Q1 Trucking Gains As LTL Struggles Parcel Prices Rise

Q1 Trucking Gains As LTL Struggles Parcel Prices Rise

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates emerging signs of recovery in the truckload market, with rising spot rates, although contract rates remain under pressure. Parcel pricing strategies are proving effective, with fuel surcharge adjustments generating revenue, but discount competition is intense. While LTL rates remain stable, pricing discipline is beginning to erode, and fuel surcharges are declining. The report offers insights into current trends and challenges within the freight transportation industry, highlighting the interplay of spot and contract rates, pricing strategies, and fuel surcharges.

Q1 Trucking Gains Amid Parcel Pricing Shifts LTL Weakness

Q1 Trucking Gains Amid Parcel Pricing Shifts LTL Weakness

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates flat but promising truckload demand, successful yet competitive parcel pricing strategies, and firm but fracturing LTL rates. The report offers valuable market trend insights for freight market participants. While truckload shows signs of improvement, parcel faces intense competition. LTL, though currently stable, shows potential weaknesses. The index provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the freight market, assisting stakeholders in making informed decisions based on observed trends and pricing dynamics across different modes of transport.

Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

The US-Mexico trucking market in 2026 presents both opportunities and challenges. Nearshoring drives trade growth and foreign investment, but capacity shortages, security risks, and policy changes create a 'triple pressure'. Rates are expected to rebound, but driver shortages and customs reforms require attention. Technology enablement and regional cooperation are key to overcoming these obstacles. Companies need to be proactive and adaptable to navigate this evolving landscape, leveraging innovation and strategic partnerships to capitalize on growth while mitigating risks.

US Trucking Demand Slows in July Amid Seasonal Downturn

US Trucking Demand Slows in July Amid Seasonal Downturn

The US trucking market experienced a decline in both freight volume and rates in July, influenced by seasonal factors and rising fuel prices. Experts interpret this as a typical off-season adjustment, anticipating a rebound during the peak season. The report details data for various freight types, including dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed, and highlights the gap between contract and spot rates. This provides market participants with valuable insights for informed decision-making. The decline is considered temporary and a natural part of the market cycle.

Trucking Industrys 34hour Restart Rule Suspended Amid Safety Debate

Trucking Industrys 34hour Restart Rule Suspended Amid Safety Debate

The U.S. 34-hour restart rule was suspended due to its failure to achieve the anticipated safety benefits and its negative impact on transportation efficiency. A Department of Transportation Inspector General's report confirmed that the rule did not deliver the expected safety improvements. The suspension of the rule is expected to free up capacity and reduce costs. Future regulations should be data-driven and balance safety with efficiency, ensuring that safety measures are effective without unduly hindering the flow of goods and services.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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XPO Logistics Keeps Conway Truckload to Enhance Crossborder Growth

XPO Logistics Keeps Conway Truckload to Enhance Crossborder Growth

XPO Logistics has decided to retain its trucking business acquired through the Con-way acquisition. This decision aims to strengthen its integrated supply chain service capabilities, deepen its presence in the US-Mexico cross-border transportation market, and generate synergies with other business units. This move reflects the rise of integrated logistics service providers in the market. XPO Logistics hopes to further enhance its comprehensive service capabilities and improve its competitiveness by integrating the trucking business. The company sees trucking as a key component in providing end-to-end solutions for its customers.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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ATA Projects 14 Million Tons in Trucking Growth by 2035

ATA Projects 14 Million Tons in Trucking Growth by 2035

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) forecasts road freight tonnage to reach a peak of 14 million tons by 2035. The report highlights the dominance of road transportation in the freight market, projecting significant growth in both tonnage and revenue. It also analyzes trends in other transportation modes, including rail, air, and water. Businesses should capitalize on opportunities such as technological innovation, sustainability, and intermodal transportation, developing clear strategic plans to thrive in future competition.

US DOT Removes Thousands of Trucking Schools from Approved List

US DOT Removes Thousands of Trucking Schools from Approved List

The US Department of Transportation is cracking down on the CDL training market, having removed nearly 3,000 non-compliant training providers from the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR) and issued warnings to another 4,500. This initiative aims to combat 'CDL mills,' improve training quality, ensure road safety, and enhance the overall professionalism of the trucking industry. The goal is to ensure that CDL holders are properly trained and qualified to operate commercial vehicles safely and responsibly.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

The upcoming ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate is poised to impact trucking freight rates. This analysis examines the effects of the ELD mandate on the trucking capacity market and how shippers can navigate potential freight rate increases and capacity shortages. It emphasizes the importance of shippers strengthening relationships with carriers and brokers, optimizing supply chains, planning ahead, and considering technology to improve transportation efficiency. By proactively addressing these challenges, shippers can mitigate the negative consequences of the ELD mandate and maintain a competitive edge.