Trucking Conditions Index Edges Higher in July

FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) for July posted a modest improvement, climbing to -1.03 from June’s -1.83. While the index remains in negative territory, the move suggests slightly more favorable operating conditions for carriers.

What’s Behind the Shift?

• Fuel prices stabilized – After a sharp rise in June, diesel price increases slowed considerably, providing some relief.
• Freight-related factors softened – Volumes and rates weakened compared to June, keeping overall conditions difficult for carriers.
• Capacity signals shifted – A preliminary revision of trucking employment data suggests tighter capacity than previously thought.

📊 Explore the full TCI charts here: FTR Trucking Conditions Index

Industry Insights from Avery Vise

Avery Vise, FTR’s vice president of trucking, noted that while freight rates and volume remain weak, several factors could reshape the outlook:

• Rising truck insurance costs could stress capacity.
• Foreign driver availability faces new pressures.
• Utilization forecasts remain flat, but the potential for improved freight volume could strengthen the market.

Looking Deeper in the September Trucking Update

The September edition of FTR’s Trucking Update goes beyond the headline index:

• Analysis of freight volumes, capacity environment, and rates
• A closer look at English language proficiency (ELP) requirements and their potential effect on capacity following an August crash in Florida
• Broader economic trends influencing the trucking market
  
  Download a Sample Report Today

Get the insights you need to make smart business decisions.

Together, Truckstop and FTR break down big data to deliver information you can use to maximize your profits.

• Weekly predictions and capacity

• Equipment and lane data

• Trusted names, trusted partners

Sign up for Spot Market Insights, the trucking industry’s weekly wellness report.

Uncertainty around tank and covered hopper demand makes it harder than ever to plan equipment investments with confidence. The 2025 RFC & FTR Chemical Cars & Capital Forum cuts through the noise, giving you the forecasts and financial insights you need to reduce risk and seize opportunity.

 

Join industry leaders on November 4, 2025, in Houston for the FTR State of Freight: Chemicals & Petroleum Symposium—a one-day, deep-dive into how shifting trade, equipment markets, and economic forces are reshaping freight. Designed for shippers, carriers, and procurement professionals, this small-group forum blends expert forecasts with candid discussion to help you make smarter investment decisions.