Trucking

Fuel Surcharges Drive Truckload Rate Gains as Freight Demand Rebounds

Truckload rates climbed 11 percent year-over-year in August, marking the second consecutive month of positive freight volume growth. This growth followed 42 months of consecutive declines. Fuel surcharges accounted for the majority of rate increases across the sector. Dry van spot linehaul rates averaged $2.25 per mile excluding fuel, up 5.5 percent week-over-week. Flatbed capacity held near the top of a nine-year pricing range, with spot rates averaging $2.65 per mile. Less-than-truckload rates hit record highs in the third quarter and are expected to climb further through year-end, according to industry analysts. The sustained rate environment reflects tightening capacity paired with rising energy costs and strengthening shipper demand.