TD Cowen Index Tracks Volatility in Trucking Parcel and LTL Markets

TD Cowen Index Tracks Volatility in Trucking Parcel and LTL Markets

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index indicates a weak but optimistic trucking market. The express sector is significantly impacted by pricing strategies. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) pricing remains stable, but pricing discipline may be loosening. Despite soft demand, there are positive indicators emerging. The index serves as a valuable decision-making resource for participants in the freight market, providing insights into current conditions and potential future trends across various transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Market Slump Continues Amid Modest Rate Hike

Trucking Market Slump Continues Amid Modest Rate Hike

A DAT report indicates a mixed performance for the US truckload freight market in October, with overall freight volumes declining but spot rates experiencing a slight increase. Key challenges include soft demand, excess capacity, and rising costs. Experts anticipate a muted peak season and continued market pressure into 2025. The report advises businesses to focus on operational refinement, service diversification, enhanced risk management, and embracing digital transformation to navigate the challenging environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Women Gain Ground in Highpaying Supply Chain Careers

Women Gain Ground in Highpaying Supply Chain Careers

Salaries in the supply chain management industry continue to rise, presenting more high-paying opportunities for women. Digital transformation is driving demand for upgraded talent, emphasizing both soft skills and professional expertise. Internship experience and industry connections are crucial for career advancement. Women should seize these opportunities and actively embrace the supply chain management industry. The field offers significant growth potential and rewarding careers for women equipped with the necessary skills and networking abilities.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing PMI Falls for Eighth Month Signaling Economic Concerns

US Manufacturing PMI Falls for Eighth Month Signaling Economic Concerns

The ISM Manufacturing PMI fell to 46 in June, marking the eighth consecutive month of contraction, according to the Institute for Supply Management. While new orders showed a slight rebound, demand remains weak. Businesses are expressing caution regarding the economic outlook. Experts anticipate continued economic weakness in the second half of the year, potentially leading to a 'soft landing' scenario and associated uncertainties. The prolonged contraction in manufacturing activity raises concerns about the overall health of the US economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index reveals pockets of optimism amidst challenges of soft demand and excess capacity. Truckload spot rates are increasing, and parcel pricing strategies are proving effective. However, LTL pricing discipline may be weakening. The index anticipates varying degrees of rate increases across different transportation modes in Q1 2025. While headwinds persist, certain segments demonstrate resilience and potential for growth, suggesting a complex and evolving freight market landscape. Monitoring these trends is crucial for informed decision-making.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Industry Struggles Amid Prolonged Profit Decline

Trucking Industry Struggles Amid Prolonged Profit Decline

The Trucking Conditions Index remains weak, suggesting the industry downturn may persist into early 2024. Key factors include soft demand, excess capacity, and rising costs. Small businesses face significant challenges. Companies should optimize operations, expand their customer base, and strengthen cost control measures to cope with the situation, while anticipating industry recovery. The prolonged slump is impacting profitability and forcing companies to adapt to survive the economic headwinds. Strategic planning and efficient resource management are crucial for navigating this difficult period.

01/17/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Spot Rates Rise Slightly Amid Market Slowdown

Trucking Spot Rates Rise Slightly Amid Market Slowdown

The DAT Report indicates a continued soft US truckload freight market in October, with widespread declines in freight volume, although spot rates saw a slight increase. Experts attribute the challenges to weak demand and policy uncertainty. A muted peak season is anticipated, placing financial strain on trucking companies and brokers. Despite the slight spot rate increase, the overall market remains under pressure due to lower freight volumes and ongoing economic headwinds. The report suggests a cautious outlook for the remainder of the year.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

Freight Market Rebounds As TD Cowen Index Signals Rate Hikes

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index Q1 report reveals mixed performance across transportation modes amidst soft demand and excess capacity. Truckload shows promise with rising spot rates, but contract rates remain under pressure. Parcel saw effective pricing adjustments, though discounts persist. LTL rates are stable, but pricing discipline may be loosening. The report anticipates potential rate increases in the future, suggesting a possible shift in the freight market dynamics. Overall, the index highlights the ongoing challenges and potential opportunities within the current freight environment.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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