FMCSA inspection week, also known as DOT Blitz or “blitz week,” is an annual 72-hour period during which the CVSA partners with local highway patrol and CMV inspectors to test truck drivers and equipment for compliance with DOT safety standards.
It is often assumed that capacity is reduced during this period due to lengthy and frequent inspections, as well as many drivers taking the week off. The effect may begin in the days prior to the official blitz, with increased patrols in anticipation of the absence of drivers during DOT Blitz.
Many in the freight industry expect prices to increase dramatically and power to be difficult to find during this period.In events like DOT Blitz week – Greenscreens.ai customers can use the pricing rules feature to prevent human overreactions to market fluctuations caused by events like the DOT Blitz. Stay in close contact with your Customer Success Manager and Data Analyst for valuable market insights.
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Key Takeaways
Price Fluctuations: Prices increased by an average of 1.5% during DOT Blitz.
Volume: Volume dropped an average of 4.5% during DOT Blitz.
Haul Length Impact: DOT Blitz had a higher price and volume impact on long hauls this year.
DOT Blitz impact on price and volume by year.
2023 DOT Blitz week (highlighted) shows larger price impact on medium and long haul lengths. A similar pattern was observed for volume metrics and across all 4 years studied.
Our Findings
1. DOT Blitz had a minor impact on price, averaging a 1-2% increase, which is partially offset by a 4-5% dip in volume.
2. The impact varies slightly year over year but does not appear to be correlated with market conditions. Whether rates are currently high or low, there is little incentive for a compliant carrier to get off the road during DOT Blitz.
3. The impact was mostly felt on long hauls.
4. Overall, the impact that DOT Blitz has on the freight market is significantly less than other, demand-centric events such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or the New Year.