For Texas carriers, this volatility isn’t just a headline—it’s a signal to tighten operations and insurance strategies before the New Year kicks off.

1. Tonnage Dips vs. Pricing Discipline

Despite a general softness in the domestic economy leading to volume decreases for major players—Old Dominion reported a 10% drop in tonnage—carriers are holding the line on pricing.

• The Strategy: Industry leaders are focusing on “yield management,” meaning they are choosing quality and service over just filling trucks at low rates.

• The Insurance Angle: When tonnage fluctuates, your Gross Revenue-based policies need to be accurate. If your volumes are lower than projected, you might be overpaying on premiums. Conversely, if you are seeing a year-end “bump” like Saia (which saw a 2.6% increase in daily shipments), you need to ensure your coverage limits keep pace with your increased activity.

2. The “Tariff Effect” and Holiday Spending

The market is currently reacting to “tariff-driven dynamics”. Many shippers moved goods early in Q3 to beat import deadlines, leading to a cooldown now as those stocks are used up.

• Looking Ahead: While early holiday spending shows some resilience, experts warn that tariffs will likely continue to push prices higher and affordability lower as we enter 2026.

• Pro-Tip: With tighter margins expected in Q1 (some predicting a 400-basis-point deterioration), now is the time to cut unnecessary costs. A comprehensive insurance audit can identify “waste” in your policy, such as paying for coverage on equipment that is currently idle.

3. Operational Resilience in a Soft Market

As Old Dominion CEO Marty Freeman noted, maintaining “best-in-class service” is the key to surviving economic softness. For small to mid-sized Texas fleets, service quality depends on one thing: Keeping your trucks moving.

Risk Management Checklist for December:

• Maintain Safety Standards: Even when volumes are soft, don’t cut corners on maintenance. An accident during a “tight” month can be financially devastating.

• Review Cargo Limits: With prices expected to rise in 2026 due to tariffs, the value of the goods you haul may increase. Ensure your Cargo Insurance limits are high enough to cover higher-value loads.

The LTL market’s current volatility is a reminder that the freight industry is constantly shifting. Between economic softness and tariff pressures, Texas carriers must be agile.

At AllSteps Insurance, we don’t just provide a policy; we provide a partnership. We help you navigate these market shifts by ensuring your insurance costs are aligned with your actual operational volume.

Don’t let market pressure catch you off guard. Contact AllSteps Insurance today for a year-end review of your LTL or Trucking policy and let’s get you ready for a profitable 2026!