March 2026 | Market Insight

March Market Insights
By Mark Rudnitsky, Senior Executive at Inland Transport, Inc.

The transportation industry is entering another period of transition. Over the past year many shippers have noticed transportation costs slowly beginning to rise and truck availability tightening across multiple lanes. These changes are not simply temporary market fluctuations. They are the result of several structural changes within the trucking industry that are reshaping how freight moves across the country.

One of the biggest factors influencing the market is the continued enforcement of Department of Transportation regulations affecting truck drivers and CDL holders. Over the last few years the process of becoming a CDL driver has become more complex and more regulated. Entry level driver training requirements, stricter compliance standards, and increased safety enforcement have reduced the number of new drivers entering the industry. While these regulations are important for safety and professionalism within the trucking industry, they have also created a tighter labor pool of qualified drivers.

At the same time diesel fuel continues to play a major role in transportation pricing. Fuel is one of the largest operating expenses for any trucking company. When diesel prices rise it directly impacts the cost to move freight. Even moderate increases in diesel fuel create ripple effects across transportation networks because carriers must account for these additional operating expenses in their rates.

Operating costs across the trucking industry have also increased in several other areas. New trucks are significantly more expensive than they were just a few years ago. Insurance costs have increased substantially and maintenance and repair expenses have also risen. These combined factors make it more expensive for carriers to operate trucks, which naturally places upward pressure on transportation rates.

Another major shift happening in the industry is the gradual tightening of available capacity. During the softer freight market many smaller carriers exited the industry or reduced their fleet sizes due to lower rates and higher costs. As freight demand stabilizes the remaining carriers are becoming more selective about the freight they accept. This means shippers who plan ahead and work closely with Inland Transport will have a major advantage when securing reliable trucks.

Because of these market changes it is becoming increasingly important for shippers to adjust how they plan and manage their transportation strategies.

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Below are ten key areas that companies should focus on as the freight market continues to evolve.

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1. Provide more lead time for shipments whenever possible so carriers can schedule trucks in advance.

2. Communicate early with your account executive or account manager at Inland Transport so capacity can be secured before trucks become limited.

3. Budget appropriately for transportation costs as rates may continue to increase due to fuel, regulations, and operational costs.

4. Build strong relationships with Inland Transport so your team has access to dependable carrier networks across the country.

5. Plan shipments further in advance during peak seasons or during times of high demand.

6. Be flexible with pickup windows and delivery appointments when possible to improve the likelihood of securing trucks.

7. Consolidate shipments when possible to improve efficiency and reduce overall transportation costs.

8. Stay informed about regulatory changes affecting CDL drivers and trucking companies that may influence capacity and pricing.

9. Avoid last minute shipment requests whenever possible since they often lead to higher spot market pricing.

10. Work closely with Inland Transport to forecast freight volume and secure capacity ahead of time.

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These steps may seem simple but they are becoming increasingly important as the transportation market shifts. Companies that plan ahead and communicate early with Inland Transport will consistently see better service and more stable pricing compared to those that rely on last minute freight movement.

The most successful shippers understand that transportation is no longer just a transactional service. It is a strategic part of the supply chain. When Inland Transport is given adequate notice we are able to secure dependable carriers, plan routes efficiently, and ensure freight moves without unnecessary disruptions.

At Inland Transport, Inc., our focus is on proactive communication, strong carrier relationships, and careful planning with our customers. Our team works closely with shippers to understand their shipping patterns, forecast future freight needs, and secure reliable carrier capacity well in advance. This approach helps eliminate delays and ensures shipments move efficiently even when the market tightens.

As the coming year unfolds the transportation industry will continue adjusting to regulatory changes, rising fuel costs, and shifting capacity levels. While these changes may create challenges for some companies they also create opportunities for businesses that prepare early and work closely with Inland Transport.

By budgeting appropriately, providing additional lead time, and maintaining clear communication with your Inland Transport account executives and account managers, shippers can stay ahead of market changes and keep their supply chains moving smoothly regardless of market conditions.

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March Market Insights
By Mark Rudnitsky, Senior Executive at Inland Transport, Inc.

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