FTR Shippers’ Condition Index Reflects Tightening Capacity

May 13, 2011
FTR Associates’ Shippers’ Condition Index (SCI) as reported in the May Shippers Update fell significantly to a reading of -11.4, reflecting tightening capacity and accelerating transport costs.

FTR Associates’ Shippers’ Condition Index (SCI) as reported in the May Shippers Update fell significantly to a reading of -11.4, reflecting tightening capacity and accelerating transport costs.

“The recent sharp deterioration in the SCI reflects the twin pressures of tightening capacity and rising fuel surcharges,” said Larry Gross, Senior Consultant for FTR. “Looking ahead, with the slower recent growth in the economy, we are expecting the SCI to begin to stabilize and would not be surprised to even see some modest improvement in the next few months. Such improvement would not, however, change our basic outlook for a difficult environment for shippers through the end of this year and well beyond.”

The May Shippers Update includes commentary discussing whether the increase in Class 8 orders will ultimately ease tight shipping capacity. For more information about how to subscribe to the Shippers Update, send an e-mail to [email protected] or call 888-988-1699 ext. 1.