(FORT SMITH, Ark., March 17, 2005) — ABF Freight System, Inc.^®, has become the first major carrier to successfully complete U.S.-Canadian border crossings via an electronic manifest program developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The first crossing occurred March 11 at Blaine, Wash., where the CBP is conducting a pilot program of a new commercial trade processing system.

Called the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), the program is part of a comprehensive modernization effort aimed at improving homeland security through electronic cargo processing. Implementation of the modernization program began in spring 2004, with completion expected in 2010. ABF^® became the first certified ACE program participant among major less-than-truckload (LTL) motor carriers on February 15, 2005.

“Participation in ACE not only provides tangible benefits for ABF and our customers but also supports the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in facilitating legitimate trade and securing our nation’s borders,” says Jevon Jamieson, ABF administration and customs compliance manager. He says benefits chiefly derive from access to information technology that automates truck manifest filing, thus expediting border crossing for certified freight transporters.

ACE is designed to provide national processing and tracking as the CBP moves away from port-by-port processing. By providing the right information, tools, and foresight, ACE is intended to be a critical element for trade enforcement and in preventing cargo from becoming an instrument of terrorism. CBP’s official web site, cbp.gov, says ACE will simplify communication with the trade community by automating time-consuming and labor-intensive transactions and moving goods through the ports and onto markets faster and at lower costs.

According to ABF President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Davidson, ABF’s industry-leading security and cargo care record gives ABF a significant competitive advantage in the LTL marketplace. “This represents another important example of ABF’s application of information technology to streamline supply-chain efficiency,” Davidson noted. “It’s an extension of our industry-leading web technology and logistics tools. It’s also consistent with our company’s emphasis on cargo safety and security.”

“Whether across town or across borders, an efficient, reliable supply chain relies on a carrier who delivers goods intact, on time, damage free and without security delays,” Davidson adds. “ABF continually searches for innovative ways to add flexibility and reliability to our customers’ supply chain through information technology and operational efficiency. Being the first major carrier to successfully complete a crossing with an electronic manifest demonstrates our continued leadership – something our customers have come to expect from ABF.”

Established in 1923, ABF is one of North America’s oldest and most reputable motor carriers. It continues to be recognized as a benchmark for safety, security, technology and freight-handling standards. Last year, the ATA awarded ABF the Excellence in Security Award, the 28th time the organization has recognized ABF since 1971. ABF’s emphasis on quality and value was cited by Logistics Management magazine, which awarded the carrier a 2004 Quest for Quality Award. In addition, ABF was twice recognized by CIO magazine for innovative excellence in information technology, earning the 2005 CIO Enterprise Value Award for the transportation industry and a spot on the 2004 CIO Top 100 Agile Companies list.

ABF operates an extensive network of customer service centers and distribution facilities strategically located throughout North America. Through this network, ABF provides comprehensive shipping services to all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Guam and Puerto Rico. Globally, the carrier serves 250 ports in more than 130 countries. In addition to its ACE certification, ABF also is certified as a Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) and Free and Secure Trade (FAST) carrier to and from Canada. Via its TimeKeeper^® service, ABF provides guaranteed expedited service for time-critical and time-definite shipments.

ABF is the largest subsidiary of Arkansas Best Corporation (NASDAQ: ABFS).

Contact: Mr. Danny Loe, director of marketing & public relations
Telephone: (479) 785-8803

Additional background information.