In April, the TransCore DAT North American Freight Index achieved the highest volume in a single month since the Index was established in 1996. On a year-over-year basis, volume increased 17% and rose 3.5% compared to March volume.


TransCore's monthly DAT North American Freight Index reflects spot market freight availability on the company's network of load boards in the U.S. and Canada.

Truckload freight rates increased in April month-over-month, following seasonal patterns on the spot market. Rates for dry vans increased 3.1% compared to March, flatbed rates gained 4.9% and refrigerated ("reefer") van rates rose 5.5% compared to the previous month. Compared to April 2011, spot market rates remained relatively stable, rising 0.1% for vans and 1.2% for flatbeds while rates declined 1.8% for reefers.

Looking ahead to June, the company says, carriers are likely to find relatively high freight volumes and a favorable ratio of outbound loads in the Southeast, most notably in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and Arkansas.

Rates are derived from the company's DAT Truckload Rate Index, and do not include fuel surcharges. Spot market rates are paid by brokers and 3PLs to the carrier.