Driver shortage constrains truckload capacity despite soft spot market, Transportation Insight says
XLI•XLI•XLI•XLI•Truckload driver availability has fallen about 12% since early 2026, while supply normalization could take six months to a year or longer. Peak parcel volume is projected to rise about 4%, as ground pricing increases 5.8% year over year and express pricing rises 13.8%.
Transportation Insight said truckload driver availability has fallen approximately 12% since early 2026, limiting capacity despite equipment purchases by large carriers. Supply normalization could take six months to a year or longer, leaving spot rates vulnerable to disruption-driven increases.
Peak parcel volume is projected to rise approximately 4% from last year as carriers raise prices. Ground parcel pricing is up roughly 5.8% year over year, while express pricing is increasing approximately 13.8%.
The Los Angeles and Long Beach port strike deadline was extended to November 20, 2026, leaving peak-season operations exposed to a shutdown.
