Trucking

Freight Recovery Gains Traction as Shipments Turn Positive in August

Truckload shipments reversed course in August after 42 months of consecutive declines, signaling a potential shift in market conditions. Linehaul rates climbed 11 percent year over year, while spot rates recently averaged $2.17 per mile before fuel surcharges. Saia Inc. and XPO Logistics reported volume increases during the month, bucking downward trends seen among competing carriers. Trucking executives attributed rate strength partly to ongoing regulatory compliance efforts. These efforts continue to tighten carrier capacity. Industry observers suggest the capacity constraints may persist through coming months, potentially sustaining pricing power even if demand growth remains modest. The positive shipment inflection marks the end of the longest freight downturn on record. Analysts cautioned that sustained recovery depends on demand durability in Q4.