Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Honest answers about shipping costs from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in North Dakota, ND.
Your shipping costs doubled this year. You're watching freight bills climb every month with no clear end in sight. Across North Dakota's long rural routes and I-29 corridors, businesses are asking the same question about skyrocketing transportation costs.
Three major factors drive today's freight prices. Driver shortages mean fewer trucks available for your shipments. Fuel costs hit rural North Dakota routes especially hard due to longer distances between stops. Equipment shortages force carriers to charge premium rates when trucks and trailers are scarce.
Shipping costs vary dramatically by season and demand. Full truckloads from Fargo to major markets might run 30-50% higher than pre-2020 rates. LTL shipments to rural North Dakota towns see even bigger increases due to limited route density. Rates spike during harvest season when agricultural freight competes for the same trucks.
Get quotes from multiple carriers before committing to any shipment. Consider backhaul logistics to reduce costs by sharing space on trucks already making return trips. Gateway Distribution can help you find trucks heading back through North Dakota after delivering loads elsewhere, cutting your freight costs significantly compared to dedicated shipping.
You'll lock in predictable shipping costs and avoid the worst price spikes. Your freight moves reliably without paying premium rates for empty truck space. Smart routing through backhaul networks keeps your business competitive while freight markets stabilize.
Other things people in North Dakota 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 Dakota and the area around it.