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
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