World Economy

Carrier Pricing Power Climbs as Holiday Seasonality Tightens Capacity

Carriers are gaining negotiating leverage heading into the Fourth of July holiday period. Pricing power metrics climbed to 75 this week from 70 the previous week, according to the DHL Supply Chain Pricing Power Index.

Intermodal rail shipments surged 7 percent year-over-year in the latest reporting week, signaling sustained freight demand across U.S. railroads. Meanwhile, reefer spot linehaul rates averaged $2.71 per mile last week, down 0.8% or $0.02 per mile from the prior week as regional pricing diverged—South Texas markets strengthened while California demand softened.

Maritime rates continued their disconnect from underlying demand signals, with trans-Pacific lanes surging while Mediterranean routes declined. The three-month outlook for carrier pricing power remains steady at 70, suggesting sustained market tightness through mid-summer.