TL and LTL Rates Set to Peak in Q3
FreightWaves projects truckload and less-than-truckload rates will reach new highs in the third quarter as capacity tightens and demand firms up.
Lock in contract lanes now and budget for higher spot exposure — rising rates reward shippers who plan capacity ahead rather than chase it in Q3.
Diesel and Oil Shocks Ripple Through Freight Markets
Reports point to oil price volatility and fuel supply constraints — amplified by Russia's nationwide diesel export ban — pushing up transportation costs across trucking and shipping.
Fuel surcharges will move fast; revisit your surcharge formulas and fuel-inclusive quotes so cost swings don't erode margins mid-quarter.
Tighter Capacity Drives Intermodal Momentum
IANA reports that higher trucking costs and constrained capacity are pushing more freight toward intermodal as shippers seek relief.
For heavier, longer-haul lanes, intermodal can hedge against truckload rate spikes — but plan for longer transit windows and drayage availability.
Trucking Bankruptcies and Layoffs Surge in July
Industry reports show a wave of carrier and logistics closures wiping out hundreds of jobs, with bankruptcies climbing as the freight downturn drags into 2026.
Vet carrier financial health before tendering loads — a failing carrier mid-transit is a costly disruption, so lean on brokers who continuously monitor capacity stability.
Ruan Launches Customs Brokerage Service
Ruan Transport has rolled out a new customs brokerage offering, expanding its cross-border and international shipping support.
More integrated customs options signal a competitive cross-border market — for US↔Mexico moves, tight coordination between brokerage and customs is what keeps freight from stalling at the border, and it's where Lia and our team focus daily.