What the company said
J.B. Hunt Chief Financial Officer Brad Delco told the Morgan Stanley Laguna Conference on September 15 that the company's third-quarter earnings were expected to be 5%–10% below the second quarter. J.B. Hunt's investor-relations site confirms the presentation and provides a replay.
Independent reports on the presentation said higher diesel costs and additional driver-hiring expenses were among the pressures. J.B. Hunt's federal filing explains that its fuel-surcharge programs generally recover most higher fuel expense, but timing differences can temporarily affect results.
What it means for drivers and carriers
The outlook shows how quickly fuel and labor costs can affect a large carrier even when fuel-surcharge programs are in place. A surcharge may recover much of an increase over time without matching the carrier's expense in the same reporting period.
The reference to driver-hiring expense does not mean J.B. Hunt announced a hiring stop, layoff, pay cut or contractor-rate change. No such workforce action was identified in the company presentation record or the reports reviewed for this story.
What remains uncertain
The 5%–10% figure is management guidance comparing expected third-quarter earnings with the second quarter; it is not a finalized third-quarter result. Actual results can differ when the company reports the quarter.
This development does not establish a new driver rule, fuel-surcharge formula or compensation policy. Drivers and contractors should rely on direct company communications for any job, route, pay or operating changes.
Primary sources and supporting records
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services: J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. to participate in the Morgan Stanley 14th Annual Laguna ConferencePrimary company confirmation of the presentation, speakers and replay availability • Published 2026-09-10 • Checked September 16, 2026 at 7:48 AM
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services: Events and presentationsPrimary company webcast and presentation record • Published 2026-09-15 • Checked September 16, 2026 at 7:48 AM
- Barron's: J.B. Hunt stock falls as higher diesel prices pressure earningsIndependent financial-news report of the earnings range and fuel-cost context • Published 2026-09-15 • Checked September 16, 2026 at 7:50 AM
- Investor's Business Daily: J.B. Hunt CFO flags earnings pressure from fuel and driver-hiring costsIndependent report of the conference guidance and cited operating-cost pressures • Published 2026-09-15 • Checked September 16, 2026 at 7:50 AM
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission: J.B. Hunt Transport Services 2025 Form 10-KPrimary filing context for fuel-surcharge recovery and timing differences • Published 2026-02-20 • Checked September 16, 2026 at 7:51 AM
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