Spot market takes spring break

The number of van load posts dipped 1% and the national average van rate fell 2 cents to $1.56 per mile. Average outbound rates fell in several key markets, including Los Angeles (down 7 cents to $1.80 per mile), Chicago (off 5 cents to $1.70), and Philadelphia (2 cents lower to $1.65). Nationally, the van load-to-truck ratio was 1.6, unchanged from the previous week.

Reefer load posts fell 3% while truck posts added 3% for a reefer load-to-truck ratio of 3.1, down 6%. California, Texas, and southern Florida all experienced stronger seasonal volumes, outpacing slower markets elsewhere as the national average reefer rate fell a penny to $1.82 per mile.

Flatbed volume remained the same compared to the previous week and capacity increased 2%. The load-to-truck ratio dipped 2% while the national average flatbed rate was unchanged at $1.87 per mile.

The national average diesel price remained at $2.12 a gallon.

Rates are derived from DAT RateView, which provides real-time reports on prevailing spot market and contract rates, as well as historical rate and capacity trends. All reported rates include fuel surcharges. Load-to-truck ratios represent the number of loads posted for every truck available on DAT load boards. The load-to-truck ratio is a sensitive, real-time indicator of the balance between spot market demand and capacity, DAT notes. Changes in the ratio often signal impending changes in rates.

DAT Trendlines is a weekly report on spot market freight availability, truck capacity, and rates.