UPS announced third-quarter 2024 consolidated revenues of $22.2 billion, a 5.6% increase from the third quarter of 2023. Consolidated operating profit was $2.0 billion, up 47.8% compared to the third quarter of 2023, and up 22.8% on a non-GAAP adjusted basis. Diluted earnings per share were $1.80 for the quarter; non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share were $1.76, 12.1% above the same period in 2023. For the third quarter of 2024, GAAP results include an after-tax net benefit of $36 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, comprised of a $152 million gain resulting from the divestiture of the Coyote Logistics business net of transformation strategy costs of $116 million.

“After declines in November and December totaling 1.7%, tonnage was unchanged in January” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “This outcome is impressive considering the massive winter storm that brought cold temperatures and significant snowfalls to large parts of the country, including those that rarely see such storms. Furthermore, the terrible wildfires in California likely also caused freight disruptions. Softness in manufacturing and retail sales continue to be a drag on truck freight volumes as well, so the fact tonnage was flat is a positive sign.” In January, the ATA advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index equaled 111.9 the same as December. The index, which is based on 2015 as 100, was up 0.3% from the same month last year, the first year-over-year increase since August. The not seasonally adjusted index, which calculates raw changes in tonnage hauled, equaled 110 in January, 1.1% above December’s reading of 108.9.

The American Trucking Associations welcomed two major new federal investments by the U.S. Department of Transportation that will add nearly 400 truck parking spaces along key freight corridors in Wyoming and Iowa. “These projects in Wyoming and Iowa continue the momentum to alleviate the severe, nationwide shortage of truck parking, which consistently ranks as one of drivers’ top concerns,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “We are grateful that Secretary Buttigieg has continued to make Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding available to expand truck parking, and we applaud Wyoming and Iowa for prioritizing these projects in their transportation planning. More states should step up and follow their example to improve the efficient movement of freight and enhance roadway safety for all motorists.”