FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index for August jumped to a positive reading of 8.31, reflecting the very favorable rate environment for trucking during the month. Except for June of this year, the August reading was the highest for the index since March 2018. FTR expects the TCI to fall slightly in September and continue to lower positive single digit readings in Q4 and into 2021.

“The stress on freight markets from replenishing retail inventories following the contraction continues and is keeping rates strong for carriers,” said Avery Vise, vice president of trucking at FTR. “The more industrially focused segments have not benefitted as much so far, but we are beginning to see signs of stronger demand, and the housing market is robust.”

Details of the August TCI are found in the October issue of FTR’s Trucking Update, published Sept. 30. Additional commentary focuses on the contrasts between the total freight market and the current strong market. Beyond the TCI and the commentary, Trucking Update includes data and analysis on load volumes, the capacity environment, and rates. FTR also publishes ongoing publicly available analysis on the impact of COVID-19 on freight transportation at FTR’s COVID-19 intelligence.

“Although high unemployment and uncertain support from Washington remain risks, we expect trucking conditions to remain strong for a prolonged period,” Vise added.