Trucking Industry Sees Fragile Recovery Despite Ongoing Hurdles

Trucking Industry Sees Fragile Recovery Despite Ongoing Hurdles

The FTR Trucking Conditions Index edged up slightly in September, but remained negative. Stable fuel prices and increased demand were the main drivers. The market outlook remains pessimistic until the end of next year, requiring companies to navigate ongoing challenges. This slight improvement doesn't signal a complete turnaround, and businesses need to be prepared for continued volatility and potential downturns in the freight market. Strategic planning and cost management will be crucial for survival and success in the coming months.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AFS Logistics Highlights Freight Trends Supply Chain Resilience

AFS Logistics Highlights Freight Trends Supply Chain Resilience

AFS Logistics expert Tom Nightingale provides an in-depth analysis of the freight market, dissecting the Cowen/AFS Freight Index report. He explores peak season outlook, capacity rates, nearshoring trends, and the impact of the Baltimore bridge collapse on supply chains. Nightingale offers forward-looking insights to help businesses build resilient supply chains and navigate current market complexities. The discussion highlights key factors influencing freight costs and provides strategies for mitigating risks and optimizing logistics operations in a dynamic environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AFS Logistics Analyzes Key Freight Market Trends

AFS Logistics Analyzes Key Freight Market Trends

This podcast episode features Tom Nightingale, an expert from AFS Logistics, discussing the freight logistics market. He analyzes the Cowen/AFS Freight Index report, focusing on peak season outlook, capacity rates, nearshoring, and the impact of the Baltimore bridge collapse. Nightingale provides market insights and strategic recommendations for businesses, helping them optimize supply chain management and enhance competitiveness. The discussion covers key trends and challenges impacting the industry, offering valuable information for companies navigating the complexities of freight transportation and logistics.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Cooling Demand

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Cooling Demand

Recent data shows a decrease in North American Class 8 heavy-duty truck net orders for November, both month-over-month and year-over-year, indicating a cooling market demand. This decline is attributed to easing order backlogs, a high-interest rate environment, and concerns about economic growth. However, the market is not in full recession and retains potential for future growth. The order drop serves as an economic signal, suggesting a cautious outlook for the transportation sector and broader economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Growth Slows As Costs Remain High

US Freight Growth Slows As Costs Remain High

The Cass Freight Index September report indicates a slowdown in US freight volume growth and a narrowing of freight expenditure increases, primarily due to port congestion and chip shortages. The report highlights the coexistence of capacity bottlenecks and demand-side challenges. Looking ahead, attention should be paid to opportunities arising from economic recovery and technological innovation, as well as the impact of changing consumer spending patterns on freight structure. Investors and businesses should closely monitor market dynamics and maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows but Expands in January

US Service Sector Growth Slows but Expands in January

The ISM's January report indicates a slowdown in non-manufacturing activity in the US, but the NMI remains above 50, signaling continued overall expansion. While sub-indexes experienced declines, they remain in growth territory. Sector performance is mixed, and experts hold differing views on the economic outlook. Non-manufacturing is crucial to the US economy, and closely monitoring its performance is essential for understanding the economic pulse. The NMI suggests a moderate pace of expansion despite some softening in key indicators.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

The November US ISM Non-Manufacturing Report indicates continued solid growth, with the NMI index reaching 60.7. While business activity and new orders remained strong, the sector faces challenges including a skills shortage in the labor market and persistent upward pressure on prices. Tariffs and trade friction introduce uncertainty. Experts view the economic outlook as optimistic but emphasize the need to address these challenges. Businesses and policymakers should proactively respond to these factors to sustain growth and mitigate potential risks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Experts Warn of Supply Chain Risks Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

Experts Warn of Supply Chain Risks Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

In an interview, Chris Rogers, Head of Supply Chain Research at S&P Global Market Intelligence, provides insights into the US import outlook, traditional peak season expectations, inventory glut, and the impact of US-China trade relations on global supply chains. He advises businesses to embrace digitalization and build diversified, resilient supply chains to navigate the complex and volatile global trade environment. This approach is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity in the face of ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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German Industrial Output Rises on Strong Auto Sector Recovery

German Industrial Output Rises on Strong Auto Sector Recovery

German industrial production unexpectedly rose by 0.8% in November, driven mainly by the automotive sector. However, the trade surplus narrowed as exports declined and imports increased. Data revisions showed stronger industrial production growth than initially reported. The global economic situation, geopolitical tensions, and energy prices will continue to influence the German economy. The narrowing trade surplus suggests potential challenges despite the positive industrial production figures. Overall, the German economy faces a complex outlook with both positive and negative factors at play.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ISM Report Shows Split Growth in Manufacturing and Services Sectors

ISM Report Shows Split Growth in Manufacturing and Services Sectors

The ISM report indicates a diverging growth outlook for the US manufacturing and service sectors in 2025. Manufacturing shows cautious optimism, anticipating accelerated growth in the second half of the year. The service sector demonstrates steady growth, but operational pressures remain. Companies should enhance demand forecasting, optimize inventory management, expand supply chain channels, strengthen risk management, and embrace digital transformation to navigate the complex and volatile market environment. Focusing on these areas will be crucial for sustained success amidst economic uncertainty.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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