US Freight Index Rises but Lags Behind Previous Year

US Freight Index Rises but Lags Behind Previous Year

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a 1.1% month-over-month increase in the Freight Transportation Services Index in January, but a 0.2% year-over-year decrease. Trucking and rail transportation growth were the primary drivers, while pipeline and air freight faced challenges. In the long term, U.S. freight volume shows a steady growth trend, but the pandemic accelerated structural changes in the industry. Future technological innovation and green transformation will bring new opportunities to the freight industry.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

The ISM's January report indicates a slight decrease in non-manufacturing activity to 56.7, marking the 108th consecutive month of growth. Business activity and new orders indices declined, while the employment index rose, and the prices index continued to increase. Performance varied across industries, with the government shutdown introducing uncertainty. Experts anticipate continued growth, albeit at a slower pace. Businesses should closely monitor macroeconomic conditions, policy environment, and changes in market demand.

Shipping Market Faces Cost Challenges Despite Growth Signs

Shipping Market Faces Cost Challenges Despite Growth Signs

The Cass Freight Index indicates significant growth in both freight volume and expenditures in November, signaling positive market developments. However, capacity constraints and rising costs remain challenges. Businesses should closely monitor index fluctuations to optimize strategies, seize opportunities, and address challenges to secure future success. This requires proactive planning and adaptation to the evolving freight landscape. Understanding the interplay between volume, expenditure, and capacity is crucial for navigating the current market conditions.

ATA Predicts Trucking Industry to Handle 14M Tons by 2035

ATA Predicts Trucking Industry to Handle 14M Tons by 2035

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) forecasts continued growth in the trucking industry over the next decade, projecting freight tonnage to reach 14 million tons by 2035, maintaining its dominance in the freight market. The report highlights the critical role of trucking in the supply chain. This forecast provides important insights for policymakers, underscoring the importance of infrastructure investment and workforce development to support the growing demands of the trucking industry and ensure a resilient supply chain.

ATA Forecasts 14M Tons in Trucking Growth by 2035

ATA Forecasts 14M Tons in Trucking Growth by 2035

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) forecasts that the trucking industry will maintain its leading position despite ongoing challenges. Freight volume is projected to reach nearly 14 million tons by 2035, dominating the freight market. The report highlights the critical role of trucking in the supply chain and provides valuable insights for industry leaders and policymakers. This forecast underscores the continued importance of trucking for the US economy and its vital contribution to the overall movement of goods.

Trucking Industry Braces for Challenges Ahead of 2026 Recovery

Trucking Industry Braces for Challenges Ahead of 2026 Recovery

The trucking industry is currently grappling with weak demand and excess capacity. Industry leaders anticipate a surge in demand by 2026, driving up freight rates. However, economic conditions, policy changes, and technological innovations introduce uncertainty. Companies need to develop proactive strategies and demonstrate efficient execution to stand out from the competition and capitalize on the anticipated industry recovery. Success will depend on navigating these challenges and adapting to the evolving landscape.

US Freight Market Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

US Freight Market Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

This article analyzes recent signs of recovery in the freight market, including increased import volumes, stable consumer spending, improved trucking conditions, and rail transport growth. Despite potential risks such as global economic slowdown, geopolitical risks, inflationary pressures, and labor issues, the current positive signals warrant cautious optimism. The analysis suggests a potential rebound, highlighting key indicators and acknowledging existing challenges that could impact sustained growth in the freight sector.

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index turned negative in August as surging diesel prices drove up freight rates, creating a more challenging market environment for shippers. The increase in fuel costs put significant pressure on shipper profitability and overall market conditions, negatively impacting their financial standing. This shift indicates a less favorable situation for shippers compared to previous months, highlighting the sensitivity of the freight industry to fluctuations in fuel prices.

Shippers Spot Hope in Logistics Slump but Hurdles Persist

Shippers Spot Hope in Logistics Slump but Hurdles Persist

An FTR report indicates improving market conditions for shippers, primarily driven by restored rail service, released capacity, and economic support. The report anticipates a modest rebound in the Shippers Conditions Index (SCI). Shippers are advised to proactively address the evolving landscape and potential challenges. This improvement suggests a shift in the balance of power, though ongoing vigilance is still required to navigate potential disruptions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Trucking Firms Adjust to Rising Tariff Pressures

Trucking Firms Adjust to Rising Tariff Pressures

In response to market turbulence caused by high tariffs imposed by the U.S., J.B. Hunt Transport and Knight-Swift Transportation are flexibly reallocating resources and optimizing their networks to enhance transportation efficiency. They aim to strengthen collaborations with customers through new operational strategies to adapt to the changing demands.