The engine of the American economy is accelerating, and the trucking industry—a vital cog in this machinery—is preparing for a new phase of expansion. According to the latest annual forecast report from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), trucking will maintain its dominance in freight transportation, with volumes expected to reach nearly 1.4 billion tons by 2035.
Trucking: The Lifeline of the U.S. Economy
Within the complex framework of the U.S. economy, the freight industry plays a pivotal role, connecting producers, distributors, and consumers while ensuring the efficient flow of goods. Trucking, as the backbone of this system, carries immense responsibility. Like an extensive network of veins, it links economic centers across the nation, providing the steady pulse that sustains prosperity.
In recent years, global economic volatility has presented unprecedented challenges for freight transportation. Supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising fuel prices have placed significant pressure on the industry. Yet, trucking has demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming these obstacles to support the stability of the U.S. economy.
ATA Forecast Report: Insights Into the Next Decade
The ATA Freight Transportation Forecast 2024-2035 , produced in collaboration with S&P Global Market Intelligence, offers a comprehensive analysis of market trends over the coming decade. Key findings include:
• Tonnage Growth: Total truck freight tonnage will rise from an estimated 11.27 billion tons in 2024 to 13.99 billion tons by 2034, capturing 76.8% of the freight market by 2035.
• Revenue Growth: Industry revenue is projected to increase from $906 billion in 2024 to $1.46 trillion by the end of the forecast period.
• Competing Modes: Rail's share of freight tonnage will decline from 10.6% in 2024 to 9.9% by 2035 due to reduced coal shipments. Intermodal rail, however, is expected to grow by 2.9% through 2030 and 2.8% from 2031 to 2035. Air, domestic waterborne, and pipeline transport are also forecast to see tonnage gains.
Expert Perspectives: A Stable Yet Evolving Landscape
ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello noted, "Trucking continues to dominate both tonnage and revenue within freight transportation, accounting for 72.7% of tonnage and 76.9% of revenue in 2024. We anticipate this market share will remain steady as the U.S. relies overwhelmingly on trucks to move goods."
ATA President and CEO Chris Spear emphasized the report's value for industry leaders and policymakers: "Understanding supply chain trends is critical for decision-makers at every level—from Washington to state legislatures—who influence trucking and our broader economy."
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the outlook appears robust, the industry faces persistent headwinds: fluctuating fuel costs, driver shortages, regulatory complexities, and rapid technological advancements. To adapt, carriers must innovate—enhancing operational efficiency, investing in workforce development, and integrating emerging technologies like autonomous driving systems and AI-driven logistics platforms.
Concurrently, policymakers could support growth through infrastructure investment, streamlined regulations, and initiatives to attract new talent. Such measures would reinforce trucking's role as the cornerstone of America's supply chain.
Conclusion: Driving Toward the Future
As the lifeblood of U.S. commerce, trucking will remain indispensable through 2035 and beyond. Economic expansion, coupled with rising consumer demand, ensures sustained opportunities. Yet success will hinge on the industry's ability to navigate challenges with agility and foresight. By embracing innovation and collaboration, trucking can continue powering the nation's prosperity.