Short‑Haul Freight Surges 35% YTD: What Recruiters and Fleet Managers Must Do

Short‑Haul Freight Surges 35% YTD

Short‑haul freight, defined as shipments under 100 miles, has climbed 35% year‑to‑date, according to FreightWaves. The rise is reshaping the truckload market. Long‑haul volumes are slipping, and intermodal carriers are drawing freight away from traditional over‑the‑road routes. The trend is already affecting how carriers allocate resources and hire drivers.

Who Is Affected?

The shift impacts carriers that run short‑haul routes, regional fleets, and recruiters looking for drivers who can work local or regional loads. It also matters to long‑haul operators who may need to adjust their staffing mix or consider adding short‑haul capabilities to stay competitive.

Action Steps for Recruiters and Fleet Managers

• Review your current driver roster. Identify drivers who can transition to short‑haul routes without extensive retraining.
• Adjust recruitment messaging to highlight the benefits of short‑haul work—shorter hours, local living, and potentially higher pay per mile.
• Partner with intermodal shippers to secure a steady stream of under‑100‑mile freight.
• Monitor tender rejection rates; a high rejection rate may signal a mismatch between driver skill sets and short‑haul demand.

Uncertainties and Next Steps

Some questions remain. The long‑haul decline could continue, but the pace is uncertain. Carriers are unsure how quickly intermodal growth will translate into new freight opportunities. Recruiters should stay alert to market data and be ready to pivot staffing strategies as the trend evolves.