Economy
Freight Volumes
Rail
Weekly Transportation Update: The freight transportation economy posts strong gain in Q2
The FTR Experts
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Weekly Transportation Update: The freight transportation economy posts strong gain in Q2
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In Q2, GDP grew by 2.8% annualized, with the freight economy rising 5.3%. Real consumer spending increased by 0.2% in June. Retail inventories remained lean relative to sales.
The aircraft sector significantly impacted durable goods orders. Existing home sales fell sharply in June, while new home sales slightly declined. Mortgage rates remained stable.
Diesel prices declined for the second consecutive week, easing transportation costs. Spot rates for flatbed and van increased year-over-year. Rail traffic showed mixed results: carload traffic was down, but intermodal traffic was up. A new rail safety bill was introduced in the U.S. House.
- Real consumer spending rises in June.
- Sales of existing homes fall by the most since November 2022.
- Flatbed posts first positive y/y comparison in spot rates in nearly two years.
- Total rail traffic was in line with the same 2023 week.
