With demand for LTL freight falling in early 2008, Carriers are being a lot more competitive with rates. Freight shippers, especially larger shippers, should be able to have their rates hold for this year.  This is especially so because carriers are concerned about lesser volume.

“I believe larger shippers should have more leverage in this environment,” says Tim Hutson, a freight consultant. “But smaller shippers would be best to work with a freight pooling company, because the carriers are still not happy about giving good rates to lower-volume shippers. This is even more so because fuel surcharges are so high.”