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As we reach the midpoint of 2025, it’s clear that shippers had an accurate read on the freight market’s trajectory. While many carriers entered the year forecasting significant rate increases, most shippers held a different view: that pricing would remain relatively steady despite modest volume growth. So far, they’ve been proven right (this is for over the road rates – ocean and air have been all over the map.)
Overall freight rates have stayed flat through the first two quarters, aligning closely with shipper forecasts and reflecting a solid grasp of key market fundamentals. Shippers recognized that capacity remained readily available and that broader economic factors would temper drastic rate swings. This level of foresight has helped them budget more precisely and avoid unnecessary cost spikes.
This balanced approach demonstrates the value of shippers staying informed and trusting their understanding of supply and demand dynamics. By paying attention to trends in load volumes, carrier capacity, and macroeconomic signals, shippers have managed to navigate a market that remains competitive without overpaying for truckload services.
Such strategic planning has helped many midsize shippers maintain steady freight spend even as spot market fluctuations tempted others to lock in premature rate hikes or chase unsustainable discounts.
This kind of market awareness is exactly what Portex is designed to support and strengthen. But midsize shippers using Portex can do more than just observe the market; they can act on this information confidently.
Portex’s intuitive quoting, bidding, and analytics tools let you validate your instincts with real-time data, compare options quickly, and adapt bids dynamically as conditions change. You’re able to lock in a favourable rate when the data suggests it.
With Portex, forward-thinking shippers have the tools to make adjustments in an agile manner, outmaneuvering competition and beating internal KPIs. This minimizes surprises and keeps budgets more predictable, even when external factors shift unexpectedly.
Looking ahead to the second half of 2025, many shippers plan to continue this measured strategy. While demand may grow gradually, the balanced capacity situation means that sudden rate spikes are less likely. Still, staying vigilant is essential. Economic shifts, fuel price changes, or capacity tightening in specific regions can create pockets of volatility.
Portex helps you keep an eye on these changes without missing a beat. Whatever you’re moving, from food and beverages, packaging materials, building supplies, or manufactured goods, or anything else, Portex provides the visibility and control you need to keep freight spend efficient and service levels high.
In a market where having the right information can make or break your transportation budget, Portex gives you an edge. By combining your team’s market foresight with Portex’s actionable tools, you can keep costs predictable, secure reliable carriers, and maintain a competitive advantage.
Shippers proved their instincts right in 2025’s first half. Portex ensures they can keep proving it – load after load.
