Axle Monthly Update: August 2025

Active truck utilization has remained stable since February. The 2026 forecast is largely unchanged, with no meaningful improvement expected until late 2026 or early 2027. A slight softening is anticipated in Q4, though the outlook is tempered by potential upside from an accelerated capacity exit.

FTR has raised its total truck loadings forecast to a 0.4% year-over-year increase, up from the previous 0.2%. Dry van loadings are still expected to decline, but the projected drop has improved slightly to -0.8% y/y, driven by modest gains in food and automotive shipments. Refrigerated loadings remain unchanged at a 0.4% y/y increase. Flatbed loadings have been revised upward to a 2.2% y/y increase, from 1.7% previously, with all major commodity groups showing strong gains last month.

The total truckload rate forecast has been revised slightly downward to a 1.8% year-over-year increase. Both spot and contract rate outlooks have softened compared to previous projections, primarily due to weaker dry van and refrigerated rates. The 2026 outlook has also been adjusted slightly lower, with a 1.2% year-over-year increase now expected.

AI in Logistics: Empowering People, Not Replacing Them Artificial Intelligence and automation are transforming logistics, not replacing people but enhancing their roles. By automating repetitive tasks, AI enables teams to focus on strategy, analysis, and delivering customer solutions. At Axle, we see technology as a tool that empowers our people and drives smarter decision-making across the supply chain. Even with these advances, skilled professionals remain essential for navigating complexity, solving problems, and building strong partnerships in this industry.

“At Axle, we leverage AI and the power of technology because we’re always pursuing what’s next. But no matter how advanced the tools become, they’ll never replace the insight, knowledge, and relationships built by experienced logistics professionals. Technology enhances the process. Our people drive the results.” — Shawn McLeod, President of Axle Logistics

Our Team

2025 Distribution Top Workplaces For the seventh consecutive year, Axle Logistics has been recognized as a 2025 Distribution Top Workplace. At this year’s Top Workplaces event hosted by Knox News, Axle was honored as the Large Winner. President Shawn McLeod was also awarded the Leadership Award, recognizing his vision, integrity, and the impact of his leadership across our team. These achievements are a testament to the passion and drive of every member of the Axle team. Together, we continue to build a workplace where people grow, succeed, and thrive.

Mission of Hope

Mission of Hope serves Rural Appalachia by providing essential resources to individuals and families living in poverty. Axle’s summer interns stepped up to support that mission by assembling over 200 backpacks with school supplies and two pallets of hygiene bags. This hands-on experience served as a reminder that even the smallest acts can leave a lasting impression. At Axle Logistics, we are proud to support Mission of Hope’s incredible work, helping build brighter futures by delivering help today and hope for tomorrow.

Melanie Vail: Logistics Consultant Since going live in April, Melanie Vail quickly made her mark at Axle by landing seven new customers. With a strong work ethic, energy, and positive attitude, she has made herself a valuable addition to the Axle team.

“Landing seven customers so far has taken persistence, grit and a constant drive to grow. I’ve learned to embrace the pressure and stay focused on building relationships, because every challenge is a chance to level up.” – Melanie Vail

Her Team Lead, Noah Simpson, shared his perspective on Melanie’s impact:

“From day one, Mel has shown up with purpose and willingness to grow. She takes ownership of her role, embraces every challenge, and brings real value to both her customers and our team. She’s exactly the kind of person you want on your side.” — Noah Simpson, Team Lead

We’re proud to recognize Melanie’s early success and look forward to seeing her continued growth ahead!

August presents a unique set of challenges for freight movement, as high shipment volumes coincide with peak summer travel. As vacationers flood highways, especially around tourist hotspots and major cities, truck routes become heavily congested, leading to slower travel times and increased fuel consumption. Truckers must adapt by planning routes to navigate these dynamic conditions, ensuring that deliveries continue to flow smoothly, even during the busiest travel season.