Soaring August Truck Freight Tonnage Reaches Highest Since December 2023
Don’t expect a holiday freight boom — here’s what that means for drivers.
“While I’d like to predict a strong rebound in freight levels through the upcoming holidays, I can’t,” says American Trucking Associations Chief Economist Bob Costello. 🚚 That’s the straight talk: the usual holiday bump may be weaker or delayed this year.
Translation for us on the road: slower freight = pressure on rates and more competition for the loads that are out there. That can mean fewer miles, tighter pay, and longer waits between good hauls. 📉💰
So what should you do? Keep it practical — plan for a quieter season and use the downtime smartly.
- 🔎 Review lanes: Lean into lanes that historically hold through slow periods rather than chasing high-competition spot runs.
- 💬 Lock in business: Try to secure repeat customers or short-term contracts — steady, even if slightly lower pay beats long empty stretches.
- ⛽ Cut fuel waste: Route smarter, avoid unnecessary idle time, and use apps or fuel cards to get the best prices.
- 🔧 Use slow weeks for maintenance: Avoid breakdowns when freight picks up. New tires, brakes, and inspections now beat getting stranded later.
- 📱 Work the boards: Be proactive on load boards and relationship-building with brokers — first to respond often gets the load.
- 📊 Protect cash flow: Build a small cushion if you can, and be cautious with big expenses until lanes firm up.
Keep an eye on local market chatter and ATA updates — if Costello can’t call a rebound, we should plan like it won’t happen. Use this time to prep, maintain equipment, and line up reliable accounts. 🔧📅
Share your take — what lanes are holding up for you?
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