The U.S. freight market is entering its annual spring tightening phase with structurally fewer carriers available than in prior years, according to ATS and multiple freight market analyses. Dry van operators are pivoting to refrigerated trailers for produce season, spot truckload rates remain materially higher year-over-year, and the carrier base continues to shrink due to exits and reduced fleet investment during the four-year freight recession.
Operator takeaway
Fewer carriers on the road means the ones still running are pushing harder. Heavy recovery call complexity may increase as remaining operators push aging equipment. Review your heavy-duty dispatch protocols and confirm your wrecker fleet is rated for the loads you are being called to recover.