Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Real answers about freight costs from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Colorado, CO.
Your shipping costs doubled in the past year. You're watching freight rates swing wildly month to month. Colorado businesses along I-25 and I-70 corridors are all asking the same question about whether these prices will stick.
Freight costs spiked because of three main factors hitting at once. Diesel fuel jumped 40% in two years. Driver shortages mean carriers turn down loads they can't staff. Equipment shortages force you to compete for available trucks, driving prices up.
Typical freight rates now run 30-60% higher than pre-2020 levels. Seasonal spikes happen during harvest season and holiday shipping. Distance matters more now because fuel costs hit longer hauls harder. Specialized freight like oversized loads or steel poles costs even more due to equipment limits.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week. Compare full truckload rates against LTL options. Consider backhaul logistics where your freight rides on trucks already making the trip. Gateway Distribution can show you how backhaul shipping cuts costs by eliminating empty trailer fees. Lock in longer-term contracts if you ship regularly.
Once you find the right carrier mix, your shipping becomes predictable again. Costs stabilize when you're not scrambling for last-minute capacity. You can budget freight expenses and focus on your business instead of chasing rates.
Other things people in Colorado 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 Colorado and the area around it.