J.B. Hunt Reports Positive Q3 Earnings, Intermodal Volumes Rise 5%

J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. reported its Q3 earnings, indicating a positive outlook for the freight market. The company expects a normal peak season in Q4, with customers not indicating weaker demand. Despite navigating a challenging freight environment with margin pressure due to deflationary rate conditions, J.B. Hunt has seen a rise in intermodal volumes by 5%. CEO Shelley Simpson acknowledged that markets remain challenging. The demand for big and bulky products, including furniture, exercise equipment, and appliances, remains soft, with some customer churn observed. The company also highlighted a return to normal seasonality.