Averitt Announces No General Rate Increase in 2009

Averitt Announces No General Rate Increase in 2009
Company officials cite opportunity to build customer loyalty as reason for decision

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (January 29, 2009) — Averitt Express, has announced it will not take a general LTL rate increase in 2009.

Company officials cited the unique opportunity to build customer loyalty as reasons for the decision.

"As we enter 2009, our nation faces serious economic challenges. At a time like this, our customers need transportation partners who can provide outstanding service and creative transportation solutions. They also need to keep costs as low as possible," said Phil Pierce, Averitt's executive vice president of sales and marketing. "So, at a time when most transportation providers are taking an annual rate increase and at a time when we continue to face higher costs ourselves, we are proud to announce Averitt will not take a general LTL rate increase in 2009."

Pierce adds that in addition to Averitt's unique move with its pricing, the company is also charting a different course with how it facing the recession.

"Instead of simply sitting idly by and waiting for the storm to pass, we have chosen to use this time to rethink every process we follow, every purchase we make and every resource we consume – all with the goal of eliminating waste and strengthening our ability to serve our customers," added Pierce.

The announcement will affect thousands of shippers whose rates are based on Averitt's A-Rate tariff.

For more information on Averitt rates, customer can visit www.averittexpress.com/resourcecenter/ratingsystem.htm.

About Averitt Express

Established in 1971, Averitt Express is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management with international reach to more than 100 countries. The company specializes in delivering customized solutions with a single source of accountability for service offerings that include less-than-truckload, truckload, time-critical, importing/exporting and supply chain management. Backed by successful execution for hundreds of customers, Averitt’s supply chain management capabilities include dedicated fleet operations, warehousing services and transportation management. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT or visit http://www.averittexpress.com.