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US flatbed rates expected to soar in aftermath of Huricane Harvey

US TRUCKING is expected to do well hauling debris in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, American transport analysts say.

Expectations that trucking demand will increase for the cleanup from the Texas hurricane helped boost shares of Landstar System, YRC Worldwideand CH Robinson Worldwide, said Bloomberg.

The cost to hire a flatbed truck, which can carry in equipment and haul out debris, could climb as much as 15 per cent, said Josh Brogan, who specialises in logistics for consulting firm AT Kearney.

That expected jump and increases of perhaps 10 per cent for other types of trucking services will ripple through the industry nationwide, he said.

"There's going to be a shortage of trucking equipment for a while and that's going to drive up prices across the country and also drive up prices locally to a greater extent," Mr Brogan said.

Said Stephens analyst Jack Atkins: "We expect the impact of the hurricane to further constrain capacity in a market that was already tight, which could drive an increase in spot market demand and rates.

Mr Atkins said trucking will be among the first industries to experience higher demand in the storm's aftermath. As soon as floodwaters recede and roads are reopened, trucks will begin moving supplies and equipment into the area.

Also increasing demand, federal regulations that become effective in December will cut time truckers can be on the road, obliging them to park vehicles for strictly timed rest periods.