The Backbone of Freight Forecasting: Understanding FTR’s Freight•cast™ Economic Model

Accurate freight forecasting isn’t just about tracking shipments or monitoring fuel prices—it requires a deep understanding of the broader economic landscape. At FTR, our forecasts are built on a robust economic modeling system that has been refined over decades. One of the key architects behind this system is Bill Witte, a trusted expert we've collaborated with for over 30 years to ensure our models provide meaningful and actionable insights.

A Data-Driven Approach to Forecasting

Each month, our GDP model processes over 250 economic data series, providing a comprehensive look at macroeconomic trends. This allows us to forecast the movement of goods across various sectors with a high degree of accuracy. However, understanding GDP alone isn’t enough—freight movement is deeply tied to industrial production, which is why we’ve expanded our modeling capabilities to include an Industrial Production Satellite Model.

This means that in order to anticipate freight demand, pricing pressures, and capacity constraints, we must first understand what’s happening in industrial markets. Our models break down these relationships, allowing shippers, carriers, and logistics providers to make informed decisions based on economic fundamentals rather than guesswork.

Turning Data into Actionable Insights

By integrating GDP trends with industrial production forecasts, FTR’s model offers a 360-degree view of the freight economy. Whether it’s manufacturing slowdowns, supply chain disruptions, or shifts in consumer demand, our approach helps clients stay ahead of market movements.

For organizations looking to optimize their logistics strategy, having access to these insights is crucial. At FTR, we don’t just track the data—we turn it into intelligence that drives smarter business decisions.

Want to learn more about how economic modeling can help your business navigate uncertainty? Let’s talk.