ATA tonnage index up 1.3%

July 30, 2008
The American Trucking Assns. (ATA ) seasonally-adjusted for-hire truck tonnage index increased 1.3% in June, marking the second consecutive month-to-month gain

The American Trucking Assns. (ATA ) seasonally-adjusted for-hire truck tonnage index increased 1.3% in June, marking the second consecutive month-to-month gain as the index reached its highest point since February 2008.

The index was 5.4% higher than June 2007, marking the eighth consecutive year-over-year increase, ATA said.

“It seems that truck tonnage is once again leading the U.S. economy,” said ATA chief economist Bob Costello. “During the 2000-2001 cycle, trucking pulled out of a recession before the aggregate economy fell into one. Unfortunately, truck tonnage could slow later this year as the overall economy is expected to be quite weak in the fourth quarter and the first quarter of next year.”

Costello added that industry capacity has tightened as high fuel prices has forced some fleets out of the market and has led other carriers to reduce the size of their fleets, a trend he expects to continue in the near-term.

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

Voice your opinion!

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

Sponsored Recommendations

Optimizing your fleet safety program using AI

Learn how AI supports fleet safety programs with tools for compliance monitoring, driver coaching and incident analysis to reduce risks and improve efficiency.

Mitigate Risk with Data from Route Scores

Route Scores help fleets navigate the risk factors they encounter in the lanes they travel, helping to keep costs down.

Uniting for Bold Solutions to Tackle Transportation’s Biggest Challenges

Over 300 leaders in transportation, logistics, and distribution gathered at Ignite 2024. From new products to innovative solutions, Ignite highlighted the importance of strong...

Seasonal Strategies for Maintaining a Safe & Efficient Fleet Year-Round

Prepare your fleet for every season! From winterizing vehicles to summer heat safety, our eBook covers essential strategies for year-round fleet safety. Download now to reduce...