Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Straight answers from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Missouri, MO.
Your shipping costs doubled in the past year. You're wondering if this is the new normal or just a temporary spike. With freight moving through major Missouri corridors like I-70 and I-44, you need to know if you should lock in rates now or wait for prices to drop.
Three main factors drive today's freight costs: fuel prices, driver shortages, and equipment availability. Diesel fuel directly impacts shipping rates, and when fuel costs rise 30-40%, carriers pass those costs to customers. The trucking industry also faces a shortage of qualified drivers, which means fewer trucks available for your freight. Limited truck availability drives up prices, especially during peak seasons.
Freight rates fluctuate based on demand cycles and seasonal patterns. Rates typically spike during harvest season in agricultural states like Missouri, then again before holidays when retail shipping increases. Your costs may vary 20-50% depending on timing, route, and cargo type. Longer routes and specialized equipment cost more than standard freight on common corridors.
Get quotes from multiple carriers to compare current market rates. Consider longer-term contracts if you ship regularly, as these can provide rate stability during volatile periods. Gateway Distribution offers backhaul logistics services that reduce costs by sharing truck space with other shipments already traveling your route. This approach eliminates empty miles and passes savings to customers.
Once you secure competitive rates and reliable service, you can budget accurately for shipping costs. Rate stability helps you plan ahead and avoid surprise price spikes that hurt your bottom line.
Other things people in Missouri 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 Missouri and the area around it.