Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Straight answers from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Arizona, AZ.
Your shipping costs doubled in the past year. You're not sure if this is permanent or temporary. Freight rates in Arizona have spiked due to nationwide driver shortages, fuel price swings, and equipment bottlenecks hitting routes along I-10 and I-17 especially hard.
Three main factors drive today's high freight costs: fuel prices, driver shortages, and equipment availability. Diesel fuel costs fluctuate daily and directly impact your shipping rates. The trucking industry faces a severe driver shortage, with carriers paying higher wages to attract drivers. Equipment shortages mean fewer available trucks and trailers, driving up demand for remaining capacity.
Typical freight costs have increased 25-40% compared to pre-2020 levels. Your specific rates depend on shipment size, distance, and timing. Seasonal demand spikes during harvest season and holiday shipping periods push rates even higher. Routes connecting Arizona to major markets like California and Texas see the biggest price swings due to high demand.
Get quotes from multiple carriers to compare current rates. Consider longer-term contracts if you ship regularly, as they can lock in more stable pricing during volatile periods. Gateway Distribution offers backhaul logistics that can reduce your costs by sharing truck space with other shippers on return trips, cutting empty trailer expenses.
Once you secure competitive rates through backhaul logistics, your shipping becomes more predictable and budget-friendly. You'll have clearer cost forecasting and reduced exposure to daily rate fluctuations that plague traditional freight shipping.
Other things people in Arizona ask
freight shipping transit times
LTL typically takes 2-5 business days depending on distance. Full truckload is usually 1-3 days. Expedited can be next day. Weather, holidays, and freight class affect timing. Get a transit time estimate in writing before you book.
backhaul vs dedicated trucking
Backhaul works when you have flexibility on pickup times and want the lowest cost. Dedicated trucks cost more but give you guaranteed capacity and schedules. If your shipments are time-sensitive or high-volume, dedicated is worth the extra cost.
own truck vs freight company
Own trucks make sense if you ship the same route 3+ times per week consistently. Factor in driver wages, insurance, maintenance, and downtime. Most businesses save money with freight companies until they hit 50+ shipments per month.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles backhaul logistics in Arizona and the area around it.