What the October report shows

U.S. Bank and DAT Freight & Analytics reported that August dry-van contract linehaul averaged $2.39 per mile, while spot linehaul averaged $2.17. Contract rates rose from $2.30 in June and $2.38 in July; spot rates fell from $2.38 in June and $2.35 in July.

The resulting contract premium was about 22 cents per mile. The report's underlying table also shows spot loads falling from 1,306,819 in July to 1,264,897 in August and contract loads falling from 750,371 to 740,249.

Fuel changes the all-in picture

The report separates linehaul from fuel. Its average fuel surcharge rose from 62 cents per mile in July to 70 cents in August. With fuel included, the reported August averages were $2.87 per mile for spot freight and $3.09 for contract freight.

That distinction matters for owner-operators and small fleets: an all-in rate can look steadier even while the linehaul portion weakens. Actual fuel recovery depends on each customer's surcharge formula, base price, lane and timing.

What it means for drivers and carriers

The report describes a market in which load activity is weakening faster than headline pricing. Carriers with committed contract freight may have more rate stability than fleets relying heavily on the spot market, but lower load counts can still reduce equipment use and weekly revenue.

This index is a national dry-van market signal, not a guaranteed rate, driver-pay measure or forecast for every lane. Before accepting a load, carriers should calculate linehaul, fuel surcharge, deadhead, tolls, detention, maintenance and payment timing for the specific trip.

Primary sources and supporting records

Related CDL practice

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