10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

[X]   QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For quarter ended September 30, 2013

or

[   ]    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT

          OF 1934

For the transition period from                                to

Commission File No. 0-15087

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Nevada	93-0926999
(State or Other Jurisdiction of	(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or Organization)	Identification Number)

901 North Kansas Avenue

North Liberty, Iowa

52317

(Address of Principal Executive Office)

(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code (319) 626-3600

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 whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes [X] No [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:

Large accelerated filer [X]	Accelerated filer [  ]
Non-accelerated filer [  ]	Smaller reporting company [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes [  ] No [X]

At November 7, 2013, there were 84,836,619 shares of the Company's $.01 par value common stock outstanding.

1

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.

AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

	Page
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements	3
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (unaudited)	3
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (unaudited)	4
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 (unaudited)	5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (unaudited)	6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)	7
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	14
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	22
Item 4. Controls and Procedures	22
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings	23
Item 2. Changes in Securities	23
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities	23
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures	23
Item 5. Other Information	23
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K	24
Signature	25

2

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited)
ASSETS	September 30 2013			December 31 2012
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	164,215		$	119,838
Short-term investments	6,850			—
Trade receivables, net	48,112			46,555
Prepaid tires	4,806			6,603
Other current assets	5,689			2,281
Income tax receivable	4,119			2,351
Deferred income taxes, net	12,509			13,797
Total current assets	$	246,300		$	191,425
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Land and land improvements	17,098			17,451
Buildings	27,673			26,761
Furniture and fixtures	2,284			2,269
Shop and service equipment	7,266			7,266
Revenue equipment	395,573			378,583
	449,894			432,330
Less accumulated depreciation	177,206			189,959
Property and equipment, net	$	272,688		$	242,371
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS	4,345			20,016
GOODWILL	4,815			4,815
OTHER ASSETS	9,304			9,110
	$	537,452		$	467,737
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	28,825		$	7,583
Compensation and benefits	18,235			16,409
Insurance accruals	11,934			13,924
Other accruals	7,535			7,439
Total current liabilities	$	66,529		$	45,355
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Income taxes payable	$	19,708		$	23,122
Deferred income taxes, net	55,345			51,306
Insurance accruals less current portion	54,008			57,590
Total long-term liabilities	$	129,061		$	132,018
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 11)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, par value $.01; authorized 5,000 shares; none issued	$	—		$	—
Capital stock, common, $.01 par value; authorized 395,000 shares; issued 90,689 in 2013 and 2012; outstanding 84,837 shares in 2013 and 84,770 shares in 2012	907			907
Additional paid-in capital	3,774			2,968
Retained earnings	417,951			368,313
Treasury stock, at cost; 5,852 shares in 2013 and 5,919 shares 2012	(80,540		)	(80,540		)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(230		)	(1,284		)
	$	341,862		$	290,364
	$	537,452		$	467,737

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

3

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
(unaudited)
	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2013			2012			2013			2012
OPERATING REVENUE	$	130,645		$	135,010		$	398,909		$	409,552
OPERATING EXPENSES
Salaries, wages and benefits	$	39,556		$	40,899		$	121,093		$	125,857
Rent and purchased transportation	1,112			1,495			3,735			4,752
Fuel	39,261			42,443			120,876			126,259
Operations and maintenance	4,987			6,468			14,256			18,371
Operating taxes and licenses	1,972			2,122			6,856			6,445
Insurance and claims	2,016			4,832			9,620			11,297
Communications and utilities	767			756			2,239			2,249
Depreciation	15,117			14,250			47,112			42,184
Other operating expenses	4,334			3,752			11,839			11,379
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(4,477		)	(1,674		)	(24,299		)	(9,433		)
	104,645			115,343			313,327			339,360
Operating income	26,000			19,667			85,582			70,192
Interest income	126			191			378			500
Income before income taxes	26,126			19,858			85,960			70,692
Federal and state income taxes	10,258			7,424			31,220			23,443
Net income	$	15,868		$	12,434		$	54,740		$	47,249
Other comprehensive income, net of tax (Note 5)	454			—			1,054			1,797
Comprehensive income	$	16,322		$	12,434		$	55,794		$	49,046
Net income per share
Basic	$	0.19		$	0.15		$	0.65		$	0.55
Diluted	$	0.19		$	0.14		$	0.64		$	0.55
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic	84,837			85,646			84,799			86,189
Diluted	85,038			85,925			85,041			86,508
Dividends declared per share	$	0.02		$	0.02		$	0.06		$	0.06

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

4

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC
ANDSUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
(unaudited)
											Accumulated
	Capital		Additional								Other
	Stock,		Paid-In		Retained			Treasury			Comprehensive
	Common		Capital		Earnings			Stock			Loss			Total
Balance, December 31, 2012	$	907	$	2,968	$	368,313		$	(80,540	)	$	(1,284	)	$	290,364
Net income	—		—		54,740			—			—			54,740
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	—		—		—			—			1,054			1,054
Dividends on common stock, $0.06 per share	—		—		(5,102		)	—			—			(5,102		)
Stock-based compensation	—		806		—			—			—			806
Balance, September 30, 2013	$	907	$	3,774	$	417,951		$	(80,540	)	$	(230	)	$	341,862

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

5

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
	Nine Months Ended   September 30,
	2013			2012
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income	$	54,740		$	47,249
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided   by operating activities:
Depreciation	47,609			42,681
Deferred income taxes	5,325			(9,066		)
Amortization of stock-based compensation	806			2,000
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(24,299		)	(9,433		)
Changes in certain working capital items:
Trade receivables	(1,557		)	(6,558		)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(2,439		)	2,111
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and accrued expenses	(1,810		)	2,257
Accrued income taxes	(5,182		)	(3,736		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	73,193			67,505
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	56,751			17,449
Purchases of property and equipment, net of trades	(91,845		)	(25,360		)
Maturity and calls of investments	9,875			31,325
Change in other assets	(195		)	(4		)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(25,414		)	23,410
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends	(3,402		)	(3,472		)
Repurchases of common stock	—			(14,472		)
Net cash used in financing activities	(3,402		)	(17,944		)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	44,377			72,971
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Beginning of period	119,838			139,770
End of period	$	164,215		$	212,741
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds	$	31,076		$	36,246
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Purchased property and equipment in accounts payable	$	19,051		$	1,116
Common stock dividends declared in accounts payable	$	1,700		$	1,715

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

6

HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.

AND SUBSIDIARIES

(unaudited)

Note 1.  Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company, Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Heartland Express, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2012 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any other interim periods. There were no changes to the Company's significant accounting policies during the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 other than detailed in the Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements below.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new accounting guidance, which requires companies to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component. In addition, a company is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of comprehensive income (loss) by the respective line items of net income. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. As the new standard did not change the current requirements for reporting net income, other comprehensive income, or accumulated other comprehensive loss in the financial statements, the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows were not impacted. There was $0.5 million and $1.1 million reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. See Note 5.

Note 2.  Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) 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 period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. There were no significant changes in estimates and assumptions used by management related to our critical accounting policies during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 other than a change in estimate related to the depreciation of tractor revenue equipment. See Note 6.

Note 3. Segment Information

The Company has eleven regional operating divisions, in addition to operations at the Company's corporate headquarters; however, it has determined that it has one reportable segment. The operating divisions are operated out of our ten office locations including our corporate headquarters. All of the divisions are managed based on similar economic characteristics. Each of the regional operating divisions provides short-to-medium haul truckload carrier services of general commodities to a similar class of customers. In addition, each division exhibits similar financial performance, including average revenue per mile and operating ratio. As a result of the foregoing, the Company has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate its operating divisions into one reportable segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information. Accordingly, the Company has not presented separate segment financial information.

Note 4. Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and original maturities of three months or less at acquisition. Restricted and designated cash and investments totaling $9.3 million at September 30, 2013 and $9.1 million at December 31, 2012 are included in other non-current assets per the consolidated balance sheet.  The restricted funds represent deposits required by state agencies for self-insurance purposes and designated funds that are earmarked for a specific purpose and not for general business use.

7

Note 5.  Investments and Fair Value Measurements

All of the Company’s short-term and long-term investment balances at September 30, 2013, $11.4 million at par, were invested in tax free, auction rate student ("ARS") loan educational bonds that are classified as available-for-sale and, therefore, are carried at fair value on the financial statements.  As of September 30, 2013, all of the Company’s auction rate student loan bonds were associated with unsuccessful auctions.  As of September 30, 2013 the Company had received call notices, at par, for $6.9 million which were received in October and November 2013. The investments, not including the calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, consist of two holdings and have contractual maturities that currently range from June 1, 2034 to May 1, 2040.  These securities, $4.6 million, at par, hold medium to high grade investment (A-AA+) ratings from recognized rating agencies. Since the first auction failures in February 2008 when the Company had approximately $198.5 million ARS at par, the Company has received approximately $193.9 million of calls, including calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, from issuers, at par, plus accrued interest at the time of the call.  There were $0.1 million and $9.9 million in calls, at par, during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

The fair value of available-for-sale investments at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were as follows:

			Gross		Gross
	Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized		Fair
	Cost		Gains		Losses		Value
	( in thousands)
September 30, 2013
Current
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	6,850	—		$	—	$	6,850
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	4,575	$	—	$	230	$	4,345
	$	11,425	$	—	$	230	$	11,195

December 31, 2012
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	21,300	$	—	$	1,284	$	20,016

The contractual maturities and announced calls of available-for-sale securities at September 30, 2013 are detailed in the table below. As management receives intents to call from issuers, the associated securities are changed from their contractual maturities to the date received in the respective call notice.

	Fair Value		Amortized Cost
	(in thousands)
Due within one year	$	6,850	$	6,850
Due after one year through five years	—		—
Due after five years through ten years	—		—
Due after ten years through May 1, 2040	4,345		4,575
	$	11,195	$	11,425

The unrealized loss of $0.2 million is recorded as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss and the Company has not recognized any other than temporary impairments in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.   During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 the Company recorded unrealized gains of $0.5 million and $1.1 million, respectively, due to the reversal of prior period recorded unrealized losses as the Company has received $9.9 million in calls, at par, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and another $6.9 million subsequent to September 30, 2013. There were no other changes in other comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and the unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities of $0.2 million is the only component of accumulated other comprehensive loss at

8

September 30, 2013. There were no realized gains or losses related to these investments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

The table below presents a rollforward for all assets and liabilities, measured at fair value, on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

	Available-for-sale debt securities
	(in thousands)
	2013			2012
Balance, January 1	$	20,016		$	50,569
Settlements	(9,875		)	(31,325		)
Purchases	—			—
Issuances	—			—
Sales	—			—
Transfers in to (out of) Level 3	—			—
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
Included in earnings	—			—
Included in other comprehensive income, net of tax	1,054			1,797
Balance, September 30,	$	11,195		$	21,041

Municipal bonds of $1.4 million at September 30, 2013 and $1.3 million at December 31, 2012 are stated at amortized cost, are classified as held-to-maturity and are included in restricted cash in other non-current assets. Differences between amortized cost and fair value of municipal bonds are not considered material.

Note 6. Property, Equipment, and Depreciation

Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.   Tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid Tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years.  Depreciation expense of $0.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 has been included in communication and utilities in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Depreciation for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors.  The Company recognizes depreciation expense on tractors at 125% declining balance. Tractors are depreciated to salvage values of $15,000 while trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000.

Effective July 1, 2013, the Company adjusted its depreciation estimate for tractors to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method to better reflect the estimated trade value of the tractors at the estimated trade date as well as better match the expense of tractor ownership with a tractors declining value over the estimated useful life of the asset. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.  Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by approximately $2.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Note 7. Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share are based upon the weighted average common shares outstanding during each period.  Diluted earnings per share is based on the basic weighted earnings per share with additional weighted common shares for common stock equivalents. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 the Company had shares of restricted stock outstanding related to shares granted under the 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan. A reconciliation of the numerator (net income) and denominator (weighted average number of shares outstanding of the basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS")) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

9

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	15,868	84,837	$	0.19
Effect of restricted stock	—		201
Diluted EPS	$	15,868	85,038	$	0.19

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	12,434	85,646	$	0.15
Effect of restricted stock	—		279
Diluted EPS	$	12,434	85,925	$	0.14

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	54,740		84,799	0.65
Effect of restricted stock	—		242
Diluted EPS	$	54,740	85,041	$	0.64

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	47,249	86,189	$	0.55
Effect of restricted stock	—		319
Diluted EPS	$	47,249	86,508	$	0.55

Note 8. Stockholders' Equity

In September, 2001, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a program to repurchase 15.4 million shares, adjusted for stock splits, of the Company’s common stock in open market or negotiated transactions using available cash, cash equivalents and investments which was subsequently amended in February, 2012.  Approximately 3.2 million shares remain authorized for repurchase under the program as of September 30, 2013. There were no shares repurchased during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013. The authorization remains open at September 30, 2013 and has no expiration date. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice.  

During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 the Company’s Board of Directors declared regular quarterly dividends totaling $1.7 million, $5.1 million, $1.7 million, and $5.2 million, respectively.  Future payment of cash dividends and the amount of such dividends will depend upon financial conditions, results of operations, cash requirements, tax treatment, and certain corporate law requirements, as well as factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

Note 9. Stock-Based Compensation

On July 11, 2011, a Special Meeting of Stockholders of Heartland Express, Inc. was held, at which meeting the approval of the Heartland Express, Inc. 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan (the "Plan") was ratified. The Plan is administered by the Compensation

10

Committee of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Committee"). In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee has the authority to determine all provisions of awards of restricted stock, including, without limitation, the employees of the Company who will receive awards, the number of shares awarded to individual employees, the time or times when awards will be granted, restrictions and other conditions (including, for example, the lapse of time) to which the vesting of awards may be subject, and other terms and conditions and form of agreement to be entered into by the Company and employees subject to awards of restricted stock. The Committee may allocate all or any portion of its responsibilities and powers under the Plan to any one or more of its members, the Chief Executive Officer, or other senior members of management as the Committee deems appropriate. Per the terms of the awards, employees receiving awards will have all of the rights of a stockholder with respect to the unvested restricted shares including, but not limited to, the right to receive such cash dividends, if any, as may be declared on such shares from time to time and the right to vote such shares at any meeting of stockholders of the Company.

The Plan made available up to 0.9 million shares for the purpose of making restricted stock grants to eligible officers and employees of the Company. During December 2011, 0.4 million shares were granted to employees and no additional shares were granted during 2012. During the three month period ended September 30, 2013 there were no new grants of shares under the Plan. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 there was a new grant of 2,000 shares to an employee. The original shares granted under the Plan are service based awards beginning December 14, 2011 and 20% of the awards vest each June 1st through 2016. The new grant during 2013 is a service based award beginning June 24, 2013 and 33.3% of the award vests each June 1st through 2016. Once vested, there are no other restrictions on the awards. Compensation expense associated with these awards is based on the market value of the Company's stock on the grant date. The Company's market closing price on December 14, 2011 and June 24, 2013, grant dates, was $13.57 and $13.86 respectively. There were no significant assumptions made in determining the fair value. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards is included in salaries, wages and benefits in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards was $0.2 million, $0.4 million, $0.8 million, and $2.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense was $1.5 million at September 30, 2013. Unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.8 years from the grant date of December 14, 2011 and total period of 4.5 years.

The following tables summarize the Company's restricted stock award activity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	203.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.2	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	276.8		$	13.57
Granted	2.0		13.86
Vested	(67.0	)	—
Forfeited	(13.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

11

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	280.8		13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	351.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	(70.2	)	—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		$	13.57

Note 10.  Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are determined based upon the differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities.  Deferred taxes are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained.  Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.  The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company had recorded a valuation allowance of $0.1 million and $0.4 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 related to the Company’s deferred tax asset associated specifically with unrealized losses on auction rate securities. This valuation allowance was recorded as the Company does not have historical capital gains nor does it expect to generate capital gains sufficient to utilize the entire deferred tax asset generated by the fair value adjustment.  As the fair value adjustment was recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss, the associated valuation allowance was also recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss.  The above mentioned allowance did not impact the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance against any other deferred tax assets.  In management’s opinion, it is more likely than not that the Company will be able to utilize these deferred tax assets in future periods as a result of the Company’s history of profitability, taxable income, and reversal of deferred tax liabilities.

At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had a total of $13.2 million and $15.7 million in gross unrecognized tax benefits, respectively.  Of this amount, $8.5 million and $10.1 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.  Unrecognized tax benefits were a net decrease of $1.2 million, an increase of $0.4 million, and net decrease of $2.5 million and $1.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The decreases were due mainly to the expiration of certain statutes of limitation net of additions as well as $1.5 million in settlements during the three and nine periods ended September 30, 2013.  These decreases, except the settlements which represented payments of previous accruals, had the effect of reducing the effective state tax rate during these respective periods. The total net amount of accrued interest and penalties for such unrecognized tax benefits was $6.5 million and $7.4 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 and is included in income taxes payable per the consolidated balance sheet.  Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was a benefit of approximately $0.2 million, $0.2 million, $0.9 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Income tax expense is increased each period for the accrual of interest on outstanding positions and penalties when the uncertain tax position is initially recorded. Income tax expense is reduced in periods by the amount of accrued interest and penalties associated with reversed uncertain tax positions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations, when applicable or when a position is settled. Income tax expense was reduced during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012

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due to reversals of interest and penalties due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations, net of additions for interest and penalty accruals during the same periods. Accrued penalties and interest associated with settlements did not impact income tax expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. These unrecognized tax benefits relate to risks associated with state income tax filing positions for the Company’s corporate subsidiaries.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	2013
	(in thousands)
Balance at January 1,	$	15,723
Additions based on tax positions related to current year	616
Additions for tax positions of prior years	616
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(300		)
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(1,984		)
Settlements	(1,466		)
Balance at September 30,	$	13,205

A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is audited and ultimately settled. It is difficult to predict the ultimate outcome or the timing of resolution for uncertain tax positions. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes could result from the expiration of the statute of limitations, examinations or other unforeseen circumstances. The Company does not have any outstanding litigation related to tax matters.  At this time, management’s best estimate of the reasonably possible change in the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits to be a decrease of approximately $0.5 million to $1.5 million during the next twelve months mainly due to the expiration of certain statute of limitations, net of additions.  The federal statute of limitations remains open for the years 2010 and forward. Tax years 2003 and forward are subject to audit by state tax authorities depending on the tax code and administrative practice of each state.

Note 11.  Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is a party to ordinary, routine litigation and administrative proceedings incidental to its business. These proceedings primarily involve claims for personal injury, property damage, cargo, and workers’ compensation incurred in connection with the transportation of freight. The Company maintains insurance to cover liabilities arising from the transportation of freight for amounts in excess of certain self-insured retentions.

The total estimated purchase commitments for tractors, net of estimated tractor sale commitments, at September 30, 2013, including amounts in accounts payable at September 30, 2013, was $56.3 million.

Note 12.  Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated events occurring subsequent to September 30, 2013 through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for disclosure.

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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Item 2 contains certain statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such statements are subject to the safe harbor created by such sections. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including without limitation: any projections of earnings, revenues, or other financial items; any statement of plans, strategies, and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning proposed new services or developments; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; and any statements of belief and any statement of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Such statements may be identified by their use of terms or phrases such as “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “may” “could, ” and similar terms and phrases. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified, which could cause future events and actual results to differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors," set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is by this reference incorporated herein. Readers should review and consider the factors discussed in “Risk Factors” of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, along with various disclosures in our press releases, stockholder reports, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard thereto or any change in the events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

References in this Quarterly Report to “we,” “us,” “our,” “Heartland,” or the “Company” or similar terms refer to Heartland Express, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

Overview

Heartland Express, Inc. is a short-to-medium haul truckload carrier with corporate headquarters in North Liberty, Iowa. The Company provides regional dry van truckload services through its regional terminals and its corporate headquarters.  The Company transports freight for major shippers and generally earns revenue based on the number of miles per load delivered.  The Company’s eleven regional operating divisions, not including operations at the corporate headquarters, accounted for 75.0% and 73.9%, of the operating revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 the Company's eleven regional operating divisions, not including operations at the corporate headquarters, accounted for 74.8% and 74.1% of operating revenues, respectively. On-time customer service along with being safety-oriented continues to be core operating goals of the Company. The Company believes the keys to maintaining a high level of service and safety are the availability of late-model equipment as well as safe and experienced drivers.

Operating efficiencies and cost controls are achieved through equipment utilization, operating a fleet of late model equipment, maintaining an industry leading driver to non-driver employee ratio, and the effective management of fixed and variable operating costs.  During 2009 industry capacity (available trucks) significantly exceeded demands for freight services largely due to a significant decline in the U.S. economy and consumer spending. As such, there was significant downward pressure on freight rates throughout 2009 and into 2010. General economic conditions and downward pressure on freight rates caused increases in trucking company bankruptcies and other company tractor fleet reductions during this same period. As a result of trucking company failures and other company fleet reductions, during 2010, industry capacity came back in line with demand for freight services after a period of industry capacity significantly exceeding demand for freight services. During the periods of 2011 and 2012 there was a balance of industry capacity and demand for freight services although the demand for freight services did not reach the same levels of demand that existed during the years immediately preceding 2009. There have not been any significant changes to the freight environment during the first nine months of 2013 including no significant changes to industry capacity and demand for freight services. Balancing of industry capacity and demand of freight services has allowed the Company to obtain modest freight rate increases although these increases have not kept pace with the Company's increases in operating costs including the rising costs of revenue equipment. Competition for drivers, which is always intense, escalated during 2011 due to general improvements in the demand for freight services as the result of the factors previously mentioned and remains very competitive during 2013. The Company has experienced increasing difficulties attracting and retaining qualified drivers as well as increased regulations related to drivers' hours of service that became effective July 1, 2013. The Company continues to explore new ideas and ways to attract and retain qualified drivers as well as effectively utilize drivers' available hours of service.

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Containment of fuel cost continues to be one of management's top priorities in controlling costs based on the recent history of diesel fuel price volatility. The Company continues to be challenged by increased fuel prices and anticipates that fuel prices will remain at or above current levels. Average diesel fuel prices have increased each year over the past year during the periods 2009 through 2012 although the average price for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was down slightly compared to the average price for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Average Department of Energy ("DOE") diesel prices for 2009 through 2012 were, $2.47, $3.00, $3.85, and $3.97, respectively. The DOE average price per gallon of diesel fuel during the first nine months of 2013 was $3.94 compared to $3.96 during the first nine months of 2012 and was $3.87 as of October 28, 2013. The Company continues to manage and implement fuel initiative strategies to effectively manage fuel costs.  These initiatives include strategic fueling of our trucks whether it be terminal fuel or over-the-road fuel, reduction of tractor idle time, controlling out-of-route miles, controlling empty miles, trailer skirting, and increased fuel economy through the purchase of newer, more fuel efficient tractors.  The Company is not able to pass through all fuel price increases through fuel surcharge agreements with customers due to tractor idling time, along with empty and out-of-route miles. The Company continues to focus on fuel surcharge pricing, non billable uses of fuel (i.e. truck idling hours, empty miles, out-of-route miles), and fuel purchasing decisions in an effort to lessen the impact of higher fuel costs.

At September 30, 2013, 100% of the Company's tractor fleet is equipped with idle management controls. At September 30, 2013, the Company’s tractor fleet had an average age of 2.0 years and the Company's trailer fleet had an average age of 3.2 years. The average age of tractor equipment is expected to improve throughout the remainder of 2013 and into first quarter of 2014 as the Company takes delivery of new tractors and the trailer fleet is expected to remain consistent throughout the remainder of 2013 with the sale of older units.

The Company continues to focus on providing quality service to targeted customers with a high density of freight in the Company’s regional operating areas. In addition to the development of its regional operating centers, the Company has made five acquisitions since 1987.  We believe our commitment to quality service allowed the Company to hold its freight rates relatively stable throughout the recent recession, in comparison to our competitors, better positioning the Company for future growth as market capacity continues to tighten.  Future growth is dependent upon several factors including the level of economic growth and the related customer demand, the available capacity in the trucking industry, potential acquisition opportunities, and the availability and ability to attract and retain experienced drivers that meet our hiring standards.

The Company hires only experienced drivers (minimum 1 year of driving experience) with safe driving records. In order to attract and retain experienced drivers who understand the importance of customer service, the Company has sought to solidify its position as an industry leader in driver compensation in the Company's operating markets. The Company offers the top or near the top compensation pay per mile to drivers in the markets in which the Company operates as well as safety pay incentives.

The Company ended the first nine months of 2013 with operating revenues of $398.9 million, including fuel surcharges, net income of $54.7 million, and basic net income per share of $0.65 on basic weighted average outstanding shares of 84.8 million compared to operating revenues of $409.6 million, including fuel surcharges, net income of $47.2 million, and basic net income per share of $0.55 on basic weighted average shares of 86.2 million in the comparative 2012 period. The Company posted a 78.5% operating ratio (operating expenses as a percentage of operating revenues) for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to 82.9% for the same period of 2012 and a 13.7% net margin (net income as a percentage of operating revenues) for the first nine months of 2013 compared to 11.5% in same period of 2012. The Company had total assets of $537.5 million at September 30, 2013. The Company achieved a return on assets of 13.6% and a return on equity of 21.8% over the immediate past four quarters ended September 30, 2013 compared to 11.8% and 17.9%, respectively, for the immediate past four quarters ended September 30, 2012.  

The Company’s cash flow from operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 of $73.2 million was 18.3% of operating revenues compared to $67.5 million and 16.5% in first nine months of 2012.  During the first nine months of 2013, the Company used $25.4 million in net investing cash flows, which was primarily the result of $35.1 million used in net purchases of revenue equipment as the Company continues with fleet updates, offset by $9.9 million in calls, at par, of ARS investments. Additionally, the Company used $3.4 million in financing activities for dividends in the first nine months of 2013. As a result, the Company increased cash and cash equivalents $44.4 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  The Company ended the first nine months of 2013 with cash, cash equivalents, and investments of $175.4 million and a debt-free balance sheet.

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Results of Operations

The following table sets forth the percentage relationships of expense items to total operating revenue for the periods indicated:

	Three Months Ended   September 30,				Nine Months Ended   September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Operating revenue	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and benefits	30.3	%	30.3	%	30.4	%	30.7	%
Rent and purchased transportation	0.9	%	1.1	%	0.9		1.2
Fuel	30.1	%	31.4	%	30.3		30.8
Operations and maintenance	3.8	%	4.8	%	3.6		4.5
Operating taxes and license	1.5	%	1.6	%	1.7		1.6
Insurance and claims	1.5	%	3.6	%	2.4		2.8
Communications and utilities	0.6	%	0.6	%	0.6		0.5
Depreciation	11.6	%	10.6	%	11.8		10.3
Other operating expenses	3.3	%	2.8	%	3.0		2.8
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(3.4	)%	(1.2	)%	(6.1	)	(2.3	)
	80.1	%	85.4	%	78.5	%	82.9	%
Operating income	19.9	%	14.6	%	21.5	%	17.1	%
Interest income	0.1	%	0.1	%	0.1	%	0.1	%
Income before income taxes	20.0	%	14.7	%	21.5	%	17.3	%
Income taxes	7.9	%	5.5	%	7.8		5.7
Net income	12.1	%	9.2	%	13.7	%	11.5	%

Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 Compared With the Three Months September 30, 2012

Operating revenue decreased $4.4 million (3.2%), to $130.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $135.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012.  The decrease in revenue was mainly the result of a $3.7 million (3.5%) net decrease in line haul revenues with additional decreases in fuel surcharge revenues of $0.4 million (1.6%) and $0.3 million in other revenues. The net line haul revenue decrease was largely the result of a 5.1% decrease in loaded miles offset by increases in freight rates. Fuel surcharge revenues were $26.7 million for three months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $27.1 million for the comparable 2012 period. Fuel surcharge revenues represent fuel costs passed on to customers based on customer specific fuel charge recovery rates and billed loaded miles. Fuel surcharge revenues decreased primarily as a result of lower miles driven offset by an increase in the fuel surcharge rate per loaded mile comparing the two periods.

Salaries, wages, and benefits decreased $1.3 million (3.3%), to $39.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $40.9 million in the 2012 period.  The decrease was the result of a $0.7 million decrease (2.4%) in driver wages, a $0.4 million decrease (32.0%) decrease in workers compensation, and $0.2 decrease in other compensation and benefits. The Company driver wage decrease was due to a decrease in miles driven consistent with related decreases in line haul revenues. Other compensation decreases was mainly the result of reduced amortization of stock-based compensation which is related to restricted stock awards that were granted in December 2011 and expensed over the respective service requirement periods. Workers compensation expense decreased due to frequency and severity of claims.

Rent and purchased transportation decreased $0.4 million (25.6%), to $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $1.5 million in the comparable period of 2012.  The decrease is mainly attributable to a decrease in amounts paid to independent contractors due to fewer miles driven as a result of fewer independent contractors driving for the Company. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, independent contractors accounted for 1.1% of the total fleet miles compared to approximately 1.4% for the same period in 2012.

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Fuel decreased $3.2 million (7.5%), to $39.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $42.4 million for the same period of 2012. The decrease is primarily the result of decreases in the volume of fuel purchased, $1.8 million, which was mainly driven by reduced total miles driven as well as an overall improvement in the fuel economy of our fleet comparing the two periods. An additional reduction of $1.4 million was due to lower fuel prices. Fuel cost per mile, net of fuel surcharge revenues, decreased 14.4% in the 2013 period compared to the same period of 2012.  The DOE average diesel price per gallon for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was $3.92 per gallon compared to the same period of 2012 of $3.96 per gallon a 1.0% decrease.   

Depreciation increased $0.9 million (6.1%), to $15.1 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $14.3 million in the same period of 2012.  The increase is mainly attributable to an increase in tractor depreciation ($0.8 million) and an increase in trailer depreciation of $0.1 million. The increase in tractor depreciation is largely the result of tractor purchases related to latest tractor fleet upgrade project that started in the fourth quarter of 2012, continued through the first nine months of 2013, and is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2014.

Effective July 1, 2013, the Company adjusted its depreciation estimate for tractors to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.  This differs from the straight line method used by many other trucking companies, and the Company believes that the declining balance method better matches the actual declines in value of new tractors over their useful lives. Beginning in 2009, the Company changed its estimate of depreciation from the 125% method to the 150% declining balance method because of sharply lower used truck values, higher prices for new equipment, and uncertainty surrounding the reliability and resale value of tractors with 2010 emission-compliant engines. The Company believes a more stable used equipment market now supports a return to the Company's historical estimate of depreciation on tractor equipment over its expected useful life as well as estimated values of such equipment at the end of the equipment's useful life. In future periods, depreciation expense per tractor and gain on sale per tractor are expected to be lower than under the 150% declining balance method, assuming the Company's average fleet age remains relatively young.  Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by approximately $2.1 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013.

Operating and maintenance expense decreased $1.5 million (22.9%), to $5.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $6.5 million in the same period of 2012. Operating and maintenance costs decreased $2.0 million mainly due to decreased tire costs, resulting from lower amortization of replacement tires, offset by approximately $0.6 million increase in revenue equipment maintenance costs during the three months ended September 30, 2013.

Insurance and claims decreased $2.8 million (58.3%) to $2.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $4.8 million for the 2012 period. The decrease was the largely the result of decreases in the frequency and severity of accidents.

Gains on the disposal of property and equipment increased $2.8 million (167.4%), to $4.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $1.7 million in the same period of 2012.  The net increase was due to increased gains on sales of tractor equipment of $2.3 million and increases in gains on trailer equipment sales of $0.5 million. The increase in gains on tractors was due to the Company not selling any tractors in the third quarter of 2012 compared to tractor sales activity during the quarter ended September 30, 2013. Increases in trailer gains was the result of a 27% increase in the number of units sold in the third quarter of 2013 compared to same period of 2012 as well as the mix of model year of the units sold. The Company currently anticipates gains on sale of equipment for the remainder of 2013 and first quarter of 2014 due to the current tractor fleet upgrade program that is presently anticipated to occur through the remainder of 2013 and first quarter of 2014. In future periods, gain on sale per tractor are expected to be lower based on the Company's change in estimate for depreciation assuming the Company's average fleet age remains relatively young.

The Company’s effective tax rate was 39.3% and 37.4% for three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The increase in the effective tax rate for 2013 is primarily attributable to an increase in taxable income combined with an increase in income tax expense due to unfavorable adjustments for uncertain tax positions and return to provision adjustments during the 2013 period compared to the same period of 2012. During the three months ended September 30, 2013 these income tax adjustments were an additional tax expense of $0.3 million compared to an income tax benefit of $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

As a result of the foregoing, the Company’s operating ratio (operating expenses as a percentage of operating revenue) was 80.1% during the three months ended September 30, 2013 compared with 85.4% during the three months ended September 30, 2012.  Net income increased $3.4 million (27.6%), to $15.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from $12.4 million during the comparative 2012 period as a result of the net effects discussed above.

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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 Compared With the Nine Months September 30, 2012

Operating revenue decreased $10.6 million (2.6%), to $398.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $409.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.  The decrease in revenue was mainly the result of a $7.7 million (2.4%) net decrease in line haul revenues with additional decreases in fuel surcharge revenues of $2.4 million (2.9%) and 0.5 million in other revenues. The net line haul revenue decrease was largely the result of a 4.4% decrease in loaded miles offset by increases in freight rates. Fuel surcharge revenues were $82.0 million for nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $84.4 million for the comparable 2012 period. Fuel surcharge revenues represent fuel costs passed on to customers based on customer specific fuel charge recovery rates and billed loaded miles. Fuel surcharge revenues decreased primarily as a result of lower miles driven on relatively stable DOE fuel prices (0.5% decline) offset by increases in fuel surcharge rates comparing the two periods.

Salaries, wages, and benefits decreased $4.8 million (3.8%), to $121.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $125.9 million in the 2012 period.  The decrease was the result of a $2.7 million decrease (2.9%) in driver wages, a $1.2 million (59.7%) decrease in amortization of stock-based compensation awards, a $0.4 million (12.2%) decrease in workers compensation, a $0.4 decrease in payroll related taxes associated with reductions in wages and a $0.1 decrease in other compensation and benefits. The Company driver wage decrease was due to a decrease in miles driven. Amortization of stock-based compensation is related to restricted stock awards that were granted in December 2011 and expensed over the respective service requirement periods. As the first of five vesting periods ended June 1, 2012, expense associated with the first vesting period was recognized over 5.5 months and therefore higher in the first and second quarters of 2012 compared to expense recognized on the remaining unvested awards in the first and second quarters of 2013. Workers compensation decreased due to frequency and severity of claims.

Rent and purchased transportation decreased $1.0 million (21.4%), to $3.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $4.8 million in the comparable period of 2012.  The decrease is mainly attributable to a decrease in amounts paid to independent contractors due to fewer miles driven as a result of fewer independent contractors driving for the Company. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, independent contractors accounted for 1.2% of the total fleet miles compared to approximately 1.5% for the same period in 2012.

Fuel decreased $5.4 million (4.3%), to $120.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $126.3 million for the same period of 2012. The decrease is primarily the result of decreased miles driven as well as an overall improvement in the fuel economy of our fleet comparing the two periods, $4.5 million, in addition to approximately $0.9 million decrease due to lower fuel cost per mile. Fuel cost per mile, net of fuel surcharge revenues, decreased 4.1% in the 2013 period compared to the same period of 2012 due to the combined effect of lower average fuel prices and increased fuel economy of the fleet. The DOE average diesel price per gallon for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $3.94 per gallon compared to the same period of 2012 of $3.96 per gallon a 0.5% decrease.   

Depreciation increased $4.9 million (11.7%), to $47.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $42.2 million in the same period of 2012.  The increase is mainly attributable to an increase in tractor depreciation ($3.3 million) as well as an increase in trailer depreciation of $1.7 million. The increase in tractor depreciation is largely the result of tractor purchases related to the latest tractor fleet upgrade project that started in the fourth quarter of 2012, continue through the first nine months of 2013, and is expected to continue through the fourth quarter of 2013 and first quarter of 2014. The increase in trailer depreciation is largely the result of the volume of trailer purchases that took place in the second half of 2012 which largely replaced trailers that had previously been depreciated to their estimated salvage value.

Effective July 1, 2013, the Company adjusted its depreciation estimate for tractors to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.  This differs from the straight line method used by many other trucking companies, and the Company believes that the declining balance method better matches the actual declines in value of new tractors over their useful lives. Beginning in 2009, the Company changed its estimate of depreciation from the 125% method to the 150% declining balance method because of sharply lower used truck values, higher prices for new equipment, and uncertainty surrounding the reliability and resale value of tractors with 2010 emission-compliant engines. The Company believes a more stable used equipment market now supports a return to the Company's historical estimate of depreciation on tractor equipment over its expected useful life as well as estimated values of such equipment at the end of the equipment's useful life. In future periods, depreciation expense per tractor and gain on sale per tractor are expected to be lower than under the 150% declining balance method, assuming the Company's average fleet age remains relatively young.  Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by approximately $2.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

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Operating and maintenance expense decreased $4.1 million (22.4%), to $14.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $18.4 million in the same period of 2012. Operating and maintenance costs decreased $6.0 million mainly due to decreased tire costs, resulting from lower amortization of replacement tires, offset by approximately $1.7 million increase in revenue equipment maintenance costs due to harsher first quarter weather conditions and current tractor trade cycle that was occurring during the first nine months of 2013.

Insurance and claims decreased $1.7 million (14.8%) to $9.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $11.3 million for 2012 period. The decrease was the result of a decrease in the frequency and severity of accident claims.

Gains on the disposal of property and equipment increased $14.9 million (157.6%), to $24.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $9.4 million in the same period of 2012.  The net increase was the combined effect of increases in gains on sales of tractor equipment of $14.5 million, and additional increases in gains on trailer equipment sales of $0.3 million and $0.1 in disposals of other equipment. The increase in gains on tractors was largely due to the Company selling approximately 9.5times the amount of tractors in the first nine months of 2013 compared 2012 and approximately 30% less trailers in the first nine months of 2013 compared to 2012 but with a higher value received for sold units as units sold were later model equipment. In future periods, gain on sale per tractor are expected to be lower based on the Company's change in estimate for depreciation assuming the Company's average fleet age remains relatively young.

The Company’s effective tax rate was 36.3% and 33.2% for nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The increase in the effective tax rate for 2013 is primarily attributable to an increase in taxable income combined with a decrease in favorable income tax expense adjustments during the 2013 period compared to the same period of 2012 resulting mainly from lower roll offs of certain state tax contingencies.

As a result of the foregoing, the Company’s operating ratio (operating expenses as a percentage of operating revenue) was 78.5% during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared with 82.9% during the nine months ended September 30, 2012.  Net income increased $7.5 million (15.9%), to $54.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $47.2 million during the comparative 2012 period as a result of the net effects discussed above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The growth of the Company’s business requires significant investments in new revenue equipment.  Historically the Company has been debt-free, funding revenue equipment purchases with cash flow provided by operations and sales of equipment, which has been the case during the most recent tractor upgrades. The Company ended the third quarter of 2013 with cash and cash equivalents and short term investments of $171.1 million. The Company’s primary source of liquidity has historically been from operating activities which during the first nine months of 2013 was $73.2 million compared to $67.5 million during the same period of 2012.  This was primarily a result of net income (excluding non-cash depreciation, changes in deferred taxes, amortization of stock-based compensation and gains on disposal of equipment) being approximately $10.8 million higher during 2013 compared to 2012 offset by a decrease in cash flow used in changes in operating assets and liabilities of approximately $5.1 million.  The net increase in cash used in operating assets and liabilities for 2013 compared to the same period of 2012 was due to to decreases in accounts receivable consistent in reductions in operating revenues offset by increases used due to changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities and prepaid expense largely due to timing of payments. Cash flow from operating activities was 18.3% of operating revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared with 16.5% for the same period of 2012.

Cash flows used in investing activities was $25.4 million during the first nine months of 2013 compared to cash flows provided by investing activities of $23.4 million during the same period of 2012 or a increase in cash used of $48.8 million.  The increase in cash used in investing activities was mainly the result of an increase in net capital expenditures (cash used in equipment purchases less cash provided from equipment sales) of $27.2 million. In addition there was a $21.5 million reduction ($9.9 million in 2013 and $31.3 million in 2012) in cash received in calls of investments comparing the two nine month periods. The increased cash used for net capital expenditures was directly related to an increase in tractors purchased during the first nine months of 2013 compared to the same period of 2012. The Company currently anticipates net capital expenditures on revenue equipment to be approximately $50 million to $55 million for fiscal year 2013 with an additional $35.0 million to $40.0 million expected in the first quarter of 2014 as the Company continues plans of an upgrade of its tractor fleet throughout the remainder of 2013 into early 2014. Although the Company expects to continue to sell trailers during 2013, there are no guaranteed commitments from third parties to buy trailers during 2013 and therefore these estimated trailer proceeds have not been used to reduce the Company's estimated capital expenditures for the remainder of 2013.

19

Cash flows used in financing activities was $3.4 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $17.9 million during the comparable period of 2012. The decrease in cash used in financing activities was due to $14.5 million used to repurchase stock during the 2012 period and no shares were repurchased during the 2013 period.

In September, 2001, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a program to repurchase 15.4 million shares, adjusted for stock splits, of the Company’s common stock in open market or negotiated transactions using available cash, cash equivalents and investments which was subsequently amended in February 2012.  Approximately 3.2 million shares remain authorized for repurchase under the program as of September 30, 2013. There were no shares repurchased during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The authorization remains open at September 30, 2013 and has no expiration date. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice.  

The Company paid income taxes, net of refunds, of $31.1 million in 2013 which was $5.2 million lower than income taxes paid during 2012 of $36.2 million.   The decrease is largely driven by a decrease in federal income tax payments as a result of bonus depreciation in 2013 related to new tractor purchases. Due to additional depreciation tax deductions taken in 2013, cash payments for taxes in subsequent years are expected to increase in comparison to 2013 as less depreciation tax deductions will be available in future years.

Management believes the Company has adequate liquidity to meet its current and projected needs in the foreseeable future.  Management believes the Company will continue to have significant capital requirements over the long-term which are expected to be funded from cash flows provided by operations and existing cash and cash equivalents, and in certain cases, proceeds from the sale of used equipment.  The Company’s balance sheet remains debt free.   At September 30, 2013, the Company had $175.4 million in cash, cash equivalents and investments, an increase of $35.5 million from December 31, 2012 although the Company spent $35.1 million on net equipment purchases during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  

All of the Company’s investment balances at September 30, 2013, $11.4 million at par, were invested in tax free, auction rate student ("ARS") loan educational bonds that are classified as available-for-sale.  As of September 30, 2013, all of the Company’s auction rate student loan bonds were associated with unsuccessful auctions.  As of September 30, 2013 the Company had received call notices, at par, for $6.9 million which were received in October and November 2013. The investments, not including the calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, consist of two holdings and have contractual maturities that currently range from June 1, 2034 to May 1, 2040.  These securities, $4.6 million, at par, hold medium to high grade investment (A-AA+) ratings from recognized rating agencies. Since the first auction failures in February 2008 when the Company had approximately $198.5 million ARS at par, the Company has received approximately $193.9 million of calls, including calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, from issuers, at par, plus accrued interest at the time of the call.  There were $9.9 million in calls, at par, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The remaining investments, after calls received in October and November of 2013, represented 0.8% and 1.8% of the Company's total assets and current assets, respectively, at September 30, 2013 compared to 4.3% and 10.5% at December 31, 2012. The Company can not currently project when liquidity will be obtained from the remaining ARS investments.

Off-Balance Sheet Transactions

The Company’s liquidity or financial condition is not materially affected by off-balance sheet transactions.

Risk Factors

You should refer to Item 1A of our Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2012, under the caption “Risk Factors” for specific details on the following factors that are not within the control of the Company and could affect our financial results.

• Our business is subject to general economic and business factors that are largely out of our control, any of which could have a materially adverse effect on our operating results.

• Our growth may not continue at historic rates.

• If we are unable to retain our current customers at our current freight rates, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

• We are highly dependent on a few major customers, the loss of one or more of which could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

• We have significant ongoing capital requirements that could affect our profitability if we are unable to generate sufficient cash from operations and obtain financing on favorable terms.

• Increased prices, reduced productivity, and restricted availability of new revenue equipment and decreased demand and value of used equipment may adversely affect our earnings and cash flows.

• If fuel prices increase significantly, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

20

• Difficulty in driver and independent contractor recruitment and retention may have a materially adverse effect on our business.

• If our independent contractors are deemed by regulators or judicial process to be employees, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected.

• We operate in a highly regulated industry, and increased costs of compliance with, or liability for violation of, existing or future regulations could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) could adversely affect our profitability and operations, our ability to maintain or grow our fleet, and our customer relationships.

• Our operations are subject to various environmental laws and regulations, the violations of which could result in substantial fines or penalties.

• We may not make acquisitions in the future, or if we do, we may not be successful in integrating the acquired company, either of which could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

• If we are unable to retain our key employees or find, develop, and retain service center managers, our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

• If the estimated fair value of auction rate securities continue to remain below cost or if the fair value decreases significantly from the current fair value, we may be required to record an impairment of these investments, through a charge in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, which could have a materially adverse effect on our earnings.

• Seasonality and the impact of weather affect our operations profitability.

• Ongoing insurance and claims expenses could significantly reduce our earnings.

• We are dependent on computer and communications systems, and a systems failure could cause a significant disruption to our business.

• Concentrated ownership of our stock can influence shareholder decisions, may discourage a change in control, and may have an adverse effect on the share price of our stock.

21

General

We are exposed to market risk changes in interest rates on our investments and from changes in commodity prices, primarily fuel and rubber. We do not currently use derivative financial instruments for risk management purposes, although we have used instruments in the past for fuel price risk management, and do not use them for either speculation or trading. Because our operations are confined to the United States, we are not subject to a material foreign currency risk.

Investments

All of the Company’s investment balances at September 30, 2013 and at December 31, 2012 were invested in tax free, auction rate student ("ARS") loan educational bonds that are classified as available-for-sale.  Should the Company have a need to or choose to liquidate any of these investments, the Company may be required to discount these securities for liquidity.  If the investments are downgraded in the credit ratings, the Company witnesses other indicators of issues with collection, or the Company chooses to liquidate the remaining ARS investments, the Company may be required to recognize an other than temporary impairment on these securities and record a charge in the statement of comprehensive income. Assuming the Company maintains investment balances consistent with balances as of September 30, 2013, ($11.4 million amortized cost), and if market rates of interest on our investments decreased by 100 basis points, the estimated reduction in annual interest income would be approximately $0.1 million.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company has no debt outstanding as of September 30, 2013 and therefore, has no market risk related to debt. Management believes that an increase in short-term interest rates could have a materially adverse effect on our financial condition only if we incur substantial indebtedness and the interest rate increases are not offset by freight rate increases or other items.

Commodity Price Risk

We are subject to commodity price risk primarily with respect to purchases of fuel and rubber. Historically, we have sought to recover a portion of our short-term fuel price increases from customers through fuel surcharges. Fuel surcharges that can be collected do not always fully offset an increase in the cost of diesel fuel. We believe that the majority of the fuel price increases are generally passed to our customers although based on the Company's historical experience, the Company is not able to pass through to customers 100% of fuel price increases. The Company is not able to pass through fuel costs associated with out-of-route miles, empty miles, and tractor idle time. We use a significant amount of tires to maintain our revenue equipment. The Company is not able to pass through 100% of price increases from tire suppliers due to the severity and timing of increases and current rate environment. Historically, we have sought to minimize tire price increases through bulk tire purchases from our suppliers.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures– The Company has established disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to the officers who certify the Company’s financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors.

As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Accounting and Financial Officer), of the effectiveness of the design and operations of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, and as defined in Exchange Act Rule 15d-15(e). Based upon that evaluation, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in enabling the Company to record, process, summarize and report information required to be included in the Company's periodic SEC filings within the required time period.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting – There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2013, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. We are currently using the 1992 Committee of Sponsoring Organization Framework to evaluate internal control over financial reporting.

22

PART II

The Company is a party to ordinary, routine litigation and administrative proceedings incidental to its business. These proceedings primarily involve claims for personal injury, property damage, cargo, and workers’ compensation incurred in connection with the transportation of freight. The Company maintains insurance to cover liabilities arising from the transportation of freight for amounts in excess of certain self-insured retentions.

None.

None.

Not applicable.

None.

23

(a) Exhibits

3.1	Articles of Incorporation. Incorporated by reference to the Company's registration statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
3.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 2007, dated February 28, 2008
3.3	Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-QA, for the quarter ended June 30, 1997, dated March 20, 1998.
4.1	Articles of Incorporation. Incorporated by reference to the Company's registration statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 33-8165, effective November 5, 1986.
4.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 2007, dated February 28, 2008.
4.3	Certificate of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 10-QA, for the quarter ended June 30, 1997, dated March 20, 1998.
31.1*	Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
31.2*	Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
32.1*	Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2*	Certification of the Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS**	XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

*Filed with the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 8, 2013.

** In accordance with Regulation S-T, the XBRL-related information in Exhibit 101 shall be deemed to be "furnished" and not "filed."

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

None.

No other information is required to be filed under Part II of the form.

24

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

		HEARTLAND EXPRESS, INC.
Date:	November 8, 2013	By: /s/ John P. Cosaert
		John P. Cosaert
		Executive Vice President of Finance
		and Chief Financial Officer
		(Principal Accounting and Financial Officer)

25

EX-31.1

Exhibit No. 31.1

Certification

I, Michael J. Gerdin, certify that:

1.	I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Heartland Express Inc. (the “Registrant”);
2.	Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;
3.	Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;
4.	The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and we have:
	a)	Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;
	b)	Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
	c)	Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report based on such evaluation; and
	d)	Disclosed in this quarterly report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the Registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.	The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Registrant’s independent registered public accounting firm and the audit committee of Registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
	a)	All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
	b)	Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	November 8, 2013	By:	/s/ Michael J. Gerdin
			Michael J. Gerdin
			Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
			(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit No. 31.2

Certification

I, John P. Cosaert, certify that:

1.	I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Heartland Express Inc. (the “Registrant”);
2.	Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;
3.	Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;
4.	The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and we have:
	a)	Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;
	b)	Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
	c)	Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report based on such evaluation; and
	d)	Disclosed in this quarterly report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the Registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.	The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Registrant’s independent registered public accounting firm and the audit committee of Registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
	a)	All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
	b)	Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	November 8, 2013	By:	/s/ John P. Cosaert
			John P. Cosaert
			Executive Vice President-Finance
			Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
			(Principal Accounting and Financial Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit No. 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF

PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Heartland Express, Inc. (the "Company"), on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 (the "Report"), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, I, Michael J. Gerdin, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:
1.	The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and
2.	The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date:	November 8, 2013	By:	/s/ Michael J. Gerdin
			Michael J. Gerdin
			Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Heartland Express, Inc. and will be retained by Heartland Express, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

EX-32.2

Exhibit No. 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Heartland Express, Inc. (the "Company"), on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 (the "Report"), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, I, John P. Cosaert, Executive Vice President, Treasurer-Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:
1.	The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and
2.	The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date:	November 8, 2013	By:	/s/ John P. Cosaert
			John P. Cosaert
			Executive Vice President-Finance, Treasurer
			and Chief Financial Officer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Heartland Express, Inc. and will be retained by Heartland Express, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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Income Taxes

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are determined based upon the differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities.  Deferred taxes are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained.  Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.  The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company had recorded a valuation allowance of $0.1 million and $0.4 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 related to the Company’s deferred tax asset associated specifically with unrealized losses on auction rate securities. This valuation allowance was recorded as the Company does not have historical capital gains nor does it expect to generate capital gains sufficient to utilize the entire deferred tax asset generated by the fair value adjustment.  As the fair value adjustment was recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss, the associated valuation allowance was also recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss.  The above mentioned allowance did not impact the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance against any other deferred tax assets.  In management’s opinion, it is more likely than not that the Company will be able to utilize these deferred tax assets in future periods as a result of the Company’s history of profitability, taxable income, and reversal of deferred tax liabilities.

At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had a total of $13.2 million and $15.7 million in gross unrecognized tax benefits, respectively.  Of this amount, $8.5 million and $10.1 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.  Unrecognized tax benefits were a net decrease of $1.2 million, an increase of $0.4 million, and net decrease of $2.5 million and $1.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The decreases were due mainly to the expiration of certain statutes of limitation net of additions as well as $1.5 million in settlements during the three and nine periods ended September 30, 2013.  These decreases, except the settlements which represented payments of previous accruals, had the effect of reducing the effective state tax rate during these respective periods. The total net amount of accrued interest and penalties for such unrecognized tax benefits was $6.5 million and $7.4 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 and is included in income taxes payable per the consolidated balance sheet.  Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was a benefit of approximately $0.2 million, $0.2 million, $0.9 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Income tax expense is increased each period for the accrual of interest on outstanding positions and penalties when the uncertain tax position is initially recorded. Income tax expense is reduced in periods by the amount of accrued interest and penalties associated with reversed uncertain tax positions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations, when applicable or when a position is settled. Income tax expense was reduced during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 due to reversals of interest and penalties due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations, net of additions for interest and penalty accruals during the same periods. Accrued penalties and interest associated with settlements did not impact income tax expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. These unrecognized tax benefits relate to risks associated with state income tax filing positions for the Company’s corporate subsidiaries.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	2013
	(in thousands)
Balance at January 1,	$	15,723
Additions based on tax positions related to current year	616
Additions for tax positions of prior years	616
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(300		)
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(1,984		)
Settlements	(1,466		)
Balance at September 30,	$	13,205

A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is audited and ultimately settled. It is difficult to predict the ultimate outcome or the timing of resolution for uncertain tax positions. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes could result from the expiration of the statute of limitations, examinations or other unforeseen circumstances. The Company does not have any outstanding litigation related to tax matters.  At this time, management’s best estimate of the reasonably possible change in the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits to be a decrease of approximately $0.5 million to $1.5 million during the next twelve months mainly due to the expiration of certain statute of limitations, net of additions.  The federal statute of limitations remains open for the years 2010 and forward. Tax years 2003 and forward are subject to audit by state tax authorities depending on the tax code and administrative practice of each state.

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating Revenue	$ 130,645	$ 135,010	$ 398,909	$ 409,552
Operating Expenses
Salaries, wages, and benefits	39,556	40,899	121,093	125,857
Rent and purchased transportation	1,112	1,495	3,735	4,752
Fuel	39,261	42,443	120,876	126,259
Operations and maintenance	4,987	6,468	14,256	18,371
Operating taxes and licenses	1,972	2,122	6,856	6,445
Insurance and claims	2,016	4,832	9,620	11,297
Communications and utilities	767	756	2,239	2,249
Depreciation	15,117	14,250	47,112	42,184
Other operating expenses	4,334	3,752	11,839	11,379
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(4,477)	(1,674)	(24,299)	(9,433)
Total operating expenses	104,645	115,343	313,327	339,360
Operating income	26,000	19,667	85,582	70,192
Interest income	126	191	378	500
Income before income taxes	26,126	19,858	85,960	70,692
Federal and state income taxes	10,258	7,424	31,220	23,443
Net income	15,868	12,434	54,740	47,249
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	454	0	1,054	1,797
Comprehensive income	$ 16,322	$ 12,434	$ 55,794	$ 49,046
Net income per share
Basic	$ 0.19	$ 0.15	$ 0.65	$ 0.55
Diluted	$ 0.19	$ 0.14	$ 0.64	$ 0.55
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic	84,837	85,646	84,799	86,189
Diluted	85,038	85,925	85,041	86,508
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.02	$ 0.02	$ 0.06	$ 0.06

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Segment Information

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Information [Abstract]

Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]

Segment Information

The Company has eleven regional operating divisions, in addition to operations at the Company's corporate headquarters; however, it has determined that it has one reportable segment. The operating divisions are operated out of our ten office locations including our corporate headquarters. All of the divisions are managed based on similar economic characteristics. Each of the regional operating divisions provides short-to-medium haul truckload carrier services of general commodities to a similar class of customers. In addition, each division exhibits similar financial performance, including average revenue per mile and operating ratio. As a result of the foregoing, the Company has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate its operating divisions into one reportable segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information. Accordingly, the Company has not presented separate segment financial information.

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Income Taxes (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Table Text Block]

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	2013
	(in thousands)
Balance at January 1,	$	15,723
Additions based on tax positions related to current year	616
Additions for tax positions of prior years	616
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(300		)
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations	(1,984		)
Settlements	(1,466		)
Balance at September 30,	$	13,205

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Commitments and Contingencies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]

Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is a party to ordinary, routine litigation and administrative proceedings incidental to its business. These proceedings primarily involve claims for personal injury, property damage, cargo, and workers’ compensation incurred in connection with the transportation of freight. The Company maintains insurance to cover liabilities arising from the transportation of freight for amounts in excess of certain self-insured retentions.

The total estimated purchase commitments for tractors, net of estimated tractor sale commitments, at September 30, 2013, including amounts in accounts payable at September 30, 2013, was $56.3 million.

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Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	$ 9.3	$ 9.1

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Segment Information (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013 locations segments divisions
Segment Information [Abstract]
Number of Regional Operating Divisions	11
Numer of Segments	1
Number of Office Locations	10

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Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Contingency
PortionOfTaxBenefitRecordedPositionsMoreLikelyThanNotToBeSustained			50.00%
Income Tax Uncertainties [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	$ 8,500,000		$ 8,500,000		$ 10,100,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)	(1,200,000)	(2,500,000)	400,000	(1,100,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	6,500,000		6,500,000		7,400,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	(200,000)	(900,000)	(200,000)	(1,100,000)
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Lower Bound	(500,000)		(500,000)
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound	(1,500,000)		(1,500,000)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance beginning of period			15,723,000
Additions based on tax positions related to current year			616,000
Additions for tax positions of prior years			616,000
Reductions for tax positions of prior years			(300,000)
Reductions due to lapse of applicable statute of limitations			(1,984,000)
Settlements	1,466,000		1,466,000
Balance end of period	13,205,000		13,205,000
Valuation Allowance [Abstract]
Valuation Allowance, Amount	$ 100,000		$ 100,000		$ 400,000

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Stockholders' Equity (Details)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2001
Common Stock Repurchase Authorized
Stock Repurchase Shares Authorized	3,200,000	3,200,000	15,400,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	0	0

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Basis of Presentation Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax	$ 454	$ 0	$ 1,054	$ 1,797

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Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity Parentheticals (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.02	$ 0.02	$ 0.06	$ 0.06

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Basis of Presentation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Basis of Presentation [Abstract]

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company, Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Heartland Express, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2012 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any other interim periods. There were no changes to the Company's significant accounting policies during the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 other than detailed in the Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements below.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new accounting guidance, which requires companies to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component. In addition, a company is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of comprehensive income (loss) by the respective line items of net income. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. As the new standard did not change the current requirements for reporting net income, other comprehensive income, or accumulated other comprehensive loss in the financial statements, the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows were not impacted. There was $0.5 million and $1.1 million reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013. See Note 5.

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Cash and Cash Equivalents

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]

Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block]

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and original maturities of three months or less at acquisition. Restricted and designated cash and investments totaling $9.3 million at September 30, 2013 and $9.1 million at December 31, 2012 are included in other non-current assets per the consolidated balance sheet.  The restricted funds represent deposits required by state agencies for self-insurance purposes and designated funds that are earmarked for a specific purpose and not for general business use.

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Use of Estimates

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Use of Estimates [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) 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 period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. There were no significant changes in estimates and assumptions used by management related to our critical accounting policies during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 other than a change in estimate related to the depreciation of tractor revenue equipment. See Note 6.

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Investments and Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		67 Months Ended
	Nov. 07, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 14, 2008
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities
Basis of Tested Impact on Securities		0.50%		0.50%		0.50%
Held-to-maturity Securities		$ 1,400,000		$ 1,400,000		$ 1,400,000	$ 1,300,000
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments
Amortized Cost		11,425,000		11,425,000		11,425,000		198,500,000
Gross Unrealized Gains		0		0		0
Gross Unrealized Losses		230,000		230,000		230,000
Fair Value		11,195,000		11,195,000		11,195,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Fair Value		6,850,000		6,850,000		6,850,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Amortized Cost Basis		6,850,000		6,850,000		6,850,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value		0		0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis		0		0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value		0		0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis		0		0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value		4,345,000		4,345,000		4,345,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis		4,575,000		4,575,000		4,575,000
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair value, beginning of period	11,195,000			20,016,000	50,569,000
Settlements				(9,875,000)	(31,325,000)
Purchases				0	0
Issuances				0	0
Sales				0	0
Transfers in to (out of) Level 3				0	0
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized) included in earnings				0	0
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized) included in other comprehensive income, net of tax					1,797,000
Fair value, end of period		11,195,000	21,041,000	11,195,000	21,041,000	11,195,000
Maturity and calls of investments				(9,875,000)	(31,325,000)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax		(200,000)		(200,000)		(200,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax		454,000	0	1,054,000	1,797,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss)		0	0	0	0
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities	6,900,000	100,000		9,875,000	31,325,000	193,900,000
Auction Rate Student Loan Educational Bonds Current [Member]
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments
Amortized Cost		6,850,000		6,850,000		6,850,000
Gross Unrealized Gains		0		0		0
Gross Unrealized Losses		0		0		0
Fair Value		6,850,000		6,850,000		6,850,000
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments
Amortized Cost		11,425,000		11,425,000		11,425,000
Fair Value		11,195,000		11,195,000		11,195,000
Auction rate student loan educational bonds long-term
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments
Amortized Cost		4,575,000		4,575,000		4,575,000	21,300,000
Gross Unrealized Gains		0		0		0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses		230,000		230,000		230,000	1,284,000
Fair Value		$ 4,345,000		$ 4,345,000		$ 4,345,000	$ 20,016,000

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Stockholders' Equity Dividends Paid (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Dividends, Common Stock	$ (1,700)	$ (1,700)	$ (5,102)	$ (5,200)

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Consolidated Balance Sheets Parentheticals (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	395,000,000	395,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	90,689,000	90,689,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	84,837,000	84,770,000
Treasury Stock, Shares	5,852,000	5,919,000

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Earnings per Share

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share are based upon the weighted average common shares outstanding during each period.  Diluted earnings per share is based on the basic weighted earnings per share with additional weighted common shares for common stock equivalents. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 the Company had shares of restricted stock outstanding related to shares granted under the 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan. A reconciliation of the numerator (net income) and denominator (weighted average number of shares outstanding of the basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS")) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	15,868	84,837	$	0.19
Effect of restricted stock	—		201
Diluted EPS	$	15,868	85,038	$	0.19

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	12,434	85,646	$	0.15
Effect of restricted stock	—		279
Diluted EPS	$	12,434	85,925	$	0.14

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	54,740		84,799	0.65
Effect of restricted stock	—		242
Diluted EPS	$	54,740	85,041	$	0.64

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	47,249	86,189	$	0.55
Effect of restricted stock	—		319
Diluted EPS	$	47,249	86,508	$	0.55

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Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $) In Thousands	Total	Capital Stock, Common	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 290,364	$ 907	$ 2,968	$ 368,313	$ (80,540)	$ (1,284)
Net income	54,740	0	0	54,740	0	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	1,054	0	0	0	0
Dividends on common stock	(5,102)	0	0	(5,102)	0	0
Stock-based Compensation	806	0	806	0	0	0
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$ 341,862	$ 907	$ 3,774	$ 417,951	$ (80,540)	$ (230)

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 164,215	$ 119,838
Short-term Investments	6,850
Trade receivables, net	48,112	46,555
Prepaid tires	4,806	6,603
Other current assets	5,689	2,281
Income tax receivable	4,119	2,351
Deferred income taxes, net	12,509	13,797
Total current assets	246,300	191,425
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Land and land improvements	17,098	17,451
Buildings	27,673	26,761
Furniture and fixtures	2,284	2,269
Shop and service equipment	7,266	7,266
Revenue equipment	395,573	378,583
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	449,894	432,330
Less accumulated depreciation	177,206	189,959
Property and equipment, net	272,688	242,371
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS	4,345	20,016
GOODWILL	4,815	4,815
OTHER ASSETS	9,304	9,110
Assets	537,452	467,737
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	28,825	7,583
Compensation and benefits	18,235	16,409
Insurance accruals	11,934	13,924
Other accruals	7,535	7,439
Total current liabilities	66,529	45,355
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Income taxes payable	19,708	23,122
Deferred income taxes, net	55,345	51,306
Insurance accruals less current portion	54,008	57,590
Total long-term liabilities	129,061	132,018
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 11)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, par value $.01; authorized 5,000 shares; none issued	0	0
Capital stock, common, $.01 par value; authorized 395,000 shares; issued 90,689 in 2013 and 2012; outstanding, 84,837 in 2013 and 84,770 in 2012	907	907
Additional paid-in capital	3,774	2,968
Retained earnings	417,951	368,313
Treasury stock, at cost; 5,852 shares in 2013 and 5,919 shares in 2012	(80,540)	(80,540)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(230)	(1,284)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	341,862	290,364
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$ 537,452	$ 467,737

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Property, Equipment, and Depreciation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment
Amortization Period of Tires			2 years
Depreciation	$ 15,117,000	$ 14,250,000	$ 47,112,000	$ 42,184,000
Change in Accounting Estimate, Financial Effect	2100		2100
Communications and Utilities Expense [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Depreciation	200,000	200,000	500,000	500,000
Tractors [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	15,000		15,000
Trailers [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Salvage Value	$ 4,000		$ 4,000

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Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]

The following tables summarize the Company's restricted stock award activity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	203.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.2	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	276.8		$	13.57
Granted	2.0		13.86
Vested	(67.0	)	—
Forfeited	(13.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	280.8		13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	351.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	(70.2	)	—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		$	13.57

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Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013
Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation	$ 56.3

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Property, Equipment, and Depreciation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Property, Equipment and Depreciation [Abstract]

Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]

Property, Equipment, and Depreciation

Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.   Tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid Tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years.  Depreciation expense of $0.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 has been included in communication and utilities in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Depreciation for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors.  The Company recognizes depreciation expense on tractors at 125% declining balance. Tractors are depreciated to salvage values of $15,000 while trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000.

Effective July 1, 2013, the Company adjusted its depreciation estimate for tractors to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method to better reflect the estimated trade value of the tractors at the estimated trade date as well as better match the expense of tractor ownership with a tractors declining value over the estimated useful life of the asset. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.  Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by approximately $2.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

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Earnings per Share (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net Income	$ 15,868	$ 12,434	$ 54,740	$ 47,249
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic	84,837	85,646	84,799	86,189
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 0.19	$ 0.15	$ 0.65	$ 0.55
Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share, Including Options and Restrictive Stock Units	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements	201	279	242	319
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	85,038	85,925	85,041	86,508
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 0.19	$ 0.14	$ 0.64	$ 0.55

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Stock-Based Compensation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]

Stock-Based Compensation

On July 11, 2011, a Special Meeting of Stockholders of Heartland Express, Inc. was held, at which meeting the approval of the Heartland Express, Inc. 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan (the "Plan") was ratified. The Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Committee"). In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee has the authority to determine all provisions of awards of restricted stock, including, without limitation, the employees of the Company who will receive awards, the number of shares awarded to individual employees, the time or times when awards will be granted, restrictions and other conditions (including, for example, the lapse of time) to which the vesting of awards may be subject, and other terms and conditions and form of agreement to be entered into by the Company and employees subject to awards of restricted stock. The Committee may allocate all or any portion of its responsibilities and powers under the Plan to any one or more of its members, the Chief Executive Officer, or other senior members of management as the Committee deems appropriate. Per the terms of the awards, employees receiving awards will have all of the rights of a stockholder with respect to the unvested restricted shares including, but not limited to, the right to receive such cash dividends, if any, as may be declared on such shares from time to time and the right to vote such shares at any meeting of stockholders of the Company.

The Plan made available up to 0.9 million shares for the purpose of making restricted stock grants to eligible officers and employees of the Company. During December 2011, 0.4 million shares were granted to employees and no additional shares were granted during 2012. During the three month period ended September 30, 2013 there were no new grants of shares under the Plan. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 there was a new grant of 2,000 shares to an employee. The original shares granted under the Plan are service based awards beginning December 14, 2011 and 20% of the awards vest each June 1st through 2016. The new grant during 2013 is a service based award beginning June 24, 2013 and 33.3% of the award vests each June 1st through 2016. Once vested, there are no other restrictions on the awards. Compensation expense associated with these awards is based on the market value of the Company's stock on the grant date. The Company's market closing price on December 14, 2011 and June 24, 2013, grant dates, was $13.57 and $13.86 respectively. There were no significant assumptions made in determining the fair value. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards is included in salaries, wages and benefits in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Compensation expense associated with restricted stock awards was $0.2 million, $0.4 million, $0.8 million, and $2.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense was $1.5 million at September 30, 2013. Unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.8 years from the grant date of December 14, 2011 and total period of 4.5 years.

The following tables summarize the Company's restricted stock award activity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	203.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.2	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	276.8		$	13.57
Granted	2.0		13.86
Vested	(67.0	)	—
Forfeited	(13.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	198.8		$	13.57

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	280.8		13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		13.57

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Number of Shares of Restricted Stock Awards (in thousands)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at beginning of period	351.0		$	13.57
Granted	—		—
Vested	(70.2	)	—
Forfeited	(4.0	)	13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period	276.8		$	13.57

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Investments and Fair Value Measurements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

Investments and Fair Value Measurements

All of the Company’s short-term and long-term investment balances at September 30, 2013, $11.4 million at par, were invested in tax free, auction rate student ("ARS") loan educational bonds that are classified as available-for-sale and, therefore, are carried at fair value on the financial statements.  As of September 30, 2013, all of the Company’s auction rate student loan bonds were associated with unsuccessful auctions.  As of September 30, 2013 the Company had received call notices, at par, for $6.9 million which were received in October and November 2013. The investments, not including the calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, consist of two holdings and have contractual maturities that currently range from June 1, 2034 to May 1, 2040.  These securities, $4.6 million, at par, hold medium to high grade investment (A-AA+) ratings from recognized rating agencies. Since the first auction failures in February 2008 when the Company had approximately $198.5 million ARS at par, the Company has received approximately $193.9 million of calls, including calls received subsequent to September 30, 2013, from issuers, at par, plus accrued interest at the time of the call.  There were $0.1 million and $9.9 million in calls, at par, during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

The fair value of available-for-sale investments at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were as follows:

			Gross		Gross
	Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized		Fair
	Cost		Gains		Losses		Value
	( in thousands)
September 30, 2013
Current
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	6,850	—		$	—	$	6,850
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	4,575	$	—	$	230	$	4,345
	$	11,425	$	—	$	230	$	11,195

December 31, 2012
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	21,300	$	—	$	1,284	$	20,016

The contractual maturities and announced calls of available-for-sale securities at September 30, 2013 are detailed in the table below. As management receives intents to call from issuers, the associated securities are changed from their contractual maturities to the date received in the respective call notice.

	Fair Value		Amortized Cost
	(in thousands)
Due within one year	$	6,850	$	6,850
Due after one year through five years	—		—
Due after five years through ten years	—		—
Due after ten years through May 1, 2040	4,345		4,575
	$	11,195	$	11,425

The unrealized loss of $0.2 million is recorded as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss and the Company has not recognized any other than temporary impairments in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.   During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 the Company recorded unrealized gains of $0.5 million and $1.1 million, respectively, due to the reversal of prior period recorded unrealized losses as the Company has received $9.9 million in calls, at par, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and another $6.9 million subsequent to September 30, 2013. There were no other changes in other comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and the unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities of $0.2 million is the only component of accumulated other comprehensive loss at September 30, 2013. There were no realized gains or losses related to these investments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

The table below presents a rollforward for all assets and liabilities, measured at fair value, on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

	Available-for-sale debt securities
	(in thousands)
	2013			2012
Balance, January 1	$	20,016		$	50,569
Settlements	(9,875		)	(31,325		)
Purchases	—			—
Issuances	—			—
Sales	—			—
Transfers in to (out of) Level 3	—			—
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
Included in earnings	—			—
Included in other comprehensive income, net of tax	1,054			1,797
Balance, September 30,	$	11,195		$	21,041

Municipal bonds of $1.4 million at September 30, 2013 and $1.3 million at December 31, 2012 are stated at amortized cost, are classified as held-to-maturity and are included in restricted cash in other non-current assets. Differences between amortized cost and fair value of municipal bonds are not considered material.

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income	$ 54,740	$ 47,249
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	47,609	42,681
Deferred income taxes	5,325	(9,066)
Amortization of stock-based compensation	806	2,000
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(24,299)	(9,433)
Changes in certain working capital items:
Trade receivables	(1,557)	(6,558)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(2,439)	2,111
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and accrued expenses	(1,810)	2,257
Accrued income taxes	(5,182)	(3,736)
Net cash provided by operating activities	73,193	67,505
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	56,751	17,449
Purchases of property and equipment, net of trades	(91,845)	(25,360)
Maturity and calls of investments	9,875	31,325
Change in other assets	(195)	(4)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(25,414)	23,410
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Payments of Dividends	(3,402)	(3,472)
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock	0	(14,472)
Net cash used in financing activities	(3,402)	(17,944)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	44,377	72,971
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Beginning of period	119,838	139,770
End of period	164,215	212,741
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds	31,076	36,246
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Purchased property and equipment in accounts payable	19,051	1,116
Common Stock Dividends Declared in Accounts Payable	$ 1,700	$ 1,715

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Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	35 Months Ended	54 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	May 31, 2016	May 31, 2016	Jul. 11, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based Compensation	$ 200,000	$ 400,000	$ (806,000)	$ (2,000,000)
Restricted Stock Shares Authorized								900,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross					400,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 1,500,000		$ 1,500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Unvested at beginning of period, Number of Restricted Stock Awards (in shares)	203,000	280,800	276,800	351,000
Unvested at beginning of period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57		$ 13.86	$ 13.57
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	0	0	2,000	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 13.86	$ 0.00
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period	0	0	(67,000)	(70,200)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	(4,200)	(4,000)	(13,000)	(4,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period, Number of Restricted Stock Awards (in shares)	198,800	276,800	198,800	276,800	351,000
Outstanding (unvested) at end of period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars)	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57	$ 13.57
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition (in years)					1 year 9 months 22 days		4 years 5 months 15 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights						.333	.20

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Subsequent Events

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events [Text Block]

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated events occurring subsequent to September 30, 2013 through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for disclosure.

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Stockholders' Equity

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Share Repurchases [Abstract]

Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]

Stockholders' Equity

In September, 2001, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a program to repurchase 15.4 million shares, adjusted for stock splits, of the Company’s common stock in open market or negotiated transactions using available cash, cash equivalents and investments which was subsequently amended in February, 2012.  Approximately 3.2 million shares remain authorized for repurchase under the program as of September 30, 2013. There were no shares repurchased during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013. The authorization remains open at September 30, 2013 and has no expiration date. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice.  

During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 the Company’s Board of Directors declared regular quarterly dividends totaling $1.7 million, $5.1 million, $1.7 million, and $5.2 million, respectively.  Future payment of cash dividends and the amount of such dividends will depend upon financial conditions, results of operations, cash requirements, tax treatment, and certain corporate law requirements, as well as factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

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Earnings per Share (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]

A reconciliation of the numerator (net income) and denominator (weighted average number of shares outstanding of the basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS")) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	15,868	84,837	$	0.19
Effect of restricted stock	—		201
Diluted EPS	$	15,868	85,038	$	0.19

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	12,434	85,646	$	0.15
Effect of restricted stock	—		279
Diluted EPS	$	12,434	85,925	$	0.14

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	54,740		84,799	0.65
Effect of restricted stock	—		242
Diluted EPS	$	54,740	85,041	$	0.64

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	47,249	86,189	$	0.55
Effect of restricted stock	—		319
Diluted EPS	$	47,249	86,508	$	0.55

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Basis of Presentation (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Basis of Presentation [Abstract]

Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the parent company, Heartland Express, Inc., and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All material intercompany items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Heartland Express, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2012 included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any other interim periods. There were no changes to the Company's significant accounting policies during the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 other than detailed in the Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements below.

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) 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 period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. There were no significant changes in estimates and assumptions used by management related to our critical accounting policies during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 other than a change in estimate related to the depreciation of tractor revenue equipment. See Note 6.

Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Segment Information

The Company has eleven regional operating divisions, in addition to operations at the Company's corporate headquarters; however, it has determined that it has one reportable segment. The operating divisions are operated out of our ten office locations including our corporate headquarters. All of the divisions are managed based on similar economic characteristics. Each of the regional operating divisions provides short-to-medium haul truckload carrier services of general commodities to a similar class of customers. In addition, each division exhibits similar financial performance, including average revenue per mile and operating ratio. As a result of the foregoing, the Company has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate its operating divisions into one reportable segment, consistent with the authoritative accounting guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information. Accordingly, the Company has not presented separate segment financial information.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and original maturities of three months or less at acquisition.

Marketable Securities, Held-to-maturity Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Municipal bonds of $1.4 million at September 30, 2013 and $1.3 million at December 31, 2012 are stated at amortized cost, are classified as held-to-maturity and are included in restricted cash in other non-current assets. Differences between amortized cost and fair value of municipal bonds are not considered material.

Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]

All of the Company’s short-term and long-term investment balances at September 30, 2013, $11.4 million at par, were invested in tax free, auction rate student ("ARS") loan educational bonds that are classified as available-for-sale and, therefore, are carried at fair value on the financial statements

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Property, Equipment, and Depreciation

Property and equipment are reported at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred.   Tires are capitalized separately from revenue equipment and are reported separately as “Prepaid Tires” in the consolidated balance sheets and amortized over two years.  Depreciation expense of $0.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 has been included in communication and utilities in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Depreciation for financial statement purposes is computed by the straight-line method for all assets other than tractors.  The Company recognizes depreciation expense on tractors at 125% declining balance. Tractors are depreciated to salvage values of $15,000 while trailers are depreciated to salvage values of $4,000.

Effective July 1, 2013, the Company adjusted its depreciation estimate for tractors to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method to better reflect the estimated trade value of the tractors at the estimated trade date as well as better match the expense of tractor ownership with a tractors declining value over the estimated useful life of the asset. Under the declining balance method, depreciation for each tractor is highest in the first year and declines in each year throughout the useful life.  Changing to the 125% declining balance method from the 150% declining balance method increased operating income and decreased depreciation expense by approximately $2.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share are based upon the weighted average common shares outstanding during each period.  Diluted earnings per share is based on the basic weighted earnings per share with additional weighted common shares for common stock equivalents. During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 the Company had shares of restricted stock outstanding related to shares granted under the 2011 Restricted Stock Award Plan. A reconciliation of the numerator (net income) and denominator (weighted average number of shares outstanding of the basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS")) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

	Three months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	15,868	84,837	$	0.19
Effect of restricted stock	—		201
Diluted EPS	$	15,868	85,038	$	0.19

	Three months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	12,434	85,646	$	0.15
Effect of restricted stock	—		279
Diluted EPS	$	12,434	85,925	$	0.14

	Nine months ended September 30, 2013
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	54,740		84,799	0.65
Effect of restricted stock	—		242
Diluted EPS	$	54,740	85,041	$	0.64

	Nine months ended September 30, 2012
	Net Income (numerator)		Shares (denominator)	Per Share Amount
Basic EPS	$	47,249	86,189	$	0.55
Effect of restricted stock	—		319
Diluted EPS	$	47,249	86,508	$	0.55

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Deferred income taxes are determined based upon the differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities.  Deferred taxes are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block]

The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained.  Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.  The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated events occurring subsequent to September 30, 2013 through the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for disclosure.

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Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Nov. 07, 2013
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	HEARTLAND EXPRESS INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000799233
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2013
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		84,836,619

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Investments and Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Investments and Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

The fair value of available-for-sale investments at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were as follows:

			Gross		Gross
	Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized		Fair
	Cost		Gains		Losses		Value
	( in thousands)
September 30, 2013
Current
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	6,850	—		$	—	$	6,850
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	4,575	$	—	$	230	$	4,345
	$	11,425	$	—	$	230	$	11,195

December 31, 2012
Long-term:
Auction rate student loan educational bonds	$	21,300	$	—	$	1,284	$	20,016

Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]

	Fair Value		Amortized Cost
	(in thousands)
Due within one year	$	6,850	$	6,850
Due after one year through five years	—		—
Due after five years through ten years	—		—
Due after ten years through May 1, 2040	4,345		4,575
	$	11,195	$	11,425

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

The table below presents a rollforward for all assets and liabilities, measured at fair value, on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

	Available-for-sale debt securities
	(in thousands)
	2013			2012
Balance, January 1	$	20,016		$	50,569
Settlements	(9,875		)	(31,325		)
Purchases	—			—
Issuances	—			—
Sales	—			—
Transfers in to (out of) Level 3	—			—
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
Included in earnings	—			—
Included in other comprehensive income, net of tax	1,054			1,797
Balance, September 30,	$	11,195		$	21,041