Why is freight shipping so expensive right now?
Real answers about freight costs from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Utah.
Your shipping bills doubled this year and you're not sure why. Utah businesses are paying record freight rates while trying to figure out if this is the new normal. You need to know what's driving these costs and whether to lock in rates or wait it out.
Three major factors are pushing freight costs higher across Utah and nationwide. Driver shortages mean fewer trucks available to haul your freight. Fuel costs fluctuate with oil prices and add surcharges to every shipment. Equipment availability varies by season and demand, especially on routes like I-15 and I-80 where Utah connects to major markets.
Freight rates change based on supply and demand, just like airline tickets. A full truckload from Salt Lake City to Los Angeles might cost $2,000 one week and $2,800 the next. LTL shipments face similar swings. Rates typically spike during peak seasons like harvest time and before holidays when everyone ships at once.
Get quotes from multiple carriers this week to see your options. Consider backhaul logistics where your freight rides on trucks already making the trip, cutting costs significantly. Gateway Distribution specializes in finding these opportunities for Utah shippers. Ask about longer contracts if you ship regularly and want rate stability.
Once you understand your shipping options, you can budget accurately and avoid surprises. Rates will keep fluctuating, but you'll know what drives the changes and how to respond when costs spike again.
Other things people in Utah 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 Utah and the area around it.