January Truckload Rates Rise As Intermodal Declines

January Truckload Rates Rise As Intermodal Declines

Cass Information Systems and Avondale Partners data reveals a divergence in U.S. trucking and rail intermodal rates in January, reflecting market supply and demand differences. Companies need to meticulously analyze routes, cargo types, and time requirements to flexibly adjust transportation strategies. This is crucial to navigate market fluctuations and maintain a competitive cost advantage. Understanding these dynamics allows for optimized logistics planning and efficient resource allocation in a constantly evolving freight landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Winter Freeze Drives January Truckload Volume Surge

Winter Freeze Drives January Truckload Volume Surge

The DAT report indicates that U.S. freight volume hit a record high in January due to severe cold weather. Freight volume for dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed trucks all increased, leading to higher spot rates. Experts suggest this is a short-term phenomenon, with long-term rates still lower than the same period last year. Businesses are advised to view market fluctuations rationally and seize opportunities. The surge is likely a temporary response to weather conditions rather than a sustained market shift.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Market Faces Challenges Amid Shifting Strategies

US Freight Market Faces Challenges Amid Shifting Strategies

This paper delves into the challenges facing the current US freight market, including overcapacity and regulatory uncertainty in truckload, market share loss and price competition in parcel, and the digital transformation difficulties in less-than-truckload (LTL). It explores potential strategies for addressing these challenges and forecasts future trends in the freight market, emphasizing key areas such as sustainable development, supply chain resilience, and talent shortages. The analysis provides insights into navigating the evolving landscape of freight transportation.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Forecast Market Trends

AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Forecast Market Trends

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index provides forecasts for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), Truckload (TL), and Parcel shipping rates. It empowers businesses to optimize costs and improve supply chain management through data-driven insights. The index offers valuable information for budgeting, negotiation, and strategic planning in the transportation sector. By analyzing historical trends and market dynamics, the Cowen/AFS Freight Index helps companies make informed decisions and gain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Truck Driver Shortage Worsens Straining US Supply Chains

Truck Driver Shortage Worsens Straining US Supply Chains

The American Trucking Associations reported a significant increase in truck driver turnover rates in the third quarter, with large truckload fleets reaching 92% and smaller fleets at 74%. The less-than-truckload sector also experienced a slight increase. This driver turnover exacerbates existing capacity challenges, requiring transportation companies to proactively address the issue by improving driver compensation and benefits to ensure the stability of the logistics supply chain. Addressing driver retention is crucial for maintaining efficient freight movement.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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TD Cowenafs Index Highlights Truckload Parcel and LTL Market Trends

TD Cowenafs Index Highlights Truckload Parcel and LTL Market Trends

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index Q1 report reveals cautiously optimistic signals in the truckload market. The parcel market faces a pricing strategy battle against market realities. Pricing discipline in the less-than-truckload (LTL) market may be loosening. This report offers valuable market insights for logistics companies, aiding in the optimization of their transportation strategies. It highlights key trends and challenges impacting different segments of the freight market, providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.

01/17/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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New Cowenafs Index Predicts Future Freight Rates

New Cowenafs Index Predicts Future Freight Rates

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index leverages data and machine learning to forecast less-than-truckload (LTL), truckload (TL), and parcel rates, providing valuable insights for market decision-making. It offers a data-driven approach to understanding and predicting freight pricing trends, enabling businesses to optimize their logistics strategies and improve cost efficiency. The index serves as a crucial benchmark for industry professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of the freight market and make informed decisions regarding transportation costs.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Industry Faces Growth and Challenges in 2024

US Trucking Industry Faces Growth and Challenges in 2024

The American Trucking Associations forecasts the US freight market to reach $1.3 trillion by 2024, with trucking remaining dominant. The report analyzes trends in truckload, less-than-truckload, rail, and other transportation modes, highlighting challenges like regulatory changes, driver shortages, and infrastructure. Businesses should focus on improving service quality, controlling costs, and embracing technological innovation to navigate competition and capitalize on growth opportunities. The industry faces significant hurdles but also potential for advancement through strategic adaptation.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking to Remain Top US Freight Mode Through 2024

Trucking to Remain Top US Freight Mode Through 2024

The American Trucking Associations forecasts that trucking will continue to dominate the U.S. freight market through 2024, increasing its share to 81%. Truckload and less-than-truckload shipments are expected to grow steadily, while rail freight growth will be sluggish. Intermodal transportation is growing rapidly, but infrastructure and coordination complexities pose challenges. The industry needs to address driver shortages, aging infrastructure, and regulatory pressures. Innovation and collaboration are crucial to ensure the prosperity of the freight industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Predict Market Trends

AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Predict Market Trends

Cowen, in partnership with AFS, has launched a freight index to forecast pricing for LTL, Truckload, and Parcel shipments. The inaugural index reveals rising Truckload rates and a decrease in average LTL weight. This index aims to provide valuable insights into the current state and future trends of the freight market, assisting businesses in making informed decisions regarding their logistics strategies and transportation costs. By analyzing key indicators, the index offers a comprehensive overview of the evolving dynamics within the freight industry.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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