FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index for July, although still negative, improved to a reading of -2.0 from the previous -3.6 in June. While fuel costs were a headwind in July, freight dynamics were more favorable for shippers. Freight rates were the most favorable since October. The SCI outlook has weakened a bit but, for now, still looks close to neutral throughout most of 2026. However, a more negative outlook might be coming due to regulatory and enforcement changes.

Avery Vise, FTR’s Vice President of Trucking, commented, “July, although still negative, improved to a reading of -2.0 from the previous -3.6 in June. While fuel costs were a headwind in July, freight dynamics were more favorable for shippers. Freight rates were the most favorable since October. The SCI outlook has weakened a bit but, for now, still looks close to neutral throughout most of 2026. However, a more negative outlook might be coming due to regulatory and enforcement changes.”

This index represents four major conditions in the U.S. full-load freight market. These metrics are combined into a single index that tracks the market conditions that influence a shipper's freight transportation environment.