Tariffs Are Reshaping the Trucking Industry: What the Latest Freight Data Tells Us

Tariff policies in 2025 are not just trade issues – they’re reshaping U.S. freight movement. New data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) and the FMCSA shows significant impacts on trucking costs, freight volumes, and carrier behavior.

Cross-Border Freight Is Shifting Fast

Since new tariffs were announced, U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada freight has surged:

     >Mexico-bound freight: +166.3% to $55.3B

     >Canada-bound freight: +86.4% to $33.1B

Laredo, TX, now handles more freight than any other U.S. land port, with nearly 3 million trucks crossing in 2023—a 24.2% increase since 2019. Just before the April 2025 tariffs, Laredo saw a 12% freight volume spike, and spot rates on Toronto-Chicago lanes jumped 57%.

Post-Tariff Freight Volatility

After the initial surge, freight slowed dramatically:

     >Truck Tonnage Index fell in April

     >For-Hire Trucking Volume Index dropped from 51.5 (March) to:

          43.4 (items)

          39.4 (miles)

This reflects reduced demand and uncertainty in the freight market.

Equipment and Freight Costs Are Climbing

Tariffs on truck components and materials are raising equipment costs:

>New commercial trucks may cost 9% more

>A 25% tariff on Mexican-made tractors may add $35,000 per Class 8 truck

>One-third of U.S. trucks rely on parts affected by tariffs

As freight carriers face squeezed margins, many delay fleet upgrades, causing ripple effects in freight reliability and capacity. Partnering with a reliable 3PL can help carriers secure freight, stabilize income, and reduce deadhead miles.

Freight Capacity Is Tightening

FMCSA reports a 50% drop in new carrier approvals due to higher compliance standards and economic pressure. This trend indicates:

>Fewer new freight carriers

>Stricter regulation reducing fraud

>Potential long-term capacity constraints

Larger fleets like J.B. Hunt are also impacted, with an 8% dip in Q1 2025 earnings.

Why Family-Owned 3PLs Keep Freight Moving

In this uncertain environment, shippers are turning to freight partners who offer both agility and trust. At Overland Freight, we combine the power of a modern 3PL with the service of a family business. Here’s how we support your freight needs:

     1) Freight Plans Built for You
We create tailored freight solutions, from dedicated trucks to optimized distribution.

     2) Fast Freight Quotes
Our team responds in 15 minutes or less… so your freight gets moving quickly.

     3) Long-Term Freight Partnerships
We focus on relationships, not transactions, delivering reliability through market shifts.

     4) Freight Expertise
We have been in business since 2005, use our 20 plus years of freight experience to your advantage.

Final Remarks

Tariffs are rewriting the rules of freight. As volumes shift, costs climb, and capacity tightens, the right freight partner makes all the difference.

At Overland Freight, we move quickly, communicate clearly, and treat your freight like our own. In a changing market, we’re not just a trucking provider, we’re your freight advantage. Contact us today to move your freight – and your business – forward.