(Stay up to date with transport industry news: Get TTNews in your inbox.)

As the American Trucking Associations reported on August 20, the transportation industry recorded another month of lower freight tonnage in July than in the same period last year.

The ATA For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index fell 0.9% year-over-year to 113.7. May is the only month since February 2023 to show a year-over-year increase.

However, the results were 0.3% higher than the previous month.

“Although July was not a strong month, we continue to see signs that the truck freight market is likely turning around, albeit slowly,” said Bob Costello, ATA chief economist. “Part of the small gain in July was likely due to strong import activity, particularly at West Coast seaports. Good retail sales and a slight increase in factory production compared to last year also helped truck tonnage last month.”

The ATA calculates its monthly tonnage index by surveying its members. The feedback comes primarily from contract cargoes rather than spot market cargoes. In calculating the index, 100 represents the year 2015.

Do you want more news? Listen to today’s briefing below or click here for more information: