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Indicators: Truck tonnage jumped in November, more gains expected

CCJ‘s Indicators rounds up the latest reports on trucking business indicators on rates, freight, equipment, the economy and more.


1116-tonnageTonnage surged in November: The amount of freight moved by for-hire carriers, as measured by ATA’s monthly Truck Tonnage Index, jumped 8.2 percent in November from October, ATA reported this week.

Compared to November 2015, tonnage was up 5.2 percent. Year to date through November, tonnage is up 2.8 percent, ATA reports.

ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello says November’s gain continued the “seesaw pattern” seen in 2016. However, more steady improvements in monthly truck tonnage is near, he says.

“I do believe we are seeing some improvement that will continue into 2017. Retail sales are good, the housing market is solid, and the inventory overhang throughout the supply chain is coming down, all of which will help support truck freight volumes in 2017,” he said.