Truckload Market Update: May 2025

Spot and contract rates trends
Spot rates have shown year-over-year growth, indicating a recovering freight market. Contract rates, typically trailing spot rate trends, are expected to slowly increase in upcoming quarters.

Impact of tariff policy shifts
Uncertainty around trade policies has led to fluctuating import volumes and uncertainty in supply chains. The 90-day tariff pause is projected to cause a temporary demand rebound as shippers frontload inventories.

Capacity and market balance
Capacity supply remains elevated with revocations slowing. If demand continues to decline from long-term economic uncertainty, revocations may accelerate. Tender rejections show market balance despite lower freight volumes.

Rate trends and fuel costs 

Capacity supply and freight demand 

Broker market trends 

Freight volumes and tender rejections 

Imports 

Economic indicators to watch 

Key takeaways 

About ArcBest Truckload

Find Capacity for Every Load

Tell us about yourself

 

*Some fields are required so we can better serve you

Tell us about your logistics needs
Get the latest logistics news delivered to your inbox