Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report indicates that tariff policies, declining consumer confidence, and changes in carrier pricing strategies are impacting the freight market. In trucking, front-loading of inventory is driving up rates, but increased short-haul shipments are lowering overall costs. For parcel, carriers are adjusting prices more frequently, and fuel surcharges are rising, but sales growth faces challenges. In LTL, pricing remains strong despite economic headwinds. The report highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing freight costs and volumes across different transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Uschina Trade Tensions Drive Up Shipping Costs

Uschina Trade Tensions Drive Up Shipping Costs

Recent developments in China-US trade relations have led to a significant increase in shipping costs, with container freight rates from Shanghai to New York rising by 19%. A shortage of shipping capacity and the evolving trade dynamics have further exacerbated this trend, and it is expected that costs may continue to rise in the future.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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Air Cargo Market Struggles to Rebound As Peak Season Ends Early

Air Cargo Market Struggles to Rebound As Peak Season Ends Early

The 2023 air cargo peak season is facing weak rebound, with shippers placing orders early indicating a slowdown in demand and freight rates not rising as expected. Although some airlines benefit from e-commerce demand, the overall cargo market remains complex and volatile, with future growth constrained by a slowdown in manufacturing and various supply chain issues.

12/02/2024 Logistics
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US Shipping Stocks Surge Amid Rising Demand

US Shipping Stocks Surge Amid Rising Demand

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the recent strong performance of US shipping stocks. It examines the multiple driving factors, including increased earnings, rising freight rates, tight shipping capacity, and global demand. The analysis also highlights potential challenges such as supply chain risks and economic recession. This provides investors with a comprehensive market overview.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Europe Shipping Costs Soar Firms Seek Solutions

Europe Shipping Costs Soar Firms Seek Solutions

The surge in European ocean freight rates is attributed to a combination of factors including the pandemic, capacity management, rising oil prices, container shortages, port congestion, trade protectionism, and geopolitical issues. Businesses should proactively plan, optimize their supply chains, implement flexible pricing strategies, and closely monitor market dynamics to effectively address the challenges posed by escalating costs.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS: Sea Freight Overloaded, Shippers Turn to Air Freight to Meet Rising Demand

UPS: Sea Freight Overloaded, Shippers Turn to Air Freight to Meet Rising Demand

As the issue of overcapacity in sea freight becomes more severe, shippers are turning to air freight to meet market demands. The backlog of cargo and slow sailing strategies implemented by shipping companies have sparked concern and anxiety among shippers. A report from UPS indicates a significant increase in international parcel volume and cargo revenue, prompting shippers to adopt more flexible logistics strategies to tackle peak season challenges.

07/18/2025 Logistics
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Trucking Sector Shows Signs of Recovery Amid LTL Parcel Shifts

Trucking Sector Shows Signs of Recovery Amid LTL Parcel Shifts

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates emerging signs of recovery in the truckload market, with rising spot rates and tender rejection rates. Parcel shipping pricing strategies proved effective, with fuel surcharge adjustments generating revenue. LTL rates remained stable, but pricing discipline is showing signs of weakening. Overall, the market is complex and dynamic, with each transportation mode facing unique challenges and opportunities. The report highlights the need for shippers to closely monitor market trends and adjust their strategies accordingly to optimize costs and maintain service levels.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Shipping Delays Drive Up Global Trade Costs

US Shipping Delays Drive Up Global Trade Costs

The US maritime shipping market is facing a double whammy of delays and rising prices. Factors such as pandemic-induced port congestion, labor shortages, surging demand, container shortages, insufficient capacity, rising fuel costs, and cargo backlogs have collectively driven up ocean freight costs, straining the global trade chain. Container shipping rates from the US to China and Europe have increased 3-4 times since 2020, and delays have not yet been fully resolved. The situation continues to put pressure on businesses and consumers alike.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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A Comprehensive Analysis of Key Factors Influencing Container Shipping Freight Rates

A Comprehensive Analysis of Key Factors Influencing Container Shipping Freight Rates

This article explores the key factors influencing the pricing of container shipping freight rates, including the nature of the goods, conditions at the origin and destination, contract negotiation timelines, and the completion date of cargo readiness. These factors not only impact transportation costs but also reflect market supply and demand dynamics, as well as the shipper's urgency for transport, ultimately determining the final freight rate.

07/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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