ATA tonnage index slips in April

May 23, 2008
The American Trucking Assns. seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index declined 1.1% in April, the trucking lobby reported

The American Trucking Assns. seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index declined 1.1% in April, the trucking lobby reported. But that represents a 2% increase from April 2007—the sixth consecutive year-over-year increase.

ATA added that March’s index was not as negative as previously reported, falling 1.7% instead of the previously reported 3.2%, and the year-over-year reading was revised from a 0.1% contraction to a 1.5% gain.

“Truck tonnage hasn’t grown since January of this year on a month-to-month basis, suggesting the overall economy remains very soft,” said ATA chief economist Bob Costello. “With that said, the fact that tonnage is showing sustained year-over-year growth is positive for the industry, although part of the strength is due to easy comparisons from 2007.”

View more Fleet Owner management news and other commercial trucking-related articles.

Sponsored Recommendations

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

How to Choose the Right Route Planning Solution

This free buyer's guide will help equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to analyze route planning software and vendors in the market and, ultimately, make an informed...

How to Put Your Trucking Data to Work

How fleets can overcome data overload to optimize operations and get ahead.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!