Tariffs Spook Shippers and Consumers as Trucking Surges to New Heights

Analytics

Welcome to the WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Newsletter

Welcome to the WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Newsletter, presented by Tai Software. In this issue, trucking rates hit two-year highs, tariffs spook shippers and consumers, and more!

Up and to the right

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Up and to the Right

Momentum is building in trucking markets in the fourth quarter, with top lanes feeling the squeeze. FreightWaves’ Craig Fuller reports that the SONAR National Truckload Index (NTI) is showing rates at $2.53 per mile, a figure not seen since January 2023—a 15% increase since October 2024.

Here’s the interesting twist: despite higher rates, volumes are down due to attrition. With the carrier capacity glut burning off, leverage is shifting back to carriers, with a 4% decrease in carriers compared to last year.

Tariffs Spook Shippers and Consumers

Expect freight flows to intensify, with shippers reacting to potential tariffs. CreditCards.com states that:

  • 30% of shoppers will purchase more this holiday season due to fear of rising prices from tariffs.
  • 22% of Americans plan large purchases to beat tariff-induced price hikes.
  • 34% are 'doom spending,' stockpiling items out of fear or uncertainty.
  • 30% might worsen debt to secure purchases.

Potential Port Strikes and E-Commerce Surge

As President-elect Trump tackles the looming port strike situation, e-commerce volumes continue to rise, influenced by consumer shopping behavior amid tariff concerns. E-commerce providers are seeing a significant uptick in sales volumes during the holiday season.

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The post was originally published on FreightWaves.

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