Drivers watching the spot market saw different trends depending on what they haul. For the week ending September 25, dry van and flatbed rates increased, while refrigerated rates declined.
According to FTR’s latest report using Truckstop data, overall load activity held nearly steady. Available truck postings slipped 0.3%, nudging the ratio of loads to trucks higher.
How Rates Changed
The latest figures reported by Truck Driver News show:
- Dry van: Rates rose 4.5 cents to $2.78 per mile.
- Refrigerated: Rates dropped 7.3 cents to $3.49 per mile.
- Flatbed: Rates edged up slightly less than 1 cent to $3.32 per mile.
Dry van rates improved across all regions, with the largest gains on the West Coast and in the Mountain Central region. Refrigerated load activity fell 9.2%, while flatbed loads increased 1.7%.
Diesel Declines, but Remains Expensive
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a national diesel average of $6.382 per gallon for September 28, down 14.7 cents from the previous week.
That decrease provides some breathing room, but diesel still costs $2.628 more per gallon than during the same period last year.
For drivers evaluating loads, the practical takeaway is to consider fuel expenses alongside the offered rate. Higher revenue per mile does not automatically mean a better return after operating costs.
What to Watch Next
FTR notes that seasonal patterns typically favor dry van and flatbed rate increases during week 39, while refrigerated rates usually decline. Those patterns offer context, rather than a guarantee of what any individual load will pay.
As October begins, changes in regional demand and diesel prices will remain useful signals for drivers planning their next haul.
The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.
Last Updated: October 2nd 2026
