The October 2026 “State of the Industry Report” — presented in affiliation with Ryder — shares an in-depth overview across the trucking, maritime and intermodal markets, as well as what to expect in the coming weeks. The data contained within the report provides breakdowns of capacity, volumes and rates.
In this report, you will find:
Freight demand remains steady but the market is still fragile, with post-Labor Day volatility highlighting how quickly capacity and pricing conditions can shift.
Import volumes remain strong, with major U.S. ports reporting near-record container activity as shippers continue to carefully manage inventory levels.
Intermodal continues to outperform truckload, with domestic intermodal volumes running nearly 9% above last year due to meaningful cost savings and network efficiencies.
Transportation costs are under pressure from fuel prices, as diesel reached record highs, increasing operating costs and creating upward pressure on freight rates across modes.
Manufacturing remains a positive freight demand driver, with factory orders, industrial production, and transportation equipment orders continuing to expand despite moderating growth.
Consumer spending has remained resilient, but rising fuel costs and declining consumer sentiment could create headwinds for freight demand in the coming months.
Housing continues to be a drag on freight markets, with declining home sales, reduced housing starts, and weak builder sentiment weighing on construction-related freight activity.
Download the complimentary report today to access the full insights.
The post White Paper: State of the Industry – October 2026 appeared first on FreightWaves.
