Even though many flatbed markets are down compared to last month, we are seeing pockets of actively spread throughout the country, and several of the major flatbed lanes improved last week.
Imported produce caused reefer loads to surge from the Nogales, AZ and McAllen, TX markets. Still, that wasn't enough to boost the national average rate.
Three of the most important van markets — Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles — had higher load counts, but increased volumes did not translate into higher rates.
Van freight volumes were up more than 7% last week, providing positive momentum going into the fourth quarter. Houston had a big comeback, with volumes up 20%.
Flooding in the Houston area disrupted the supply chain in Texas and beyond, while strong harvests led to reefer rate increases in several Midwest markets.
Tropical Storm Imelda hit the Gulf Coast last week, bringing up to 40 inches of rain to the Houston area, and disrupting supply chains throughout the region.
