The Intermodal Monthly Update published by FTR Associates and Gross Transportation Consulting (GTC) reports in the June 2008 issue that while intermodal revenue movements of international shipments continued to decline, domestic shipments are showing a distinctive upward trend.
International volumes in April edged down 0.1% from year-ago levels, while domestic volume surged 9.6%. Year-to-date figures tell a similar story: International volumes down 3.9% while domestic volumes have increased 3.7%. The divergent performance indicates the different factors influencing these sectors. International performance is being hindered by the weak economy, the weak dollar, and diversion of freight from intermodal to all-water routing. Domestic volumes are being stoked by sky-high and still increasing fuel prices and the decline in trucking capacity. According to the report, the overall economic outlook remains cloudy for this industry with high oil prices and the weak dollar negatively impacting the international sector in the near term.
For a sample Intermodal Monthly Update, go to the website www.ftrassociates.net and click on products or call 888-988-1699, ext. 41.