Fuel Updates

Domestic diesel fuel prices for the week of May 12th, 2026, remain highly elevated. The US national average reached $5.64 per gallon for the week of May 4th (latest detailed EIA data), up sharply from the prior week (~$5.35). Regional spikes are pronounced, with Midwest prices often exceeding $5.70 – $7+ at some truck stops due to refinery issues, and West Coast (especially California) averages well over $6 – $7. Geopolitical tensions affecting oil flows, combined with domestic supply disruptions, continue to drive these costs and pressure carrier margins.

The domestic truckload market in mid-May 2026 shows continued tightening in capacity and supportive rates amid high fuel costs. Spot rates are elevated year-over-year, with flatbed demand particularly robust due to construction, energy, and industrial activity. Overall trends point to a strengthening environment for carriers, though fuel volatility remains a key headwind.

Reefer Freight:

• National domestic reefer spot rates maintain upward momentum in early/mid-May, with averages in the $3.00 – $3.30+ per mile range (linehaul rates lower but all-in elevated). High-paying lanes continue in areas like the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast.
• Produce activity shows mixed signals: Florida volumes slowed, but Northeast demand and items like Vidalia onions in South Texas support activity. Overall volumes are relatively stable or slightly softer week-over-week in some reports, but year-over-year demand is stronger.
• Equipment availability remains constrained (posts notably lower year-over-year), keeping the market tight.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Recently reported around 13.2 (up week-over-week in early May data), reflecting tighter capacity despite minor load fluctuations.

Van Freight:

• Domestic dry van spot rates are elevated and tightening, with national averages often in the $2.60 – $3.50+ per mile range in active lanes (Midwest and West Coast hotspots). Year-over-year gains remain significant (20 – 30%+ in spots).
• Recent data indicates dry van loads up notably year-over-year (e.g., ~22% in some early May snapshots), supporting pricing floors.
• Capacity is tight due to cumulative carrier exits and seasonal/regulatory factors (e.g., upcoming Roadcheck impacts).
• Load-to-truck ratio: Elevated and tightening, with recent figures in the 7 – 9 range (e.g., rising to ~8.3:1 in late April data) and volumes substantially higher than 2025.

Flatbed Freight:

• National average domestic flatbed spot rates have stayed strong, recently around $3.50+ per mile (with ongoing upward pressure in key weeks). Demand from construction, infrastructure, energy, and data centers drives this.
• Capacity tightening is acute (significant year-over-year reductions in available trucks from prior carrier challenges), supporting robust pricing despite fuel costs.
• Regional hotspots tied to industrial and infrastructure projects remain very strong, partially offsetting any softer manufacturing/housing pockets.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Historically elevated, recently reported around 63:1 (with some data showing 70+ in tighter periods; minor weekly fluctuations but remains strong).

Overall, the market continues its recovery trajectory into mid-May, with tighter capacity outweighing fuel cost pressures for many carriers (especially in spot markets). Seasonal events like International Roadcheck Week (May 12th – 14th) could add short-term tightness.

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.