Trucking

Refrigerated Spot Rates Rise Above Historical Norms as Load Activity Softens

Refrigerated truck spot linehaul rates climbed to $2.62 per mile last week, maintaining a substantial premium over the nine-year seasonal average of $2.14 per mile. The bellwether states corridor averaged $3.64 per mile, down a penny week-over-week but up 96 cents annually. Regional performance remained uneven across the nation's top producing areas. The Upper Midwest demonstrated strength, climbing 13 cents to $3.65 per mile, while the Lower Midwest gained 10 cents. The Great Lakes region declined 4 cents, posting the steepest weekly loss. Industry load-to-truck ratios eased as carrier availability remained adequate. The rate forecast projects modest upward movement to $2.76 per mile, though projections carry wider uncertainty than competing equipment classes.