The outlook for growth in truck tonnage for 2010 is modest at best, according to trucking groups and research analysts, affected mostly by continued sluggish consumer spending and business investment. Still, they say, the trucking industry is headed in the right direction, albeit slowly. Anticipated modest increases will help move the industry along. However, the real shot in the arm would be greater consumer confidence, leading to moving more inventory. But that may not happen until job and income prospects improve.

Confidence Boost: Modest Freight Outlook Needs Consumers' Help

Despite a two-month surge in trucking tonnage at the end of 2009, freight volumes are still predicted to be modest at best for most of 2010–largely because consumer spending and business investment are predicted to remain sluggish through this year.

“The robust tonnage numbers in November and December [last year] were aided by better economic growth as well as a positive inventory effect,” said Bob Costello, chief economist for the American Trucking Associations (ATA).

“However, economic activity is expected to moderate in the current quarter, which will keep a lid on tonnage growth,” he stressed.

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