TD Cowen Index Shows Freight Market Cooling Amid Economic Pressures

TD Cowen Index Shows Freight Market Cooling Amid Economic Pressures

Freight indices indicate peak season strength or weakness, with varying activity across different transportation markets. LTL rates are increasing, parcel rates are decreasing, and truckload rates remain stable. Influenced by macroeconomic factors and others, flexibility and responsiveness are crucial. The freight index provides insights into the current state of the logistics market and helps businesses understand the trends in transportation rates, enabling them to make informed decisions and adapt to market fluctuations effectively. Monitoring these indicators is key for navigating the complexities of the logistics landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in February Raising Economic Alarms

US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in February Raising Economic Alarms

The U.S. Freight TSI plummeted in February, hitting a near three-year low, primarily due to severe cold weather. This data indicates challenges in the economic recovery and persistent supply chain bottlenecks. Businesses should strengthen risk management, optimize transportation structures, and pay attention to technological innovation and policy trends to navigate market challenges. The significant drop suggests a potential slowdown in economic activity related to freight movement and highlights the vulnerability of the logistics sector to external factors.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

The US debt ceiling agreement averted a potential economic crisis, offering a respite for supply chains. However, challenges like inflation, labor shortages, geopolitical risks, and insufficient supply chain resilience persist. Businesses should diversify suppliers, strengthen inventory management, invest in supply chain digitalization, enhance risk management, and focus on sustainability. By improving supply chain resilience and adaptability, companies can thrive in future competition. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for long-term stability and mitigating future economic shocks.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Intermodal Volume Falls Further in July Amid Economic Slowdown

US Intermodal Volume Falls Further in July Amid Economic Slowdown

According to IANA data, US intermodal volume decreased by 9.8% year-over-year in July, a widening decline. Key factors include economic weakness, high inventory levels, and increased competition from trucking. IANA anticipates a potential turnaround in the second half of the year, but expects growth to be slower than in the past. President Joni Casey noted that Q2 performance was below expectations and hopes for a strong peak season. She emphasized that high inventories, inflation, and declining consumer demand are contributing factors.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Trends Reflect Shifting Shipping Economy

US Rail Freight Trends Reflect Shifting Shipping Economy

According to the Association of American Railroads, June showed positive growth in U.S. rail freight volume, although cross-border freight experienced a decline. This trend reflects the complex changes in the economic environment, with a year-on-year increase in total load during the first half of the year. Future market dynamics will depend on fluctuations in global supply chains and consumer demand.

07/07/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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