Fuel Updates

As of late April 2026, the US national average retail price for on-highway diesel fuel is approximately $5.47 per gallon, reflecting a stabilizing trend after a period of significant volatility driven by geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East. The West Coast remains the highest-priced region at $6.82 per gallon.

The domestic US truck market continues to tighten, with spot market capacity shrinking as fuel costs rise. Spot rates are climbing, supported by strong load-to-truck ratios for both van and flatbed freight, signaling demand growth outpacing available capacity. As small and mid-sized carriers exit the market, brokers are increasingly reporting challenges in securing reliable capacity.

Reefer Freight:

• Domestic reefer spot rates for late April 2026 are showing signs of stabilization, with national average rates for the week of April 20th – 26th holding steady compared to the previous week. While rates softened slightly in some regions (averaging approximately $2.18 to $3.20 per mile) they declined in the Midwest and other areas, while the Southeast experienced a sharp increase.
• The Southeast, Gulf Coast, and Texas are experiencing tightened capacity due to produce season, construction activity, and weather-related disruptions.
• Early produce seasons, particularly in South Texas (McAllen/Pharr) and Central Florida, are driving up the “fruit premium” on spot rates.
• Cold-chain demand remains consistent, supported by seasonal agricultural exports.
• Load-to-truck ratio: As of late April 2026, the national domestic reefer load-to-truck ratio is highly volatile, with recent reports showing a spike to over 12 loads per truck, despite a 10% decline in total load volume.

Van Freight:

• Domestic dry van spot rates are showing signs of stabilization following a high-demand Q1. Despite a minor dip, rates remain strong (approximately 4.5% higher year-over-year) with national all-in rates generally above $2.50 per mile in several regions, driven by seasonal demand.
• Rates declined across most regions, with the Midwest and Northeast experiencing the steepest drops in volume.
• Even with recent dips, the market is showing signs of “waking up” compared to the same period in 2025.
• Capacity is tightening in the Midwest and Northeast. Although load volumes have fallen for three (3) consecutive weeks, they remain historically high.
• Load-to-truck ratio: The national domestic dry van load-to-truck ratio fell to 7.11, marking the fourth straight weekly decline as spot market demand eases from early-year peaks. While demand is cooling, the ratio remains elevated compared to 2025 levels.

Flatbed Freight:

• As of late April 2026, all-in broker-posted rates are more than 24% higher than the same period in 2025, supported by strong demand and manufacturing activity. Regional rates remain highest in the Southeast ($3.69) and Midwest ($3.56).
• Flatbed capacity continues to tighten, particularly for projects requiring steel and construction materials.
• Early spring construction activity and ongoing infrastructure projects are further increasing demand.
• Rising energy sector activity and continued manufacturing investment are also contributing to capacity constraints.
• Load-to-truck ratio: As of late April 2026, the national domestic flatbed load-to-truck ratio was approximately 73.07, indicating a tight market, though slightly down from 80.97 the previous week. The ratio remains elevated, reflecting strong demand compared to previous years, driven by early-year construction and industrial activity.

We hope you have a fantastic week! If you need any assistance or have any questions, please reach out to your RIM Representative or to our Domestic Team at RIMDomestic@rimlogistics.com.