Truck Freight Rates Stay Well Above Last Year

What happened

Truck freight rates are still much higher than a year ago. The Trucker put together the latest numbers on Sept. 30.

Look at dry van rates without the fuel surcharge. In August 2026 they were between $2.19 and $2.28 a mile. In August 2025 they were between $1.64 and $1.67.

Other trailers show the same thing. Reefer paid $2.64 to $2.69 a mile without fuel, up from about $2 a year ago. Flatbed paid $2.67 to $2.79, up from about $2.05.

Contract rates were higher than spot rates. Dry van contract was $3.11 a mile with fuel. Reefer was $3.42 and flatbed $3.92.

The Cass Expenditures Index measures how much shippers spend on freight. It was up 18.7% from August 2025.

What it means for owner-operators

More money per mile is good news. It helps cover high fuel costs and repairs.

But spot rates dipped a little from July to August. Dry van spot with fuel went from $3.00 to $2.89. Avery Vise of FTR said spot rates may be near their peak.

C.H. Robinson still expects rates to rise again in 2027. It forecasts about 10% more for dry van and flatbed and 11% for reefer.

C.H. Robinson also said high insurance costs and tougher rules are pushing some trucks out of the market. Staying insured and legal keeps you working while rates are good.

What to do next

• Know your real cost per mile. Rates only help if they beat your costs.
• Ask about contract freight. It paid more than spot in August.
• Save part of the extra money for slow weeks and repairs.
• Keep your coverage active. A lapse can stop you from hauling.
• Check what each coverage does in our guide on trucking insurance coverage explained.
• Need a certificate for a new broker? Call us.