Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Honest answers from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Connecticut, CT.
Your shipping costs doubled this year, and you're wondering if this is the new normal. Connecticut businesses are seeing the same thing across I-95, I-91, and I-84 corridors. The price jumps aren't random, and there are ways to manage them.
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing right now. Diesel prices affect every mile your freight travels. Fewer drivers mean carriers can charge more for available capacity. When trucks are scarce, rates go up fast.
Shipping costs typically run 15-30% higher during peak seasons like summer construction and holiday shipping. Full truckloads cost less per pound than partial loads. Distance, freight type, and timing all change your final price. Emergency shipments cost double or triple standard rates.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week, including backhaul logistics options. Gateway Distribution offers backhaul shipping where your freight rides on trucks already making the trip, cutting costs by sharing the round trip. Compare full truckload versus LTL pricing for your typical shipment sizes. Lock in rates with longer contracts if you ship regularly.
You'll have predictable shipping budgets and backup options when rates spike. Your freight moves reliably without the surprise invoices that hurt your cash flow.
Other things people in Connecticut 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 Connecticut and the area around it.