OUR CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY JOURNEY 2023/2024
A Message From Our Chairman ............................ 04 Introduction. ..........................................06 About Averitt . ............................ 10 Awards & Recognitions.........................12 About This Report.................................14 Governance...........................................16 CSR Steering Committee......................18 The Power of One.................................20 The Winner’s Circle................................22 People . ....................................... 24 Our Driving Force Is People..................26 Benefits, Communication, Training .......28 Health & Wellness..................................30 Safety.....................................................32 Diversity & Inclusion..............................36 Honoring Our Veterans..........................38 Over 20 Team........................................40 Our Ethical Standards...........................42 Philanthropy...........................................44
Environment ............................... 48 A Message From Our President/COO...50 SmartWay ® Founding Member..............52 C02 Reduction........................................54 Emissions, Energy Savings .................... 56 Waste Reduction, Recycling .................. 58 Total Annual CO2 Reduction..................60 Procurement & Partnerships..................62 Environmental Policy..............................64 Green Awards & Recognition.................66 An Ongoing Journey..............................68 Appendix ..................................... 70 SASB Report, Metrics ............................ 72
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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This drives our steadfast commitment to integrating sustainability and social responsibility into every facet of our business. We strive for continuous improvement by collaborating with leading universities, logistics centers, transportation companies, and industry experts. Our goal is to discover innovative ways to conserve energy, enhance safety, and support our communities, ensuring that our efforts are both environmentally responsible and socially impactful. Our culture is built on the philosophy that today’s choices shape tomorrow’s world. This focus is reflected in our dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our associates, fostering trust and collaboration with our customers, and actively engaging in community service. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to this comprehensive approach. We aim to make positive changes that benefit our environment and society. By embracing this integrated strategy, we ensure that our operations are sustainable and that we continue to be a force for good in our communities. Averitt’s promise is to keep striving for excellence, protecting our planet, and making a meaningful impact. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all. Thank you for being a part of our journey. At Averitt, we understand that every action we take has a lasting impact on our planet and communities.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIRMAN
Gary Sasser Chairman and CEO Averitt
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To that end, we’re proud to present our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report. This publication outlines our holistic approach to sustainable and ethical business practices and highlights our ongoing commitment to: • Prioritizing associate safety, well-being, and career development • Investing in cutting-edge green fleet and fuel technologies • Optimizing our logistics networks to reduce waste and emissions • Pioneering efficient processes that conserve natural resources • Investing in sustainable facilities with a focus on renewable energy • Creating a culture where everyone feels respected • Encouraging team members to get involved in their communities • Upholding the highest standards across our operations We understand there is no finish line when it comes to environmental stewardship or social progress, and there will always be more we can do to drive positive change. We’re committed to continually leading the way toward a more sustainable future for all. But being a truly responsible corporate citizen involves much more than just environmental stewardship. It requires an ongoing commitment to ethical conduct, empowering our people, and strengthening the communities we serve. As a privately held company, we’ve always held ourselves to a higher standard. From our earliest days, we’ve been committed to minimizing our environmental footprint, cultivating an exceptional workplace for our associates, and playing an active role in the community.
As one of the nation’s leading transportation and logistics providers, we understand we have an increased obligation to champion sustainable business practices.
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DRIVING FOR A BETTER WORLD
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ABOUT AVERITT
ASSOCIATES 9,000 Full and Part Time Nearly
Founded in 1958 by Thurman Averitt and acquired by Gary Sasser in 1971, Averitt has grown into one of the nation’s leading freight transportation and logistics providers. Headquartered in Cookeville, Tennessee, Averitt operates a network of facilities and service centers across the United States. Our business is organized into five interconnected service units. This unique, “all under one roof” structure allows us to offer comprehensive transportation and logistics services that meet the evolving needs of customers in over 100 countries.
HEADQUARTERS Cookeville, TN
FACILITIES 143 Locations
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Milwaukee
•
Chicago
•
Peoria
• Winchester
FLEET Approx. Approx.
Cincinnati •
• Shenandoah
Richmond •
•
Norfolk •
Roanoke •
• Louisville
St. Louis
15,000 Trailers 5,000 Tractors
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Lexington
• Owensboro
Eastern N.C. •
Corbin-London •
Greensboro •
• Raleigh
Nashville • Bowling Green •
Tri-Cities •
Hickory •
Mayfield •
Knoxville •
Fayetteville •
Cookeville •
Charlotte •
• Asheville
Tulsa •
Jackson •
Jonesboro •
Chattanooga •
Darlington •
• Greenville
Memphis •
Amarillo •
Oklahoma City •
Ft. Smith •
Columbia •
Decatur •
Tupelo •
Atlanta West •
Gadsden •
Atlanta East •
Little Rock •
• Charleston
Lubbock •
Augusta •
Birmingham •
Wichita Falls •
Macon •
Opelika •
• Savannah
Dallas •
Meridian •
Montgomery •
Tyler •
Jackson •
Shreveport •
Abilene •
Tifton •
• El Paso
Dothan •
• Midland/ Odessa
Mobile •
Waco •
Jacksonville •
• Tallahassee
Beaumont •
• Baton Rouge
New Orleans •
Austin •
Orlando •
ANNUAL MILES 221,373,134 Approx.
Houston •
San Antonio •
Del Rio •
Tampa •
• Ft. Myers W. Palm Beach •
Corpus Christi •
• Laredo
Miami •
Harlingen •
Puerto Rico •
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2023/2024 AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS Earning recognition from our industry and partners is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team. We embrace customer feedback, using it as a tool to continually improve our services and deliver lasting value that shippers can depend on. You can find a full list of our growing number of awards at Averitt.com/About/Awards. • #1 Overall LTL Carrier – Mastio • #1 Most Recommended LTL Carrier – Mastio • #1 Inter-Regional LTL Carrier – Mastio • 8 Quest For Quality Awards • Trucking Company of the Year – Parnelli • LTL Carrier of the Year – Geodis • Green Supply Chain Partner – Inbound Logistics • Best-in-State Employers List – Forbes • Trane Technologies Logistics Supplier of the Year • Heavy Duty Trucking Top Green Fleet
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ABOUT THIS REPORT While a privately held company, Averitt adheres to the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) framework from the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) for disclosures on material topics relevant to road transportation. This report covers all of Averitt’s assets, full- and part-time associates, and operations under Averitt’s control for the calendar year 2023. A detailed summary of our disclosures and key performance indicators (KPIs) can be found in the appendix. For the most recent results, please consult the online version of this report at Averitt.com/CSR.
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Gary Sasser Chairman and CEO
Gary Sasser has been leading Averitt since he acquired the company in 1971. Under his leadership, Averitt has grown into a leading freight transportation and logistics provider.
Barry Blakely President and COO
Barry joined Averitt in 1986, starting with the sales team in Atlanta. He quickly moved up to become the Service Center Director in Birmingham, later serving in regional leadership roles and as Vice President of Operations. All governance responsibilities fall under his guidance and oversight.
Averitt is a privately held company guided by a dedicated Executive Team that ensures the company adheres to its core values and strategic objectives. This team, led by our CEO and COO, is committed to maintaining the highest standards of leadership and operational excellence. The Executive Team provides oversight and is responsible for key areas critical to Averitt’s success. GOVERNANCE
Kent Williams Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing Kent began his Averitt career in 1987 when he joined our Cookeville sales team. Kent currently drives our sales and marketing efforts, focusing on expanding our customer reach and building strong client relationships.
Johnny Fields Executive Vice President and CFO
A part of Averitt since 1996, Johnny Fields was promoted to his current position in 2018. Johnny is responsible for managing the company’s financial strategies, ensuring fiscal health, and guiding long-term financial planning to support Averitt’s continued growth and success.
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COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES The primary objective of the Steering Committee is to guide our sustainability strategy according to our corporate standards. Initial steps taken by the committee include: • Developing an Environmental Policy: This policy serves as the backbone of our efforts, guiding our environmental performance and ensuring alignment with our sustainability goals. • Creating a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory: Compliant with the GHG Protocol, this inventory helps us measure and manage our emissions effectively. • Enhancing Supplier Engagement: Through a sustainability survey and incorporating sustainability language into contracts, we are ensuring that our supply chain aligns with our environmental standards. • Public Disclosure: We are committed to transparency by publicly disclosing GHG emissions and other vital metrics, adhering to the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB) guidelines.
The Executive Team delegates day-to-day responsibility for managing social and environmental impacts of the company to a CSR Steering Committee , which reports directly to President and COO, Barry Blakely. This cross-functional group is composed of top-level leaders from throughout the company: Procurement, Operations, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing and Communications, Safety and Compliance, IT, and Sales. The committee was formed to embed sustainable and responsible business practices even more deeply into our operations. CSR STEERING COMMITTEE
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A UNIFIED APPROACH TO MORE EFFICIENT OPERATIONS
LTL (LESS THAN TRUCKLOAD) Consolidating smaller shipments efficiently to reduce costs and environmental impact while maintaining timely deliveries.
TRUCKLOAD Full-capacity solutions for larger shipments, ensuring direct routes and reliable, on-time delivery.
DEDICATED Customized transportation solutions tailored to meet specific customer needs, providing consistent and reliable service.
Our team understands the importance of seamless integration in logistics. That’s why our five service units – LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated & Global Solutions – are designed to operate not just in conjunction with one another but as a single cohesive unit. This integration allows us to streamline operations, reduce redundancies, and deliver a level of service that is both efficient and environmentally conscious. We call it The Power of One , and it’s more than just a business strategy – it’s a commitment to efficiency and sustainability that sets us apart in the transportation industry.
DISTRIBUTION & FULFILLMENT Managing inventory, order processing, port logistics, and delivery to streamline the supply chain from warehouse to customer.
INTEGRATED & GLOBAL SOLUTIONS Connecting local expertise with global reach to ensure seamless international shipping and logistics.
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BUILDING SUCCESS TOGETHER
For over 50 years, a circle of trust has been the key to our success – fostering trust within our Averitt family, earning the trust of our customers through exceptional service, and sustaining trust in our future as a company that reinvests in its people and principles. We call it the Winner’s Circle – the belief that each associate’s passion, skills, and ideas contribute to the success of the entire team: When our associates provide outstanding service… Our customers trust us with more of their business. This growth secures our future. This Winner’s Circle also represents Averitt’s commitment to every individual involved with our organization. Our commitment to doing right by our associates means promoting from within, sharing rewards equitably, and strengthening local communities. Our commitment to our customers is delivered through proven dependability, creativity, and consistent innovation in our logistics solutions. And our commitment to a sustainable future means investing in the ongoing stability and responsible growth of our company, investing in green technology and renewable energy sources, and reducing our ecological footprint. Recognizing the role we play in shaping the future, Averitt is dedicated to growth that benefits both our company and the planet. Through the Power of One and the Winner’s Circle, we not only champion a sustainable business model but also foster a culture of responsibility that permeates every aspect of our operations.
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DRIVING FOR A STRONGER TEAM 25
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OUR DRIVING FORCE IS PEOPLE
Virtually everything you need to know about Averitt is contained in those five words. Because that statement conveys the entire promise of our company – that our shared success is determined by our shared efforts and values. Our mission is to deliver the highest level of service and continuously exceed customer expectations – an approach that has made us one of the most awarded carriers in the nation. We are always striving for ways to improve so that we can better serve both our customers and the environment. That’s why our business model balances profitability with corporate responsibility to ensure a sustainable future for both our company and the planet.
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Compensation and Profit Sharing We are dedicated to offering top-tier compensation and conduct annual wage surveys to ensure we offer the most competitive wages in the communities we serve. We also share our success through a company-wide profit-sharing program, which allocates 20% of our profits back to associates through their auto-enrolled 401(k)s. This initiative not only rewards hard work but also Effective communication is a cornerstone of our management approach. We maintain an Open Door Policy that encourages associates to share ideas, concerns, and feedback directly with leadership. The Driver Advisory Council further supports this culture of openness by providing a platform for drivers to voice their opinions and contribute to continuous improvement. Safety, Professionalism, and Training We place a high priority on safety and professionalism, recognizing that these are critical to both the well-being of our associates and to operational success. We invest heavily in comprehensive safety training programs to equip associates with the knowledge and skills they need to perform their duties safely and effectively. Ethical Standards and Values reinforces a sense of ownership among associates. Open Communication and Engagement Guided by a strong ethical foundation, we uphold values of integrity, respect, and accountability. These principles are integrated into every aspect of our operations, from daily interactions to strategic decision-making. By maintaining high ethical standards, we build trust with our associates, customers, and communities and reinforce our reputation as a responsible and reliable industry leader.
OUR COMMITMENT IN ACTION Our associates are at the core of everything we do. Our commitment to them is evident in our focus on fair compensation, profit sharing, open communication, and comprehensive training. We prioritize safety, professionalism, and ethical standards, fostering an environment where every team member can thrive.
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We offer robust medical, vision, and dental coverage to ensure that our team has access to necessary healthcare services. In addition, our benefits package includes prescription drug coverage, 24/7 telemedicine services, and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Program offering mental health services, family counseling, and financial wellness support. Our Wellness Program is available to all associates, providing services such as preventive care, chronic condition management, and behavioral health support. Associates can also access hearing care, hearing aids, and nicotine cessation programs to promote overall well-being. To support ongoing health needs, we also offer virtual physical therapy at no cost, ensuring our team can receive care wherever they are. We understand that financial stability is key to overall wellness, which is why we provide benefits like company-paid life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, and health savings accounts. These options help associates manage their health and dependent care expenses with ease.
The health and well-being of our associates is our top priority.
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OUR DRIVING CONCERN IS SAFETY
We measure safe driving performance through various indicators, focusing on quality drivers and equipment. Total preventable accidents are tracked per million miles driven, and performance is continually measured against our own strong safety record for ongoing improvement. Driver hours of service records and motorist reports are closely reviewed to assist with driver coaching. New Averitt drivers undergo several days of onboarding training, which covers driving techniques, operational technology, accident reporting, equipment maintenance, hours of service compliance, and seat belt usage. Additionally, new drivers participate in an extensive backing and turning program during their last week of training, which is a rarity in the industry. All drivers must complete regular OSHA, FMCSA, and safety training programs, including periodic on-site classroom training and various online safety courses. We also employ a Safety Points System, where drivers gain points for participating in training and lose points for any incidents. This transparent system allows drivers to request additional training as needed, ensuring that safety remains a priority.
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In addition to driver training, we continuously upgrade our fleet with the latest safety technologies, such as collision-avoidance systems, anti-jackknife systems, forward- facing event recorders, rollover stability systems, lane departure warnings, and more.
But our commitment to safety extends well beyond the drivers and their vehicles. Our “Think Twice, Think Safe” program reinforces our commitment to safety by issuing monthly safety-related messages throughout the company. These messages, delivered via internal newsletters, posters, and other communications, cover a range of safety initiatives, ensuring that safety remains top of mind for all associates. Through these and other comprehensive safety measures, we maintain one of the country’s safest fleets, as we continually strive to protect our associates and the communities we serve.
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POWERED BY OUR PEOPLE
As an Equal Opportunity Workplace and Affirmative Action Employer, we are committed to creating an environment where every associate feels valued and respected, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, age, disability, or any other characteristic. Our approach ensures equal opportunities for all associates to thrive, contributing to our collective success and innovation. Our anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies uphold this commitment. We maintain a zero-tolerance stance on violations, clearly communicated to all associates through the Associate Handbook, regular training sessions, and various communication channels. These policies are acknowledged by 100% of our associates, ensuring a safe and inclusive workplace. We also actively engage in outreach to build a diverse workforce, participating in recruiting events that target females, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. These efforts include school visits, job fairs, military base visits, and community service projects. Our dedication is reflected in our recognition as one of the Top Companies for Women to Work For in Transportation by the Women in Trucking Association and our selection to Forbes’ Best-in-State Employers list.
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HONORING OUR NATION’S VETERANS
We take immense pride in supporting our associates who are veterans or currently serve in the military. Averitt has been recognized as a “Patriotic Employer” by the U.S. Department of Defense and has received recognition from the Tennessee Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars as Employer of the Year. We’ve also been designated as a Top 10 Military Friendly ® Employer by Viqtory Media and a U.S. Army Reserve Public Private Partner. Given that roughly 17% of Averitt associates are veterans, we’re particularly proud of these achievements. We also believe that veterans possess skills and traits that align perfectly with our values – including motivation, self-discipline, professionalism, and leadership. That’s why we actively recruit veterans, offering career opportunities in roles such as driver, leadership, mechanic, dock worker, and more. We also accommodate military leave for National Guard and other military branch members. By providing meaningful career opportunities and recognizing the unique strengths of military veterans, we integrate their valuable skills into our workforce, while at the same time supporting our nation’s heroes.
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
PATRIOTIC EMPLOYER
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Our associates are the motor that drives Averitt forward – a fact they demonstrate every day through their commitment to exceptional service. And nothing captures the spirit of that commitment like our Over 20 Team. As the name implies, the Over 20 Team consists of associates who have been with Averitt for 20 years or longer. This team – which represents over 17% of our workforce – covers every role in the company: drivers, dock associates, mechanics, customer service specialists, leadership, and more. We’re proud to have built a culture and an environment where people not only want to work but also want to stay. We have team members who’ve celebrated 30, 40, and more years as part of the Averitt family. That commitment pays enormous dividends for our customers in the form of invaluable experience and a truly dedicated team. The devotion to excellence that our associates show – to their fellow team members and to our customers – has helped make Averitt a globally recognized leader in the transportation industry and a trusted partner for customers both in and out of the South.
THE OVER 20 TEAM
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OUR ETHICAL STANDARDS
Averitt is committed to ethical business practices and maintaining a workplace where integrity and respect are paramount. Our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct prohibits corruption, bribery, fraud, money laundering, and anti-competitive practices. This code, along with our Conflicts of Interest Policy, is acknowledged by all associates and reinforced annually. Our Profit Protection and Fraud Prevention Policy outlines a zero-tolerance approach to fraud, theft, and corruption. A confidential, toll-free hotline is available 24/7 for reporting any violations, and reporters may be eligible for a reward. We also include reporting procedures to vendors in our Vendor Code of Conduct. These policies help safeguard our resources and maintain the trust of our stakeholders. Our policies reflect a zero-tolerance stance on unethical behavior, fostering a workplace where honesty and accountability are the norms. Through ongoing training and clear reporting channels, we uphold our dedication to ethical conduct, ensuring all associates feel secure and valued.
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DELIVERING MORE
Over the past five decades, our associates have built a unique culture of giving back to our communities, creating an extraordinary tradition of helping those in need. We refer to these efforts as “Delivering More” – coming together as a team to do good in the world. “Delivering More” means bringing compassion, caring, and support to our neighbors, communities, kids, and planet. And there’s perhaps no better example of this commitment than Averitt Cares for Kids. Through this nonprofit organization, we’ve proudly supported the life- changing work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for over three decades. In 2023, we were able to make our largest-ever donation of $1,500,001 – the largest single employee-generated contribution in the hospital’s history – to help St. Jude in its mission of conquering childhood cancer and other devastating diseases. We’re proud to say St. Jude has named Averitt Cares for Kids “Employee- Giving Organization of the Year” four times: 1999, 2010, 2020, and 2023.
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DONATED OVER $ 12 MILLION TO ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL DONATED OVER $ 15 MILLION TO CHARITIES OVERALL SINCE 1986 WORKED OVER 18,764 HOURS IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN 2023 HELPED OVER 200 ORGANIZATIONS IN OVER 100 COMMUNITIES IN 2023 HELPED 44,030 PEOPLE AND REPURPOSED 32,130 LBS VIA UNIFORM RECYCLING
Our commitment extends far beyond Averitt Cares for Kids.
Since 1986, our associates have donated over $15 million and more than 70,000 hours to help make a measurable difference in people’s lives.
Whether through helping kids and their families, feeding the hungry, assisting our storm-ravaged neighbors, or donating thousands of clothing items to our charity partners, we never stop looking for ways to give back – and to share the good fortune we enjoy because of our customers.
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DRIVING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
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The transportation industry stands at a critical juncture where the need for environmental responsibility has never been more pressing. At Averitt, we fully support innovative policies aimed at substantially reducing vehicle carbon emissions. This forward-thinking approach aligns with our commitment to environmental sustainability and represents a significant step toward a greener future for the trucking industry. At the same time, we understand that transitioning from carbon-based fuels is a complex process that requires careful planning and investment, and achieving success will depend on creating supportive policies, developing necessary infrastructure, and ensuring access to essential resources. Clear and consistent standards will help the industry innovate and plan effectively for this transition. For Averitt, such policies provide an opportunity to lead by example. We are committed to exploring and implementing every possible innovation that enhances the sustainability of our operations. By collaborating with policymakers, industry leaders, and our partners, we aim to develop practical solutions that balance environmental goals with economic and operational realities. These policies will challenge the industry to adapt, but we view them as catalysts for positive change. With a collective effort and a shared vision, we can make significant progress in creating a cleaner, more efficient transportation network. Averitt is proud to be part of this transformative journey, working toward a sustainable future for our business and the industry as a whole.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Barry Blakely President and COO Averitt
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Averitt has been at the forefront of sustainable transportation initiatives for decades. In 2004, when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established SmartWay – a program designed to reduce transportation-related emissions and improve supply chain efficiency – we were proud to be a founding partner. As one of only 52 original members, we committed to meeting specific environmental and energy-saving goals while transparently reporting our progress annually to the EPA. Through our ongoing participation in SmartWay, we have established a systematic approach to reducing emissions and conserving fuel across our operations. Since 2004, Averitt has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 36%, decreased nitrogen oxide emissions by 84%, and saved over 5.4 million gallons of diesel fuel. Our enduring SmartWay partnership demonstrates our steadfast dedication to seeking out and implementing eco-friendly logistics solutions that minimize our environmental impact. We continue collaborating with the EPA and using SmartWay’s resources to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and drive sustainability initiatives that pave the way for a greener future for the transportation industry.
SMARTWAY ® FOUNDING MEMBER
Since joining the SmartWay program in 2004, we’ve achieved:
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84 %
5.4 MILLION GALLONS of diesel fuel saved
% REDUCTION
REDUCTION
in CO2 emissions
in NOx emissions
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AUTOMATIC TIRE INFLATION SYSTEMS We’ve equipped our fleet with automatic tire inflation systems that continuously monitor and maintain the pressure of the tires while the vehicles are operational. This ensures that all tires are inflated to the optimal level for maximum fuel efficiency and tire life span. 12.7 MILLION POUNDS ANNUALLY thanks to a 1.4% improvement in fuel economy Reduced CO2 emissions by over
OUR COMMITMENT IN ACTION
ELECTRIC AND ALTERNATIVE FUEL FORKLIFTS
We believe that measurable changes are essential to our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Here, we detail several key initiatives that demonstrate our proactive approach to reducing our ecological footprint. These actions not only show our dedication to sustainable practices but also highlight the tangible improvements we’ve made in both our operations and the environment.
We have transitioned 100% of our forklift fleet to alternative fuel sources such as electric power and propane. By steadily replacing traditional gas-powered forklifts with electric models in our warehouses and distribution centers, we’re not only reducing fossil fuel emissions, we’re also lowering our overall energy consumption. 13.2 MILLION POUNDS specifically from electric forklifts Reduced CO2 emissions by millions of pounds per year, including
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AUXILIARY POWER UNITS (APUs) Our trucks feature APUs to reduce idle times during rest periods or loading and unloading operations. These units provide heating, cooling, and power to the truck cab and systems without running the truck’s main engine, significantly cutting down on both diesel and emissions. TRANSTEX SKIRTS All of our Truckload trailers and over 34% of our total trailer fleet are equipped with aerodynamic Transtex skirts, which reduce air drag. This number continues to grow as we adopt and test new innovations. This upgrade effectively cuts both emissions and fuel consumption.
111 MILLION POUNDS and saved 5.45 million gallons of diesel since implementation Reduced CO2 emissions by over
ULTRA-LOW-SULFUR DIESEL (ULSD) Averitt has transitioned to 100% ultra-low-sulfur diesel in all diesel- powered equipment. ULSD has a significantly lower sulfur content than traditional diesel, which helps to reduce the emissions of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED EMISSIONS OF PARTICULATE MATTER AND NITROGEN OXIDES
12.7 MILLION GALLONS OF FUEL SAVED leading to reduced engine wear and longer vehicle life spans
LED LIGHTING All new Averitt facilities are equipped exclusively with energy-saving LED lights, and we’re steadily updating all older systems. LEDs consume up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and have a longer life span, reducing both our energy consumption and the frequency of replacement.
RENEWABLE DIESEL INITIATIVE We’re actively adopting renewable diesel across our fleet wherever possible. Unlike traditional diesel, renewable diesel is produced using sustainable resources, like recycled cooking oil, animal fats, and vegetable oils. This results in far fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a significantly lower carbon footprint.
14 MILLION KWH OF ENERGY significantly reducing electricity consumption Saved over
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10 % REDUCTION in greenhouse gas emissions, decreased reliance on fossil fuels, and a positive step toward renewable energy usage
ON-SITE BIODIESEL Our on-site fueling stations use exclusively 10% biodiesel (B10), a renewable fuel made from natural sources such as vegetable oils and animal fats. Biodiesel burns cleaner than conventional diesel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.
OIL RECYCLING Averitt has implemented a comprehensive oil recycling program to ensure that used oil from our vehicles and machinery is properly collected and recycled. This program prevents environmental contamination while also promoting the reuse of a valuable resource.
TIRE REPURPOSING To extend the life of our tires and reduce waste, we actively repair and repurpose tires across our fleet. This initiative involves rigorous maintenance and quality checks to ensure that tires are safely reused, while decreasing our demand for new tire production.
90,994 GALLONS OF OIL minimizing our environmental impact Recycled
28,571 TIRES we’ve significantly reduced landfill waste By repairing and reusing
52,355 POUNDS OF PAPER recycled annually
PAPER REDUCTION We’ve streamlined our processes to drastically reduce our use of paper, particularly in our LTL operations. Through the use of digital tools and streamlined workflows, we’ve substantially decreased the number of pages required per LTL shipment. We also recycle paper waste, further minimizing our environmental impact.
10,798,840 LTL PAGES PER YEAR from an average of 41,534 pages per day down to just 4,705 Reduction of
with
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TOTAL ANNUAL CO2 REDUCTION SINCE 2008: 136,966,309 LBS.
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Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our own operations to encompass our entire supply chain. We recognize that responsible procurement and fostering strong partnerships are critical to driving positive change and achieving our sustainability goals. In 2024, we conducted a comprehensive survey of our vendors and suppliers, engaging 29 companies across three key categories: Purchasing, Equipment, and Technology. The response rate was overwhelmingly positive, with 26 out of 29 vendors participating. This high level of engagement underscores the shared commitment of our partners to sustainability and ethical business practices. Our survey aimed to gather detailed insights into the sustainability practices of our vendors. We assessed various aspects, including their environmental impact, resource conservation efforts, and adherence to ethical standards. The results have provided us with valuable data that will inform our ongoing efforts to improve our supply chain’s sustainability. We believe in transparency and continuous improvement and are committed to working closely with our vendors to ensure they align with our sustainability objectives.
RESPONSIBLE PROCUREMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS
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We are deeply committed to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices across all aspects of our operations. Our comprehensive Environmental Responsibility policy outlines our objectives and initiatives aimed at conserving energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering a low-carbon future. See the full text of our Environmental Policy at Averitt.com/EnvironmentalPolicy.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
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OUR DRIVE HASN’T GONE UNNOTICED Our team realizes that sustainability is more than just a promise – it’s a guiding principle that shapes every aspect of our operations. By continuously investing in innovative technologies and practices to reduce our environmental footprint, we’ve shown our determination to create a greener future. This ongoing effort has earned us consistent recognition from some of the industry’s most respected organizations. These awards are a testament to the hard work and resolve of our entire team, and we’re honored to be acknowledged for our work in building a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation network.
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As you can see, environmental stewardship has long been a priority for our team. The efforts outlined in this report represent our current mile marker on the road to creating a greener, more sustainable future. We are dedicated to continuously exploring and implementing innovative solutions that reduce our environmental impact. That’s why our focus will remain on investing in advanced technologies, optimizing our operations, and fostering a culture of sustainability throughout our organization. We recognize that true progress requires a collective effort. That’s why we are committed to engaging with our associates, customers, partners, and communities to drive meaningful change. Together, we can achieve our shared vision of a healthier planet and a brighter future for generations to come.
AN ONGOING JOURNEY
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APPENDIX
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MAPPING OUR PROGRESS
Our CSR efforts are guided by industry-leading standards and rigorous assessments to ensure we’re making steady, forward progress.
SASB REPORT The Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) provides a widely recognized framework for companies to report on their sustainability-related risks and opportunities. The standards were developed using a thorough and transparent process that included evidence-based research; broad and balanced participation from companies, investors, and subject-matter experts; and oversight and approval from the independent SASB Standards Board. See our full 2023 SASB Report at Averitt.com/SASB. ESSENTIAL METRICS In our commitment to sustainability and transparency, we’ve identified several key performance indicators that are most material to our operations and our stakeholders. These essential metrics were determined through a comprehensive sustainability assessment, prioritizing the areas with the greatest impact and importance. By focusing on these key metrics regarding Averitt’s most material topics, we aim to drive meaningful improvements in our environmental, social, and governance performance. See our list of top priorities at Averitt.com/Materiality.
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DRIVING FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW
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www.averitt.com 1-800-AVERITT customerservice@averitt.com 1415 Neal St • P.O. Box 3166 • Cookeville, TN 38502-3166
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