04.29.25 -- The freight business is built on movement — but when the economy slows, so does opportunity.
With inflation sticking, growth slowing, and tariffs quietly driving up costs, many logistics owners are asking a version of the same question: Is my business still my retirement plan?
The Current Market Landscape
- Tariffs are increasing input costs — from parts and maintenance to insurance and labor.
- GDP growth forecasts are dipping below 1%, and core inflation — tracked by the Personal Consumption Expenditures Index — is projected to approach 4% over the next year, according to recent market outlooks.
- Freight volumes are softening, and spot rates remain under pressure.
- At the same time, consolidation is accelerating — and buyers are being more selective.
If you haven't re-evaluated your company's value recently, it might not reflect today's tighter environment. Timing matters, and uncertainty is rising.
Common Pitfalls for Freight Founders Many owners in this space are all-in — and that can work great in boom years. But today's climate exposes a few key risks:
- Overconcentration: Too much personal wealth is tied up in trucks, equipment, or rolling contracts.
- No backup liquidity: If a sale gets delayed — or falls through — there's often no bridge plan in place.
- Rising debt, falling rates: Low freight rates combined with higher borrowing costs can erode profitability faster than expected.
- All chips on the table: Retirement hopes are often tied to how the next 6-12 months play out.
These are fixable problems — but they require proactive planning.
How to Protect and Position You don't have to overhaul your life or sell tomorrow.
But a few smart moves now can help you stay in control — no matter what the market does.
- Diversify outside the business. Even modest shifts into more liquid investments can lower your personal risk.
- Create a structured exit plan. The "right buyer" rarely just shows up. Get ahead of the process.
- Use tax-efficient strategies. Profit-sharing plans, deferred comp, or cash balance plans can help you build personal wealth while lowering your tax burden.
- Preserve flexibility. In volatile times, capital preservation = optionality. That's power.
Closing Thoughts You've built something real — a business that runs, scales, and supports others. You deserve to turn that into lasting financial security.
If any of the steps above feel like a blind spot or a back-burner issue, I can help you identify where to begin — and execute with confidence.