WASHINGTON (Aug. 29, 2008) – The amount of goods moved by truck in the U.S. jumped 4.4 percent in July from a year earlier — the eighth straight year-over-year increase – according to the American Trucking Associations (ATA).
The tonnage moved in July was down slightly from June, however, the ATA said, marking the first month-to-month decline since January.
The easing of movement in July might presage further softening in the coming months, reflecting a slowing economy, according to ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello.
At the same time, though, Mr. Costello noted slight declines in fuel prices and tighter capacity could help offset softer freight volumes for truckers.
Year-to-date, the ATA said, the index was up 3.6 percent over the first seven months of 2007.
The ATA calculates the tonnage each month based on reports by its member trucking companies.