Our team at Dakota Group has carefully selected the most prevalent developments in the trucking industry. You deserve to have access to some of the most crucial headlines in trucking. New editions are published every week!
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Dakota Group Weekly Newsletter:
Let’s dive into the latest buzz making waves in the trucking industry!
First, an article about how demand for air and ocean freight has rebounded over the last two months as shippers adjusted to the uncertain market. Next, an article on the rising price of diesel and how it is expected to fluctuate with geopolitical events. Then, an article about the Federation of Professional Truckers’ argument about logging requirements, and how they negatively impact small carriers. Finally, we are sharing a podcast that discusses a potential recovery in the freight supply chain in 2026 and what it will take for the market to rebound.
Sincerely,
Founder & CEO @ Dakota Group
How Carriers and Shippers Are Navigating 2026 (Air Cargo Week)
In early January, demand for air and ocean freight rebounded after the December slowdown, as shippers adjusted to uncertain consumer demand and geopolitical disruptions.
Carriers continue to focus on high-yield routes, maintaining elevated rates despite softer overall demand. Persistent high airfreight rates, driven by operational costs and aircraft utilization, require effective planning and adaptability to navigate ongoing market volatility.
Diesel Benchmark Moves Higher For Fifth Straight Week (Freight Waves)
The price of diesel, which is commonly used to calculate fuel surcharges, has increased for the fifth consecutive week, driven by previous gains in the futures market that had lost some momentum before Wednesday. Heating oil and diesel share structural similarities, and there is a strong correlation between their price movements. Investors are growing more optimistic about the future of oil prices as various risks to production and tanker operations arise, including the possibility of U.S. military action against Iran and tighter enforcement of sanctions.
Federation of Professional Truckers Explains ELD Exemption Push with FMSCA Future Plans (Overdrive Online)
The newly formed Federation of Professional Truckers (FOPT) recently gained attention by submitting an exemption request to allow its members to use paper logs instead of electronic logging devices.
FOPT argued that paper logs are enforceable and familiar to enforcement officers nationwide, and that small carriers face significant financial challenges due to ELD requirements. The FMCSA reviewed the exemption petition, determined it warranted public input, and published it in the Federal Register.
ATA Sees ‘Ugly’ Freight Recovery Ahead for 2026… (Truck Parts and Service)
This podcast discusses freight dynamics and what it will take for the market to rebound. The ATA believes a recovery in supply is beginning, but cautions that it may be challenging and gradual. MEMA members surveyed largely anticipate a pessimistic outlook for 2026.
Finally, it addresses the ATA’s request to the EPA to modify the Low NOx rule, highlights Detroit’s 2027 engines, and introduces the new president of the American Truck Dealers.
Thank you so much for supporting Dakota Group US. We are pleased to meet all your compliance trucking needs and provide a convenient way to access relevant freight news.
We will be in touch weekly to always keep you in the loop on the most prevalent industry news.
From our team to yours,
Sincerely,
Founder & CEO @ Dakota Group
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