(FORT SMITH, Ark., August 12, 2005) - ABF Freight System, Inc.^®, is celebrating the 10th Annual National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, August 21-27, 2005, with a system-wide campaign called "Appreciate Your Trucker... ABF Does." The annual campaign highlights the integral role professional drivers play in the continuing success of the company and their importance to the North American economy.

"This campaign recognizes the professional drivers of ABF while also acknowledging the valuable contribution of all employees. During the campaign, each employee receives a letter of appreciation, and ABF service centers throughout North America conduct special activities," says ABF President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Davidson. "ABF adds value in the supply chain with personalized service and accurate, conscientious execution. Success is built on perpetual teamwork and personal attention. We commend and thank ABF employees across North America for their individual and collective contributions to the continued success of our company."

ABF's appreciation campaign immediately follows the National Truck Driving Championships in Tampa, Fla.  This safe-driving event is sponsored by the American Trucking Associations (ATA). Drivers across the ABF system competed in state competitions, with 16 of those drivers taking first place and earning the right to compete in this year's national championships.

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. ABF is certified as an Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) carrier by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as well 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