NASHVILLE, IN — FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) for April climbed a healthy 2.7 points to bring the reading to 9.1.

“Volume growth is modest, but because the industry is not adding capacity, even modest freight growth is sufficient to support firm rates,” explained Larry Gross, senior consultant for FTR.

“Although there is a fair amount of volatility in the TCI from month-to-month, and we would not preclude some near-term decline, we expect an overall gradual improvement in trucking conditions through the balance of 2012 and into 2013.”

That prediction, Gross said, is based on their expectations for higher rates propped up by modest growth in freight volume and tightening driver supply due to incoming government regulations.

“Lower prices for diesel are another factor currently working in the truckers’ favor,” Gross added.

The Trucking Conditions Index is a compliation of various factors. Readings above zero point to a positive trucking environment, and readings above 10 is a sign that volumes, prices and margin are in solid range for trucking companies.