The U.S. trucking industry saw a modest increase in freight activity in March, with the American Trucking Associations' advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index rising 0.3% from February.
This uptick brings the index to 117.0, up from 116.6 the prior month, continuing a steady upward trend after a relatively flat 2025.
The modest month-to-month increase belies a more notable milestone on an annual basis, with the index rising 3% compared to March 2025.
That's the largest year-over-year increase since October 2022, according to ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello.
The numbers point to a broader, positive trend, suggesting freight demand is strengthening, particularly in contract freight markets that dominate the index.
For the first quarter overall, tonnage increased 2.1% compared to the same period last year, marking a notable turnaround after a stagnant 2025.
The recent gains are a welcome sign for the transportation sector, which accounts for 72.7% of all domestic freight tonnage and generated $906 billion in revenue in 2024.
Trucking continues to serve as a key barometer of U.S. economic activity, with its performance closely tied to overall economic health.
The ATA's Truck Tonnage Index has tracked industry activity since the 1970s, providing valuable insights into the state of the transportation sector.
The recent gains suggest freight demand is strengthening, particularly in contract freight markets.
