The trucking industry is experiencing a two-year freight recession, with demand improvements needed for recovery. Analysts predict flat pricing for less-than-truckload and truckload rates in Q4, as both sectors show weak demand. Concerns about economic conditions and upcoming elections are causing businesses to hesitate on mergers and acquisitions, focusing instead on cost management. While retail spending shows some positive trends, manufacturing remains sluggish, impacting trucking’s profitability. Despite a slight seasonal demand increase, substantial growth in freight demand is not expected until early 2024.

Source: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/pricing-demand-acquisitions-2024-q4-analysts/731323/