October 2026
+1.9% YoY
U.S. Freight Shipments
Second consecutive month of year-over-year growth.
Cass Transportation Index | Sept. 2026
+10.1% YoY
Truckload Linehaul Pricing
Pricing remains elevated despite slower monthly growth.
Cass Transportation Index | Sept 2026
54.5 PMI
Manufacturing PMI
Expansion continues for the ninth consecutive month.
ISM | Sept 2026
$6.20 per gallon
U.S. On-Highway Diesel Price
Down 18.3¢ from last week but still elevated.
EIA | Oct 5, 2026
What the Data is Telling Us
Freight Demand & Truckload Pricing
September shipments rose 1.9% YoY; truckload linehaul rose 10.1% YoY
Source: Cass Transportation Index, monthly | Oct 2025–Sept 2026
Manufacturing PMI & Diesel Prices
PMI remains above 50; September diesel averaged $6.29/gal, up from $5.46 in August.
From the Field
"Shippers are being more intentional about how they move freight. The conversations we’re having right now are focused on flexibility, lead times and total cost—not just rates. The earlier we can get involved, the more options we can create."
— Dan Makowski, Brokerage Manager
Market Watch
Truckload: Q4 Capacity Planning
As shippers move into Q4, seasonal demand and year-end activity can tighten capacity on certain lanes. Regional imbalances and equipment constraints may also influence rates.
Planning freight needs early can provide flexibility, reduce exposure to last-minute premium pricing and support a reliable supply chain.
LTL: Pricing Pressure Continues
General rate increases and accessorial costs continue to influence LTL pricing. Shipment characteristics, packaging and lane dynamics affect overall cost.
Accurate shipment information and proper packaging help reduce unexpected charges and optimize LTL spend.
Did You Know?
Hardinger operates its own asset-based LTL fleet.
Daily Cleveland coverage, including liftgate-equipped delivery options.
Need regional LTL capacity? Contact your Hardinger representative.
SOURCES: Cass Transportation Index (Sept 2026) | ISM (Sept 2026) | EIA (Oct 5, 2026)
Data is the latest available at time of publication.