Where are trucking rates headed in 2025? 7 executives weigh in

Trucking executives are bracing for potential rate squeezes to close out a prolonged freight recession.

Favorable rates for shippers in recent years have come at the expense of carriers, many of whom have downsized fleets and encountered financial hits. Trucking execs have therefore warned of lackluster prices making their businesses unsustainable.

But it’s anyone’s guess when prices will start increasing. On recent Q4 earnings calls, industry leaders shared their thoughts and indicated positive outlooks — even amid uncertainty.

“No one knows what the market is going to be between now and 2026. But we’re going to control what we can control and keep the …