US trucking activity hits 7-year low

ERJ staff report (TB)

Washington DC - Trucking activity by US truckers in April fell to its lowest level since late 2001, according to the latest data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA).

The ATA's index of truck tonnage fell 13.2 percent in April from a year ago, falling to the lowest level since November 2001, the ATA said. The decrease was brought on by the recession and businesses' efforts to decrease inventory.

“While most key economic indictors are decreasing at a slower rate, the year-over-year contractions in truck tonnage accelerated because businesses are right-sizing their inventories, which means fewer truck shipments,” ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said.

The April index was down 2.2 percent from March, the ATA said, the second consecutive month-to-month decrease.

“Until this correction is complete, freight will be tough for motor carriers,” Mr. Costello said.

The ATA calculates the tonnage each month based on reports by its member trucking companies.

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)