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.  

When you're ready to learn how FTR can help take you to the next level, download a sample report at the bottom of the page!

Sign up for weekly updates!

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 - January 20, 2026

Total rates_012026

Van spot rates fall sharply again in the latest week

Post-holiday normalization in the spot market continued in the latest week. Broker-posted spot rates in the Truckstop.com system for dry van and refrigerated van equipment both fell during the week ended January 16 (week 2) by considerably more than they did in the previous week and by more than they typically do in comparable weeks. Flatbed spot rates were the highest since mid-year. Van spot rates usually continue falling in week 3, although weather can be disruptive as was the casein 2024’s week 3.

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

Trailer Orders Rebound in December — But the Recovery Signal Remains Unclear

Trailer Orders Rebound in December — But the Recovery Signal Remains Unclear

by Dan Moyer, Sr. Analyst, Commerical Vehicles
December's U.S. trailer orders surged, yet market caution persists. Discover the factors driving this rebound and what it means for 2026's cv landscape.
January Reality Check: Spot Rates Cool While Economic Signals Stabilize

January Reality Check: Spot Rates Cool While Economic Signals Stabilize

by FTR Analysts
Spot rates decline post-holiday as housing, industrial production show mixed signals; freight demand stabilizes but remains below historical norms.
A Quieter Warning Sign for Shippers — And Why It Matters Heading into 2026

A Quieter Warning Sign for Shippers — And Why It Matters Heading into 2026

by The FTR Experts
Shippers face tightening freight market conditions as the Shippers Conditions Index drops, signaling potential challenges in 2026. Learn how to navigate the changing landscape.

Ready to take your market intelligence to the next level?

With services built on empirical data, the most sophisticated freight forecasting methodology in the business, and scrutinized by a panel of experts with a treasure trove of knowledge and experience. FTR's services are trusted to guide organizational decision-making by the industry's best companies. 
 
Download a sample report from our suite of monthly services now and see how exclusive content and forecasts can help drive better decision-making!