Cross-border truck capacity remains tight despite easing freight volumes

Truck capacity remains constrained on U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico freight lanes despite seasonal volume declines, according to the August 2026 NAX Index from third-party logistics provider TRAFFIX.

The index recorded a score of 57 for the U.S.-Canada corridor and 54 for the U.S.-Mexico corridor, both above the 50-point neutral threshold for a second consecutive month. TRAFFIX said the readings indicate continued elevated costs, limited capacity and ongoing regulatory challenges for shippers moving freight across the borders.

The NAX Index combines more than 10 economic, freight and trade indicators into a single monthly score for each corridor. Readings above 50 indicate tighter-than-normal conditions, including higher costs and reduced capacity, while scores below 50 reflect looser market conditions.

TRAFFIX said lower seasonal freight volumes have not significantly improved truck availability, with capacity remaining the primary challenge for shippers, particularly those managing shipments with fixed pickup or delivery windows.

“What we’re seeing this month is capacity staying tight even as volumes ease from a summer peak,” said Alex Fuller, vice-president of commercial intelligence at TRAFFIX. “Shippers who lock in strong partners early, and look at all costs – freight, fuel, duty and inventory costs – when budgeting, are in a much better position to handle whatever the border throws at them next.”

The company said U.S.-Canada shipments may require additional cost and scheduling reviews as new trade measures create further uncertainty for cross-border planning. While Mexico’s freight environment remains more stable, TRAFFIX said truck availability continues to affect pickup coverage and rates.

TRAFFIX recommended shippers review tariff exposure, confirm truck capacity early, separate freight, fuel and duty costs when estimating shipment expenses and maintain backup carrier or border-crossing options where possible.

The company said expedited service may be worth considering for time-sensitive freight, while intermodal transportation could help reduce reliance on truck capacity for suitable longer-haul shipments.

The NAX Index is published monthly by TRAFFIX and tracks market conditions across the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders to help logistics teams identify trends and anticipate freight market changes.