Truckstop.com's Market Demand Index

What It Is

This graph shows the ratio of loads posted to trucks posted by equipment type.

Why It’s Useful

• This chart shows that while the actual MDI (blue bars) has increased over the past two weeks, the seasonal MDI (red line) has remained flat.
• This tells us that the MDI increases were expected and align with typical seasonal patterns that we see at this time of year.

What It Means for Carriers

• Capacity is tightening as produce and other seasonal freight picks up, but the market demand isn’t fluctuating outside of “normal” range.
• Spot rates are below the levels that we saw at this time of year in 2018, but they’re still above years 2016 and 2017.
• Ensure you’re watching the rates on excess tenders or spot freight – especially in early-season produce areas like South Florida, Texas, and California.

What It Means for Brokers

• Capacity is tightening as produce and other seasonal freight picks up, but the market isn’t fluctuating outside of “normal” range.
• Spot rates are below the levels that we saw at this time of year in 2018, but they’re still above 2016 and 2017.
• Follow normal seasonal rate expectations, but watch out for additional tenders or increased tender lead time – especially for refrigerated freight in early-season produce areas like South Florida, Texas, and California.