Spot rates surge to 2014 highs as flatbed streak hits 17 weeks

Last week, spot rates reached a high not seen since 2014, even with some minor drops week-over-week, according to weekly reports from FTR Transportation Intelligence and DAT Freight & Analytics.

According to FTR, “Flatbed spot rates rose for a 17th straight week, and dry van and refrigerated van spot rates remained highly elevated. Even if spot rates were to moderate in the near term, another record is likely soon due to the upcoming International Roadcheck roadside inspection event.”

Here is how rates and volumes changed across the three major spot market equipment types:

Dry van rates and volumes

According to FTR: Spot rates dropped 4.5 cents last week. Year over year, rates are up about 37%. Dry van loads fell almost 6%. 

According to DAT: National linehaul spot rates held steady last week, averaging $1.99 per mile. This rate is 25% higher than last year.

Refrigerated rates and volumes

According to FTR: Spot rates dropped 6.4 cents last week. Rates were about 34% higher than last year. Refrigerated loads rose almost 3%.

According to DAT: National linehaul spot rates held steady last week, averaging $2.35 per mile. This rate is 23% higher than last year.

Flatbed rates and volumes

According to FTR: Spot rates rose almost 5 cents last week. Year over year, rates were up 28%. Flatbed loads rose 1.4%.

According to DAT: National linehaul spot rates rose $0.05 per mile last week, averaging $2.66 per mile. This rate is 24% higher than last year.