Fuel Updates

Domestic diesel fuel prices for the week of June 2nd, 2026, remain highly elevated but continue to ease modestly. The US national average on-highway diesel price stood at $5.523/gallon as of May 25th (latest detailed EIA data), down from the prior week’s $5.596. Regional variations remain significant: Midwest prices are typically in the $5.60–$5.75 range (with some areas higher due to local supply dynamics), while West Coast prices, especially in California, continue to average well over $7.00–$7.30/gallon. Geopolitical tensions, tight refining capacity, and seasonal demand are keeping prices supported and continuing to pressure carrier margins.

The domestic truckload market heading into early June 2026 remains tight in capacity with supportive (elevated) spot rates. Lingering effects from recent enforcement events, persistently high fuel costs, and seasonal produce/infrastructure demand are key drivers. Spot rates are significantly higher year-over-year across most segments, with flatbed staying particularly strong due to ongoing construction, energy, infrastructure, and data center activity. The overall environment continues to favor carriers in spot markets, though fuel volatility and potential post-event normalization are creating some uncertainty.

Reefer Freight:

• National domestic reefer spot rates maintain upward momentum and firmness, with averages typically in the $3.00–$3.30+ per mile range (linehaul lower, all-in higher with fuel). High-paying lanes remain active in the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast.
• Produce activity is mixed: Florida volumes have slowed in spots, but Northeast demand and items like Vidalia onions from South Texas continue to provide support. Overall volumes are stable to slightly softer week-over-week in some areas but remain stronger year-over-year.
• Equipment availability stays constrained (truck posts notably lower year-over-year), keeping the market tight.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Remains elevated (recent reports in the 13+ range, with seasonal factors in play).

Van Freight:

• Domestic dry van spot rates are elevated and firm, with national averages commonly in the $2.60–$3.50+ per mile range in active lanes (Midwest and West Coast as consistent hotspots). Year-over-year gains remain significant on many lanes.
• Recent data shows dry van load volumes notably higher year-over-year, supporting pricing floors.
• Capacity remains tight due to cumulative carrier exits, regulatory/seasonal factors, and lingering effects from recent events.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Elevated and holding firm, with recent figures in the 8–13+ range (volumes substantially above 2025 levels).

Flatbed Freight:

• National average domestic flatbed spot rates continue very strong, recently around $3.50+ per mile (with ongoing upward pressure and near-record levels in key reports). Demand from construction, infrastructure, energy, and data centers remains a primary driver.
• Capacity tightening is pronounced (major year-over-year reductions in available trucks), supporting robust pricing despite high fuel costs.
• Regional hotspots tied to industrial and infrastructure projects are especially strong, offsetting any softer pockets.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Remains historically elevated, recently reported in the 60–87+:1 range (sustained overall strength).

Overall, the truckload market holds its tightening and recovery trajectory heading into June 2026. Tighter capacity continues to outweigh fuel pressures for many carriers, especially in spot markets. Seasonal produce and strong infrastructure-related demand provide tailwinds, while high fuel costs and potential normalization could introduce short-term volatility. Expect the market to remain generally supportive for carriers, but watch fuel prices and macroeconomic signals closely.