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Diesel Surge Eclipses Driver Pay as Top Cost for Florida Carriers

Diesel fuel expenses have overtaken driver compensation as the largest operating expense for some Florida trucking fleets. This shift is squeezing already-thin profit margins across the sector. Scott Perry, CEO of the Florida Trucking Association, warned that fuel costs combined with rising insurance premiums, equipment expenses and wage pressures are creating an unsustainable financial environment for many carriers. A roughly 70% year-over-year increase in fuel costs threatens carriers lacking robust fuel surcharge mechanisms to pass expenses to customers. Perry, who brings 35 years of industry experience, noted the compounding effect of multi-year insurance hikes and competitive wage demands required for driver retention. While no Florida Trucking Association members have reportedly closed or reduced staff specifically due to fuel increases, Perry acknowledged mounting financial strain. He expressed cautious optimism about 2027 freight rates as trucking capacity tightens, though he emphasized improvement stems from reduced truck availability rather than freight demand growth.