The recent First Quarter Business Expectations Survey completed by Transport Capital Partners found 92 percent expecting volume increases in the next 12 months.

"This topped all prior quarters surveyed and for the first time not one expected a decrease," noted Richard Mikes, TCP Partner. There was no difference between respondents of over and under $25 million in annual revenues.

Ninety-one percent of carriers also anticipate rate increases. "In the year ahead rates and volumes will rise in tandem, with the remaining question to revolve around the level and adequacy of pricing given the rising costs of fuel, tires, new equipment and drivers," said Mikes.

Mikes also said the capacity crunch is likely to worsen in the coming months. An earlier white paper by TCP found capacity reduced around 15 percent the past two years and with the rising economy freight tonnages coupled with primarily replacement demand driving new purchases the capacity will remain tight for the next couple of years or more.

For more information: www.transportcap.com.