Trucking Drives U.S. Economy Says New Federal Data
Trucking Drives U.S. Economy
Recently released data from the Census Bureau and the Bureau of Transportation Statistics underscored that trucking is the dominant mode for moving freight in the United States.
“The Commodity Flow Survey showed once again that trucks move the vast, vast majority of freight in the United States,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello.
Costello highlighted a number of the Commodity Flow Survey’s results as particularly enlightening:
- In 2012, trucks moved 73.7% of all freight by value and 70% of the tonnage versus 3.3% of value and 15.8% of tonnage moved by rail;
- The average length of haul for trucks is 212 miles;
- Only 3% of freight tonnage moved on multiple modes – i.e. a train and a truck, or a barge and
a truck; - Just 15.1% of all freight shipments were longer than 500 miles and only 9.7% traveled more than 750 miles.
“The length of haul data is crucial, particularly when talking about rail and truck competition,” Costello said. “While feasible under certain conditions, the potential for rail intermodal to gain a significant amount of truck market share is limited. Now more than ever, the two modes are more likely to complement each other than compete for business. ”
About American Trucking Association
American Trucking Associations is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation’s freight. More information at: www.trucking.org
Category: Featured, General Update
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