Trucking Intermodal Rates Decline As Capacity Eases

Trucking Intermodal Rates Decline As Capacity Eases

According to recent data from Cass Information Systems and Avondale Partners, both truckload and intermodal pricing declined in May. While lower freight rates benefit shippers, carriers need to adapt to market changes. Future freight rate trends will be influenced by multiple factors, and market participants should remain vigilant.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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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.

US Truckload Demand Weakens in September Amid Minor Rate Rise

US Truckload Demand Weakens in September Amid Minor Rate Rise

The US truckload freight market in September exhibited a peculiar phenomenon: volume decreased while rates increased. DAT data indicates a decline in dry van and refrigerated freight volumes, with a slight increase in flatbed. Spot rates generally rose, but contract rates showed mixed trends. Analysts suggest the rate increase isn't demand-driven but rather due to freight imbalances and capacity shifts, indicating structural market issues and potential challenges for the peak season. Carriers should be wary of risks, as the industry may face a downturn.

US Trucking Spot Rates Climb Despite Lower September Volumes

US Trucking Spot Rates Climb Despite Lower September Volumes

The US truckload freight market in September showed a complex picture of declining volumes and slightly increasing rates. Dry van and refrigerated volumes decreased month-over-month, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Spot rates edged up, but contract rates declined. Analysts believe the rate increase is not demand-driven, but rather due to freight imbalances and capacity shifts. The peak season performance is expected to be weak, and carriers may continue to face challenges. The market presents a mixed bag of signals, requiring careful monitoring.

Chinas Truckload Freight Forwarders Adapt to Market Challenges

Chinas Truckload Freight Forwarders Adapt to Market Challenges

This article delves into the current situation and challenges of domestic full truckload (FTL) road transportation, highlighting issues such as small scale, poor coordination, and low levels of digitalization. It details the business scope and operational processes of domestic FTL road transport. Furthermore, it provides suggestions for freight forwarding companies to stand out in the fierce market competition, including improving digitalization, strengthening resource integration, and optimizing transportation routes. The aim is to provide insights for freight forwarders to enhance their competitiveness and efficiency.

Capacity Crunch Spurs Debate DCC Vs Dedicated Truckload

Capacity Crunch Spurs Debate DCC Vs Dedicated Truckload

Faced with capacity constraints, this report compares Dedicated Contract Carriage (DCC) and Dedicated Truckload Capacity (DTC). DCC offers stability but slow growth, while DTC is flexible and grows rapidly. The report analyzes the application scenarios of both models and forecasts the future market, emphasizing that companies should develop effective transportation strategies based on their specific needs. It highlights the trade-offs between stability, flexibility, and growth when choosing a dedicated transportation model within the broader context of supply chain management.

Top Truckload Carriers Excel in Longhaul Transport Challenges

Top Truckload Carriers Excel in Longhaul Transport Challenges

The full truckload industry faces numerous challenges, but outstanding service providers distinguish themselves through technological innovation, optimized operations, and a focus on customer needs, earning the “Excellent Quality Award.” Their success demonstrates that improving service quality is crucial for success in the long-distance freight sector. These companies prioritize efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction to navigate a competitive market. By investing in advanced tracking systems, driver training, and proactive communication, they ensure timely and secure delivery, building trust and loyalty with their clients.

Tight Truckload Capacity Strains Freight Market Shippers Adapt

Tight Truckload Capacity Strains Freight Market Shippers Adapt

The July freight spot market report indicates strong demand, although slightly lower than June. Capacity shortage remains a critical issue. Experts attribute this to a positive economic outlook, seasonal factors, and the growth of third-party logistics. Businesses should strengthen partnerships with carriers, optimize their logistics networks, and adapt flexibly to market changes to seize opportunities. The report highlights the need for proactive logistics strategies to navigate the current volatile freight market and mitigate the impact of limited capacity.

Truckload Market Cools During Holiday Season DAT Report

Truckload Market Cools During Holiday Season DAT Report

DAT's latest report reveals a mixed picture for the US truckload capacity market in October. Dry van demand declined, while refrigerated and flatbed demand remained stable. Spot rates saw a slight increase, and contract rates remained largely unchanged. Experts attribute the weak demand as the primary driver, forecasting continued challenges for the market in 2025. The report suggests that companies should focus on refined operations, flexible capacity management, enhanced risk management, and embracing digital transformation to navigate the evolving market conditions.

US Truckload Market Rebounds Postthanksgiving Amid Strong Demand

US Truckload Market Rebounds Postthanksgiving Amid Strong Demand

DAT data indicates a surge in truckload freight volumes in the US market post-Thanksgiving, leading to tighter capacity and slightly higher rates. The dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed sectors all experienced growth. Analysts attribute the market rebound to a combination of seasonal and macroeconomic factors. Looking ahead, key areas to watch include consumer demand, capacity availability, macroeconomic trends, and regulatory changes.