TD Cowen Analyzes Shifting Freight Market Trends

TD Cowen Analyzes Shifting Freight Market Trends

TD Cowen expert Jason Seidl shared insights on the freight market at the SMC3 JumpStart 2025 conference, covering the current economic situation, tariff impacts, AI applications, nearshoring trends, and the LTL/TL market outlook. He emphasized the importance for businesses to monitor market dynamics, embrace new technologies, optimize supply chains, and adopt rational pricing strategies to address challenges and seize opportunities. Companies need to stay informed and proactive in this evolving landscape.

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US rail freight and intermodal volumes have decreased year-over-year, with intermodal showing a significant decline, potentially signaling a slowdown in demand. While cumulative year-to-date growth remains, caution is warranted. The industry faces both challenges and opportunities, necessitating a cautiously optimistic outlook. The sharp drop in intermodal volume is particularly concerning as it often reflects consumer spending and overall economic activity. Monitoring these trends is crucial for understanding future economic performance.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Sector Eyes Growth Potential by Early 2026

Logistics Sector Eyes Growth Potential by Early 2026

BlueGrace Logistics' latest Logistics Confidence Index (LCI) report reveals cautious optimism among shippers for Q1 2026. Revenue expectations are stable, inventory expectations show a mild rebound, and order expectations see slight improvement. Freight rate volatility remains the top challenge, with ongoing cost pressures. The report provides businesses with valuable insights for strategic decision-making. It reflects a nuanced outlook, balancing potential growth with persistent concerns regarding the freight market's stability and cost management.

AFS Logistics Expert Explores Postpandemic Supply Chain Shifts

AFS Logistics Expert Explores Postpandemic Supply Chain Shifts

AFS Logistics President Tom Nightingale, on the 'Logistics Management Podcast,' delves into key freight market issues in the post-pandemic era. He covers peak season outlook, capacity and rates, nearshoring trends, and the Baltimore incident's impact on supply chains. Nightingale emphasizes that companies should proactively address challenges and seize opportunities by embracing digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, and talent development to enhance their logistics competitiveness. This discussion provides valuable insights for navigating the evolving freight landscape.

Freight Industry Adapts to Logistics Challenges Says Expert

Freight Industry Adapts to Logistics Challenges Says Expert

Tom Nightingale of AFS Logistics interprets the latest freight index report, analyzing peak season outlook, capacity pricing, nearshoring, and the impact of the Baltimore event on supply chains. He emphasizes that businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust strategies, and collaborate with professional logistics partners to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. He advises proactive planning and strategic partnerships to mitigate risks and optimize supply chain performance in the face of evolving market conditions.

Fed Holds Rates Steady Amid Trade War Concerns

Fed Holds Rates Steady Amid Trade War Concerns

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady amid the ongoing shadow of the trade war, while the logistics industry faces multiple challenges. Experts suggest a risk of stagflation, and calls for interest rate cuts reflect the industry's desire for economic recovery. Businesses need to closely monitor the economic situation and flexibly adjust their strategies to find direction amidst uncertainty. The Fed's decision and trade tensions continue to impact economic outlook, demanding proactive measures from businesses.

Trucking Demand Surges Postthanksgiving As Rates Climb

Trucking Demand Surges Postthanksgiving As Rates Climb

The US truckload spot market experienced a robust rebound post-Thanksgiving, with surging freight volumes, increased capacity demand, and steady rate increases. DAT data shows significant growth in freight volumes across all equipment types, leading to tighter capacity. Experts suggest the market may have bottomed out, but caution is advised due to seasonal factors and macroeconomic influences. A cautiously optimistic outlook prevails, acknowledging the potential for continued recovery while remaining mindful of external pressures.

Trucking Demand Grows As Freight Rates Decline

Trucking Demand Grows As Freight Rates Decline

DAT data indicates increased truckload freight demand at the end of January, but overcapacity led to lower rates. The dry van market remained stable, while the refrigerated market experienced a seasonal decline in demand. The flatbed market performed strongly. Experts believe the market faces short-term pressure but has a positive long-term outlook. Carriers need to focus on refined operations, diversified services, and data-driven decision-making to navigate market challenges.

ATA Forecasts Robust Trucking Industry Growth Through 2035

ATA Forecasts Robust Trucking Industry Growth Through 2035

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) forecasts that trucking will continue to dominate the freight market over the next decade, with freight volumes approaching 14 million tons by 2035. The report analyzes trends across various transportation modes, highlighting the central role of trucking in the supply chain. It provides valuable insights for industry leaders and policymakers, offering a comprehensive outlook on the future of freight transportation and emphasizing the sustained importance of the trucking sector.