Schneider National Inc

Previous wording

Readers are cautioned that the matters discussed in these forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict, and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated, or implied in the forward-looking statements. Where, in any forward-looking statement, an expectation or belief as to future results or events is expressed, such expectation or belief is based on the current plans and expectations of management and expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will be achieved or accomplished. Many factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated include those matters described under the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” We caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we may make or persons acting on our behalf may issue.

Current wording

Readers are cautioned that the matters discussed in these forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict, and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated, or implied in the forward-looking statements. Where, in any forward-looking statement, an expectation or belief as to future results or events is expressed, such expectation or belief is based on current plans and expectations of management and expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will be achieved or accomplished. Many factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated include those matters described under the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” We caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we may make or persons acting on our behalf may issue.

Previous wording

Our business and results of operations are sensitive to changes in overall economic conditions that impact customer shipping volumes, industry freight demand, industry truck capacity, inflation, and our operating costs. Regarding our operating costs, inflationary pressures persist but are generally expected to decline or stabilize in the U.S. in the near-term due to the stabilization of the recent imbalance between supply and demand for goods and services in the economy. We cannot predict future economic conditions, fuel price fluctuations, transportation equipment resale values, or how consumer confidence could be affected by such conditions. Economic conditions that decrease shipping demand, including but not limited to public health crises, outbreaks of infectious diseases, or excess capacity in the North American transportation and logistics industry, can exert downward pressure on rates and equipment utilization. In general, significant decreases in shipping volumes within the industry or increases in available truck capacity result in more aggressive freight pricing as carriers compete for loads and truck productivity. Likewise, we are also subject to cost increases outside our control that could materially reduce our profitability if we are unable to offset such increases through rate increases or cost reductions. Such cost increases include, but are not limited to, driver wages, third-party carrier costs, fuel and energy prices, taxes and interest rates, tolls, license and registration fees, insurance premiums, regulatory compliance costs, transportation equipment and related maintenance costs, and healthcare and other employee benefit costs. We cannot predict whether, or in what form, or at what rate any such cost increases could occur. Any such cost increase or event could adversely affect our results of operations or cash flows.

Current wording

Our business and results of operations are sensitive to changes in overall economic conditions, public health crises, tariffs, and other geopolitical issues that impact customer shipping volumes, industry freight demand, industry truck capacity, inflation, and our operating costs. Announced import tariffs on certain imported goods by the Trump administration have led to the threat or imposition of reciprocal tariffs by several foreign governments on certain goods imported from the U.S. The imposition of additional tariffs or quotas or changes to certain trade agreements, could, among other things, negatively impact customer demand or increase our operating costs. Economic conditions, tariffs, or other issues that decrease shipping demand can exert downward pressure on rates and equipment utilization or increase the cost of our equipment, fuel, and other operating costs. We cannot predict future economic conditions, whether proposed or threatened tariffs will be enacted, or how consumer demand, purchasing cycles, or our input costs could be affected by such conditions. In general, significant decreases in shipping volumes within the industry or increases in available truck capacity could result in more aggressive freight pricing as carriers compete for loads and truck productivity. Likewise, we are also subject to cost increases outside our control that could materially reduce our profitability if we are unable to offset such increases through rate increases or cost reductions. Such cost increases include, but are not limited to, driver wages, third-party carrier costs, fuel and energy prices, taxes and interest rates, tolls, license and registration fees, insurance premiums, regulatory compliance costs, transportation equipment and related maintenance costs, and healthcare and other employee benefit costs. We cannot predict whether, or in what form, or at what rate any such cost increases could occur. Any such cost increase or event could adversely affect our results of operations or cash flows.

Previous wording

Our operating segments compete with many other truckload carriers, logistics, brokerage, and transportation service providers of varying sizes, and to a lesser extent, LTL carriers, railroads, and other transportation or logistics companies, some of which have larger fleets, greater access to equipment, preferential customer contracts, greater capital resources, or other competitive advantages. Competition for the freight we transport or manage is based primarily on service, efficiency, available capacity, and to some degree, on freight rates alone. Our competitors periodically reduce their freight rates to gain business, especially when economic conditions negatively impact customer shipping volumes, truck capacities, or operating costs. Moreover, to limit the number of approved carriers to a manageable number, some of our customers select “core carriers” as approved transportation service providers, and in some instances, we may not be selected. Other of our customers periodically accept bids from multiple carriers for their shipping needs, which also periodically results in the loss of business to competitors. Some of our customers have, and others may in the future, used or expanded their own private fleets rather than outsource loads to us. Further, our industry has experienced market entrance by well-resourced, non-traditional firms or startups who, in some cases, have undercut market prices to capture market share. Finally, our existing competitors, as well as new market entrants, have and continue to introduce new brokerage platforms or technologies, which has increased competition. Although we believe we are well positioned and have adopted technologies, developed strategies, and heavily invested in our own digital service offerings to deter, compete with, or supplant existing competitors and new market entrants, there can be no assurance that our investments, technologies, or strategies will be successful in enabling us to sustain or grow our current market share in each of our segments. These competitive dynamics could have an adverse effect on the number of shipments we transport and the freight rates we receive, which could limit our growth opportunities and reduce our profitability.

Current wording

Our operating segments compete with many other truckload carriers, logistics, brokerage, and transportation service providers of varying sizes, and to a lesser extent, LTL carriers, railroads, and other transportation or logistics companies, some of which have larger fleets, greater access to equipment, preferential customer contracts, greater capital resources, or other competitive advantages. Competition for the freight we transport or manage is based primarily on service, efficiency, available capacity, and to some degree, on freight rates alone. Our competitors periodically reduce their freight rates to gain business, especially when economic conditions negatively impact customer shipping volumes, truck capacities, or operating costs. Moreover, to limit the number of approved carriers to a manageable number, some of our customers select “core carriers” as approved transportation service providers, and in some instances, we may not be selected. Other of our customers periodically accept bids from multiple carriers for their shipping needs, which also periodically results in the loss of business to competitors. Some of our customers have used or expanded their own private fleets rather than outsource loads to us, and others may do so in the future. Finally, our existing competitors, as well as new market entrants, have and continue to introduce new brokerage platforms or technologies, which has increased competition. Although we believe we are well positioned and have adopted technologies, developed strategies, and heavily invested in our own digital service offerings to deter, compete with, or supplant existing competitors and new market entrants, there can be no assurance that our investments, technologies, or strategies will be successful in enabling us to sustain or grow our current market share in each of our segments. These competitive dynamics could have an adverse effect on the number of shipments we transport and the freight rates we receive, which could limit our growth opportunities and reduce our profitability.

Previous wording

Our turnover rate requires us to continually recruit a substantial number of company and owner-operator drivers to support our operations. Owner-operator availability is generally affected by operating cost increases (which the owner-operator is responsible for) and economic conditions, which drive overall increases in customer demand, and heightened competition for owner-operators from other carriers. When shortages of owner-operators occur, we may have to increase settlement rates paid to them and increase company driver pay rates to attract and retain a sufficient number of drivers. These increases could negatively affect our results of operations to the extent that we would be unable to obtain corresponding freight rate increases.

Current wording

Our turnover rate requires us to continually recruit a substantial number of company and owner-operator drivers to support our operations. Owner-operator availability is generally affected by operating cost increases for which the owner-operator is responsible. Economic conditions drive overall increases in customer demand and heightened competition for owner-operators from other carriers. When shortages of owner-operators occur, we may have to increase settlement rates paid to them and increase company driver pay rates to attract and retain a sufficient number of drivers. These increases could negatively affect our results of operations to the extent that we would be unable to obtain corresponding freight rate increases.

Previous wording

Although the number of our associates who are currently represented by a labor union is not significant, we face ongoing risks associated with the potential unionization of certain of our associates. Over the last several years we have been the subject of isolated unionization efforts involving a relatively small number of associates, which efforts were, in each case, unsuccessful. Overall, we believe our relations with our associates are good; however, should a significant number of our associates opt to be represented by a labor union, we could experience a significant disruption of, or inefficiencies in, our operations or incur higher labor costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

Current wording

Although the number of our associates who are currently represented by a labor union is not significant, we face ongoing risks associated with the potential unionization of certain associates. Over the last several years we have been the subject of isolated unionization efforts involving a relatively small number of associates, which efforts were, in each case, unsuccessful. Overall, we believe our relations with our associates are good; however, should a significant number of our associates opt to be represented by a labor union, we could experience a significant disruption of, or inefficiencies in, our operations or incur higher labor costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.

Previous wording

Additionally, our responses to any union organizing efforts could negatively impact how our brand is perceived and have adverse effects on our business, including on our financial results. These responses could also expose us to legal risk or reputational harm and cause us to incur costs to defend legal and regulatory actions. Moreover, any labor disputes or work stoppages, whether or not our other associates unionize, could disrupt our operations and reduce our revenues.

Current wording

Additionally, our responses to any union organizing efforts could negatively impact how our brand is perceived and have adverse effects on our business, including on our financial results. These responses could also expose us to legal risk or reputational harm and cause us to incur costs to defend legal and regulatory actions. Moreover, any labor disputes or work stoppages, whether or not such actions culminate in a successful unionization campaign, could disrupt our operations and have a material adverse effect on our financial results.

Previous wording

Our truckload operations are largely dependent on diesel fuel, and accordingly, significant increases in diesel fuel costs could materially and adversely affect our truckload operations, and if we are unable to pass increased costs on to customers through rate increases or fuel surcharges or if shippers opt for intermodal rail over trucking their freight, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. Likewise, if diesel fuel prices decrease significantly, the results of our intermodal operations could be adversely affected as shippers shift intermodal freight to over-the-road trucking. Prices and availability of petroleum products are subject to political, economic, geographic, weather-related, and market factors that are generally outside our control and each of which may lead to fluctuations in the cost of fuel.

Current wording

Our truckload operations are largely dependent on diesel fuel, and accordingly, significant increases in diesel fuel costs could materially and adversely affect our truckload operations, and if we are unable to pass increased costs on to customers through rate increases or fuel surcharges or if shippers opt for intermodal rail over trucking their freight, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. Likewise, if diesel fuel prices decrease significantly, the results of our intermodal operations could be adversely affected as shippers shift intermodal freight to over-the-road trucking. Prices and availability of petroleum products are subject to political, economic, geographic, weather-related, and market factors that are generally outside our control and each of which may lead to fluctuations in the cost and availability of diesel fuel.

Previous wording

There is no assurance that such fuel surcharges can be maintained indefinitely or will be sufficiently effective. Our results of operations would be negatively affected to the extent we cannot recover higher fuel costs or fail to improve our fuel price protection through our fuel surcharge program. Increases in diesel fuel prices, or a shortage or rationing of diesel fuel, could also materially and adversely affect our results of operations. As of December 31, 2023, we did not have any derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to fuel price fluctuations.

Current wording

There is no assurance that such fuel surcharges can be maintained indefinitely or will be sufficiently effective. Our results of operations would be negatively affected to the extent we cannot recover higher fuel costs or fail to improve our fuel price protection through our fuel surcharge program. Increases in diesel fuel prices, or a shortage or rationing of diesel fuel, could also materially and adversely affect our results of operations. During 2024, we did not enter into any derivative financial instruments that served to hedge or reduce our exposure to fuel price fluctuations.

Previous wording

Our Intermodal segment utilizes railroads and, in some cases, third-party drayage carriers to transport freight for our intermodal customers. The majority of these services are provided pursuant to contracts with our service partners which are subject to periodic renewal. While we have had agreements with all of the Class I railroads, our primary contracts for railroad transportation in support of our intermodal operations are currently with CSX Transportation, the Union Pacific Railroad Company, and the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad.

Current wording

Our Intermodal segment utilizes railroads and, in some cases, third-party drayage carriers to transport freight for our intermodal customers. The majority of these services are provided pursuant to contracts with our service partners which are subject to periodic renewal. While we have had agreements with all of the Class I railroads, our primary contracts for railroad transportation in support of our intermodal operations are currently with CSX Transportation, the UP, and the CPKC.

Previous wording

In addition, a portion of the freight we deliver through both our Intermodal and Truckload segments is imported to the U.S. through ports of call where workers are represented by the ILWU, a labor union which primarily represents a significant number of longshore workers at 29 ports across the West Coast, or the International Longshoremen’s Association, the largest union of maritime workers in North America, which represents a larger number of longshoremen on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, Great Lakes, major U.S. rivers, Puerto Rico, and Eastern Canada. The west and east coast ports have long been the primary gateways for cargo coming into and leaving the U.S. and have a long history of labor and other port disputes, protracted collective bargaining and contract negotiations which, in the past, have involved port disputes and closures, as well as threats of a strike that would have disrupted domestic supply chains. Although, as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, there have been no reports or signs of labor strife at the ports on either coast, there can be no guarantee that work stoppages or other disruptions at the west or east coast ports will not occur.

Current wording

In addition, a portion of the freight we deliver through both our Intermodal and Truckload segments is imported to the U.S. through ports of call where workers are represented by the ILWU, a labor union which primarily represents a significant number of longshore workers at 29 ports across the West Coast, or the ILA, the largest union of maritime workers in North America, which represents a larger number of longshoremen on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, Great Lakes, major U.S. rivers, Puerto Rico, and Eastern Canada. The west and east coast ports have long been the primary gateways for cargo coming into and leaving the U.S. and have a long history of labor and other port disputes, protracted collective bargaining, and contract negotiations which, in the past, have involved port disputes and closures, as well as threats of a strike that would have disrupted domestic supply chains. For example, the ILA went on strike for three days in October 2024 following disputes with the USMX regarding pay and job security in connection with the negotiation of a new master contract. The strike ended when ILA and USMX agreed to a short-term extension of their existing master contract. In January 2025, the ILA again threatened to strike when the previous master contract extension expired on January 15, 2025, although this strike was avoided when the ILA and USMX agreed to a new six-year master contract. There can be no guarantee that work stoppages or further disruptions at the west or east coast ports will not occur.

Previous wording

We engage in strategic transactions and continue to make strategic investments including investments in new technologies and potentially disruptive startup companies which are focused on establishing a competitive advantage in the transportation and logistics services offered by the Company or exploiting new market opportunities including autonomous vehicle technologies, TMS software platforms, telematics, and mobile software applications. Such strategic investments naturally entail risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control. For example, we may not be able to derive value from strategic investments, or we may incur higher than expected costs in realizing a return on such investments or overestimate the benefits that we receive or realize from such investments. Therefore, we cannot provide assurance that any of our strategic investments will generate anticipated financial returns. If our strategic investments fail to meet our expectations, our business and results of operations may be adversely impacted.

Current wording

We engage in strategic transactions and continue to make strategic investments, including investments in new technologies and potentially disruptive startup companies, which are focused on establishing a competitive advantage in transportation and logistics services offered by the Company or exploiting new market opportunities. Such strategic investments naturally entail risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control and, as a result, the market valuation of any of our strategic investments may experience substantial price volatility which, when accounted for under GAAP, in any given period, could adversely impact the Company’s results of operations. Refer to Note 5, Investments, to our consolidated financial statements for information on our strategic investments. In addition, we may not be able to derive value from strategic investments, or we may incur higher than expected costs in realizing a return on such investments or overestimate the benefits that we receive or realize from such investments. Therefore, we cannot provide assurance that any of our strategic investments will generate anticipated financial returns. If our strategic investments fail to meet our expectations, our business and results of operations may be adversely impacted.

Previous wording

Borrowings under our Receivables Purchase Agreement and our revolving credit facility are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same. Our net income and cash flows, including our cash available for servicing our indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease.

Current wording

Borrowings under our Receivables Purchase Agreement, revolving credit facility, and delayed-draw term loan facility are at variable interest rates and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same. Our net income and cash flows, including our cash available for servicing our indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease.

Previous wording

We hold significant amounts of goodwill and long-lived assets, and the balances of these categories of assets could increase in the future if we acquire other businesses. At December 31, 2023, the balance of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets was $3.1 billion, and the total market value of the Company’s outstanding shares was $4.5 billion. Under GAAP, our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets are subject to an impairment analysis when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. In addition, we test goodwill for impairment annually. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets may not be recoverable include, but are not limited to, a sustained decline in stock price and market capitalization, an increase in interest rates, significant negative variances between actual and expected financial results, reduced future cash flow estimates, adverse changes in applicable laws or regulations or legal proceedings, changes to technology, failure to realize anticipated synergies from acquisitions, and slower growth rates in our industry. We may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets is determined to exist, negatively impacting our results of operations. If our market capitalization was to fall below the book value of our total stockholders’ equity for a sustained period, we may conclude that the fair value of certain of our long-lived assets is materially impaired. In this case, we would be required under GAAP to record a noncash charge to our earnings which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Current wording

We hold significant amounts of goodwill and long-lived assets, and the balances of these categories of assets could increase in the future if we acquire other businesses. As of December 31, 2024, the balance of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets was $3.4 billion, and the total market value of the Company’s outstanding shares was $5.1 billion. Under GAAP, our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets are subject to an impairment analysis when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. In addition, we test goodwill for impairment annually. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets may not be recoverable include, but are not limited to, a sustained decline in stock price and market capitalization, an increase in interest rates, significant negative variances between actual and expected financial results, reduced future cash flow estimates, adverse changes in applicable laws or regulations or legal proceedings, changes to technology, failure to realize anticipated synergies from acquisitions, and slower growth rates in our industry. We may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our goodwill, other intangible assets, internal use software, and long-lived assets is determined to exist, negatively impacting our results of operations. If our market capitalization was to fall below the book value of our total stockholders’ equity for a sustained period, we may conclude that the fair value of certain of our long-lived assets is materially impaired. In this case, we would be required under GAAP to record a noncash charge to our earnings which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our effective tax rate may be adversely impacted by, among other things, changes in the regulations relating to capital expenditure deductions, or changes in tax laws where we operate, including the uncertainty of future tax rates. We cannot give any assurance as to the stability or predictability of our effective tax rate in the future because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding the tax laws and policies of the countries where we operate. For example, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) agreed to enact Pillar Two, which introduces a global minimum effective tax rate whereby certain multinational groups are subject to a 15% minimum tax which will be effective in some countries as early as 2024. While we do not believe Pillar Two will have a material impact on the Company, we continue to monitor the developments to evaluate the impact it could have on our effective tax rate, if any. Further, our tax returns are subject to periodic reviews or audits by domestic and international authorities, and these audits may result in adjustments to our provision for taxes or allocations of income or deductions that result in tax assessments different from amounts that we have estimated. We regularly assess the likelihood of an adverse outcome resulting from these audits to determine the adequacy of our provision for taxes. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of these audits or that our tax provisions will not change materially or be adequate to satisfy any associated tax liability. If our effective tax rates were to increase or if our tax liabilities exceed our estimates and provisions for such taxes, our financial results could be adversely affected.

Current wording

Our effective tax rate may be adversely impacted by, among other things, changes in the regulations relating to capital expenditure deductions, or changes in tax laws where we operate, including the uncertainty of future tax rates. We cannot give any assurance as to the stability or predictability of our effective tax rate in the future because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding the tax laws and policies of the countries where we operate. Our tax returns are subject to periodic reviews or audits by domestic and international authorities, and these audits may result in adjustments to our provision for taxes or allocations of income or deductions that result in tax assessments different from amounts that we have estimated. We regularly assess the likelihood of an adverse outcome resulting from these audits to determine the adequacy of our provision for taxes. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of these audits or that our tax provisions will not change materially or be adequate to satisfy any associated tax liability. If our effective tax rates were to increase or if our tax liabilities exceed our estimates and provisions for such taxes, our financial results could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

As a supplement to our self-insurance program, we maintain insurance with excess insurance carriers for potential losses, which exceed the amounts we self-insure. Although we believe our aggregate insurance limits should be sufficient to cover our historic claims amounts, the commercial trucking industry has experienced a wave of blockbuster or so-called “nuclear verdicts,” where juries have awarded tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars to accident victims and their families. Given this recent trend, it is possible that one or more claims could exceed our aggregate coverage limits. If any claim were to exceed our aggregate insurance coverage, we would bear the excess, in addition to our other self-insured amounts.

Current wording

As a supplement to our self-insurance program, we maintain insurance with excess insurance carriers for potential losses, which exceed the amounts we self-insure. Although we believe our aggregate insurance limits should be sufficient to cover our historic claims amounts both individually and in the aggregate, the commercial trucking industry has experienced a wave of so-called “nuclear verdicts,” where juries have awarded tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars to accident victims and their families. Given this recent trend, it is possible that one or more claims could exceed our aggregate coverage limits. If any claim were to exceed our aggregate insurance coverage, we would bear the excess, in addition to our other self-insured amounts.

Previous wording

Given the current claims settlement environment, the amount of coverage available from excess insurance carriers is decreasing, and the premiums for this excess coverage are increasing significantly. For the foregoing reasons, our insurance and claims expenses may increase, or we could increase our self-insured retention as policies are renewed or replaced. In addition, we may assume additional risk within our captive insurance company that we may or may not reinsure. Our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected if (1) our costs or losses significantly exceed our aggregate coverage limits, (2) we are unable to obtain insurance coverage in amounts we deem sufficient, (3) our insurance carriers fail to pay on our insurance claims, or (4) we experience a claim for which coverage is not provided.

Current wording

Given the current truck litigation environment, the amount of coverage available from excess insurance carriers is decreasing, and the premiums for this excess coverage are increasing significantly. For the foregoing reasons, our insurance and claims expenses may increase, or we could increase our self-insured retention as policies are renewed or replaced. In addition, we may assume additional risk within our captive insurance company that we may or may not reinsure. Our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected if (1) our costs or losses significantly exceed our aggregate coverage limits, (2) we are unable to obtain insurance coverage in amounts we deem sufficient, (3) our insurance carriers fail to pay on our insurance claims, or (4) we experience a claim for which coverage is not provided.

Previous wording

We currently have a dual class common stock structure consisting of (1) Class A common stock, entitled to ten votes per share and (2) Class B common stock, entitled to one vote per share. The Schneider family, including trusts established for the benefit of certain members of the Schneider family, collectively beneficially own 100% of our outstanding Class A common stock and approximately 40% of our outstanding Class B common stock, representing approximately 94% of the total voting power of all of our outstanding common stock and approximately 68% of our total outstanding common stock.

Current wording

We currently have a dual class common stock structure consisting of (1) Class A common stock, entitled to ten votes per share and (2) Class B common stock, entitled to one vote per share. The Schneider family, including trusts established for the benefit of certain members of the Schneider family, collectively beneficially own 100% of our outstanding Class A common stock and approximately 41% of our outstanding Class B common stock, representing approximately 94% of the total voting power of all of our outstanding common stock and approximately 69% of our total outstanding common stock.

Previous wording

A Voting Trust holds the shares of Class A common stock that are beneficially owned by the Schneider family. The independent directors who are members of our Corporate Governance Committee serve as trustees of the Voting Trust, and in general, those directors have full power and discretion to vote the Class A shares included in the Voting Trust with two exceptions. First, in the case of any Major Transaction (as defined under our Amended and Restated Bylaws, including, most notably, a transaction resulting in more than 40% of the voting power of our common stock being held outside of the Schneider family), the independent directors of our Corporate Governance Committee must vote the shares of common Class A stock held in the Voting Trust as directed by the trustees of certain trusts which have been established for the benefit of certain Schneider family members. As a result, the outcome of the vote on any Major Transaction is not within the discretion of the Voting Trustees. Second, the independent directors of our Corporate Governance Committee must vote the shares of common Class A stock held in the Voting Trust in accordance with a nomination process agreement pursuant to which two specified Schneider family members will be nominated to serve on our Board on an annual, rotating basis.

Current wording

A Voting Trust holds the shares of Class A common stock that are beneficially owned by the Schneider family. The directors who are members of our Corporate Governance Committee and are not Schneider family members serve as trustees of the Voting Trust, and in general, those directors have full power and discretion to vote the Class A shares included in the Voting Trust with two exceptions. First, in the case of any Major Transaction (as defined under our Amended and Restated Bylaws, including, most notably, a transaction resulting in more than 40% of the voting power of our common stock being held outside of the Schneider family), the independent directors of our Corporate Governance Committee must vote the shares of common Class A stock held in the Voting Trust as directed by the trustees of certain trusts which have been established for the benefit of certain Schneider family members. As a result, the outcome of the vote on any Major Transaction is not within the discretion of the Voting Trustees. Second, the independent directors of our Corporate Governance Committee must vote the shares of common Class A stock held in the Voting Trust in accordance with a nomination process agreement pursuant to which two specified Schneider family members will be nominated to serve on our Board on an annual, rotating basis.

Previous wording

Our Class B common stock price has experienced volatility in the past and may remain volatile in the future. Volatility in our stock price can be driven by many factors including divergence between our actual or anticipated financial results and published expectations of analysts or the expectations of the market, the gain or loss of customers, announcements that we, our competitors, our customers, or our vendors or other key partners may make regarding their operating results and other factors which are beyond our control such as market conditions in our industry, new market entrants, technological innovations, and economic and political conditions or events. These and other factors may cause the market price and demand for our Class B common stock to fluctuate substantially. During 2023, the closing stock price of our Class B common stock ranged from a low of $21.48 per share to a high of $31.47 per share. Our Class B common stock is also included in certain market indices, and any change in the composition of these indices to exclude our company may adversely affect our stock price. Increased volatility in the financial markets and/or overall economic conditions may reduce the amounts that we realize in the future on our cash equivalents and/or marketable securities and may reduce our earnings as a result of any impairment charges that we record to reduce recorded values of marketable securities to their fair values.

Current wording

Our Class B common stock price has experienced volatility in the past and may remain volatile in the future. Volatility in our stock price can be driven by many factors including divergence between our actual or anticipated financial results and published expectations of analysts or the expectations of the market, the gain or loss of customers, announcements that we, our competitors, our customers, or our vendors or other key partners may make regarding their operating results and other factors which are beyond our control such as market conditions in our industry, new market entrants, technological innovations, and economic and political conditions or events. These and other factors may cause the market price and demand for our Class B common stock to fluctuate substantially. During 2024, the closing stock price of our Class B common stock ranged from a low of $20.65 per share to a high of $33.61 per share. Our Class B common stock is also included in certain market indices, and any change in the composition of these indices to exclude our company may adversely affect our stock price. Increased volatility in the financial markets and/or overall economic conditions may reduce the amounts that we realize in the future on our cash equivalents and/or marketable securities and may reduce our earnings as a result of any impairment charges that we record to reduce recorded values of marketable securities to their fair values.

Previous wording

In light of present circumstances, we believe these provisions taken as a whole protect our stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our Board and by providing our Board with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make us immune from takeovers or prevent the removal of incumbent directors. However, these provisions could delay or prevent an acquisition that our Board determines is not in the best interests of the Company and all of our stockholders.

Current wording

These provisions could have the effect of discouraging, delaying, or preventing a transaction involving a change in control of our company. These provisions could also have the effect of discouraging proxy contests and making it more difficult for our non-controlling shareholders to elect directors of their choosing, causing us to take other corporate actions. In light of present circumstances, we believe these provisions taken as a whole protect our stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our Board and by providing our Board with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make us immune from takeovers or prevent the removal of incumbent directors. However, these provisions could delay or prevent an acquisition that our Board determines is not in the best interests of the Company and all of our stockholders.

Previous wording

On January 9, 2024, the DOL released its final rule addressing when employers can classify workers as independent contractors under federal labor law. The new rule replaces the existing standard that was enacted under the Trump Administration. The rule, set to take effect March 11, 2024, directs employers to consider six criteria and employ a “totality of the circumstances” analysis to determine whether a worker is an employee or a contractor, without predetermining whether one criteria outweighs the other. The six factors, which are non-exhaustive, include a worker's opportunity for profit or loss; investments made by the worker and the potential employer; the degree of permanence of the work relationship; and the degree of control an employer has over the work. The factors also include the extent to which work performed is integral to the employer's business, and the use of a worker's skill and initiative. We believe that the final rule, as compared with its Trump Administration predecessor, is a less predictable framework that increases the likelihood of an employee determination and could dramatically limit the circumstances under which we may classify our current independent contractor owner-operators as independent contractors under FLSA. Because the final DOL independent contractor rule has not yet gone into effect, or been tested, we do not have any internal projections of the potential financial or operational impact of the final ruling. Any legislation or regulation, however, which limits our ability to classify owner-operators as independent contractors could result in driver shortages or adversely impact our freight capacity which, in turn, could adversely impact our results of operations.

Current wording

Under current DOL regulations, employers must consider six criteria and employ a “totality of the circumstances” analysis to determine whether a worker is an employee or a contractor, without predetermining whether one criterion outweighs the other. The six factors, which are non-exhaustive, include a worker's opportunity for profit or loss; investments made by the worker and the potential employer; the degree of permanence of the work relationship; and the degree of control an employer has over the work. The factors also include the extent to which work performed is integral to the employer's business and the use of a worker's skill and initiative. Although current DOL regulations increase the likelihood of an employee determination and, could dramatically limit the circumstances under which we may classify our current independent contractor owner-operators as independent contractors under FLSA, the DOL under the incoming Trump administration recently requested a pause in oral arguments regarding the current Independent Contractor Rule which may indicate that the new administration may not defend the rule. However, any legislation or regulation which limits our ability to classify owner-operators as independent contractors could result in driver shortages or adversely impact our freight capacity which, in turn, could adversely impact our results of operations.

Previous wording

In the U.S., the DOT, FMCSA, and various state agencies exercise broad powers over our business, generally governing matters including authorization to engage in motor carrier service, equipment operation, safety, financial reporting, and leasing arrangements with independent contractors. We are audited periodically by the DOT to ensure that we are in compliance with various safety, HOS, and other rules and regulations. If we were found to be out of compliance, the DOT could restrict or otherwise impact our operations. We also operate in various Canadian provinces (as granted by the Ministries of Transportation and Communication in such provinces) and contract with third-party carriers to transport freight into Mexico. Our failure to comply with any applicable laws, rules, or regulations to which we are subject, whether actual or alleged, could expose us to fines, penalties, or potential litigation liabilities, including costs, settlements, and judgments. Further, these agencies or governments could institute new laws, rules or regulations, or issue interpretation changes to existing regulations at any time. The short and long-term impacts of changes in legislation or regulations are difficult to predict and could materially and adversely affect our earnings and results of operations.

Current wording

In the U.S., the DOT, FMCSA, and various state agencies exercise broad powers over our business, generally governing matters including authorization to engage in motor carrier service, equipment operation, safety, financial reporting, and leasing arrangements with independent contractors. We are audited periodically by the DOT to ensure that we are in compliance with various safety, HOS, and other rules and regulations. If we were found to be out of compliance, the DOT could restrict or otherwise impact our operations. We also operate in various Canadian provinces and contract with third-party carriers to transport freight into Mexico. Our failure to comply with any applicable laws, rules, or regulations to which we are subject, whether actual or alleged, could expose us to fines, penalties, or potential litigation liabilities, including costs, settlements, and judgments. Further, these agencies or governments could institute new laws, rules or regulations, or issue interpretation changes to existing regulations at any time. The short and long-term impacts of changes in legislation or regulations are difficult to predict and could materially and adversely affect our earnings and results of operations.

Previous wording

The EPA and the NHTSA have begun taking coordinated steps in support of a new generation of clean vehicles and engines to reduce GHG emissions. Complying with these and any future GHG regulations enacted by the CARB, EPA, NHTSA, and/or any other state or federal governing body has increased, and will likely continue to increase, the cost of our new tractors, may increase the cost of new trailers, may require us to retrofit certain of our trailers, may increase our maintenance costs, and could impair equipment productivity and increase our operating costs, particularly if such costs are not offset by potential fuel savings. These adverse effects, combined with the uncertainty as to the reliability of the newly designed diesel engines and the residual values of our equipment, could materially increase our costs or otherwise adversely affect our business or operations. However, we cannot predict the extent to which our operations and productivity will be impacted. We will continue monitoring our compliance with federal and state GHG regulations.

Current wording

In recent years, the EPA and the NHTSA have either finalized or proposed regulations which aim to require truck OEMs to develop and sell a new generation of clean vehicles and engines to reduce GHG emissions. The OEMs’ compliance with those regulations, as well as similar state or federal regulations, has increased, and will likely continue to increase, the cost of our new tractors and, may increase the cost of new trailers, may require us to retrofit certain of our trailers, may increase our maintenance costs, and could impair equipment productivity and increase our operating costs, particularly if such costs are not offset by potential fuel savings. These adverse effects, combined with the uncertainty as to the reliability of the newly designed diesel engines and any related negative impact on the residual values of our equipment, could materially increase our costs or otherwise adversely affect our business or operations. However, we cannot predict the extent to which our operations and productivity will be impacted. We will continue monitoring our compliance with federal and state GHG regulations.

Previous wording

In 2022, the SEC proposed the SEC Climate Disclosure Rule that would require dramatic changes in the nature and extent of disclosures by public companies regarding their climate risks, progress on their climate goals and information on their Scope 1, Scope 2 and, as proposed, Scope 3 emissions. According to the SEC, the newly proposed rule would require SEC-registered companies to include detailed climate-related information in registration statements and periodic reports such as 10-K annual reports including: their climate-related risks and actual or likely material impacts on their business, strategy, and outlook; Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions, which would require attestation reports for accelerated filers; Scope 3 emissions if either of two conditions are present: 1) if Scope 3 emissions are material to the company or 2) if the company has set an emissions target or goal that includes Scope 3 emissions; and certain climate-related financial statement metrics and related disclosures in a note to audited consolidated financial statements. The proposed SEC Climate Disclosure Rule includes footnote disclosure, which would be subject to the financial statement audit and management’s internal control over financial reporting, as well as disclosures outside the financial statements, including a scope 1 and scope 2 greenhouse gas attestation requirements for accelerated and large accelerated filers. If adopted generally as proposed, we expect that we would need to expand our disclosures, even as the reporting timeline is accelerated. Should the Company fail to implement appropriate policies and procedures to accurately track or report all of the information required under the proposed SEC Climate Disclosure Rule, it could be determined that the Company has weaknesses in its internal controls, the Company would not be able to obtain the required third-party attestation report or file them timely and could lose customers. Should any of those events occur, the Company would face fines and disciplinary actions by the SEC and the Company’s share price could be negatively impacted.

Current wording

In 2024, the SEC adopted climate disclosure rules to enhance and standardize climate-related disclosures by public companies and in public offerings. Among other things, the final rules will require a registrant to disclose: (a) climate-related risks that have had or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the registrant’s business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition; (b) the actual and potential material impacts of any identified climate-related risks on the registrant’s strategy, business model, and outlook; (c) for large accelerated filers and accelerated filers like us that are not otherwise exempted, information about material Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions; and (d) for those required to disclose Scope 1 and/or Scope 2 emissions (which would include us), an assurance report at the limited assurance level, which, following an additional transition period, will be at the reasonable assurance level. In addition, California and other states have enacted laws which mandate certain climate-related disclosures. As a result, we have and, expect that we will need to continue to expand our climate-related disclosures to comply with the SEC’s and other state disclosure requirements. Should the Company fail to implement appropriate policies and procedures to accurately track or report all of the information required under these regulations and laws, it could be determined that the Company has weaknesses in its internal controls, and the Company would not be able to obtain the required third-party attestation report or file them timely and could lose customers. Should any of those events occur, the Company could face fines and penalties from the SEC and other states and the Company’s share price could be negatively impacted.

Previous wording

At the state level, the CARB has adopted new regulations that would mandate the transition of commercial trucking operations in California to ZEVs over time. To the extent that the ACF regulation survives legal challenges and becomes effective, we expect that the ACT will impact the cost and/or supply of traditional diesel tractors. Moreover, despite our limited deployment of BEVs in our intermodal fleet and making adjustments to our operations to comply with the ACT, no assurances can be given with respect to the extent that the Company, its independent owner-operators, or third-party capacity providers will choose to become CARB-compliant by purchasing a ZEV. Accordingly, unless, in addition to its intermodal operations in California, the Company opts to become CARB-compliant in its truckload operations, the Company may not be permitted to haul loads that would require travel within California, which could negatively affect the ability of the Company to service customer freight needs for freight originating from, delivering to, or traveling through California. Furthermore, mandates requiring the transition to ZEVs would create substantial costs for the Company’s third-party capacity providers and, in turn, increase the cost of purchased transportation to the Company. An increase in the costs to purchase, lease, or maintain tractor equipment or in purchased transportation cost caused by existing or new regulations, without a corresponding increase in price to the customer, could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Due primarily to the uncertainty of the timing of availability of compliant tractors from OEMs and the timing of the effectiveness of such laws and regulations, we are not currently able to forecast whether such impact will be material.

Current wording

At the state level, CARB has withdrawn its request for an EPA waiver to enforce its ACF rule. The withdrawal means CARB is no longer seeking to enforce its ZEV mandate on fleets. Other states have enacted similar legislation to the ACF and, in the wake of CARB’s decision, it is uncertain whether that legislation will be enforced. Mandates requiring the transition to ZEVs would create substantial costs for the Company’s third-party capacity providers and, in turn, increase the cost of purchased transportation to the Company. An increase in the costs to purchase, lease, or maintain tractor equipment or in purchased transportation cost caused by existing or new regulations, without a corresponding increase in price to the customer, could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Due primarily to the uncertainty of the timing of availability of compliant tractors from OEMs and the timing of the effectiveness of such laws and regulations, we are not currently able to forecast whether such impact will be material.

Previous wording

We, and others, currently do not expect that long-haul trucking operations powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains rather than diesel, will become commercially viable at scale throughout North America in the next five years. However, as various technology alternatives continue to develop and mature and investment in infrastructure continues, local or regional service in certain geographic areas utilizing Class 8 tractors powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains may become commercially viable in such time frame. We continue to actively monitor, evaluate, and test developments in the trucking industry related to the design, manufacture, operation, and support of heavy-duty trucks powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains in order to consider the implementation of initiatives involving those technologies, as those technologies and the related infrastructure needed to support them may mature in the future. An increase in costs to implement these initiatives without a corresponding increase in price to the customer could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

We, and others, currently do not expect that long-haul trucking operations powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains rather than diesel, will become commercially viable at scale throughout North America in the near term. However, as various technology alternatives continue to develop and mature and investment in infrastructure continues, local or regional service in certain geographic areas utilizing Class 8 tractors powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains may become commercially viable in such time frame. We continue to actively monitor, evaluate, and test developments in the trucking industry related to the design, manufacture, operation, and support of heavy-duty trucks powered by electricity, natural gas, or hydrogen-based powertrains in order to consider the implementation of initiatives involving those technologies, as those technologies and the related infrastructure needed to support them may mature in the future. An increase in costs to implement these initiatives without a corresponding increase in price to the customer could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Refer to Item 1. Business, for additional details on the ACT and ACF Regulations, the SEC Climate Disclosure Rule, California SB 253 and SB 261, and the VCMDA.

Current wording

Refer to Item 1. Business, for additional details on the ACT Regulations, the SEC Climate Disclosure Rule, California SB 253 and SB 261, and the VCMDA.

Previous wording

We rely on information technology throughout all areas of our business and operations to receive, track, accept, and complete customer orders; process financial and non-financial data; compile results of operations for internal and external reporting; and achieve operating efficiencies and growth. Such data and information remain vulnerable to cyber-attacks, cybersecurity breaches, ransomware attacks, hackers, theft, or other unauthorized disclosure. Like other companies in the transportation industry, we have identified, and expect to continue to identify, attempted cyberattacks and cyber security incidents, but none of the attempted cyberattacks or cybersecurity incidents identified as of the filing date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K has had a material impact on us, except as the continued presence of cybersecurity threats has resulted, and is expected to continue to result, in significant investments in cybersecurity risk management programs, processes, and tools. If a cyberattack, cybersecurity breach, ransomware, or other similar attack on us is successful, this could result in the disclosure of confidential customer or commercial data, loss of valuable intellectual property, or system disruptions, and subject us to civil liability and fines or penalties, damage our brand and reputation, or otherwise harm our business, any of which could be material. In addition, delayed sales, lower margins, or lost customers resulting from security breaches or network disruptions could materially reduce our revenues, materially increase our expenses, damage our reputation, and have a material adverse effect on our stock price.

Current wording

We rely on information technology throughout all areas of our business and operations to receive, track, accept, and complete customer orders; process financial and non-financial data; compile results of operations for internal and external reporting; and achieve operating efficiencies and growth. Such data and information remain vulnerable to cyber-attacks, cybersecurity breaches, ransomware attacks, hackers, theft, or other unauthorized disclosure. Like other companies in the transportation industry, we have identified, and expect to continue to identify, attempted cyberattacks and cybersecurity incidents, but none of the attempted cyberattacks or cybersecurity incidents identified as of the filing date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K has had a material impact on us, except as the continued presence of cybersecurity threats has resulted, and is expected to continue to result, in significant investments in cybersecurity risk management programs, processes, and tools. If a cyberattack, cybersecurity breach, ransomware, or other similar attack on us is successful, this could result in the disclosure of confidential customer or commercial data, loss of valuable intellectual property, or system disruptions, and subject us to civil liability and fines or penalties, damage our brand and reputation, or otherwise harm our business, any of which could be material. In addition, delayed sales, lower margins, or lost customers resulting from security breaches or network disruptions could materially reduce our revenues, materially increase our expenses, damage our reputation, and have a material adverse effect on our stock price.

Previous wording

In particular, the defense of trucking accidents is challenging for a variety of reasons, one of which is the recent rise in “nuclear verdicts” - excessive jury awards that surpass what would generally be regarded as reasonable or rational compensation for the injuries or damages suffered, social inflation, societal perceptions of the trucking industry, and ultimately, litigation financing, where third parties are financing litigation in return for a share of settlement proceeds or awarded damages.

Current wording

In particular, the defense of trucking accidents is challenging for a variety of reasons, one of which is the recent rise in the industry of nuclear verdicts which typically involve excessive jury awards that surpass what would generally be regarded as reasonable or rational compensation for the injuries or damages suffered. Another challenge facing trucking companies is devising strategies to defend or offset the various tactics employed by plaintiff’s counsel, inside and outside the courtroom, that have and continue to contribute to the rise in nuclear verdicts and the use by plaintiffs’ lawyers of third party litigation funding and litigation advertising, which enables speculative claims by third-party litigation and drives award demands up, thereby widening the gap for parties to negotiate a reasonable settlement.