US research company FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) has forecast three per cent or better growth for truck loadings in 2016, reflecting stronger than expected results in 2015 and continued economic growth going forward.
However, the forecast also revealed a three point fall from the September reading to 5.06 in October, which according to FTR, was to be expected.
Jonathan Starks, Chief Operations Officer at FTR, commented, “The trucking environment has slowed during 2015, but compared to recent history it is still operating at a reasonable level. Spot market activity is well below what was seen during the very tight conditions that stemmed from last winter’s disruptions.
“We expect conditions to improve as we move through the year as the market further prepares for tight truck capacity when the HOS, ELD, and speed governor rules are implemented over the next two years.
“The main risk right now is the weakness in manufacturing and the high inventory levels. The inventory situation needs to be corrected before we are likely to get a sizable burst of manufacturing activity. Look for that to happen early in 2016.”