Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Real answers from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Maryland, MD.
Your shipping costs doubled this year. You're seeing quotes that make you wonder if carriers are gouging you. Maryland businesses along I-95 and Route 1 are all dealing with the same sticker shock.
Three factors drive today's freight costs: fuel prices, driver shortages, and equipment availability. Diesel costs hit trucking companies hard, and they pass those expenses to shippers. The industry lost thousands of drivers during the pandemic and hasn't recovered. Empty trailers sitting in Baltimore and Columbia mean carriers charge more for available trucks.
Costs vary by season and demand. Summer months see higher rates due to construction projects and retail restocking. A 500-mile shipment that cost $800 last year might run $1,200 now. Oversized freight and specialty cargo like steel poles cost even more because fewer carriers handle them.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week. Compare full truckload rates against backhaul logistics, where your freight rides on trucks already making trips. Gateway Distribution specializes in backhaul services that cut costs by using return trips instead of empty trailers. Lock in contracts for regular shipments to avoid rate spikes.
Stable shipping costs let you plan your business better. You'll know your transportation budget and can quote customers accurately. Backhaul logistics often saves 20-30% compared to standard freight rates.
Other things people in Maryland 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 Maryland and the area around it.