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Dec 31, 2021

Saia Q4 2021 Earnings Report

Saia reported record results for the fourth quarter of 2021, driven by revenue growth and improved operating efficiency.

Key Takeaways

Saia Inc. reported a 29.5% increase in revenue to $617.1 million and diluted earnings per share of $2.76, compared to $1.51 in Q4 2020. The company's operating ratio improved to 84.2 compared to 89.4 in the same quarter last year.

Revenue increased by 29.5% compared to Q4 2020.

Diluted earnings per share rose to $2.76, up from $1.51 in Q4 2020.

Operating income saw a significant increase of 92.3%.

The operating ratio improved to 84.2 from 89.4.

Total Revenue
$617M
Previous year: $476M
+29.5%
EPS
$2.76
Previous year: $1.51
+82.8%
LTL revenue/shipment
$317
Previous year: $247
+28.4%
LTL Shipments
1.89M
Previous year: 1.86M
+1.6%
LTL Tonnage
1.35M
Previous year: 1.23M
+9.2%
Gross Profit
$130M
Previous year: $72.9M
+78.7%
Cash and Equivalents
$107M
Previous year: $25.3M
+321.2%
Free Cash Flow
-$16M
Previous year: $44.3M
-136.0%
Total Assets
$1.85B
Previous year: $1.55B
+19.1%

Saia

Saia

Forward Guidance

Saia plans to accelerate network expansion, intending to open 10-15 new terminals in 2022 and relocate up to 10 existing terminals to better accommodate expanding volumes.

Positive Outlook

  • Accelerated expansion of network footprint planned for 2022.
  • Intention to open 10-15 new terminals in 2022.
  • Plans to increase capacity across the existing network.
  • Relocation of up to 10 existing terminals in 2022 to better locations.
  • Anticipate net capital expenditures will be in excess of $500 million in 2022.

Challenges Ahead

  • Still operating in challenging conditions due to Covid.
  • Ongoing Covid-related supply chain disruptions.
  • Major storm events impacting operations.
  • General inflationary pressures increasing costs.
  • Cost per shipment increased due to heavier weight per shipment and longer length of haul.