Well I think CEO's or upper management at companies that are owned by venture capital or are publically traded are under a different set of pressure. They are often forced to look at things on a much shorter time frame. Quarterly earnings and other items are part of their survival and satisfying ownership or shareholders. Thus I think privately held companies are able to take a longer view picture.
Now do I think carriers wanted to drive the rates down from the table posted? No, that is just silly. It is simple supply and demand. Back in the days of when that rate chart was posted, how many expedite carriers or vehicles were in the market? The industry grew and with that supply grew. Does anyone think the carriers are making the same margins as they were back then? From a carrier side we can't charge those same rates today, and we are paying the owner operator 10% or more of the split more. So to say the carriers wanted to drive down the rates???? Now some may have a little to try and gain market share a little, but I think it is just the nature of supply and demand.
For instance we have a division that has all 53ft air ride curtainside trailers. 8 years ago 53ft air ride versions of these we not common place. Today you see them all the time. Has the rates and market moved as supply increased? Of course it has.
It is frustrating. But it is frustrating for both sides, the owner operator and the carrier. Technology, lack of regulation, factoring, and a number of other factors have allowed for a low barrier of entry into the business for many. Sadly, we have all seen the low barrier to exit as well.
Again, just my opinion.