ATA expects slow freight through June

There were reports last year concerning the late purchasing in January and February that were traced to gift cards. I wondered then if there were going to be a trend. Might be something to watch again for this year.

 

I understand the increased popularity of the cards, but eventually something gets bought right? Wouldn't this indicate mearly a change in the time when freight was needed? Even if many get turned into cash the money is still going into the economy in some way. Even illegal activity gets money into the economy, just not taxed. If we are already seeing a change, ie cards being bought after Christmas into Feb, it seems like just a change in what we're used to.

 

Will be interesting to watch. I know several of my family has gone to gift cards. It's just so much easier than shopping and less time consuming!

 

It eventually gets spent, but it may spread out the demand period therefore reducing the freight load.

 

I wonder where its been slow, no problems here.