Shipment volumes have increased every quarter on a sequential basis since the TIA began its third-party logistics survey in April 2009.
The trade association claimed the report is a sign that transportation service providers have successfully weathered the economic downturn despite a decline in average profit margin, which was attributed to the volatile spot market in which many domestic freight brokers participate. A press release did not place a figure on the brokers' profit margin or the amount of decline. The TIA said it expected margins to improve as demand increases and truck capacity tightens.