Q3 Parcel Rates Defy Trends LTL and Truckload Rates Steady

Q3 Parcel Rates Defy Trends LTL and Truckload Rates Steady

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals mixed trends in the US freight market for Q3. Unprecedented discounts in parcel shipping offset rising fuel surcharges. LTL pricing remains stable, but per-shipment weight is declining. Truckload faces continued headwinds from weak demand and excess capacity, with limited near-term improvement expected. This index provides valuable insights for businesses developing their freight strategies.

US Truckload Spot Rates Surge As Capacity Shrinks

US Truckload Spot Rates Surge As Capacity Shrinks

A DAT report indicates a recovery in the US truckload spot market. Increased freight volumes and tightening capacity are driving spot rates higher, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Experts attribute this to a return to seasonal patterns, with retail demand being a key factor. Market participants need to monitor these dynamics and adapt accordingly. The upward trend in spot rates suggests a strengthening freight market, but sustained growth depends on continued consumer spending and inventory replenishment.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Truckload Demand Spikes Spot Rates Stay Elevated DAT

Truckload Demand Spikes Spot Rates Stay Elevated DAT

DAT data shows continued growth in US truckload capacity demand, with spot rates remaining high. Shippers are shifting to the spot market, with van rates exceeding contract rates and refrigerated rates reaching a five-year high. The pandemic has exacerbated rate volatility. Experts attribute this to economic recovery, seasonal factors, and policy impacts. Future strategies require enhanced collaboration, embracing innovation, and focusing on regional differences, cargo types, and sustainable transportation. The dynamic logistics market necessitates adaptability and strategic planning to navigate fluctuating rates and evolving demands.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Truckload Capacity Shortage Keeps DAT Spot Rates High

Truckload Capacity Shortage Keeps DAT Spot Rates High

A recent report from DAT Freight & Analytics indicates continued growth in truckload capacity demand and persistently high spot rates. Van rates remain stable, while flatbed rates experienced a slight increase, and refrigerated truck rates remain elevated. Shippers are increasingly turning to the spot market due to tight capacity. Experts analyze the market drivers and recommend optimizing logistics strategies to navigate the current environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

US Truckload Market September Volumes Fall Rates Rise

In September, the US truckload market experienced a decline in volume but a rise in prices. The DAT index indicated a drop in dry van and refrigerated truckload volumes, with a slight increase in flatbed volume. Spot rates saw a minor increase, attributed by experts to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than genuine demand. The outlook for the upcoming peak season is pessimistic, with anticipated weak volumes. Some carriers may benefit from higher freight rates. The market faces increased uncertainty, requiring stakeholders to enhance risk management and adapt flexibly.

US Truckload Volume Falls Rates Rise in September

US Truckload Volume Falls Rates Rise in September

The US truckload freight market in September showed a mixed picture: declining volumes coupled with slightly higher rates. Dry van and refrigerated volumes decreased, while flatbed volumes increased. Spot rates generally rose, while contract rates declined. Market analysis suggests the rate increase was not demand-driven, leading to a pessimistic outlook for the peak season. Carriers, brokers, and shippers need to be flexible in responding to market changes. The decline in volumes despite rising rates indicates underlying economic weakness and potential inventory corrections.

US Truckload Volume Falls Rates Rise in September

US Truckload Volume Falls Rates Rise in September

The US truckload freight market in September presented a mixed picture of declining volumes and slightly increasing rates. DAT data indicated a decrease in dry van and refrigerated truckload volumes, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Spot rates generally rose, while contract rates trended downward. Analysts suggest that the price increases were not demand-driven, but rather due to capacity imbalances. They remain cautious about the upcoming peak season. Market participants need to closely monitor the dynamics and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Truckload Spot Market Rates Drop As Capacity Rises

Truckload Spot Market Rates Drop As Capacity Rises

The US truckload freight spot market is seeing a slight increase in demand, but overcapacity is driving freight rates down across the board. Various factors are influencing the market dynamics, requiring companies to adapt to the changing conditions. Over-the-road (OTR) trucking is facing challenges due to the imbalance between supply and demand. Staying informed and agile is crucial for success in this fluctuating environment.

US Truckload Rates and Volume Decline in July

US Truckload Rates and Volume Decline in July

DAT Freight & Analytics data indicates a decline in both freight rates and volumes in the U.S. spot truckload market from July 21-27. The dry van truckload ratio reached a record high, but linehaul rates decreased. Refrigerated freight rates experienced a significant drop due to weak agricultural shipments. Flatbed freight volumes and rates also declined. The market may be influenced by seasonal factors, and future trends remain to be seen.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Truckload Rates Climb Despite Falling Freight Volumes DAT

Truckload Rates Climb Despite Falling Freight Volumes DAT

DAT's latest report reveals a complex situation in the US freight market, where spot rates are rising despite declining freight volumes. The report analyzes freight volume indexes and rate changes for van, refrigerated, and flatbed trucks, exploring the underlying market drivers. Facing market uncertainty, freight companies need to closely monitor market dynamics, optimize capacity allocation, control operating costs, and flexibly adjust pricing strategies. This requires a proactive approach to navigate the fluctuating landscape and maintain profitability.