Freight Recovery Lifts Driver Demand, Pressuring Large Carriers as Capacity Tightens

Freight demand is rebounding, increasing competition for truck drivers and raising labor-cost pressure on large carriers, according to a SONAR Sitrep report published May 15, 2026. The report said van volumes are 6.4% above their six-month average, while flatbed demand volumes have risen 77% from the prior period. Higher freight volumes are improving market conditions but are also shifting leverage toward drivers, who are seeking better-paying and higher-quality roles. The April 2026 Bureau of Labor Statistics employment report showed truck transportation jobs rose by 4,300, the largest monthly increase in nearly three years. SONAR said large fleets face intensified recruitment and retention challenges as tightening capacity forces them to pay premiums to maintain headcount, particularly in flatbed operations.