World Economy

Flatbed Rates Consolidate Near Nine-Year Highs as Spot Market Softens

Flatbed spot linehaul rates held steady near the upper end of a nine-year trading range this week, with carriers averaging $2.65 per mile excluding fuel surcharges. The marginal 0.4% gain of $0.01 per mile reflects a disconnect between pricing power and market momentum. Load postings declined despite the rate maintenance. Freight volumes continued their year-over-year expansion for a second consecutive month, though fuel surcharges accounted for much of the rate movement rather than underlying demand strength. The stability in flatbed pricing comes as logistics operators navigate softer activity signals from load boards. Spot market conditions remain elevated by historical standards, but the divergence between volume trends and load availability suggests carriers may face pricing pressure if posting activity continues to contract.