Contributor: Robert Martin

Flatbed, dry van rates dip-election, rate cuts influence 2025 outlook.

We continue to operate in a market that is oversupplied, keeping freight rates well under control.

Flatbed spot rates are still down 26% from their Q2 2022 peak. Have we found a bottom? Could rates go lower?

After nine quarters of tough sledding the question remains, will supply continue to hang on and slowly exit the marketplace, thus keeping rates rather tame, or will enough carriers get fed up and throw in the towel to have a marked impact on the rate environment?

We'll see whether the annual CVSA Roadcheck or seasonal demand patterns will be enough to give flatbed rates any real lift.

Excess supply has lasted longer than expected for both flatbed and dry van, resulting in rates remaining lower than for longer than anticipated.

The flatbed market for spot rates is showing signs of improvement as we move through the new year.