Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Straight answers about rising costs from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in North Carolina, NC.
Your shipping bills have doubled in the past year. You're wondering if this spike is permanent or if rates will come back down. With North Carolina's rural communities and long-haul routes along I-40 and I-95, freight costs hit especially hard when fuel and driver wages climb.
Three main factors drive today's high freight costs. Fuel prices directly impact every mile your freight travels. Driver shortages mean carriers pay higher wages to keep trucks moving. Equipment shortages force you to compete for available trailers, pushing rates up across all routes.
Costs vary by distance, freight type, and timing. Local North Carolina runs cost less than cross-country hauls. Seasonal demand spikes during harvest season and holiday shipping periods. Full truckloads cost more per shipment but less per pound than smaller loads. Most rates include fuel surcharges that adjust weekly.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week. Compare full truckload versus shared trailer options. Gateway Distribution offers backhaul logistics that pairs your freight with trucks already making the trip, cutting your costs significantly. Ask about longer-term contracts if you ship regularly. Avoid spot market rates during peak seasons when possible.
Once you lock in competitive rates, your shipping becomes predictable again. You can budget accurately and avoid surprise cost spikes. Your freight moves reliably without the stress of weekly rate shopping.
Other things people in North Carolina 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 North Carolina and the area around it.