trucking

Knight-Swift LTL Segment Gains Ground With Heavier, Longer Shipments

Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings is experiencing renewed momentum in its less-than-truckload operations through increased industrial freight demand. This is driving up shipment weights and distances for the first time in several years.

Average weight per shipment climbed 5.2% to 1,033 pounds in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the prior year period, while average haul length extended 8.5% to 693 miles, CEO Adam Miller reported on an earnings call. The company consolidated its LTL operations under the AAA Cooper Transportation brand name at the start of the year to leverage its nationwide network spanning from coast to coast.

Daily shipment volume declined 1% to 23,112 loads. The LTL segment posted a 101% operating ratio and 99.6% adjusted operating ratio, weighed down by $18 million in adverse claims expense related to a 2022 arbitration ruling.