Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Real answers about rising costs from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Iowa, IA.
Your shipping costs doubled this year and you're not sure if this is the new normal. Between fuel prices, driver shortages, and equipment availability, freight rates in Iowa keep climbing. You need to know if you should lock in rates now or wait for prices to drop.
Freight costs spiked because three big factors hit at once. Fuel prices jumped 40% in two years. The trucking industry lost 80,000 drivers since 2020. Equipment shortages mean fewer trucks competing for your load, driving prices up.
Typical Iowa freight costs increased 25-50% depending on your route and cargo type. Shipments along I-35 and I-80 corridors see the biggest swings because demand is highest. Agricultural freight during harvest season adds more pressure. Smaller loads under 10,000 pounds got hit hardest because full truckloads spread costs better.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week, including backhaul logistics options. Backhaul loads cost less because trucks are already making the trip and need cargo for the return journey. Gateway Distribution specializes in matching Iowa freight with existing routes, cutting your costs 20-30%. Ask about quarterly rate agreements to lock in pricing during volatile periods.
Once you secure backhaul logistics, your shipping becomes predictable again. Costs stay stable even when market rates spike. You'll know exactly what freight will cost next quarter instead of guessing every shipment.
Other things people in Iowa 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 Iowa and the area around it.