FTR Shippers Conditions Index for July reflects benign conditions for shippers
FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for July, at a reading of -1.3, continues to reflect the short term stability of capacity utilization and steady fuel prices that are aiding shippers in containing costs. However, FTR expects the SCI to fall gradually during the balance of 2015 with a more severe negative downturn in 2016 due
Shippers Conditions Index reflects soft market conditions
FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for June, at -2.0, reflects soft market conditions which have slowed, for the time being, rate increases that negatively impact shipper costs. Slowing GDP growth and a change in growth towards services has dramatically softened freight markets for both truckload and rail. With freight growth slowing and fuel prices staying
FTR expects shippers to avoid rate increases in 2015
FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for May, at -3.1, reflects the current manageable capacity utilization, which is expected to remain in place through 2015. As a result of improved capacity and low fuel prices, shippers are getting a respite from rate increases, an environment which should be maintained throughout the year. However, conditions affecting shippers will
FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index remains in positive territory
At a reading of 8.53, FTR‘s Trucking Conditions Index fell only slightly from September’s level reflecting still strong fundamentals for trucking firms. According to FTR, underlying capacity utilization is retreating from the dangerous 99% level reached earlier in 2014, and the market is expected to remain tight. FTR forecasts capacity to ease very modestly in 2015
FTR reports no relief for August shippers conditions
FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for August, at a reading of -6.5, remains at a sustained low level reflective of persistent capacity shortages and rising rates. Costs to ship goods in the current freight environment are expected to remain elevated, said FTR. The firm also reported that truck rates have moved firmly upward with 4-plus