What the market data show

FTR reported that broker-posted spot rates in the Truckstop system increased for dry van, refrigerated and flatbed equipment during the week ended September 4. The overall market rate rose a little more than 9 cents per mile from the prior week, the largest increase for that calendar week since 2021.

Dry van rates increased a little more than 9 cents per mile, refrigerated rates rose a little more than 13 cents, and flatbed rates gained nearly 3 cents. FTR said the flatbed increase was the first in 12 weeks.

Why drivers should read the numbers carefully

The increase was broadly positive for carriers selling capacity in the spot market, but it came in the week leading into Labor Day, when rate gains are common. Total load activity fell 6.9% week over week even as it remained nearly 27% above the comparable 2025 week.

FTR also noted that its fuel-surcharge calculation used diesel prices through August 31 and therefore did not capture the following week's sharp fuel increase. A higher all-in rate does not automatically mean a higher operating margin when fuel and other costs are rising at the same time.

What to use before accepting a load

National weekly averages are a market signal, not a quoted lane rate. Drivers and small carriers should compare the offered linehaul rate, expected fuel cost, deadhead, tolls, dwell time, reload options and any surcharge before deciding whether a load is profitable.

The reported figures cover broker-posted spot freight in the Truckstop system. They do not establish contract rates, guarantee that every region or lane increased, or predict that the pre-holiday gain will continue.

Primary sources and supporting records

Related CDL practice

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