Breaking

J. Hunt's Turnaround Signals Broader Carrier Recovery as Intermodal Becomes Essential

Major carriers are showing sustained earnings momentum heading into the fourth quarter. J. Hunt completed its fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year improvement, with its $100 million cost-reduction program expanding to more than $130 million. Industry-wide, carriers posted roughly 20% average earnings growth this quarter, following 25% gains in the second quarter. Diesel fuel volatility remained a near-term challenge. Nine of 13 weeks in Q3 saw sequential price increases that outpaced fuel surcharge adjustments. Analysts expect this headwind to ease once prices stabilize. Intermodal conversion has shifted from optional to essential for shippers navigating persistent supply chain complexity. Volumes tracked mid-single digit growth this quarter, though drayage driver availability constrained further expansion. October's contract bid season will test pricing recovery momentum.