Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

The flatbed freight market experienced a decline in both volume and price, influenced by seasonal factors and the economic environment. August data presented a mixed picture, while refrigerated truckload volume bucked the trend with growth in July. Daseke Inc.'s acquisition of Builders Transportation Co. highlights ongoing industry consolidation. The sector faces technological innovation and market changes. To navigate these challenges, companies must optimize operations, expand services, strengthen customer relationships, embrace technology, and closely monitor market trends. Strategic adaptation is crucial for success in this evolving landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

Amidst sluggish consumption, manufacturing is emerging as a key driver of economic recovery. Factors such as global supply chain restructuring, technological innovation and industrial upgrading, and supportive government policies are fueling this resurgence. However, the manufacturing sector faces challenges, requiring increased investment in technological innovation, talent development, diversification of markets, and strengthened supply chain management. While manufacturing is vital, a full economic recovery ultimately hinges on a rebound in consumer spending.

Winter Storms Boost January Truckload Volumes to Record High

Winter Storms Boost January Truckload Volumes to Record High

DAT reports that U.S. truckload freight volume hit a record high in January due to severe winter weather, with increased rates and truck-to-load ratios. Experts believe this is not a long-term trend and anticipate a return to seasonal market fluctuations. The report analyzes freight data for different trailer types, including dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed, and provides an outlook on future market trends. The surge is expected to be temporary, influenced by weather-related disruptions rather than fundamental shifts in demand.

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.

US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

The U.S. ISM Non-Manufacturing NMI decreased slightly to 58.6 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management. However, it remains well above the expansion threshold, indicating the non-manufacturing sector has experienced growth for 56 consecutive months. Analysis should focus on sub-indices and the macroeconomic context. Businesses should pay attention to structural changes and embrace new technologies to address challenges and seize opportunities. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector remains resilient, with a cautiously optimistic outlook for future development.

Logistics Sector Struggles With Rising Costs Warehousing Shortages

Logistics Sector Struggles With Rising Costs Warehousing Shortages

The latest LMI report indicates a second consecutive month of expansion in the logistics industry, despite rising costs and warehousing constraints. High inventory costs and warehousing pressures highlight the consequences of earlier stockpiling. The report also reveals the impact of macroeconomic uncertainty and trade policies, emphasizing the need for companies to optimize inventory management, find effective warehousing solutions, improve transportation efficiency, and closely monitor trade policy changes. This will enable them to navigate uncertainty and identify growth opportunities.

Prologis Report Indicates Logistics Real Estate Demand Shift

Prologis Report Indicates Logistics Real Estate Demand Shift

Prologis IBI indicates a stronger-than-expected recovery in logistics real estate demand. Increased confidence and utilization rates are driving this demand, while vacancy rates remain stable. This suggests that rental growth may accelerate. The IBI exceeding expectations points to a positive outlook for the sector, driven by improved business conditions and a greater need for warehousing and distribution space.

Prologis Data Hints at Logistics Real Estate Recovery

Prologis Data Hints at Logistics Real Estate Recovery

The Prologis IBI report indicates a bottoming out and rebound in logistics real estate demand, with improved market sentiment. Net absorption, new lease signings, and project pipeline are all above the 2024 average. Companies actively addressing trade challenges, increased utilization, and an improved market environment are key drivers. Vacancy rates are expected to remain stable in the short term, but a tightening construction pipeline suggests potential re-acceleration of rental growth.

US Manufacturing Growth Slows Amid Economic Headwinds

US Manufacturing Growth Slows Amid Economic Headwinds

After two years of contraction, the US manufacturing sector is showing signs of recovery, but its growth momentum remains constrained by factors such as tariff policies and a global economic slowdown. The ISM report indicates that while the PMI has expanded for two consecutive months, challenges like declining new orders and employment contraction persist. Facing both opportunities and challenges, US manufacturing needs to embrace innovation and improve efficiency to adapt to the ever-changing market environment.

US Service Sector Expands Steadily in October ISM

US Service Sector Expands Steadily in October ISM

U.S. non-manufacturing activity expanded strongly in October, with the NMI rising to 55.4. Business activity and employment increased, and new orders expanded. The future presents both opportunities and challenges. This indicates continued growth in the services sector, a key component of the U.S. economy. The ISM report provides valuable insights into the current state and near-term outlook for the non-manufacturing sector, influencing economic forecasts and investment decisions. While the current expansion is positive, potential headwinds could impact future growth.