Freight Rates: Flatbed Leads While Van/Reefer Drop

Flatbed spot rates reach $2.70/mile (+29¢ YoY) while van and reefer show weakness. Full analysis from DAT Freight & Analytics.

What's up, truckers 💰

If you haul flatbed, I've got good news. If you move van or reefer, hang in there — things are tough but they'll improve.

According to the latest data from DAT Freight & Analytics, flatbed spot rates are at $2.70 per mile — an increase of 29 cents year-over-year. That's real money.

But the story is different for dry van and reefer:

• Dry van: $1.82/mile (no significant YoY change, slightly below historical average)
• Reefer: $2.15/mile (down 8¢ compared to last year)

Why Is Flatbed Winning?

There are several reasons why flatbed is dominating right now:

1. Booming Construction

Federal infrastructure projects (bridges, roads, buildings) are moving tons of steel, lumber, heavy machinery. All of that goes on flatbed.

2. Less Competition

Not everyone hauls flatbed. You need experience, specialized equipment (tarps, straps, chains), and know how to secure loads safely. That means less competition = better rates.

3. Seasonal Demand

March-October is peak season for construction and agriculture (machinery, building materials). Demand goes up, so do rates.

What's Happening with Van and Reefer?

The problem is simple: too many trucks, not enough freight.

During 2024-2025, many fleets added capacity expecting consumer demand to bounce back strong after the pandemic. It didn't. The American consumer is buying fewer "things" (fewer van loads) and more experiences (travel, entertainment).

For reefer, fresh produce volumes are flat. There's no big growth in demand, but there is in capacity. Result: low rates.

What to Do If You Haul Van or Reefer?

All is not lost. Here are your strategies:

1. Look for Dedicated Routes or Contracts

Spot rates are low, but dedicated contracts still pay well. If you can secure a fixed route with a fleet or distributor, you'll have stable income even when the spot market is soft.

2. Diversify — Add Flatbed to Your Arsenal

If you have the capital, consider adding a flatbed trailer to your operation. You don't have to abandon van/reefer — just add another option when flatbed rates are good.

Approximate cost: $25,000-$40,000 for a used flatbed in good condition.

3. Reduce Operating Costs

If rates are low, your margin comes from cutting expenses:

• Preventive maintenance — avoid expensive emergency repairs
• Optimize routes — fewer deadhead miles, more efficiency
• Buy diesel smart — use apps like Mudflap or TruckSmart
• Reduce idling — install a Go Green APU and save $900/month

4. Wait for the Rebound (It's Coming)

Freight cycles last 18-24 months on average. We're in the low part of the cycle now. DAT and FTR analysts expect Q3-Q4 2026 to show recovery as:

• Fleets retire capacity (old trucks without replacement)
• Consumer demand rebounds
• Retailer inventories drop and need replenishment

Hard Data (DAT Freight & Analytics)

• Flatbed spot: $2.70/mile (+29¢ YoY)
• Dry van spot: $1.82/mile (no significant YoY change)
• Reefer spot: $2.15/mile (-8¢ YoY)
• Load-to-truck ratio (flatbed): 47.2 loads per truck (very high)
• Load-to-truck ratio (van): 3.8 loads per truck (very low)
• Load-to-truck ratio (reefer): 6.1 loads per truck (low)

The load-to-truck ratio tells you everything: flatbed has 47 loads competing for each available truck. Van only has 4. That's why flatbed rates are through the roof.

💼 Healthy Finances = Lasting Business

At The Truck Savers™ we understand these times are tough. That's why we offer:

• Parts and accessories at our online store
• Free road simulator inspection — find problems before they get expensive
• Complete maintenance service — keep your truck rolling without surprises

Rates will go up — meanwhile, make sure your operation is ready to take advantage. 🚛💪