World Economy

Strong Demand Lifts Carriers, Forwarders Past Q3 Forecasts

Robust freight demand across multiple transport modes helped logistics providers exceed third-quarter expectations. Shippers moved higher shipment volumes and weights, with less-than-truckload carrier Saia posting record revenue and tonnage through its expanded terminal network. ArcBest similarly beat expectations, driven by increased per-shipment tonnage and revenue gains. Air cargo operators benefited from tight capacity: Lufthansa Cargo raised base yields 14 percent year-over-year while overall yields climbed 22 percent despite elevated fuel surcharges. Expeditors International, the customs broker and freight forwarder, reported 42 percent revenue growth to $4.1 billion in the quarter, even as transportation costs rose 49 percent. The results signal sustained shipper demand and pricing power across asset-light and asset-heavy operators as global trade conditions remain resilient.