What freight modes are covered? The forecast includes truckload, less‑than‑truckload (LTL), intermodal volumes and rates. We monitor volumes, pricing and capacity across modes. Specifically, we forecast truckload by Spot and Contract in aggregate and across the three major van types: dry van, reefers, and flatbeds.
How far forward does the forecast go? Our commercial vehicle (Classes 5-8 vehicles and trailers) forecast covers a 5-year horizon. Our freight forecast covers 6–36 months outlook, giving near‑term visibility into spot and contract rate trends.
What are common use cases for carriers, shippers and brokers? Carriers use the Freight Forecast, and the U.S. Used Truck Price OUTLOOK, in addition to several of our databases, to plan fleet size; equipment purchases and contract negotiations. Shippers leverage our Freight Forecast and some databases to time contract bids and budget for transportation. Brokers use the Freight Forecast and our State of the Industry: N.A. Classes 5-8 report and data series to anticipate market tightness, margin opportunities, and third-party tools to educate their shipper customers on the state of the market.