As reported by FleetOwner Magazine, a large number of trucking companies believe that freight volumes are likely to stay flat for the coming year. Carriers are split, on the other hand, as to whether rates will increase or stay the same, indicating uncertainty in the market. These findings come from the Fourth Quarter 2012 Business Expectations Survey, conducted quarterly by consulting firm Transport Capital Partners.

TCP Partner Richard Mikes notes, “Their volume and rate outlook does not bode well for cash flows and profits in 2013 for an industry under costs and availability pressure for drivers.”

TCP Parter Steven Dutro explains how this might effect wages: “Driver pay increases will be constrained by stagnant rates [so] it will be a tough balancing act for carriers to keep drivers.”

Read the full article here.