In Q3, less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers experienced stronger demand from retail accounts compared to stagnant industrial sectors, as noted by executives like XPO’s Chief Strategy Officer. While demand from construction and agriculture remains weak, machinery and automotive sectors show improvement. LTL carriers typically handle a mix of two-thirds industrial and one-third retail shipments, but this balance has been shifting. Old Dominion Freight Line has struggled with persistent industrial demand weakness. XPO remains optimistic about a potential recovery in industrial demand next year, driven by lower interest rates and post-election dynamics.

Source: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/ltl-carriers-report-retail-demand-outperforming-industrial-q3-earnings/732702/