Spot market demand in December was strong, finishing what DAT Solutions, a subsidiary of Roper Industries, called a “banner year” for 2017.
December national averages for dry and reefer (refrigerated) van rates, respectively, saw 2017 highs, said DAT, and the national average flatbed rate was even with its high for the year, too.
And truckload freight availability in December, which DAT said was spurred on by high levels of retail shipments, demand for fresh and frozen foods, and e-commerce fulfillment, saw a 25% annual increase, as per the DAT North American Freight Index. DAT says this index is a “sensitive indicator of demand for transportation services.”
From November to December, DAT said over all freight volume dipped 3%, adding that November was very strong, coupled with other capacity constraints including inclement weather in several parts of the country, the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate which went into effect on Dec. 18, leading to shippers and freight brokers paying premiums for available trucks.
DAT’s key findings for December included: