NASHVILLE, Ind. — FTR Associates has lowered its Shippers Condition Index (SCI) to reflect tightening carrier capacity, particularly in the truckload sector.

Noel Perry, senior consultant for FTR, said the downward progression of the SCI should serve as a warning signal to shippers.

"While trucking capacity is currently adequate during the normally slack winter shipping season, looking forward we expect things to tighten up dramatically as freight demand picks up beginning in March," he stated.

"A shortage of truck drivers, due in part to new government safety regulations, will be the key factor restricting the ability of motor carriers to expand capacity, resulting in higher rates and possible challenges in getting freight moved later in the year."

The Shippers Update looks at conditions that will affect the cost and efficiency of shipping goods via all transportation modes in North America.

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