Truck Tonnage Index

## What this measures

This measures the monthly volume of freight moved by trucks in the United States, expressed as an index where 2015 equals 100. It serves as a proxy for freight throughput across the economy.

## Why it matters

Truck tonnage tracks the physical movement of goods and raw materials, reflecting demand for manufactured products, retail inventory flows, and industrial activity. Changes in tonnage signal shifts in consumption, production schedules, and supply chain volume before they appear in revenue or employment figures.

## How to read it

A rising index indicates growing freight volumes and stronger goods demand. A falling index points to slowing shipments and weaker economic activity. Compare successive months or the current level to the base of 100 to gauge the direction and magnitude of change.

## What it does not say

This index does not distinguish between types of freight, shipment distances, or regional concentration. It reflects volume, not the value or profitability of goods transported.

## Source

The source is the American Trucking Association Monthly Truck Tonnage Report, collected by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Palanor pulls this series from the FRED API nightly.