Covenant Logistics
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Covenant Logistics - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549-1004





FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
(X) QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999

( ) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number 0-24960

Covenant Transport, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Nevada 88-0320154
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. employer identification number)
incorporation or organization)
400 Birmingham Hwy.
Chattanooga, TN 37419
(423) 821-1212
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number,
including area code, of registrant's
principal executive office)

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 the filing
requirements for at least the past 90 days.

YES X NO __

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date (June 30, 1999).

Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value: 12,561,550 shares
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value: 2,350,000 shares

Exhibit Index is on Page 14

1
PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION




Page
Number
Item 1. Financial statements

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1998 3
and June 30, 1999 (Unaudited)

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and 4
and six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1999 (Unaudited)

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six 5
months ended June 30, 1998 and 1999 (Unaudited)

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 6


Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition 8
and Results of Operations

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 13





PART II
OTHER INFORMATION


Page
Number

Item 1. Legal Proceedings 14


Items 2 and 3. Not applicable 14


Item 4. Submission of Matters to a vote of Security Holders 14


Item 5. Not applicable 14


Item 6. Exhibits and reports on Form 8-K 14

2
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands except share data)

December 31, June 30,
1998 1999
----------------- -----------------
ASSETS (unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,926 $ 763

Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $1,065 in 1998 and
$1,024 in 1999 51,789 51,493
Drivers' advances and other receivables 2,476 3,246
Tire and parts inventory 1,929 2,507
Prepaid expenses 5,325 7,672
Deferred income taxes 1,674 1,836
----------------- -----------------
Total current assets 66,119 67,517

Property and equipment, at cost 282,358 280,062
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 81,821 77,680
----------------- -----------------
Net property and equipment 200,537 202,382

Other 6,303 6,194
----------------- -----------------

Total assets $ 272,959 $ 276,093
================= =================

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities:
Checks outstanding in excess of bank balances - 833
Current maturities of long-term debt 1,943 1,249
Accounts payable 3,485 9,333
Accrued expenses 14,318 13,292
----------------- -----------------
Total current liabilities 19,747 24,707

Long-term debt, less current maturities 84,331 71,594
Deferred income taxes 27,359 29,068
----------------- -----------------
Total liabilities 131,437 125,693

Stockholders' equity:
Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized;
12,560,250 and 12,561,550 shares issued and outstanding as of 1998 and 1999, 126 126
respectively
Class B common stock, $.01 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized;
2,350,000 shares issued and outstanding as of 1998 and 1999 24 24
Additional paid-in-capital 78,261 78,281
Retained earnings 63,112 72,293
----------------- -----------------
Total stockholders' equity 141,522 150,724
----------------- -----------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 272,959 $ 276,093
================= =================

</TABLE>

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

3
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998 AND 1999
(In thousands except per share data)

Three months ended Six months ended
June 30, June 30,
(unaudited) (unaudited)
1998 1999 1998 1999
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue $ 89,010 $ 113,211 $ 168,834 $ 210,975
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and related expenses 39,907 48,320 75,149 93,156
Fuel, oil and road expenses 16,334 20,484 32,256 37,821
Revenue equipment rentals and purchased
Transportation 5,429 10,924 10,431 19,085
Repairs 1,809 2,431 3,643 4,374
Operating taxes and licenses 2,062 2,750 4,379 5,157
Insurance 2,304 2,854 4,818 5,648
General supplies and expenses 5,002 5,776 9,441 11,361
Depreciation and amortization, including gain
on 7,262 8,560 14,035 16,531
disposal of equipment
-------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
Total operating expenses 80,110 102,099 154,152 193,133
-------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
Operating income 8,901 11,112 14,682 17,842
Interest expense 1,542 1,225 3,003 2,525
-------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
Income before income taxes 7,358 9,887 11,679 15,317
Income tax expense 2,799 3,955 4,444 6,136
============== ============== ============== ==============
Net income $ 4,559 $ 5,932 $ 7,235 $ 9,181
============== ============== ============== ==============

Basic earnings per share $ 0.32 $ 0.40 $ 0.52 $ 0.62

Diluted earnings per share $ 0.32 $ 0.40 $ 0.52 $ 0.61

Weighted average shares outstanding 14,392 14,912 13,877 14,912

Adjusted weighted average shares and assumed
conversions outstanding 14,413 14,966 13,901 15,015

</TABLE>

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

4
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998 AND 1999
(In thousands)

Six months ended Six months ended
June 30, 1998 June 30, 1999
--------------------- ---------------------
(unaudited) (unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 7,235 $ 9,181
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Provision for losses on receivables 180 149
Depreciation and amortization 15,668 16,715
Deferred income tax expense 1,965 1,547
Gain on disposition of property and equipment (1,633) (184)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables and advances (8,485) (785)
Prepaid expenses (3,264) (2,347)
Tire and parts inventory (468) (578)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 1,347 4,821
--------------------- ---------------------
Net cash flows provided by operating activities 12,545 28,520

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment (57,231) (43,697)
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment 17,906 25,592
--------------------- ---------------------
Net cash flows used in investing activities (39,325) (18,105)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Changes in checks outstanding in excess of bank
balances - 833
Exercise of stock option 67 20
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 38,000 25,000
Repayments of long-term debt (41,337) (38,431)
Proceeds from equity offering 27,551 -
--------------------- ---------------------
Net cash flows provided by/(used in) financing activities 24,281 (12,578)
--------------------- ---------------------

Net change in cash and cash equivalents (2,499) (2,163)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 2,610 2,926
--------------------- ---------------------

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 111 $ 763
===================== =====================
</TABLE>

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

5
COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands except per share data)

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
Covenant Transport, Inc., a Nevada holding company, and its wholly-owned
subsidiaries (the Company). All significant intercompany balances and
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The financial statements have been prepared, without audit, in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, pursuant to the rules and
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the opinion of
management, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments
which are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim
periods presented, such adjustments being of a normal recurring nature.
Certain information and footnote disclosures have been condensed or
omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The December 31, 1998
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet was derived from the audited balance
sheet of the Company for the year then ended. It is suggested that these
condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto be read in
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto
included in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998.
Results of operations in interim periods are not necessarily indicative of
results to be expected for a full year.

Note 2. Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the calculation
of net earnings per share included in the Company's Condensed Consolidated
Statements of Income:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Three months Six months ended
ended June 30, June 30,
1998 1999 1998 1999
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Numerator:

Net Income $ 4,560 $ 5,932 $ 7,235 $ 9,181

Denominator:

Denominator for basic earnings
per share - weighted-average shares 14,392 14,912 13,877 14,912

Effect of dilutive securities:

Employee stock options 21 54 24 103
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------


Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted
weighted-average shares and assumed conversions
14,413 14,966 13,901 15,015
========== ========== ========== ==========

Basic earnings per share $ .32 $ .40 $ .52 $ .62
========== ========== ========== ==========

Diluted earnings per share $ .32 $ .40 $ .52 $ .61
========== ========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>

Note 3. Income Taxes

Income tax expense varies from the amount computed by applying the federal
corporate income tax rate of 37% to income before income taxes primarily
due to state income taxes, net of federal income tax effect, which were
approximately 2.0% higher in the quarter ended June 30, 1999, as compared
with the quarter ended June 30, 1998.

Note 4. Recent Accounting Pronouncement

In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities. The statement established accounting
and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument
(including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be
recorded
6
on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at
its fair value. SFAS No. 133 requires that changes in the derivative's
fair value be recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge
accounting criteria are met. The Company may engage in hedging activities
using futures, forward contracts, options, and swaps to hedge the impact
of market fluctuations on energy commodity prices and interest rates. The
Company is currently assessing the effect, if any, on its financial
statements of implementing SFAS No. 133. The Company will be required to
adopt the standard in 2001.



FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This document contains forward-looking statements in paragraphs that are
marked with an asterisk. Statements by the Company in press releases,
public filings, and stockholder reports, as well as oral public statements
by Company representatives, also may contain certain forward-looking
information. Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from
those projected. Without limitation, these risks and uncertainties include
economic factors such as recessions, downturns in customers' business
cycles, surplus inventories, inflation, fuel price increases, and higher
interest rates; the resale value of the Company's used revenue equipment;
the availability and compensation of qualified drivers; competition from
trucking, rail, and intermodal competitors; and the ability to identify
acceptable acquisition targets and negotiate, finance, and consummate
acquisitions and integrate acquired companies. Readers should review and
consider the various disclosures made by the Company in its press
releases, stockholder reports, and public filings, as well as the factors
explained in greater detail in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K.

7
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Company grew its revenue 25.0%, to $211.0 million in the six months ended
June 30, 1999, from $168.8 million during the same period of 1998. The Company's
pretax margin increased to 7.3% of revenue from 6.9% of revenue. A significant
increase in fleet size to meet customer demand as well as an increase in the
freight rates contributed to revenue growth over this period. In addition to
internal growth, the Company completed two acquisitions during 1998. In August
1998, the Company acquired certain assets of Gouge Trucking, Inc., a $4 million
annual revenue carrier located in North Carolina. In October 1998, the Company
purchased all of the outstanding capital stock of Southern Refrigerated
Transportation, Inc., ("SRT"), a $23 million annual revenue carrier based in
southwest Arkansas. Additionally, the Company formed a new division, Covenant
Transport Logistics, in October 1998. The Company intends to continue to grow
both internally and through acquisitions, with the main constraint on internal
growth being the ability to recruit and retain sufficient numbers of qualified
drivers. (*)

The Company has increased net income approximately 26.9%, to $9.2 million in the
six months ended June 30, 1999, from $7.2 million during the same period of
1998. Several factors contributed to the increase, including lower fuel prices
and negotiating higher freight rates from customers. Although higher driver
compensation partially offset the increased freight rates, management believes
the Company benefited from attracting and retaining more drivers.

Changes in several operating statistics and expense categories are expected to
result from actions the Company took in 1997 and 1998. The operations of Bud
Meyer Truck Lines, acquired in 1997, and SRT use predominately single-driver
tractors, as opposed to the primarily team-driver tractor fleet operated by
Covenant's long-haul, dry van operation. The single driver fleets operate fewer
miles per tractor and experience more empty miles. In addition, Bud Meyer and
SRT's operations must bear additional expenses of fuel for refrigeration units,
pallets, and depreciation and interest expense of more expensive trailers
associated with temperature-controlled service. The additional expenses and
lower productive miles are offset by generally higher revenue per loaded mile
and the reduced employee expense of compensating only one driver. The Company's
operating statistics and expenses are expected to shift in future periods with
the mix of single, team, and temperature-controlled operations. (*)

The Company initiated the use of owner-operators of tractors in 1997 and had
contracted with approximately 249 owner-operators as of June 30, 1999.
Owner-operators provide a tractor and a driver and bear all operating expenses
in exchange for a fixed lease payment per mile. The Company does not have the
capital outlay of purchasing the tractor. As of June 30, 1999, the Company had
financed approximately 625 tractors under operating leases as compared to 316
tractors under operating leases as of June 30, 1998. The lease payments to
owner-operators and the financing of tractors under operating leases appear as
operating leases under revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation.
Expenses associated with owned equipment, such as interest and depreciation, are
not incurred, and for owner-operator tractors, driver compensation, fuel, and
other expenses are not incurred. Because obtaining equipment from
owner-operators and under operating leases effectively shifts financing expenses
from interest to "above the line" operating expenses, the Company intends to
evaluate its efficiency using pretax margin and net margin rather than operating
ratio.

The following table sets forth the percentage relationship of certain items to
revenue for the three and six months ended June 30:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
1998 1999 1998 1999
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Operating expenses:
Salaries, wages, and related expenses 44.8 42.7 44.5 44.2
Fuel, oil, and road expenses 18.4 18.1 19.1 17.9
Revenue equipment rentals and purchased
transportation 6.1 9.6 6.2 9.0
Repairs 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.1
Operating taxes and licenses 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.4
Insurance 2.6 2.5 2.8 2.7
General supplies and expenses 5.6 5.1 5.6 5.4
Depreciation and amortization 8.2 7.6 8.3 7.8
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
Total operating expenses 90.0 90.2
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
Operating income 10.0 9.8 8.7 8.5
Interest expense 1.7 1.1 1.8 1.2
--------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
Income before income taxes 8.3 8.7 6.9 7.3
Income tax expense 3.2 3.5 2.6 2.9
=============== =============== =============== ===============

Net income 5.1% 5.2% 4.3% 4.4%
=============== =============== =============== ===============
</TABLE>
8
COMPARISON  OF THREE  MONTHS  ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 TO THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
1998

Revenue increased $24.2 million (27.2%), to $113.2 million in the 1999 period
from $89.0 million in the 1998 period. The revenue increase was primarily
generated by a 22.7% increase in weighted average tractors, to 2,782 during the
1999 period from 2,268 during the 1998 period, as the Company expanded
internally to meet demand from new customers and higher volume from existing
customers, as well as externally through the acquisitions of Gouge Trucking,
Inc. and SRT during August and October of 1998, respectively. The Company's
revenue per tractor per week increased 4.9%, to $3,167 in the 1999 quarter from
$3,019 in the 1998 quarter as a result of improved equipment utilization and a
slight increase in revenue per total mile.

Salaries, wages, and related expenses increased $8.4 million (21.1%), to $48.3
million in the 1999 period from $39.9 million in the 1998 period. As a
percentage of revenue, salaries, wages, and related expenses decreased to 42.7%
in the 1999 period from 44.8% in the 1998 period. Driver wages as a percentage
of revenue decreased to 30.8% in the 1999 period from 32.9% in the 1998 period
as the Company utilized more owner-operators. The Company experienced an
increase in non-driving employee payroll expense to 5.7% of revenue in the 1999
period from 5.3% of revenue in the 1998 period due to the start up of Covenant
Transport Logistics and the acquisition of SRT.

Fuel, oil, and road expenses increased $4.2 million (25.4%), to $20.5 million in
the 1999 period from $16.3 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of
revenue, fuel, oil, and road expenses decreased to 18.1% of revenue in the 1999
period from 18.4% in the 1998 period. The increased use of owner-operators who
pay for their own fuel purchases more than offset an approximately four cent per
gallon increase in the average price of fuel versus the prior period. The
expense for owner-operators is reflected in the revenue equipment rentals and
purchased transportation category.

Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased $5.5 million
(101.2%), to $10.9 million in the 1999 period from $5.4 million in the 1998
period. As a percentage of revenue, revenue equipment rentals and purchased
transportation increased to 9.6% in the 1999 period from 6.1% in the 1998
period. During 1997, the Company began using owner-operators of revenue
equipment, who provide a tractor and driver and cover all of their operating
expenses in exchange for a fixed payment per mile. Accordingly, expenses such as
driver salaries, fuel, repairs, depreciation, and interest normally associated
with Company-owned equipment are consolidated in revenue equipment rentals and
purchased transportation when owner-operators are utilized. The Company
increased the fleet size of owner-operators during the 1999 period (averaged 249
in the 1999 period compared to 120 in the 1998 period, a increase of 107.5%).
The Company also entered into additional operating leases. During the 1999
period, 622 tractors were leased compared to 316 leased tractors during the 1998
period.

Repairs increased $0.7 million (34.4%), to $2.4 million in the 1999 period from
$1.8 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue, repairs increased
to 2.1% in the 1999 period from 2.0% in the 1998 period. The 1999 increase was
primarily the result of costs related to the preparation of certain equipment
for trade-in following the SRT, Inc. acquisition.

Operating taxes and licenses increased approximately $0.7 million (33.4%), to
$2.8 million in the 1999 period from $2.1 million in the 1998 period. As a
percent of revenue, operating taxes and licenses remained essentially constant
at 2.4% in the 1999 period and 2.3% in the 1998 period.

Insurance, consisting primarily of premiums for liability, physical damage, and
cargo damage insurance, and claims, increased $0.6 million (23.9%), to $2.9
million in the 1999 period from $2.3 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage
of revenue, insurance remained essentially constant at 2.5% in the 1999 period
and 2.6% in the 1998 period.

General supplies and expenses, consisting primarily of driver recruiting,
communications expenses, and facilities expenses, increased $0.8 million
(15.5%), to $5.8 million in the 1999 period from $5.0 million in the 1998
period. As a percentage of revenue, general supplies and expenses decreased to
5.1% in the 1999 period from 5.6% in the 1998 period. The 1999 decrease is
primarily related to the fixed nature of a portion of these costs, which was
more effectively spread over higher revenues.

Depreciation and amortization, consisting primarily of depreciation of revenue
equipment, increased $1.3 million (17.9%), to $8.6 million in the 1999 period
from $7.3 million in 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and
amortization decreased to 7.6% in the 1999 period from 8.2% in the 1998 period
as the Company utilized more owner-operators and leased more revenue equipment
through operating leases. Amortization expense relates to deferred debt costs
incurred and covenants not to compete from two 1995 and one 1998 asset
acquisitions, as well as goodwill from two 1997 and two 1998 acquisitions.

Interest expense decreased $0.3 million (20.6%), to $1.2 million in the 1999
period from $1.5 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue,
interest expense decreased to 1.1% in the 1999 period from 1.7% in the 1998
period, as the Company financed

9
more equipment under  operating  leases,  contracted  with more  owner-operators
during the 1999 period, and benefited from an improvement in cash from
operations.

As a result of the foregoing, the Company's pretax margin improved to 8.7% in
the 1999 period versus 8.3% in the 1998 period.

The Company's effective tax rate was 40.0% in the 1999 period compared with
38.0% in the 1998 period reflecting increased state income taxes in the 1999
period.

Primarily as a result of the factors described above, net income increased $1.4
million (30.1%), to $5.9 million in the 1999 period (5.2% of revenue) from $4.6
million in the 1998 period (5.1% of revenue).

COMPARISON OF SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998

Revenue increased $42.1 million (25.0%), to $211.0 million in the 1999 period
from $168.8 million in the 1998 period. The revenue increase was primarily
generated by a 23.9% increase in weighted average tractors, to 2,722 during the
1999 period from 2,197 during the 1998 period, as the Company expanded
internally to meet demand from new customers and higher volume from existing
customers, as well as externally through the acquisitions of Gouge Trucking,
Inc. and SRT during August and October of 1998, respectively. The Company's
revenue per tractor per week increased 1.5%, to $3,015 in the 1999 period from
$2,972 in the 1998 period, as a result of a one cent per total mile increase in
freight rates and improved equipment utilization.

Salaries, wages, and related expenses increased $18.0 million (24.0%), to $93.2
million in the 1999 period from $75.1 million in the 1998 period. As a
percentage of revenue, salaries, wages, and related expenses decreased to 44.2%
in the 1999 period from 44.5% in the 1998 period. Driver wages as a percentage
of revenue decreased to 31.7% in the 1999 period from 32.2% in the 1998 period
as the use of owner-operators more than offset a $.025 pay increase that went
into effect in April 1998. The Company experienced an increase in non-driving
employee payroll expense to 5.9% of revenue in the 1999 period from 5.3% of
revenue in the 1998 period due to the start up of Covenant Transport Logistics
and the acquisition of SRT.

Fuel, oil, and road expenses increased $5.6 million (17.3%), to $37.8 million in
the 1999 period from $32.3 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of
revenue, fuel, oil, and road expenses decreased to 17.9% of revenue in the 1999
period from 19.1% in the 1998 period primarily as a result of the increased use
of owner-operators who pay for fuel purchases. The expense for owner-operators
is reflected in the revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation
category.

Revenue equipment rentals and purchased transportation increased $8.7 million
(83.0%), to $19.1 million in the 1999 period from $10.4 million in the 1998
period. As a percentage of revenue, revenue equipment rentals and purchased
transportation increased to 9.0% in the 1999 period from 6.1% in the 1998
period. During 1997, the Company began using owner-operators of revenue
equipment, who provide a tractor and driver and cover all of their operating
expenses in exchange for a fixed payment per mile. Accordingly, expenses such as
driver salaries, fuel, repairs, depreciation, and interest normally associated
with Company-owned equipment are consolidated in revenue equipment rentals and
purchased transportation when owner operators are utlized. The Company increased
the fleet size of owner-operators during the 1999 period (averaged 218 in the
1999 period compared to 118 in the 1998 period, a increase of 84.7%). The
Company also entered into additional operating leases. During the 1999 period,
622 tractors were leased compared to 316 leased tractors during the 1998 period.

Repairs increased $0.8 million (20.1%), to $4.4 million in the 1999 period from
$3.6 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue, repairs remained
essentially constant at 2.1% in the 1999 period and 2.2% in the 1998 period.

Operating taxes and licenses increased approximately $0.8 million (17.8%), to
$5.2 million in the 1999 period from $4.4 million in the 1998 period. As a
percent of revenue, operating taxes and licenses decreased to 2.4% in the 1999
period from 2.6% in the 1998 period.

Insurance, consisting primarily of premiums for liability, physical damage, and
cargo damage insurance, and claims, increased $0.8 million (17.2%), to $5.6
million in the 1999 period from $4.8 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage
of revenue, insurance remained essentially constant at 2.7% in the 1999 period
and 2.8% in the 1998 period.

General supplies and expenses, consisting primarily of driver recruiting,
communications expenses, and facilities expenses, increased $1.9 million
(20.3%), to $11.4 million in the 1999 period from $9.4 million in the 1998
period. As a percentage of revenue, general supplies and expenses decreased to
5.4% in the 1999 period from 5.6% in the 1998 period. The 1999 decrease is
primarily related to the fixed nature of a portion of these costs, which was
more effectively spread over higher revenues.

10
Depreciation and amortization,  consisting  primarily of depreciation of revenue
equipment, increased $2.5 million (17.8%), to $16.5 million in the 1999 period
from $14.0 million in 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and
amortization decreased to 7.8% in the 1999 period from 8.3% in the 1998 period
as the Company utilized more owner-operators and leased more revenue equipment
through operating leases. Amortization expense relates to deferred debt costs
incurred and covenants not to compete from two 1995 and one 1998 asset
acquisitions, as well as goodwill from two 1997 and two 1998 acquisitions.

Interest expense decreased $0.5 million (15.9%), to $2.5 million in the 1999
period from $3.0 million in the 1998 period. As a percentage of revenue,
interest expense decreased to 1.2% in the 1999 period from 1.8% in the 1998
period, as the Company financed more equipment under operating leases,
contracted with more owner-operators during the 1999 period, and benefited from
an improvement in cash from operations.

As a result of the foregoing, the Company's pretax margin improved to 7.3% in
the 1999 period versus 6.9% in the 1998 period.

The Company's effective tax rate was 40.1% in the 1999 period compared with
38.0% in the 1998 period reflecting increased state income taxes in the 1999
period.

Primarily as a result of the factors described above, net income increased $1.9
million (26.9%), to $9.2 million in the 1999 period (4.4% of revenue) from $7.2
million in the 1998 period (4.3% of revenue).

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The growth of the Company's business has required significant investments in new
revenue equipment. The Company has financed its revenue equipment requirements
with borrowings under a line of credit, cash flows from operations, long-term
operating leases, and a small portion with borrowings under installment notes
payable to commercial lending institutions and equipment manufacturers. The
Company's primary sources of liquidity at June 30, 1999, were funds provided by
operations and borrowings under its primary credit agreement, amended June 18,
1999, which had maximum available borrowing of $130.0 million at June 30, 1999
(the "Credit Agreement"). The Company believes its sources of liquidity are
adequate to meet its current and projected needs. (*)

The Company's primary sources of cash flow from operations in the 1999 period
were net income increased by depreciation and amortization and accounts payable
and accrued expenses. Net cash provided by operating activities was $28.5
million in the 1999 period and $12.5 million in the 1998 period. The increase in
the 1999 period resulted from a significant improvement in the cash flow of
receivables and a higher payables level caused by timing of the month end in
June.

Net cash used in investing activities was $18.1 million and $39.3 million in the
1999 and 1998 periods, respectively. These investments were primarily to acquire
additional revenue equipment as the Company expanded its operations. The
decrease in the 1999 period as compared to the 1998 period resulted from the
Company's entering into more operating leases and increasing its fleet through
the use of owner-operators who provide a tractor. The Company expects to expend
approximately an additional $27.0 million on capital expenditures during the
remainder of 1999 (excluding planned operating leases of equipment). Total
projected capital expenditures for 1999 are expected to be approximately $45.0
million excluding operating leases and the effect of any potential acquisitions.
(*)

Net cash used in financing activities of $12.6 million in the 1999 period
related primarily to repayment of debt under borrowings under the Credit
Agreement. This compared with net cash provided by financing activities of $24.3
million in the 1998 period. At June 30, 1999, the Company had outstanding debt
of $72.8 million, primarily consisting of approximately $42.0 million drawn
under the Credit Agreement, $25.0 million in 10-year senior notes, $3.0 million
in an interest bearing note to the former primary stockholder of SRT related to
the acquisition, $2.1 million in term equipment financing, and $0.7 million in
notes related to non-compete agreements. Interest rates on this debt range from
5.7% to 10.8%.

The Credit Agreement is with a group of banks and has a maximum borrowing limit
of $130.0 million. Borrowings related to revenue equipment are limited to the
lesser of 90% of the net book value of revenue equipment. Working capital
borrowings are limited to 85% of eligible accounts receivable. Letters of credit
are limited to an aggregate commitment of $10.0 million. The Credit Agreement
includes a "security agreement" such that the Credit Agreement may be
collateralized by virtually all assets of the Company if a covenant violation
occurs. A commitment fee, that is adjusted quarterly between 0.125% and 0.275%
per annum based on cash flow coverage, is due on the daily unused portion of the
Credit Agreement. The Company, including all subsidiaries, are parties to the
Credit Agreement and related documents.

The Company renewed the loan in June 1999. The Credit Agreement revolves through
December 31, 2000 and then has a three-year term out if not renewed. Payments
for interest are due quarterly in arrears with principal payments due in 12
equal quarterly

11
installments  beginning  in 2001 if not  renewed.  Borrowings  under the  Credit
Agreement are based on the banks' base rate or LIBOR and accrue interest based
on one, two, or three month LIBOR rates plus an applicable margin that is
adjusted quarterly between 0.55% and 0.925% based on cash flow coverage. At June
30, 1999, the margin was 0.60%. The Company has an interest rate swap agreement
that fixes the interest rate on $10 million of borrowing under the Credit
Agreement at a rate of 5.95% plus applicable margin. The $10 million swap
agreement will expire October 29, 1999.

In October 1995, the Company placed $25 million in 10-year senior notes with an
insurance company. The notes bear interest at 7.39%, payable semi-annually, and
mature on October 1, 2005. Principal payments are due in equal annual
installments beginning in the seventh year of the notes. Proceeds of the notes
were used to reduce borrowings under the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement, senior notes, and the headquarters and terminal lease
agreement entered into in 1996, contain certain restrictions and covenants
relating to, among other things, dividends, tangible net worth, cash flows,
acquisitions and dispositions, and total indebtedness. All of these instruments
are cross-defaulted. At June 30, 1999, the Company was in compliance with the
agreements.

SEASONALITY

In the trucking industry, revenue generally decreases as customers reduce
shipments during the winter holiday season and as inclement weather impedes
operations. At the same time, operating expenses generally increase, with fuel
efficiency declining because of engine idling and weather creating more
equipment repairs. First quarter net income historically has been lower than net
income in each of the other three-quarters of the year because of the weather.
The Company's equipment utilization typically improves substantially between May
and October of each year because of the trucking industry's seasonal shortage of
equipment on traffic originating in California and the Company's ability to
satisfy some of that requirement. The seasonal shortage typically occurs between
May and August because California produce carriers' equipment is fully utilized
for produce during those months and does not compete for shipments hauled by the
Company's dry van operation. During September and October, business increases as
a result of increased retail merchandise shipped in anticipation of the
holidays. (*)

YEAR 2000

The Year 2000 ("Y2K") issue concerns the inability of computer systems to
recognize and process date-sensitive information after 1999 due to the use of
only the last two digits to refer to a year. This problem could affect both
information systems (software and hardware) and other equipment that relies on
microprocessors. Management has completed a Company-wide evaluation of this
impact on its computer systems, applications, and other date-sensitive equipment
and has hired a nationally-recognized consulting firm to perform a status study
of the Company's processes and activities related to the Company's Y2K project.
All known remediation efforts and testing of mission critical systems/equipment
were completed by July 31, 1999. The cost of the assessment and remediation
efforts for the modifications and updates to existing software is estimated to
be approximately $250,000.

The Company is also in the process of monitoring the progress of material third
parties, including shippers and suppliers, in their efforts to become Y2K
compliant and expects this phase to be ongoing throughout the rest of the year.
The Company's primary information technology systems ("IT Systems") include
hardware and software for billing, dispatch, electronic data interchange
("EDI"), fueling, payroll, telephone, vehicle maintenance, inventory, and
satellite communications systems. The majority of the Company's IT Systems are
purchased from and maintained by third parties. A primary IT System designed by
a third party is the satellite tracking system, which tracks equipment
locations, provides dispatch and routing information, and allows in-cab
communications with drivers. The Company's operating system that manages
payroll, billing, and dispatch was purchased from the supplier in March 1999 on
a long term lease. Another significant IT System provided by a third party
transmits payroll funds to drivers and allows drivers to purchase fuel and other
items outside the Company's terminal locations. The Company's financial
reporting system also is provided by a third party. In addition to our own
completed testing, the Company has been informed by the providers of these
systems that they are Y2K compliant. The Company believes it is Y2K compliant in
its EDI applications. As customers will allow, the Company will be performing
Y2K testing of EDI transmissions with its customers throughout the remainder of
the year. (*)

The Company has reviewed its risks associated with microprocessors embedded in
facilities and equipment ("Non-IT Systems"). The primary Non-IT Systems includes
microprocessors in tractor engines and other components, terminal facilities,
satellite communications units, and telecommunications and other office
equipment. The Company's assessment of its revenue equipment, satellite
communications units, and office equipment Non-IT Systems has revealed low risk
of material replacement requirements. Such equipment is relatively new and was
designed to be Y2K compliant. The Company is continuing to assess its Non-IT
Systems in its terminal facilities but believes that the risk of a
service-interrupting failure in these systems is low. (*)

12
The  Company  could be faced  with  severe  consequences  if Y2K  issues are not
identified and resolved in a timely manner by the Company and material third
parties. The Company's primary risk relating to Y2K compliance is the
possibility of service disruption from third-party suppliers of satellite
communications, telephone, fueling, and financial services. A worst-case
scenario would result in the short term inability of the Company to deliver
freight for its shippers. This would result in lost revenues; however, the
amount would be dependent on the length and nature of the disruption, which
cannot be predicted or estimated. The Company is in the process of developing
contingency plans in case business interruptions do occur. Management expects
these plans to be completed by August 31, 1999. (*)

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKS

The Company is exposed to market risks from changes in (i) certain commodity
prices and (ii) certain interest rates on its debt.

COMMODITY PRICE RISK

Prices and availability of all petroleum products are subject to political,
economic, and market factors that are generally outside the Company's control.
Because the Company's operations are dependent upon diesel fuel, significant
increases in diesel fuel costs could materially and adversely affect the
Company's results of operations and financial condition. Historically, the
Company has been able to recover a portion of short-term fuel price increases
from customers in the form of fuel surcharges. The price and availability of
diesel fuel can be unpredictable as well as the extent to which fuel surcharges
could be collected to offset such increases. For the first six months of 1999,
diesel fuel expenses represented 16.6% of the Company's total operating expenses
and 15.2% of total revenue. The Company uses derivative instruments, including
purchased commitments through suppliers, to reduce a portion of its exposure to
fuel price fluctuations. At June 30, 1999, the national average price of diesel
fuel as provided by the U.S. Department of Energy was $1.087 per gallon. At June
30, 1999, the notional amount for purchased commitments for the remainder of
1999 was 6.0 million gallons. Net unrealized losses were approximately $100,000.
At June 30, 1999, a ten percent change in the price of fuel would cause an
approximately $650,000 change in losses or gains on the fuel purchase
commitments.

INTEREST RATE RISK

The Credit Agreement, provided there has been no default, carries a maximum
variable interest rate of LIBOR for the corresponding period plus 0.925%. At
June 30, 1999, the Company had drawn $42.0 million under the Credit Agreement.
Approximately $32.0 million was subject to variable rates and the remaining
$10.0 million was subject to an interest rate swap that fixed the interest rate
at 5.95% plus applicable margin per annum. The swap expires October 29, 1999.
Considering the effect of the interest rate swap and all debt outstanding, each
one-percentage point increase in LIBOR would increase the Company's pretax
interest expense by $290,000.

The Company does not trade in these derivatives with the objective of earning
financial gains on price fluctuations, nor does it trade in these instruments
when there are no underlying related exposures.

13
PART II OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

None

Items 2 and 3. Not applicable

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

The Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Covenant Transport,
Inc. was held on May 20, 1999, for the purpose of (a) electing seven
directors for one-year terms (b) ratification of the selection of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as independent certified public accountants
for the Company and (c) amending the Company's Incentive Stock Plan to
reserve an additional 651,550 shares of the Company's Class A common
stock for issuance to participants. Proxies for the meeting were
solicited pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, and there was no solicitation in opposition to management's
nominees. Each of management's nominees for director as listed in the
Proxy Statement was elected.

The voting tabulation on the election of directors was as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Shares Shares Shares
Voted Voted Voted
"FOR" "AGAINST" "ABSTAIN"
<S> <C> <C> <C>

David R. Parker 16,430,991 0 36,190
Michael W. Miller 16,430,991 0 36,190
R. H. Lovin, Jr. 16,430,991 0 36,190
Mark A. Scudder 16,430,991 0 36,190
William T. Alt 16,429,971 0 37,210
Hugh O. Maclellan, Jr. 16,430,991 0 36,190
Robert E. Bosworth 16,430,991 0 36,190
</TABLE>


The voting tabulation on the selection of accountants was
16,461,756 shares "FOR," 1,600 shares "AGAINST," and 3,825 shares
"ABSTAIN."

The voting tabulation on amending the Company's Incentive
Stock Plan was 12,724,525 shares "FOR," 3,112,255 shares "AGAINST," and
5,932 shares "ABSTAIN."

Item 5. Not applicable

Item 6. Exhibits and reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit
Number Description

3.1+ Restated Articles of Incorporation.
3.2+ Amended By-Laws dated September 27, 1994.
4.1+ Restated Articles of Incorporation.
4.2+ Amended By-Laws dated September 27, 1994.
10.1+ Incentive Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.9.
10.2+ 401(k) Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.10.
10.3++ Note Purchase Agreement dated October 15, 1995, among Covenant
Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation and CIG & Co., filed as
Exhibit 10.12.
10.4+++ Participation Agreement dated March 29, 1996, among Covenant
Transport, Inc., a Tennessee corporation, Lease Plan USA, Inc., and
ABN-AMRO Bank, N.V., Atlanta Agency, filed as Exhibit 10.14.
10.5+++ First Amendment to Note Purchase Agreement and Waiver dated April 1,
1996, filed as Exhibit 10.16.

14
10.6++++    Waiver to Note  Purchase  Agreement  dated March 31, 1997,  filed as
Exhibit 10.12.
10.7+++++ Second Amendment to Note Purchase Agreement dated December 30, 1997,
filed as Exhibit 10.19.
10.8+++++ Stock Purchase Agreement made and entered into as of October 10,
1997, by and among Covenant Transport, Inc., a Nevada corporation;
Russell Meyer; and Bud Meyer Truck Lines, Inc., a Minnesota
Corporation, filed as Exhibit 10.21.
10.9# Stock Purchase Agreement made and entered into as of October 15,
1998, by and among Covenant Transport, Inc., a Nevada corporation;
Smith Charitable Remainder Trust, Southern Refrigerated
Transportation, Inc.,
an Arkansas corporation, and Tony and Kathy Smith, husband
and wife and residents of Arkansas, filed as Exhibit 10.22.
10.10 Amendment No. 2 to the Incentive Stock Plan.
10.11 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated June 18, 1999.
27 Financial Data Schedule.
+ Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Registration Statement on
Form S-1, Registration No. 33-82978, effective October 28, 1994, and
incorporated herein by reference.
++ Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 1995, and incorporated herein by reference.
+++ Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended March 31, 1996, and incorporated herein by reference.
++++ Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended March 31, 1997, and incorporated herein by reference.
+++++ Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the period ended December 31, 1997, and incorporated herein by
reference.
# Filed as an exhibit to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the period ended December 31, 1998, and incorporated herein by
reference.

(b) No reports on Form 8-K have been filed during the quarter for
which this report is filed.

15
SIGNATURE



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.


COVENANT TRANSPORT, INC.


Date: August 11, 1999 /s/ Joey B. Hogan
-----------------

Joey B. Hogan
Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer

16