Will the Trucking Industry Grow in 2026?

The trucking industry and the transportation and freight companies that fall within the scope of the trucking industry have faced several challenges in the modern economy that include a driver shortage, increased fuel costs, and the reality of changing trade tariffs. Many of these challenges have impacted the growth of the trucking industry and many freight companies want to know — will the trucking industry grow in 2026? We hope to provide answers to that question with an overview of key factors that promise to drive trucking and freight industry growth in the future.
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5 Factors Driving Growth in the Trucking Industry for 2026

A period of economic uncertainty has left the trucking industry poised for a rebound.

Industry experts and analysts are optimistic about the upcoming year, with many projections showing a potential market growth of 3-4% in 2026. This expected economic growth in the industry would push the total market value to well over $850 billion, which reflects a renewed demand for freight transport and a healthier overall economy. There are several key trends coming together to create a positive outlook for the trucking and freight industry. 

Here are five of the most significant factors expected to fuel growth in the trucking industry in the next year:

1. Continued Increase in E-commerce

The sustained expansion of e-commerce is a primary catalyst for growth in the trucking and freight industry. More and more consumers continue to shop online and the need for efficient last-mile delivery and the transportation of goods from massive distribution centers to local hubs will continue to increase demand for trucking services.

2. Increased Investment in Infrastructure

Government investment in infrastructure in the United States and North America, such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provide a wealth of benefits to the trucking industry. Upgrades to highways, bridges, and ports reduce congestion and improve supply chain efficiency, lowering operational costs and enabling freight carriers to be more effective.

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3. Adoption of New Trucking Technology

Fleets continue to adopt new, more advanced technology to boost efficiency, safety, and capacity. The use of comprehensive Transportation Management Systems, AI-powered route optimization, advanced telematics, and digital freight matching platforms allows freight carriers to maximize their assets and meet increased shipping demand without a massive increase in fleet size.

4. Increased Manufacturing

A targeted shift towards nearshoring and reshoring manufacturing is in the process of changing North American supply chains. This trend increases the demand for domestic and cross-border trucking to move raw materials and finished products and this creates new and consistent revenue streams for freight carriers.

5. Increased Focus on Medical Freight

The expanding healthcare industry's rising demand for medical supplies and pharmaceuticals is expected to fuel significant growth in the trucking industry. This trend particularly benefits freight companies that provide hot shot trucking, which specializes in the rapid, on-demand transport required for time-sensitive and high-value healthcare cargo.

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READ MORE: Trucking Industry Trends and Projections for 2026

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When you look ahead at the future of the trucking and freight industry, the outlook for trucking industry growth in 2026 is positive. Fueled by e-commerce, economic stability, innovation in freight technology, and more key factors, the industry is on a clear path to growth. 

Contact TransPlus today to learn more about how our Fleet Management and Logistics Management platforms can help you drive growth for your business in the future!

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