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HOUSTON — Intermodal businesses that have become accustomed to long-term growth likely are facing tougher times ahead in the form of a recession, changing freight patterns and other obstacles.

HOUSTON — Intermodal businesses that have become accustomed to steady long-term growth are facing the prospect of tougher times ahead in the form of a likely recession and changing freight patterns, three industry experts said Sept. 19.

Driver pay increases during the second quarter sank to the lowest level in seven years as fleets show almost no interest in raising compensation to attract drivers when lackluster freight levels don’t require that step, according to an industry official who studies pay levels.

Cargo stranded by the Hanjin Shipping bankruptcy slowly began to flow through U.S. ports last week, offering the first small signs of relief for truckers and their customers.

CRST International Inc. last week announced it has acquired Gardner Trucking Inc., the largest trucking acquisition announced so far in 2016, a move that lets CRST broaden its service offerings.

Teamsters who deliver new cars and trucks have again rejected a tentative contract agreement, prompting union leaders to evaluate the next step in the long-running saga.

Several freight companies, including UPS Inc., have announced rate increases in the early fall despite the uncertain freight market.

Truckers and the entire global shipping supply chain faced a broad array of complicated choices last week arising from Hanjin Shipping Co.’s bankruptcy that has left tens of thousands of shipments in limbo — stranded at sea, idle in ports or a burden for truckers.