TONTITOWN, Ark. - P.A.M. Transportation Services, Inc. (NASDAQ:PTSI) reported a significant decline in earnings and revenue for the first quarter of 2024, with a diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.01, which was $0.09 below the analyst consensus estimate of $0.10.
The company's total revenue for the quarter was $182.6 million, slightly missing the consensus estimate of $183.2 million and marking a 17.6% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Joe Vitiritto, President of P.A.M. Transportation Services, attributed the challenging quarter to an overcapacity market that allowed shippers to secure rates at or below cost, as well as weather disruptions that increased costs and reduced equipment utilization.
Despite the tough economic cycle, Vitiritto expressed appreciation for the employees' hard work and dedication and emphasized the company's focus on cost reduction, efficiency gains, and market positioning for when the freight environment improves.
The company's operating loss for the quarter was $0.7 million, with an operating ratio of 100.4%. Compared to the first quarter of 2023, when the company reported net income of $5.2 million and an EPS of $0.23, the current results reflect the difficulties faced in the truckload market.
P.A.M. Transportation Services, which provides truckload dry van carrier services across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, reported an operating cash flow of $9.6 million during the quarter.
As of March 31, 2024, the company had $185.7 million in cash, marketable equity securities, and available liquidity, with stockholders' equity at $314.6 million. Outstanding debt increased slightly to $271.6 million from December 31, 2023.
The stock's movement following the earnings release was not provided, nor was there any specific driver of the move mentioned. However, the results indicate the company is navigating a challenging period with a focus on strategic financial management and operational efficiency.
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