We are navigating one of the most challenging freight markets in recent memory. The prolonged freight slump has tested every part of our operation, forcing us to adapt quickly to shifting market forces while maintaining our commitment to customers and employees.
This freight recession, now stretching over multiple years, has taken a heavy toll on us, the industry, and many of our competitors. Regulatory pressures have added to the strain as new compliance requirements around safety, driver qualifications and emissions diminish capacity — particularly among smaller carriers. In the short term, this tightening capacity offers some rate stability, but it raises costs and complexity, with insurance and other fixed costs still climbing. Litigation exposure, nuclear verdicts and theft risks have pushed insurance premiums higher. Heavy investment in technology, training and safety programs mitigate these risks, but the financial burden is substantial and growing.
Adding to the uncertainty, global sourcing patterns remain volatile due to tariff disputes and shifting trade policies. Customers adjust their supply chains, often with little warning, which disrupts freight flows and driver planning, complicating balance capacity and pricing. Bankruptcies and closures have accelerated as low rates, rising costs and soft volumes squeeze margins. As a privately held carrier, RoadOne has taken a longer-term view of managing cash flow carefully and prioritizing operational resilience over short-term gains — but the market remains unforgiving. Consolidation is reshaping the landscape, and survival increasingly depends on scale, financial discipline and strong customer partnerships.
Support for higher industry standards will level the playing field for rule-abiding operators by eliminating carriers that cut corners and operate illegally. Despite industry headwinds, the focus must remain on efficiency, strategic partnerships and long-term stability to adapt and endure for long-term success.
To our core customers who rely on RoadOne for resilience — we sincerely appreciate your partnership and continued support during these challenging times. Together, we will continue to grow and overcome future challenges for many years to come!