In April, the TransCore DAT North American Freight Index achieved the highest volume in a single month since the Index was established in 1996. On a year-over-year basis, volume increased 17 percent, and rose 3.5 percent compared to March volume.

TransCore’s monthly DAT North American Freight Index reflects spot market freight availability on the company’s network of load boards in the United States and Canada.

Truckload freight rates increased in April month-over-month, following seasonal patterns on the spot market. Rates for dry vans increased 3.1 percent compared to March, flatbed rates gained 4.9 percent and refrigerated (“reefer”) van rates rose 5.5 percent compared to the previous month. Compared to April 2011, spot market rates remained relatively stable, rising 0.1 percent for vans and 1.2 percent for flatbeds while rates declined 1.8 percent for reefers.

Rates are derived from the company’s DAT Truckload Rate Index, and do not include fuel surcharges. Spot market rates are paid by brokers and 3PLs to the carrier.