Truck industry expects slower growth in freight volumes in 2012
The American Trucking Assn. said that it expects the industry to haul more freight than it did last year, but it added that the pace of growth would probably be slower than it was in 2010 and 2011.
The association is the nation’s biggest trade organization for the trucking industry, with affiliates in each of the 50 states.
In 2010 and 2011, freight tonnage grew by 5.8%, but this year the Trucking Assn. is expecting growth of slightly less than 3%.
Bob Costello, chief economist for the ATA said that the trucking industry’s performance during the first quarter “was reflective of an economy that is growing, but growing moderately. The pace of freight definitely slowed from the torrid pace in late 2011.”
Costello said that the slower pace was not cause for concern, saying that a rate of just under 3% was “more in line with normal growth.”
Costello added, “Most economic indicators still look good, which will continue to support tonnage going forward.”
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