Description

C.H. Robinson Adds DeSpir Logistics: Could Acquisitions Supercharge Its Platform?

C.H. Robinson reported second quarter 2026 results demonstrating continued execution of its Lean AI strategy and disciplined operating model amidst a challenging freight environment characterized by declining overall shipment volumes. Despite the Cass Freight Shipment Index declining year-over-year for the 15th consecutive quarter, the company achieved mid-cycle operating margin targets in both its North American Surface Transportation (NAST) and Global Forwarding segments. This performance was supported by productivity improvements exceeding 60% since the end of 2022 through automation and process optimization along the quote-to-cash lifecycle, along with consistent market share gains as NAST volume growth outpaced the market index for the 13th straight quarter. In NAST, contractual truckload volume rose year-over-year driven by a higher win rate on bids, with contractual load mix increasing to approximately 70%. However, spot market truckload linehaul costs surged 29% year-over-year amid supply-driven market tightening, pressuring contractual margins.