US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

The US truckload freight market in September showed a divergence: freight volume declined, but spot rates edged up. DAT data indicated decreases in dry van and refrigerated volumes, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Experts attribute the rate increase to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than demand, expressing pessimism about the peak season outlook. The market faces structural adjustments, requiring all parties to respond cautiously. Despite the spot rate increase, the overall trend suggests a weakening market due to lower volumes and underlying economic uncertainties.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Industry Faces Overcapacity Rate Volatility in September

US Trucking Industry Faces Overcapacity Rate Volatility in September

The US freight market in September presented a complex scenario of declining volume and rising prices. Dry van and refrigerated freight volumes decreased, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Spot rates edged up, while contract rates remained stable or slightly decreased. Experts attribute the rate increase not to demand, but to capacity imbalances, suggesting a potentially subdued peak season. Small carriers may benefit from rising backhaul rates, but long-term adaptation to market changes is crucial.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Truckload Capacity Shortage Keeps DAT Spot Rates High

Truckload Capacity Shortage Keeps DAT Spot Rates High

A recent report from DAT Freight & Analytics indicates continued growth in truckload capacity demand and persistently high spot rates. Van rates remain stable, while flatbed rates experienced a slight increase, and refrigerated truck rates remain elevated. Shippers are increasingly turning to the spot market due to tight capacity. Experts analyze the market drivers and recommend optimizing logistics strategies to navigate the current environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Market Rebounds Postthanksgiving Amid Strong Demand

US Truckload Market Rebounds Postthanksgiving Amid Strong Demand

DAT data indicates a surge in truckload freight volumes in the US market post-Thanksgiving, leading to tighter capacity and slightly higher rates. The dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed sectors all experienced growth. Analysts attribute the market rebound to a combination of seasonal and macroeconomic factors. Looking ahead, key areas to watch include consumer demand, capacity availability, macroeconomic trends, and regulatory changes.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Market Stabilizes in July Despite Rising Fuel Costs

US Truckload Market Stabilizes in July Despite Rising Fuel Costs

DAT reports that U.S. truckload freight volumes remained stable in July, with slight fluctuations in spot rates. Dry van volumes decreased slightly, while refrigerated volumes performed strongly, and flatbed volumes declined. Fuel surcharges increased, leading to a corresponding rise in contract rates. Overall, the market remains soft, and its future direction is uncertain. Carriers need to closely monitor market dynamics.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Demand Slows in July Amid Seasonal Downturn

US Trucking Demand Slows in July Amid Seasonal Downturn

The US trucking market experienced a decline in both freight volume and rates in July, influenced by seasonal factors and rising fuel prices. Experts interpret this as a typical off-season adjustment, anticipating a rebound during the peak season. The report details data for various freight types, including dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed, and highlights the gap between contract and spot rates. This provides market participants with valuable insights for informed decision-making. The decline is considered temporary and a natural part of the market cycle.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

In September, the US truckload market experienced a decline in volume but a rise in prices. The DAT index indicated a drop in dry van and refrigerated truckload volumes, with a slight increase in flatbed volume. Spot rates saw a minor increase, attributed by experts to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than genuine demand. The outlook for the upcoming peak season is pessimistic, with anticipated weak volumes. Some carriers may benefit from higher freight rates. The market faces increased uncertainty, requiring stakeholders to enhance risk management and adapt flexibly.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Spot Market Slumps As Demand Rates Drop

US Truckload Spot Market Slumps As Demand Rates Drop

The US freight spot market experienced a decline in both volume and rates in late May, reflecting weak demand, excess capacity, and broader economic factors. The dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed markets all faced pressure. Experts describe the market as 'frozen' but suggest that potential opportunities remain. Carriers are advised to optimize operations, shippers to adjust plans flexibly, and industry analysts to enhance research in order to collectively address these challenges. The decline signals a need for strategic adaptation within the freight industry to navigate the current market conditions.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Demand Surges Postthanksgiving DAT Reports

Trucking Demand Surges Postthanksgiving DAT Reports

DAT data reveals a robust rebound in the U.S. truckload spot market post-Thanksgiving, with a surge in freight volumes and a slight increase in capacity, leading to a tighter supply-demand balance. Dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed markets all experienced varying degrees of growth. Experts suggest this signals a market recovery, but caution is advised due to seasonal factors, macroeconomic conditions, and industry competition. A cautiously optimistic outlook is warranted.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Demand Rises As Rates Fall Amid Excess Capacity

Trucking Demand Rises As Rates Fall Amid Excess Capacity

DAT data shows truckload volumes increased 4% week-over-week in the last week of January, but an even greater increase in truck availability led to declining rates. Rates for dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed freight all decreased. Industry analysts suggest that the market outlook is uncertain. Companies should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operational efficiency, expand business scope, strengthen risk management, and embrace technological innovation to navigate the uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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