Shipper Changes Cut Distances That Truckload Freight Travels

hanges in distribution patterns by shippers are combining with well-known industry issues of high fuel prices, a shortage of drivers, modifications to hours-of-service rules and highway congestion to drive down the average number of miles that a truck hauls a shipment, according to several carriers and shippers.

The relative decline of longhaul truckload moves also coincides with the growth of truck-rail intermodal as a cost-effective but difficult-to-time alternative for lengthy shipments.

“The marketplace has seen Point A move closer to Point B in recent years,” said Jeff Wardeberg, chief operating officer of truckload carrier U.S. Xpress Enterprises, adding that length-of-haul is an important statistic for industry managers to monitor.