Arkansas Best Corporation Declares a $0.03/Share Quarterly Dividend

(Fort Smith, Arkansas, October 26, 2011) – The Board of Directors of Arkansas Best Corporation (Nasdaq: ABFS) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of three cents ($0.03) per share to holders of record of its Common Stock, $0.01 par value, on November 9, 2011, payable on November 23, 2011.

Arkansas Best Corporation, headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a transportation holding company. ABF Freight System, Inc., Arkansas Best’s largest subsidiary, has been in continuous service since 1923. ABF has evolved from a local less-than-truckload (LTL) motor carrier into a global provider of customizable supply chain solutions. More information is available at arkbest.com and abf.com.

Contact: Mr. David Humphrey, Vice President Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
              Telephone (479) 785-6200