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FTR’s Trucking Condition Index hit 0.8 in July, marking the fifth consecutive month the index remained above neutral, according to FTR Associates' September "Trucking Update" report. The index is expected to remain in positive territory for the remainder of the year, the report states.

The Trucking Conditions Index is a compilation of factors affecting trucking companies. Readings over the past several months indicate a stabilized environment for the industry in general, the report states. The index continues to rise vs. 2009 levels and is expected to continue on an upward trend through 2011, according to FTR.

Factors supporting the forecast include “a helpful economic mix with growth in the goods producing sectors, limited driver capacity and tightening capacity utilization with subsequent higher rates,” FTR officials said in a prepared statement.

“Trucking companies that have remained in business through the downturn are now operating in an environment that is positive for them, albeit amid a slowing economy overall," said FTR President Eric Starks. "All our projections indicate that they are likely to continue to do well through at least the next year and a half.”