $8.14. During the third quarter, 179,500 shares were purchased at an average price of $8.27. As of December 31, 2000 a total of 971,500 had been purchased with an average price of $8.17. The stock repurchase program has no expiration date. 14. DEFERRED PROFIT SHARING EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN The Company has a deferred profit sharing and savings plan that covers substantially all employees of the Company with at least six months of service. Employees may contribute up to 17% of their annual compensation subject to Internal Revenue Code maximum limitations. The Company may make discretionary contributions as determined by a committee of the Board of Directors. The Company contributed approximately $873,000, $782,000 and $1,043,000 in 1998, 1999, and 2000, respectively, to the profit sharing and savings plan. 15. STOCK OPTION PLANS The Company has adopted option plans for employees and directors. Awards may be in the form of incentive stock awards or other forms. The Company has reserved 1,594,700 shares of Class A Common Stock for distribution at the discretion of the Board of Directors. In July 2000, the Board of Directors accelerated the vesting schedule of certain stock options granted in the years 1998, 1999 and 2000 to vest ratably over 3 years and expire 10 years from the date of grant. Certain options granted prior to 1998 vest ratably over 5 years and expire 10 years from the date of grant. The following table details the activity of the incentive stock option plan: Weighted Average Options Exercise Price Exercisable at Shares Year End ------------------ ------------------ ------------------- Under option at December 31, 1997 501,500 $15.87 143,800 Options granted in 1998 298,250 $12.21 Options exercised in 1998 (10,000) $15.68 Options canceled in 1998 (20,000) $14.80 ------------------ Under option at December 31, 1998 769,750 $14.43 206,500 Options granted in 1999 202,750 $13.06 Options exercised in 1999 (4,000) $13.06 Options canceled in 1999 (35,950) $17.18 ------------------ Under option at December 31, 1999 932,550 $14.14 354,150 Options granted in 2000 625,176 $8.87 Options exercised in 2000 (2,600) $11.45 Options canceled in 2000 (129,800) $12.39 ------------------ Under option at December 31, 2000 1,425,326 $11.99 613,026 Options Outstanding Options Exercisable ------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Weighted- Average Weighted- Number Weighted- Number Remaining Average Exercisable At Average Range of Exercise Outstanding at Contractual Life Exercise Price 12/31/00 Exercise Price Prices 12/31/00 - ----------------------- ---------------- -------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- $10.00 to $12.99 793,550 108 $9.49 173,134 $11.83 $13.00 to $15.99 486,526 81 $14.50 313,643 $14.83 $16.00 to $20.00 145,250 58 $17.25 126,249 $17.04 The Company accounts for its stock-based compensation plans under APB No. 25, under which no compensation expense has been recognized because all employee stock options have been granted with the exercise price equal to the fair value of the Company's Class A Common Stock on the date of grant. Under SFAS No. 123, fair value of options granted are estimated as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions: risk-free interest rates ranging from 4.8% to 6.0%; expected life of 5 years; dividend rate of zero percent; and expected volatility of 42.0% for 1998, 42.6% for 1999 and 48.5% for 2000. Using these assumptions, the fair value of the employee stock options granted in 1998, 1999 and 2000 is $1.2 million, $900,000, and $2.2 million respectively, which would be amortized as compensation expense over the vesting period of the options. Had compensation cost been determined in accordance with SFAS No. 123, utilizing the assumptions detailed above, the Company's net income and net income per share would have been reduced to the following pro forma amounts for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000: (in thousands except per share data) 1998 1999 2000 Pro forma net income 17,736 21,565 10,213 Pro forma earnings per share: Basic $1.23 $1.45 $0.71 Diluted 1.23 1.43 0.70