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In September, consumer inflation remained cool while producer-level pricing was unchanged month-over-month. Real goods exports surged sharply in August, but wholesale inventories stayed steady compared to sales. Transportation business applications saw a decline in September, and mortgage rates jumped significantly during the latest week. Diesel prices rose again alongside volatile crude prices. Truck spot rates spiked following Hurricane Helene, and CDL hiring activity showed a slight increase after a strong gain in July. Meanwhile, rail traffic was impacted by a port strike and disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene.

In the latest U.S. economic update, payroll employment rose by 254,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate eased slightly to 4.1%. August saw a notable increase in job openings, though construction spending remained sluggish. Mortgage rates edged higher despite the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut. Diesel prices rose marginally, while crude oil experienced a significant single-day gain on Thursday. Trucking jobs showed little movement in September, and Q3 saw fewer for-hire carriers exiting the market. Spot rates remained weak, and total rail traffic was essentially flat year-over-year. Meanwhile, work at East and Gulf Coast container ports resumed operations.