Diesel at $6 Just Ate J.B. Hunt’s Quarter. Truckers Can’t Raise Prices Fast Enough

J.B. Hunt reported a 20% revenue increase to $3.68 billion and a 2% rise in operating income to $247.1 million for Q3 2026. Diluted EPS grew 3% to $1.82. Segment performance varied, with Intermodal revenue up 20% and operating income up 18%, while Dedicated Contract Services saw revenue rise 11% but operating income drop 22%. The company remains optimistic about its strategy and long-term growth.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services expects a 5% to 10% sequential drop in Q3 earnings per share, citing diesel costs and driver expenses. The company is in its fourth quarter of year-over-year improvement and has a $130 million cost-reduction initiative. Analysts anticipate a 20% average earnings growth for carriers this quarter. Intermodal volumes are up mid-single digits, with contract pricing expected to rise in the October bid season.

Bernstein reduced J.B. Hunt's (JBHT) price target to $307 from $329, citing cost concerns, while maintaining an Outperform rating. The stock trades at $229.04, up 66% year-to-date. Bernstein raised its 2027 earnings estimate but lowered Q3 and Q4 estimates. J.B. Hunt expects Q3 operating income to decline 5-10% due to rising expenses. Analysts have mixed reactions, with some lowering targets and others upgrading ratings.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) issued a warning about declining Q3 2026 earnings due to higher diesel prices and driver costs. The company also faces a securities law investigation, adding legal scrutiny. Analysts project 2029 revenues of $16.5B and earnings of $1.1B, with a potential 27% upside. Some analysts see risks in intermodal and tech spending delays, with possible 8% downside.

Analysts at Wells Fargo and Citizens JMP maintained Buy ratings on JB Hunt (JBHT) with price targets of $305.00 and $300.00, respectively. JBHT's consensus target is $297.79, suggesting 26.5% upside. Jefferies analyst Adela Dashian kept a Buy rating on Munters Group AB (MMNNF) with a SEK190.00 target; consensus target is $22.52.

U.S. diesel prices hit $6.51/gallon, up 40 cents in a week, impacting transport stocks and inflation. J.B. Hunt $JBHT warned of 5-10% earnings drop due to fuel costs, with Dow Jones Transport Average falling 2%. Supply disruptions from U.S.-Iran tensions and Ukraine-Russia conflict drove prices up. Higher diesel costs may increase consumer prices and home heating bills.