Morgan Stanley: 6-Month Forecast for Spot Rates is $1.91 per mile

Morgan Stanley's latest TLQURE model forecasts significant increases in truckload spot rates over the next year. What does this mean for the industry?

Morgan Stanley: 6-Month Forecast for Spot Rates is $1.91 per mile

In a recent report, Morgan Stanley forecasts some big moves for freight spot market rates using its QURE model. Here's a breakdown:

The Numbers

  • Current spot rate: Around $1.60 per mile
  • 6-month forecast: $1.91 per mile
  • 12-month forecast: $2.16 per mile

Bull vs. Bear Scenarios

  • Optimistic 6-month outlook: $2.39 per mile
  • Pessimistic 6-month outlook: $1.52 per mile
  • Optimistic 12-month outlook: $2.85 per mile
  • Pessimistic 12-month outlook: $1.64 per mile

The Bigger Picture

  • Forecast suggests a reversal of recent downward trends
  • Potential for significant rate increases by mid-2025
  • Wide range between bull and bear cases indicates uncertainty

If these predictions hold true, we're looking at a major shift in the trucking landscape.

What's Driving the Forecast?

  • Model likely factoring in economic recovery expectations
  • Potential capacity exits after prolonged rate pressure
  • Anticipation of increased shipping demand

Industry Implications

  • Carriers may see improved profitability if forecasts materialize
  • Shippers could face rising transportation costs
  • Brokers might need to navigate more volatile pricing environment

While these forecasts paint a rosier picture for carriers, it's important to remember they're just predictions. The trucking industry has proven notoriously difficult to forecast.

Source: Morgan Stanley Truck Stop/TLFI June Forecast


Great! You’ve successfully signed up.

Welcome back! You've successfully signed in.

You've successfully subscribed to FreightCaviar.

Success! Check your email for magic link to sign-in.

Success! Your billing info has been updated.

Your billing was not updated.