What content is in the Shippers Update?

The Shippers Update is an FTR service that provides a monthly snapshot of freight movement and rates.

Presented in a clear and concise monthly publication, this service gives you the information that you need to know to stay informed on the current state of the shipping industry. 

Here are some highlights:

Report | skip to Database

Page 1 provides an Executive Summary of the rate outlook. A quick view of where the industry and rates are headed and a glimpse at the high-level metrics that impact your business the most.
Page 2 contains the FTR exclusive Shippers Conditions Index that tracks freight demand, freight rates, fleet capacity, and fuel price, combined into a single index. A simple guide on reading the numbers is below:
  • Optimistic conditions are represented by a positive reading while pessimistic conditions read at a negative score.
  • A reading below zero warns you of a problem while high above zero indicate an opportunity.
  • Double digit readings, both up and down, are warning signs for significant change in the market.
Pages 3-8 are broken down by topic and provide in-depth but concise details of what is happening in the world around you. Specific areas are summarized in text on the left, with key graphs showing current conditions and outlook data.
Pages 9-10 include indicators and details into the broader economic environment. The economy drives freight demand and is important to track for outside influences that may affect your business.
Pages 11-12 delivers exclusive commentary from FTR industry experts and our takeaway from the current conditions and outlooks. In this section, we provide an overview of the factors affecting the industry, along with any insights we can provide to help you understand the market.
As an FTR client, you’ll also have direct access to our in-house panel of experts with over 270 years of combined experience in the transportation industry. 

Database  | back to Report

Access to the Trucking Update Database is provided for Premium subscribers. The database is provided in Excel format and includes the underlying data used to generate the graphs in the report, with history back to 1991.