Rising Rates Despite Softening Demand

Cass data for February 2026 points to a familiar but important split in the truckload market: shipment volumes remain soft, while pricing power continues to build. The Cass Shipments Index fell 7.2% year over year, though it rebounded 10.4% from January as networks recovered from winter weather disruptions. At the same time, the truckload linehaul index rose 2.2% year over year and ticked higher month over month, reaching its strongest level since April 2023.

The report suggests the rate recovery is being driven more by capacity pressure than by demand strength. Regulatory scrutiny, driver-related constraints, equipment limitations, and tighter spot availability are all helping push rates upward even as overall freight demand stays muted. Cass also flagged rising fuel prices and geopolitical pressure on energy markets as potential headwinds for consumer spending and domestic freight activity in March.

At TLC, we are watching the balance between soft volumes and tighter capacity closely across lanes and mode mix. In markets like this, timing, routing discipline, and clear communication matter. Reach out to our team to stay ahead of rate movement and keep freight on track with steady, informed execution.