STATE OF FREIGHT TODAY

Your source for  complimentary industry content from FTR

Whether you prefer to read updates, listen to podcasts, or take in the most recent webinar, this page is the source for complimentary FTR content covering everything associated with the commercial freight industry.  

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Truckstop & FTR Spot Pressure Heat Map

Load Volumes & Spot Rates

 

Learn more about the TruckStop & FTR U.S. Spot Pressure Heatmap at this knowledgebase article:
https://help.ftrintel.com/knowledge/faq-spot-pressure-heatmaps

Spot Market Insights

April 27, 2026

Total rates_042726

Total spot rates hit all-time high in the latest week

Despite some week-over-week easing in van rates, total market broker-posted spot rates in the Truckstop.com system rose to an all-time high – at least dating back to 2014 – during the week ended April 24 (week 16). Flatbed spot rates rose for a 17th straight week, and dry van and refrigerated van spot rates remained highly elevated. Even if spot rates were to moderate in the near term, another record is likely soon due to the upcoming International Roadcheck roadside inspection event.

Trucking & Rail Updates from FTR

Updated weekly with downloadable slide decks

TMU _Avery_ Podcast Graphics - Updated 5.28.24

Updated weekly on Tuesday, FTR's Avery Vise provides timely updates on key trucking topics moving the market.

Jan 2026 Replay_SOF Today Webpage

Get ahead of 2026 with a clear, data-backed look at the economic, trade, and freight shifts that will shape your strategy. 

2025 RMU Podcast -SOF Today

Updated biweekly on Fridays, FTR's Joseph Towers provides timely updates on rail topics moving the market.

Most Recent Orders & Indices

Class 8 Orders


New class 8 truck orders are normally a leading indicator of the state of the economy. Follow our preliminary order updates to understand the direction of the economy and commercial vehicle production.

Trailer Orders


Strong freight demand dictates the need for new trailers. Follow our preliminary trailer orders to monitor the underlying health of freight and track the demand for new equipment.

 

Trucking Conditions Index

This exclusive FTR metric combines millions of data points known to influence truck fleet behavior to provide one index measuring the industry's health.

 

Shippers Conditions Index

This exclusive FTR metric combines millions of transportation data points into one index to help shippers understand rate pressure across the industry.

State of Freight TODAY Articles

Freight Markets Show Stability in Some Areas as New Pressures Emerge

Freight Markets Show Stability in Some Areas as New Pressures Emerge

by FTR Analysts
Explore the complex freight landscape as energy prices drop, demand fluctuates, and market dynamics shift. Stay informed with expert insights and analysis.
Volatility Returns as Energy, Freight, and Demand Signals Diverge

Volatility Returns as Energy, Freight, and Demand Signals Diverge

by FTR Analysts
Explore the complex freight landscape as energy prices drop, demand fluctuates, and market dynamics shift. Stay informed with expert insights and analysis.
Trailer Orders Rebound—But the Underlying Demand Story Hasn’t Changed

Trailer Orders Rebound—But the Underlying Demand Story Hasn’t Changed

by Dan Moyer, Sr. Analyst, Commerical Vehicles
Trailer orders have rebounded, but underlying demand remains cautious due to excess capacity and ongoing economic pressures. Insights on market trends are essential for planning.

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