Freight Index Predicts Weaker Peak Season As Markets Diverge

Freight Index Predicts Weaker Peak Season As Markets Diverge

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report predicts a potentially weak peak season this year. Overcapacity in truckload is putting pressure on pricing, while the less-than-truckload (LTL) market shows steady progress. The parcel market is driven by e-commerce promotions but faces intense competition. Businesses should take a rational view of market changes and optimize their supply chain strategies. The report suggests that companies need to be prepared for a less robust peak season than in previous years and adjust their expectations accordingly.

Truck Driver Shortage Drives Up Freight Labor Costs

Truck Driver Shortage Drives Up Freight Labor Costs

According to the American Trucking Associations, the driver turnover rate at large truckload carriers surged to 92% in the third quarter, while smaller carriers reached 74%. Less-than-truckload (LTL) remained relatively stable at 14%. This high turnover reflects challenges in the freight market, including driver shortages and increased competition. Companies need to actively address these issues to ensure supply chain stability and mitigate the impact of driver attrition on their operations. Addressing driver retention is crucial for maintaining service levels and profitability in the current environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Rebounds As August Shipments Rise

Trucking Industry Rebounds As August Shipments Rise

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) reported that truckload volume continued its growth in August, reaching its highest level since February. Experts believe this signals a rebound in the freight market, but attention should still be paid to geopolitical risks such as high inflation and rising interest rates. E-commerce growth, supply chain optimization, and technological innovation will bring new development opportunities. The continued growth in truckload volume may be a leading indicator of broader economic recovery, though sustained positive trends are necessary to confirm this.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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TD Cowen Analyzes Freight Market Downturn and Future Trends

TD Cowen Analyzes Freight Market Downturn and Future Trends

TD Cowen Managing Director Jason Seidl provides an in-depth analysis of the current freight market, highlighting the trucking industry's longest downturn. However, he notes positive momentum in industrial data. The analysis delves into the impact of tariffs, nearshoring, and AI, offering insights into the less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) market outlook. This piece aims to help businesses understand market dynamics and develop effective strategies to navigate the current environment. It offers a valuable perspective on the factors shaping the freight industry's future.

Air Freight Guide Key Insights for Domestic and Global Shipping

Air Freight Guide Key Insights for Domestic and Global Shipping

This article, in a popular science style, details the complete air freight process, from inquiry and order acceptance to settlement and delivery. It reveals the crucial role of freight forwarders in both domestic and international air transport. Furthermore, it provides practical advice on selecting the right freight forwarder, helping readers better understand air freight services. This includes understanding the various stages, documentation, and considerations involved in successful air cargo shipments.

Peru Ends Mask Rule for Domestic Flights to Aid Tourism

Peru Ends Mask Rule for Domestic Flights to Aid Tourism

Peru has lifted the mandatory mask mandate on domestic flights, aligning with a global trend. This move eliminates operational hurdles, promotes connectivity, and boosts the tourism industry. By optimizing the service experience and restoring industry confidence, it injects new momentum into economic recovery. The aviation industry will continue to prioritize safety, providing passengers with a secure, convenient, and comfortable travel experience. The removal of the mask mandate is expected to further stimulate travel demand and contribute to the overall revitalization of the Peruvian economy.

Chinas Domestic Demand Rises Amid Global Trade Shifts in 2026

Chinas Domestic Demand Rises Amid Global Trade Shifts in 2026

The global trade environment is projected to deteriorate significantly by 2026, posing substantial challenges to China's exports. Insufficient domestic demand is the primary issue, rooted in the ongoing adjustment of the real estate market. Macroeconomic policies are expected to maintain a pro-growth stance, with a more proactive fiscal policy and a flexible monetary policy. Real estate policies will seek a balance between market stability and high-quality development. Expanding domestic demand and deepening reform and opening-up are crucial to addressing these challenges.

South Koreas Daiso Ends Japanese Partnership to Prioritize Domestic Expansion

South Koreas Daiso Ends Japanese Partnership to Prioritize Domestic Expansion

South Korean AsungHMP invested ₩500 billion to repurchase shares held by Japan's Daiso Industries Co., Ltd., achieving full control of Asungdaiso Corp. This move aims to strengthen local control, eliminate Japanese capital influence, accelerate its localization strategy, and lay the foundation for deepening the Korean market and expanding overseas. Daiso's strong performance growth in recent years has provided the confidence for this strategic transformation. The acquisition signifies a shift towards a more independent and domestically focused approach for the retail chain.

Trucking Sector Improves As LTL Faces Challenges TD Cowen Report

Trucking Sector Improves As LTL Faces Challenges TD Cowen Report

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates emerging optimism in the truckload market, with rising spot rates and increasing tender rejections. Parcel pricing strategies are proving effective, benefiting from fuel surcharge adjustments. LTL rates remain stable, but pricing discipline may be weakening. Overall, the macroeconomic outlook presents positive signals for carriers, but weak demand and excess capacity remain challenges. While the truckload sector shows signs of recovery, continued monitoring of pricing discipline in LTL and demand trends across all modes is crucial for assessing the sustained health of the freight market.