News / Tough year ahead as economic headwinds slow US truckload operators

Despite some pundits suggesting the US trucking market should have bottomed out, the outlook remains gloomy – possibly until the end of next year.

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index, released on 17 January, warned that 2023 would be a tough year for truckload operators, citing cost increases driven by inflation, elevated fuel costs and downward pressure on rates, as shippers enjoy pricing power.

“Truckload is typically sensitive to macroeconomic headwinds,” said Tom Nightingale, CEO of AFS Logistics. And freight transport consulting firm FTR warned ...