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Estes Express Lines Posts Back-to-Back Record Weeks on 15% Tonnage Surge

Estes Express Lines recorded a 15% year-over-year tonnage increase last week, marking consecutive record periods for the LTL carrier. The gains reflect broader supply-side freight growth translating into improved hiring and load factors across its network.

Manufacturing, automotive and grocery segments drove the volume, alongside retail demand fueled by sustained consumer spending despite inflation pressures. The carrier's next-day regional business emerged as the strongest performer, with Q3 shipments up 13% year-over-year as truckload capacity constraints redirect shorter-haul freight to LTL providers.

Estes attributed operational gains to workforce stability. Driver turnover within one year stands at 7.5%, while dock worker turnover remains at 11%—the lowest figures Estes has ever seen. The company plans wage increases and benefit announcements within 30 days. Estes Express was named the best-value national LTL carrier for the fifth consecutive year.