
Shippers Conditions Index Holds Steady – But Uncertainty Looms

FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) stayed close to neutral in April, slipping slightly from +0.1 in March to -0.6. While weaker freight volumes offered some relief for shippers, other components of the index—like rates, capacity, and fuel costs—were less favorable compared to the previous month.

He added that ongoing volatility in fuel prices, rising insurance premiums, and tighter scrutiny around drivers’ English language skills could all impact truck capacity in the months ahead.
April’s index reflects a market that’s holding steady on the surface—but with potential disruptions building beneath. As the industry continues to navigate uncertain policy directions and economic shifts, FTR’s forecasts remain a critical resource for shippers looking to stay ahead.
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