Persistent weakness in business investment despite positive GDP growth.
High uncertainty surrounding the upcoming USMCA trade agreement review, which is stalling investment.
The potential for a supply chain whiplash effect if cautious inventory strategies prove insufficient for a demand rebound.
Softening in the home building sector, which serves as a bellwether for flatbed freight demand.
Opportunities Identified
Carriers are regaining significant pricing power in the spot market due to tightening capacity.
The structural growth in short-haul and local freight (up 11%) presents a durable opportunity for carriers focused on regional and final-mile delivery.
Mid-sized fleets can achieve better ROI by investing in back-office AI and automation rather than autonomous driving technology at present.