TD Cowen Index Tracks Volatility in Trucking Parcel and LTL Markets

TD Cowen Index Tracks Volatility in Trucking Parcel and LTL Markets

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index indicates a weak but optimistic trucking market. The express sector is significantly impacted by pricing strategies. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) pricing remains stable, but pricing discipline may be loosening. Despite soft demand, there are positive indicators emerging. The index serves as a valuable decision-making resource for participants in the freight market, providing insights into current conditions and potential future trends across various transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Parcel LTL and Truckload Markets Show Divergent Trends TD Cowen Index

Parcel LTL and Truckload Markets Show Divergent Trends TD Cowen Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals a divided US freight market. Parcel rates are up due to fuel surcharges and dimensional weight increases. Less-than-truckload (LTL) benefits from Yellow's bankruptcy, maintaining strong pricing. Truckload (TL) rates are slightly down due to increased short-haul shipments. Companies should optimize transportation networks, strengthen carrier partnerships, and improve load factors to navigate these trends and manage logistics costs effectively.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index turned negative in August as surging diesel prices drove up freight rates, creating a more challenging market environment for shippers. The increase in fuel costs put significant pressure on shipper profitability and overall market conditions, negatively impacting their financial standing. This shift indicates a less favorable situation for shippers compared to previous months, highlighting the sensitivity of the freight industry to fluctuations in fuel prices.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Rising Diesel Prices Drive Up Logistics Costs for Shippers

Rising Diesel Prices Drive Up Logistics Costs for Shippers

According to the latest data from FTR, a freight consulting firm, the Shipper Conditions Index (SCI) has fallen below zero for the first time since October 2022. Rising diesel prices are a major contributor, leading to increased freight rates and fuel surcharges, thus worsening the transportation environment for shippers. It is recommended that shippers optimize transportation routes, improve load factors, and choose appropriate transportation modes to cope with cost pressures.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Truckload Demand Grows As Spot Rates Decline DAT Finds

Truckload Demand Grows As Spot Rates Decline DAT Finds

DAT data indicates increased truckload spot market demand at the end of January, yet freight rates declined. Dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed rates all experienced varying degrees of decrease. Analysts attribute this primarily to seasonal factors. Carriers need to optimize operations, expand their customer base, flexibly adjust capacity, and leverage technology to navigate market fluctuations. The decline in rates despite increased demand highlights the complexities of the current freight environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Xiamenmanila Shipping Costs Transit Times and Key Factors

Xiamenmanila Shipping Costs Transit Times and Key Factors

This article provides a detailed overview of the Xiamen to Manila sea freight route, including routes, costs, transit times, and important considerations. It aims to offer a comprehensive reference guide for customers with cross-border transportation needs. Choose sea freight for an economical and efficient way to connect Xiamen and Manila. It covers key aspects to help businesses make informed decisions about their shipping strategy between these two important trading hubs.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Slovenia Leverages Seaports for Global Trade Despite Landlock

Slovenia Leverages Seaports for Global Trade Despite Landlock

Although Slovenia is a landlocked country, it engages in maritime trade through cooperation with Croatia, utilizing the Port of Koper and the Port of Rijeka. Maritime freight costs consist of port fees, freight charges, agency fees, and insurance, influenced by factors such as cargo type, transport distance, time, and market supply and demand. Understanding these elements is crucial for businesses to optimize their international trade strategies and reduce transportation expenses.

01/26/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Uschina Shipping Costs Surge Amid Trade Shifts

Uschina Shipping Costs Surge Amid Trade Shifts

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the various cost components of US-China ocean freight, covering container and bulk cargo transportation methods, route selection, weight and volume calculations, bunker adjustment factors (BAF), and other related fees. It also offers current market price references and recommends contacting shipping companies or freight forwarders directly for accurate quotes. This aims to help businesses optimize their logistics plans and reduce transportation costs.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Global Shipping Firms Cut Costs by Reducing Demurrage Fees

Global Shipping Firms Cut Costs by Reducing Demurrage Fees

This article provides an in-depth analysis of amendment fees and return freight charges in international shipping, covering their charging rules, common scenarios, and potential waivers. It offers practical tips to help cargo owners effectively control shipping costs and enhance business competitiveness. By understanding the details and planning ahead, businesses can mitigate potential risks and optimize costs. The focus is on providing actionable insights for cost management in international ocean freight.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Data Analytics Cuts Logistics Costs Boosts Efficiency

Data Analytics Cuts Logistics Costs Boosts Efficiency

This paper explores how to leverage data analytics platforms to reduce freight costs and improve logistics decision-making efficiency. By using pre-configured data connections, in-depth data insights, visualization tools, and “what-if” analysis features, shippers can more effectively identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize logistics networks, and mitigate decision-making risks. This ultimately achieves a data-driven logistics management loop, enabling informed decisions and improved performance in freight operations.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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