Source: Supply Chain Dive
Date: 25th June 2025

Frontloading Boosts Freight Volumes, But Long-Term Market Pressures Persist

Shippers accelerated imports in May to stay ahead of potential tariff changes, triggering a modest rise in dry van and reefer freight volumes.

According to recent data from a logistics analytics firm, dry van volumes rose 3% and reefer volumes increased 5% compared to April.

Despite this seasonal bump, analysts caution that the market remains unstable, with carriers still lacking the pricing power necessary to drive profitability.

The early surge in shipments, usually seen closer to September, suggests that traditional peak season patterns have shifted. Concerns about tariffs led companies to import goods earlier than usual, with many shipments arriving as far back as last September.

This shift means that demand for the remainder of the year is expected to remain flat, leaving shippers in a position of strength while brokers and carriers face margin pressures.

Industry experts warn that without a clear and dependable trade policy, the freight market could continue to stagnate. The oversupply of trucks in relation to available loads is already driving down rates and compressing profits.

As demand remains uncertain, many in the sector are reluctant to expand or invest, raising concerns that some brokers and carriers may not withstand the prolonged downturn in what is already considered a freight recession.