TL Rates Up, LTL Flat: Canadian General Freight Index

(Truck News)

Truckload rates are on the rise while LTL rates remain flat, according to the latest edition of the Canadian General Freight Index. The index measures the cost of ground transportation rates for Canadian shippers. The latest edition, released yesterday, includes April.

“The results show a definite increase in truckload rates – which is consistent with what we are seeing in the industry,” says Dr. Alan Saipe, president of Supply Chain Surveys. “Less than truckload appears to be staying flat.”

Overall freight costs rose 3.9% in April compared to March. Base rates, excluding fuel surcharges, increased 3.9% with average fuel surcharges decreasing by 1.4%.

“While we are seeing a clear increase in demand for truckload capacity, it is still too early to know for sure if the price increases seen in April is the start of an upward trend,” says Doug Payne, president of Nulogx.