The American Trucking Association (ATA) today reported its seasonally adjusted Truck Tonnage Index jumped 3.4% in January— a strong reversal of the 1% decline reported in December. January’s index was 6.4% higher compared to the same period last year.
“January proved to be a strong month for truck tonnage,” said ATA chief economist Bob Costello. “Growing manufacturing production continues to be the driver of truck freight. And we have seen big gains in heavy commodity gains, like steel, which is another reason why tonnage is growing at a solid pace.”
ATA calculates the tonnage index based on surveys completed by its membership.