Logistics Business Intelligence
By David Hannon -- Purchasing, 5/8/2008
21%YOY decline in BNSF's 1Q paper and lumber shipments
Source: Bloomberg
WHAT IT MEANS: The sluggish economy is hitting overall rail freight volumes in the U.S. But the declining dollar is increasing railroads' export business and high fuel costs make rail more attractive than over-the-road shipping.
75%Buyers predicting increased transportation costs in the second quarter
Source: www.purchasingdata.com
WHAT IT MEANS: That's a steep spike from 61% a month ago. Buyers are taking record-high fuel costs and surcharges into consideration in that survey question, as most shippers indicate base trucking and ocean rates are trending down on decreased demand.
7,889Level of Baltic Dry Index on April 11
Source: Baltic Exchange
WHAT IT MEANS: Bulk ocean freight rates are down from their late 2007 peak, and came down after a short spike in early March.
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