Chicago, Illinois — A recent Bloomberg and Truckstop load board survey released on September 9, 2026 shows owner‑operators and small fleets are leaning toward a rebound in the spot market.

The survey, conducted by Bloomberg Intelligence and the Truckstop load board, gathered 225 responses from carriers across dry‑van, flatbed, temperature‑controlled, specialized, hot‑shot, and step‑deck segments. Nearly half of those surveyed, 45 percent, operate only one tractor, highlighting the concentration of small‑fleet activity in the market. The data comes at a time when the industry is emerging from a tough first quarter that saw a 10 percent drop in loads, slightly better than the 13 percent decline recorded in Q4.

Lee Klaskow, senior freight transportation and logistics analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, noted that the improved sentiment, combined with Truckstop’s rising Market Demand Index, suggests rates could climb. Klaskow added that supply‑side capacity will keep pressure on rates, as the fleet remains flush. The survey also revealed that 62 percent of carriers reported a decrease in freight volume during Q1, yet 33 percent anticipate a rise in demand over the next three to six months, a 12‑percentage‑point jump from the 19 percent who expected a decline. Meanwhile, 26 percent now expect rates to fall, down six points from Q4, while 28 percent predict an increase, up six points. Despite these optimistic signals, 44 percent remain uncertain about their business status six months ahead, and 9 percent want to leave the industry altogether. The impact of higher interest rates was felt by 78 percent of respondents, with 19 percent citing increased equipment‑financing costs as the main reason for not replacing or adding tractors.

What This Means for Drivers

Owner‑operators with single tractors may find themselves in a better position to negotiate spot rates if demand rises, but the persistent capacity surplus could keep rates from reaching historic highs. CDL‑A holders who rely on spot market loads will need to monitor the Market Demand Index closely, as a 9 percent year‑over‑year gain after seven consecutive declines could signal a gradual uptick in available freight. Those considering fleet expansion face higher financing costs, with 19 percent of carriers reporting that interest rate hikes have delayed new tractor purchases. Managers of small fleets should also prepare for potential rate volatility, as 28 percent of respondents now expect rates to climb, while 26 percent foresee a drop.

Industry Reaction

Carriers across the board are taking note of the survey’s findings. The Truckstop CEO, Kendra Tucker, emphasized that the platform remains a trusted partner, offering innovative tools to help carriers navigate the shifting landscape. Many drivers are also looking at the increased Market Demand Index as a signal to stay active in the spot market, while others are cautious, given the 78 percent who feel the pinch of higher financing costs. The broader industry context shows a tension between a rebounding demand side and a supply side that remains generous, a dynamic that will shape freight rates for the coming months.

Key Points

• 225 carriers responded, 45 percent operating a single tractor.
• 62 percent reported a freight volume decline in Q1, yet 33 percent expect demand to rise in the next 3‑6 months.
• 78 percent of respondents feel the impact of higher interest rates on their operations.
• 9 percent of carriers expressed a desire to exit the trucking industry.

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