New Cowenafs Index Predicts Freight Industry Trends

New Cowenafs Index Predicts Freight Industry Trends

Cowen Inc. and AFS Logistics LLC have partnered to launch the Cowen/AFS Freight Index, designed to provide investors with a forward-looking tool for freight pricing forecasts, covering LTL, TL, and parcel shipping. The index leverages big data and artificial intelligence to deliver precise analysis of segmented markets and predict future trends, helping investors and businesses make more informed decisions. It offers insights into the dynamic freight market, enabling proactive strategies and optimized resource allocation based on data-driven projections.

AFS Cowen Launch Predictive Freight Index for Market Trends

AFS Cowen Launch Predictive Freight Index for Market Trends

Cowen and AFS have jointly launched a forward-looking freight index. Leveraging AI and ML technologies, it forecasts trends in LTL, TL, and parcel freight rates. This provides decision support for investors, shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers, helping businesses optimize strategies, reduce costs, and improve profitability. The index allows stakeholders to gain a competitive edge and capitalize on opportunities in the rapidly changing market. It offers valuable insights for informed decision-making and proactive planning in the logistics industry.

Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season TD Cowen

Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season TD Cowen

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index indicates a slight increase in LTL rates in Q3, driven by factors like Yellow's bankruptcy and soft demand. Parcel rates decreased. A muted peak season is anticipated for Q4, with limited TL freight growth. The index reflects the current complex and volatile freight market, along with a trend of shippers actively optimizing their logistics networks. The impact of Yellow's exit and ongoing economic uncertainty are key factors shaping the near-term outlook for the industry.

Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Spurs Freight Industry Shakeup

Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Spurs Freight Industry Shakeup

Yellow Corp. faces labor disputes and debt pressure, leading to freight diversion risks. A TD Cowen report suggests ABF Freight and TForce Freight could benefit. The key lies in whether Yellow can reach an agreement with the union and secure financing. Shippers should assess the risks and diversify their carrier options. The ongoing situation highlights the volatility within the LTL sector and the importance of contingency planning for shippers reliant on Yellow's services. The outcome will significantly impact the competitive landscape.

Fedex Freight Delays NMFC System Overhaul Adoption

Fedex Freight Delays NMFC System Overhaul Adoption

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) has implemented significant updates to its National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, aiming to improve efficiency and transparency in freight classification. Despite LTL giant FedEx Freight announcing a delay in implementation, this change will have a profound impact on the logistics industry, requiring businesses to reassess their logistics strategies. The updates necessitate careful review and potential adjustments to ensure compliance and optimize freight costs. Businesses should proactively analyze the changes to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain competitive pricing.

08/13/2025 Logistics
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Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season Amid Cooling Demand

Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season Amid Cooling Demand

The latest Cowen/AFS Freight Index report suggests a potentially weak traditional peak season. Analyzing rate changes and future trends in LTL, parcel, and truckload, the report identifies soft demand and macroeconomic uncertainty as key influencing factors. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust supply chain strategies, and focus on sustainability to address future challenges. The index provides valuable insights for navigating the evolving logistics landscape and optimizing freight management in a volatile economic environment. Understanding these trends is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and resilience.

Freight Index Predicts Weaker Peak Season As Markets Diverge

Freight Index Predicts Weaker Peak Season As Markets Diverge

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report predicts a potentially weak peak season this year. Overcapacity in truckload is putting pressure on pricing, while the less-than-truckload (LTL) market shows steady progress. The parcel market is driven by e-commerce promotions but faces intense competition. Businesses should take a rational view of market changes and optimize their supply chain strategies. The report suggests that companies need to be prepared for a less robust peak season than in previous years and adjust their expectations accordingly.

Major Logistics Firms Expand Crossdocking Hubs As Ecommerce Grows

Major Logistics Firms Expand Crossdocking Hubs As Ecommerce Grows

Logistics companies are increasingly investing in cross-docking facilities to meet the challenges of surging e-commerce. Outpost is transforming into a comprehensive logistics hub, while CEVA Logistics optimizes cross-border e-commerce logistics, and Pyle expands its East Coast service network. Less-than-truckload (LTL) cross-docking centers are proving to be effective tools for handling the e-commerce boom. In the future, cross-docking will evolve towards greater intelligence and collaboration, becoming a key factor in improving logistics efficiency. This trend signifies a strategic shift towards faster and more responsive supply chains.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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US Freight Market Faces Trade War Challenges TD Cowen Index

US Freight Market Faces Trade War Challenges TD Cowen Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index Q2 report unveils the challenges and trends in the US freight market under the shadow of the trade war. Analyzing the current market situation in various modes like truckload, parcel, and LTL, the report points out that tariffs, demand shifts, and capacity adjustments are key factors influencing the market. The report emphasizes the need for businesses to closely monitor market dynamics and flexibly adjust strategies to cope with uncertainties. This includes understanding the impact of tariffs and adapting to changing consumer demand.

XPO Logistics Sells North American Truckload Unit to Refocus Strategy

XPO Logistics Sells North American Truckload Unit to Refocus Strategy

XPO Logistics sold its North American less-than-truckload (LTL) business to TransForce, aiming to optimize its business structure, reduce debt, and focus on core strengths. This move marks a significant step in XPO's strategic adjustment, allowing it to concentrate on core businesses like its freight brokerage network. TransForce, on the other hand, expands its market share in North America through this acquisition. Analysts believe this is a win-win strategic arrangement, benefiting both companies by allowing them to better focus on their respective strengths and strategic goals.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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