The deadline to file comments on the proposed broker transparency regulation has passed, and as President Trump assumes office today, the industry is wondering which direction policies will sway.
Year-over-year increase in loads posted to the U.S. truckload spot market in December, as truck postings fell by 32% in the same month, according to DAT Solutions.
J.B. Hunt Transport Services is warning shippers to prepare for higher rates for intermodal rail service in 2025 but acknowledges that market conditions may not favor carriers until the third quarter.
US shippers, concerned by the prospect of higher trucking costs later this year, are looking to keep rate hikes low in the current round of annual contract talks while trying to maintain their roster of incumbent trucking providers.
Get insights on 2025 freight trends, Ohio’s $1B defense hub, J.B. Hunt’s Q4 earnings dip, California’s zero-emissions update, and more.
Annual forecasts from trucking analysts paint a brighter picture for 2025: truck volumes growing by about 1.6% and for-hire rates continuing to improve. But some political uncertainty could create headwinds.
Strong consumer demand, declining interest rates, adjustments in capacity, and improved utilization have offered a slightly improved freight environment.
The cost of hauling goods from major US seaport markets jumped significantly toward the end of 2024, with outbound truckload spot rates that rose in a normal seasonal pattern getting an additional boost from a potential strike at ports along the East and Gulf coasts.
Large supplies and moderate to weaker demand continued to put pressure on hay markets.
“The macroeconomy looks good,” one economist said. “But at the same time, we do see policy shocks.”