The trailer industry is a vital component of America's freight network, with thousands of dealers across the country relying on data-driven insights to meet the demands of a rapidly changing market. The Commodity Flow Survey, conducted between 2012 and 2022, provides a unique window into the types of goods being shipped by truck and trailer, and the industries that drive the most trailer traffic. In this article, we'll delve into the key findings of the survey, exploring which commodities are most in demand, and how this information can help trailer buyers and dealers make informed decisions about their fleets.

Uncovering the Top Commodities

The Commodity Flow Survey reveals that the top category of goods being shipped is categorized as "00", with a staggering 99.94% of the total records falling into this category. This translates to 4,997 out of 5,000 records, indicating a clear dominance of this commodity type in the market. But what does this mean for trailer buyers and dealers? Understanding the types of goods being shipped can help inform decisions about trailer type, size, and specialization.

The data suggests that the "00" category is the clear leader in terms of commodity shipment, with a near-monopoly on the market.

Industry Insights

So, which industries are driving the most trailer traffic? The survey data suggests that certain sectors are more reliant on truck and trailer transportation than others. By examining the types of goods being shipped, we can identify areas of high demand and opportunities for growth. For example, industries that require large volumes of goods to be shipped, such as manufacturing and construction, are likely to be major drivers of trailer traffic.

With the nation's largest selection of trailers and a national network of dealers, Trailer Shopper is well-positioned to support the needs of these industries. By providing access to a wide range of trailer types and sizes, as well as specialized trailers for specific commodities, we can help buyers and dealers meet the demands of their customers.

Practical Applications

So, what can trailer buyers and dealers do with this information? For starters, understanding the types of goods being shipped can help inform decisions about trailer specialization. For example, if a buyer knows that they will be hauling primarily dry goods, they may opt for a trailer with a specific type of flooring or cargo management system. Similarly, dealers can use this information to stock their inventories with the types of trailers that are most in demand.

Additionally, the data can help buyers and dealers anticipate future demand and plan accordingly. By examining trends in commodity shipment, we can identify areas of growth and opportunity, and make informed decisions about investments in new trailers or equipment.

Top 10 by Industry01K2K4K5K0042Source: data.gov | Trailer Shopper®

Meeting the Demand

As the demand for truck and trailer transportation continues to evolve, it's essential that buyers and dealers have access to the right tools and resources to meet the needs of their customers. At Trailer Shopper, we're committed to providing our national network of dealers with the support they need to succeed, from automated business systems to marketing materials and technology support.

Whether you're a buyer looking for the right trailer to meet your needs, or a dealer seeking to stock your inventory with the most in-demand models, we're here to help. With our expertise and resources, you can stay ahead of the curve and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Commodity Flow Survey data.

Key Takeaways

  • The Commodity Flow Survey reveals that the "00" category is the dominant commodity type, with 99.94% of total records falling into this category.
  • Understanding the types of goods being shipped can help inform decisions about trailer type, size, and specialization.
  • Buyers and dealers can use the survey data to anticipate future demand and plan accordingly, making informed decisions about investments in new trailers or equipment.

— Trailer Shopper Intelligence Desk

Data Source: data.gov — Commodity Flow Survey 2012-2022. Analysis based on 5,000 records. Charts generated by Trailer Shopper®.