(FORT SMITH, Ark., September 12, 2006) — ABF Freight System, Inc.^®, has been cited as an innovator in information technology by InformationWeek magazine, which lists ABF^® on the 2006 InformationWeek 500. ABF earned a place on the annual listing for TimeKeeper.com, its web portal that enables customers to quote, manage and track freight shipments that are expedited or time-definite.

For the past 18 years InformationWeek has identified and honored the nation's most innovative users of information technology with its annual listing. The list is unique among corporate rankings because it spotlights the power of innovation in information technology, rather than simply identifying the biggest IT spenders.

"Shippers frequently need expedited and time-definite shipping solutions to maintain good relations with their customers, especially in the retail sector. TimeKeeper.com provides a smarter, more efficient online experience for these shippers," said ABF President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Davidson. "From transit-time options to customer-specific rate quotes and online pickup requests, TimeKeeper.com puts everything shippers need to plan, execute and manage time-definite and expedited shipments right at their fingertips."

Davidson continued, "Once shipments are in transit, TimeKeeper.com provides users total control of the transportation process. With real-time tracking, custom status reports, document retrieval and dynamic rerouting/upgrading of in-transit shipments, shippers enjoy end-to-end shipment control and visibility."

Established in 1923, ABF is one of North America's oldest and most reputable motor carriers. Recognized as best-in-class for safety, security, technology and freight-handling standards, ABF has a distinguished record of service. In four of the past five years, ABF has earned either the Excellence in Claims/Loss Prevention Award, the Excellence in Security Award, or both from the American Trucking Associations Safety and Loss Prevention Management Council. ABF is the only five-time winner of the ATA President's Trophy for Safety and the only carrier to earn both the Excellence in Claims/Loss Prevention Award and the Excellence in Security Award in the same year. ABF also was recognized by CIO magazine for innovative excellence in information technology, earning the 2005 CIO Enterprise Value Award for the transportation industry as well as a spot on the CIO Top 100 Companies list in both 2005 and 2004.

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 service for expedited or 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