Nov 19 – 25 – As last-minute Thanksgiving freight moved to stores nationwide, the average reefer rate rose another 3¢ to $2.43 per mile, the highest weekly average in more than 3 years. Van rates added 1¢ to $2.07 per mile. If vans stay at or near that level for a few more days, November’s average will be an all-time high. Flatbeds held steady at $2.29 per mile, despite a seasonal decline in load volume.

National average spot market rates for the past four weeks, including fuel surcharges. Weekly rate snapshots reflect averages for the month to-date, from DAT RateView.

Nov 12 – 18 – Rising fuel prices, unprecedented spot market demand, and the imminent ELD mandate combine to ratchet up the pressure on rates. The national average reefer rate increased 3¢ to $2.40 per mile — a 3-year record — as shippers rush to fill the stores with fresh produce, poultry and meat for Thanksgiving. The average van rate remained at $2.06 per mile, signaling that November’s average may hit an all-time high. Flatbed rates slipped 1¢, to $2.29 per mile, which is atypically high for the season.

National average spot market rates for the past four weeks, including fuel surcharges. Weekly rate snapshots reflect averages for the month to-date, from DAT RateView.

Nov 5 – 11 – Strong demand and rising fuel prices have kept spot market rates at or near peak levels for the season. The national average van rate dipped 1¢ to $2.06 per mile, only 3¢ below the post-hurricane peak of early October. Reefer rates are back up to a high of $2.37 per mile, driven by a pre-Thanksgiving rush. For flatbeds, a downward trend was interrupted last week by a 1¢ increase that partially offset rising fuel costs.

National average spot market rates for the past four weeks, including fuel surcharges. Weekly rate snapshots reflect averages for the month to-date, from DAT RateView.

Oct 22 – 28 – Rates for vans and reefers declined for the third week in a row, while flatbed rates held steady after climbing for the past two months. Rates remain elevated for this time of year for all three equipment types. The national average van rate dipped 1¢ to $2.03 per mile. Reefer rates also dropped 1¢, to $2.32 per mile. The national average flatbed price was unchanged at $2.34 per mile as building materials continue to move to Florida and the Gulf Coast. Load-to-truck ratios are also high for all three trailer types.

National average spot market rates for the past four weeks, including fuel surcharges. Weekly rate snapshots reflect averages for the month to-date, from DAT RateView.