Fuel Updates

Domestic diesel fuel prices for the week of May 26th, 2026, remain highly elevated but showed modest relief. The US national average on-highway diesel price stood at $5.596/gallon as of May 18th (latest detailed EIA data), down slightly from the prior week’s $5.639. Regional variations persist: Midwest prices often hover around $5.70–$5.80 (with some truck stops higher amid ongoing supply issues), while West Coast (particularly California) averages remain well over $7.00–$7.30. Geopolitical tensions, tight domestic refining capacity, and seasonal demand continue to support elevated levels and pressure carrier margins.

The domestic truckload market in late May 2026 continues to show tightness in capacity and supportive (elevated) spot rates, influenced by lingering effects from Roadcheck/DOT Blitz Week, high fuel costs, and seasonal produce/infrastructure demand. Spot rates remain significantly higher year-over-year across segments, with flatbed particularly strong due to construction, energy, infrastructure, and data center activity. The environment generally favors carriers in spot markets, though fuel volatility and post-Roadcheck normalization add some uncertainty.

Reefer Freight:

• National domestic reefer spot rates maintain upward momentum, with averages typically in the $3.00–$3.30+ per mile range (linehaul lower, all-in higher with fuel). High-paying lanes continue in the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast.
• Produce activity remains mixed: Florida volumes have slowed in some areas, but Northeast demand and items like Vidalia onions from South Texas provide support. Overall volumes are stable to slightly softer week-over-week in spots, but year-over-year demand is stronger.
• 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 and post-Roadcheck pressure).

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 (often 20–30%+ on many lanes).
• Recent data continues to show dry van loads notably higher year-over-year (double-digit gains in many snapshots), supporting pricing floors.
• Capacity remains tight due to cumulative carrier exits, regulatory/seasonal factors, and lingering Roadcheck effects.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Elevated and holding firm, with recent figures in the 7–9+ range (e.g., around 8.3:1 or higher in recent April/May data) and 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 in manufacturing or housing.
• Load-to-truck ratio: Remains historically elevated, recently reported in the 60–70+:1 range (with minor fluctuations but sustained overall strength).

Overall, the truckload market holds its recovery and tightening trajectory heading into late May/early June 2026. Tighter capacity continues to outweigh fuel pressures for many carriers, especially in spot markets. Seasonal produce and infrastructure demand provide tailwinds, while post-Roadcheck normalization may introduce some short-term volatility. Expect the market to remain supportive but watch fuel and macroeconomic signals closely. 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.