Freight Market Recession Worsens Cass Index Shows

Freight Market Recession Worsens Cass Index Shows

The latest Cass Freight Index report reveals a decline in both freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a market downturn. Factors such as weakening demand, excess capacity, the rise of private fleets, and supply chain reshaping are creating challenges for logistics companies. To survive and thrive in this environment, businesses should focus on refined operations, diversified services, technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and risk management. These strategies will help them weather the storm and prepare for the eventual resurgence of the logistics industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

The Cass Freight Index report reveals a 9.5% year-over-year decrease in freight volume and a 23.3% year-over-year drop in expenditures for October. Weak demand, compounded by the United Auto Workers strike, contributed to these record lows. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure on freight volume and rates in the short term. However, the impact of the strike may create the potential for a future rebound in freight activity as production resumes and backlogs are addressed.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Slows on Recession Worries Recovery Possible

Freight Market Slows on Recession Worries Recovery Possible

Bloomberg analyst Lee Klaskow noted in a webinar that the risk of a US recession is high, and the freight market has already entered a recession. Despite the challenges, a turnaround is expected in the second half of the year as capacity exits the market, seasonal demand rebounds, and inventory levels improve. Large, well-capitalized companies with diversified operations are likely to consolidate their positions during this market correction.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Winter Challenges

Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Winter Challenges

TD Cowen expert Jason Seidl provides an in-depth analysis of the current state and future trends of the freight market. He believes that although the freight market has experienced a prolonged downturn, signs of recovery are emerging. Factors such as tariffs, technological innovation, and supply chain restructuring are reshaping the industry. Businesses should pay close attention to the macroeconomy, optimize their supply chains, and embrace technological innovation to gain a competitive edge.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Demand Slows in Early February

US Rail Freight Demand Slows in Early February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year for the week ending February 4th. Carload traffic saw a slight decrease, although commodities like automobiles and parts experienced growth. Intermodal volume continued its downward trend, reflecting weak consumer demand. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with North America performing slightly better overall, and Mexican railways demonstrating strong growth. Multiple factors are at play, making the future trend uncertain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Strong Consumer Spending Fails to Boost Freight Demand

Strong Consumer Spending Fails to Boost Freight Demand

Armada's Mr. Prather pointed out at the SMC3 J meeting that the freight market can sometimes be disconnected from the broader macroeconomy. Changes in consumption patterns and optimized inventory management strategies are potential drivers of this phenomenon. Businesses need a deep understanding of different industry dynamics. Freight companies should also innovate their service models to adapt to these shifts and better serve the evolving needs of their customers. This requires a proactive approach to understanding and responding to the factors influencing freight demand.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Slows in September but Remains Resilient

US Services Sector Slows in September but Remains Resilient

U.S. non-manufacturing activity moderated slightly in September, but the NMI index remained above the expansion threshold, marking 116 consecutive months of growth. Thirteen industries expanded, while employment growth slowed. Imports and exports presented a mixed picture. Experts suggest there's no need for excessive concern, emphasizing the importance of monitoring trade and employment. They anticipate growth in the fourth quarter.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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