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ARCB vs ODFL
Which Stock Would AI Choose? ArcBest (ARCB) vs. Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) Stock Comparison
Key Takeaways
- Both companies are less-than-truckload (LTL) freight carriers, but ARCB pairs an asset-based network (ABF Freight) with an asset-light brokerage arm, while ODFL operates a focused, pure-play LTL network.
- Old Dominion holds a clear profitability edge, with a roughly 77% operating ratio versus ArcBest's near 90%, reflecting best-in-class cost discipline.
- ArcBest is showing stronger cyclical earnings momentum, with third-quarter revenue up about 15% year over year, but carries a richer valuation after a sharp rally.
- Old Dominion offers greater consistency, a net-cash balance sheet, and eight consecutive years of dividend increases.
- Tickeron AI Verdict: ODFL is the favored ticker of the two, based on trend consistency, stability, and relative market positioning.
- For deeper coverage, explore ARCB Major News and ARCB Today's Price Move, as well as ODFL Major News and ODFL Today's Price Move.
- Discover the strongest AI-driven strategies currently available on the Trending AI Robots page.
Introduction
ArcBest Corporation (ARCB) and Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) are two of the most closely followed names in U.S. less-than-truckload (LTL) freight — the segment that moves partial trailer loads for industrial and retail shippers. Comparing them offers a useful lens on how quality, cyclicality, and valuation interact in the transportation sector. This stock comparison is relevant for traders tracking relative performance and momentum, as well as longer-term investors evaluating business-model durability and market positioning. The two carriers sit at different points on the freight-cycle spectrum, making their head-to-head profile a practical case study in balancing recovery upside against stability.
ARCB Overview and Recent Performance
ArcBest is an integrated logistics company headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Its asset-based segment, ABF Freight, provides LTL services, while its asset-light operations include truckload brokerage, expedited shipping, and managed transportation. Recent market activity has been shaped by an improving freight backdrop: capacity reductions helped lift rates, and ArcBest reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of roughly $1.21 billion, up about 15% year over year, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.62 that exceeded consensus estimates. The asset-based segment improved its operating ratio to about 90.4%, and contract renewals averaged a 5.1% increase. Shares rallied strongly over the course of 2026 but pulled back after the earnings release as investors weighed softer shipment counts and guidance for some fourth-quarter margin erosion.
ODFL Overview and Recent Performance
Old Dominion Freight Line is a pure-play LTL carrier based in Thomasville, North Carolina, widely regarded for its industry-leading operating ratio and service quality, including roughly 99% on-time performance. Its recent quarters reflected the same soft-demand environment that pressured the broader industry, with full-year 2025 revenue of about $5.50 billion and lower tonnage per day. However, the company has maintained its profitability advantage, holding an operating ratio near 77% — a level that remains among the best in trucking — while continuing to generate robust operating cash flow. Old Dominion has also rewarded shareholders through buybacks and dividend increases, and its shares gained materially over the trailing months, reflecting investor confidence in its durable, high-quality franchise.
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Head-to-Head Comparison
Although both are LTL operators, the two companies differ meaningfully in structure and risk profile. ArcBest is more diversified and more leveraged to the cyclical recovery — its earnings swing more sharply as freight demand turns, which explains a triple-digit trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio during the recent trough and a pronounced stock rally as conditions improved. Old Dominion, by contrast, offers steadier profitability and a net-cash balance sheet with minimal debt, but its premium valuation leaves less room for a cyclical earnings surprise. On market sentiment, ArcBest carries stronger near-term momentum from accelerating revenue, while Old Dominion is viewed as the higher-quality compounder. Risk factors also differ: ArcBest faces union wage inflation and freight-mix pressure, whereas Old Dominion's key sensitivity is sustained weakness in industrial tonnage.
Tickeron AI Verdict
Based on observable factors such as trend consistency, operating stability, balance-sheet strength, and relative positioning, Tickeron's AI would currently lean toward ODFL as the favored ticker of the two. Old Dominion's persistently superior operating ratio, predictable cash generation, and steadier share-price trend suggest a more stable, higher-quality trajectory. ArcBest may offer greater cyclical upside, but its sharper earnings swings and richer near-term valuation introduce more variability. Accordingly, the AI verdict favors Old Dominion on the balance of stability and quality, while acknowledging that ArcBest remains a plausible candidate for investors prioritizing recovery leverage.
Disclaimer
The information on this webpage is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, a recommendation to purchase or sell any security, or an offer or solicitation related to investments. It does not consider your personal financial situation, goals, or risk profile, and all investing carries inherent risks, including the possibility of losing your entire investment. For more details, please review our full disclaimer.
To compare these two companies we present long-term analysis, their fundamental ratings and make comparative short-term technical analysis which are presented below. The conclusion is ARCB is a StrongBuy and ODFL is a StrongBuy.
ARCB in upward trend: 10-day moving average moved above 50-day moving average on November 10, 2026
The 10-day moving average for ARCB crossed bullishly above the 50-day moving average on November 10, 2026. This indicates that the trend has shifted higher and could be considered a buy signal. In 16 of 18 past instances when the 10-day crossed above the 50-day, the stock continued to move higher over the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 89%.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
The Momentum Indicator moved above the 0 level on November 02, 2026. You may want to consider a long position or call options on ARCB as a result. In 78 of 106 past instances where the momentum indicator moved above 0, the stock continued to climb. The odds of a continued upward trend are 74%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) for ARCB just turned positive on November 02, 2026. Looking at past instances where ARCB's MACD turned positive, the stock continued to rise in 32 of 49 cases over the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 65%.
ARCB moved above its 50-day moving average on November 09, 2026 date and that indicates a change from a downward trend to an upward trend.
Following a +4.64% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where ARCB advanced for three days, in 196 of 279 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 70%.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The Stochastic Oscillator may be shifting from an upward trend to a downward trend. In 48 of 58 cases where ARCB's Stochastic Oscillator exited the overbought zone, the price fell further within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 83%.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where ARCB declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 78%.
ARCB broke above its upper Bollinger Band on November 04, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to drop as the stock moves back below the upper band and toward the middle band. You may want to consider selling the stock or exploring put options.
The Aroon Indicator for ARCB entered a downward trend on November 03, 2026. This could indicate a strong downward move is ahead for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 1 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to outstanding earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 40 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating steady price growth. ARCB’s price grows at a higher rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 62 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating well-balanced risk and returns. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 80, placing this stock slightly better than average.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 89 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating weak sales and an unprofitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 97 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is significantly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: P/B Ratio (2.255) is normal, around the industry mean (2.749). ARCB has a moderately high P/E Ratio (180.155) as compared to the industry average of (43.505). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (0.030) is also within normal values, averaging (12.936). Dividend Yield (0.004) settles around the average of (0.010) among similar stocks. P/S Ratio (0.697) is also within normal values, averaging (2.068).
ODFL's Stochastic Oscillator stays in oversold zone for 2 days
Be on the lookout for a price bounce soon.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
The RSI Indicator points to a transition from a downward trend to an upward trend -- in cases where ODFL's RSI Oscillator exited the oversold zone, 20 of 28 resulted in an increase in price. Tickeron's analysis proposes that the odds of a continued upward trend are 71%.
Following a +1.79% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where ODFL advanced for three days, in 217 of 314 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 69%.
ODFL may jump back above the lower band and head toward the middle band. Traders may consider buying the stock or exploring call options.
The Aroon Indicator entered an Uptrend today. In 147 of 201 cases where ODFL Aroon's Indicator entered an Uptrend, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued Uptrend are 73%.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The Momentum Indicator moved below the 0 level on October 28, 2026. You may want to consider selling the stock, shorting the stock, or exploring put options on ODFL as a result. In 60 of 92 cases where the Momentum Indicator fell below 0, the stock fell further within the subsequent month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 65%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence Histogram (MACD) for ODFL turned negative on October 28, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to turn lower in the coming weeks. Traders may want to sell the stock or buy put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 44 similar instances when the indicator turned negative. In 28 of the 44 cases the stock turned lower in the days that followed. This puts the odds of success at 64%.
ODFL moved below its 50-day moving average on October 28, 2026 date and that indicates a change from an upward trend to a downward trend.
The 10-day moving average for ODFL crossed bearishly below the 50-day moving average on October 29, 2026. This indicates that the trend has shifted lower and could be considered a sell signal. In 12 of 20 past instances when the 10-day crossed below the 50-day, the stock continued to move higher over the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 60%.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where ODFL declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 62%.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 28 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to outstanding earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 39 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating strong sales and a profitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 60 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating fairly steady price growth. ODFL’s price grows at a lower rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 79 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating that the returns do not compensate for the risks. ODFL’s unstable profits reported over time resulted in significant Drawdowns within these last five years. A stable profit reduces stock drawdown and volatility. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 80, placing this stock better than average.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 93 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is significantly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: ODFL's P/B Ratio (7.520) is slightly higher than the industry average of (2.749). P/E Ratio (31.594) is within average values for comparable stocks, (43.505). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (2.154) is also within normal values, averaging (12.936). Dividend Yield (0.007) settles around the average of (0.010) among similar stocks. ODFL's P/S Ratio (6.527) is slightly higher than the industry average of (2.068).
ARCB | ODFL | ||
|---|---|---|---|
OUTLOOK RATING 1..100 | 25 | 21 | |
VALUATION overvalued / fair valued / undervalued 1..100 | 97 Overvalued | 93 Overvalued | |
PROFIT vs RISK RATING 1..100 | 62 | 79 | |
SMR RATING 1..100 | 89 | 39 | |
PRICE GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 40 | 60 | |
P/E GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 1 | 28 | |
SEASONALITY SCORE 1..100 | 50 | 50 |
Tickeron ratings are formulated such that a rating of 1 designates the most successful stocks in a given industry, while a rating of 100 points to the least successful stocks for that industry.
ODFL's Valuation (93) in the Trucking industry is in the same range as ARCB (97). This means that ODFL’s stock grew similarly to ARCB’s over the last 12 months.
ARCB's Profit vs Risk Rating (62) in the Trucking industry is in the same range as ODFL (79). This means that ARCB’s stock grew similarly to ODFL’s over the last 12 months.
ODFL's SMR Rating (39) in the Trucking industry is somewhat better than the same rating for ARCB (89). This means that ODFL’s stock grew somewhat faster than ARCB’s over the last 12 months.
ARCB's Price Growth Rating (40) in the Trucking industry is in the same range as ODFL (60). This means that ARCB’s stock grew similarly to ODFL’s over the last 12 months.
ARCB's P/E Growth Rating (1) in the Trucking industry is in the same range as ODFL (28). This means that ARCB’s stock grew similarly to ODFL’s over the last 12 months.
| ARCB | ODFL | |
|---|---|---|
| RSI ODDS (%) | N/A | 2 days ago 71% |
| Stochastic ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 83% | 2 days ago 76% |
| Momentum ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 74% | 2 days ago 65% |
| MACD ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 65% | 2 days ago 64% |
| TrendWeek ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 76% | 2 days ago 67% |
| TrendMonth ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 71% | 2 days ago 65% |
| Advances ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 70% | 8 days ago 69% |
| Declines ODDS (%) | 6 days ago 78% | 6 days ago 62% |
| BollingerBands ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 88% | 2 days ago 61% |
| Aroon ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 68% | 2 days ago 73% |
Long-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a long-term outlook for a ticker by using Fundamental Analysis (FA) ratings. The rating of 1 to 100, where 1 is best and 100 is worst, is divided into thirds. The first third (a green rating of 1-33) indicates that the ticker is undervalued; the second third (a grey number between 34 and 66) means that the ticker is valued fairly; and the last third (red number of 67 to 100) reflects that the ticker is overvalued. We use an FA Score to show how many ratings show the ticker to be undervalued (green) or overvalued (red).
ARCB’s FA Score shows that 1 FA rating(s) are green while ODFL’s FA Score has 1 green FA rating(s).
- ARCB’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
- ODFL’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
Short-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a short-term outlook for a ticker by using Technical Analysis (TA) indicators. We use Odds of Success as the percentage of outcomes which confirm successful trade signals in the past.
If the Odds of Success (the likelihood of the continuation of a trend) for each indicator are greater than 50%, then the generated signal is confirmed. A green percentage from 90% to 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bullish trend. A red percentage from 90% - 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bearish trend. All grey percentages are below 50% and are considered not to confirm the trend signal.
ARCB’s TA Score shows that 5 TA indicator(s) are bullish while ODFL’s TA Score has 5 bullish TA indicator(s).
- ARCB’s TA Score: 5 bullish, 4 bearish.
- ODFL’s TA Score: 5 bullish, 5 bearish.
Price Growth
ARCB (@Trucking) experienced а -0.47% price change this week, while ODFL (@Trucking) price change was -5.44% for the same time period.
The average weekly price growth across all stocks in the @Trucking industry was -2.51%. For the same industry, the average monthly price growth was +1.90%, and the average quarterly price growth was +10.76%.
Reported Earning Dates
ARCB is expected to report earnings on Jan 29, 2027.
ODFL is expected to report earnings on Feb 03, 2027.
Industries' Descriptions
@Trucking (-2.51% weekly)The trucking industry provides road transportation delivery and logistical services, including moving large quantities of raw materials, works in process, and finished goods —often from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers. Trucks are also used in the construction industry, as they transport large amounts of rocks, concrete, and other building materials used in construction. Trucks in the U.S. are responsible for the majority of freight movement over land, and therefore play an important role in the manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing industries. The business could be affected by economic cycles, since it is closely linked with manufacturing, retail and construction. Some of the major trucking companies in the U.S. are Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc., J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., and XPO Logistics, Inc.
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ARCB and
Correlation & Price change
A.I.dvisor indicates that over the last year, ARCB has been closely correlated with ODFL. These tickers have moved in lockstep 77% of the time. This A.I.-generated data suggests there is a high statistical probability that if ARCB jumps, then ODFL could also see price increases.
| Ticker / NAME | Correlation To ARCB | 1D Price Change % | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARCB | 100% | +0.99% | ||
| ODFL - ARCB | 77% Closely correlated | -1.68% | ||
| SAIA - ARCB | 71% Closely correlated | -0.74% | ||
| WERN - ARCB | 71% Closely correlated | -0.50% | ||
| SNDR - ARCB | 71% Closely correlated | +0.45% | ||
| HTLD - ARCB | 70% Closely correlated | -1.28% | ||
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ODFL and
Correlation & Price change
A.I.dvisor indicates that over the last year, ODFL has been closely correlated with SAIA. These tickers have moved in lockstep 82% of the time. This A.I.-generated data suggests there is a high statistical probability that if ODFL jumps, then SAIA could also see price increases.
| Ticker / NAME | Correlation To ODFL | 1D Price Change % | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODFL | 100% | -1.68% | ||
| SAIA - ODFL | 82% Closely correlated | -0.74% | ||
| ARCB - ODFL | 77% Closely correlated | +0.99% | ||
| KNX - ODFL | 74% Closely correlated | +1.07% | ||
| SNDR - ODFL | 73% Closely correlated | +0.45% | ||
| CVLG - ODFL | 70% Closely correlated | +0.28% | ||
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