According to FTR, total broker-posted spot rates increased nearly 3 cents, which the firm noted was the most significant gain since late June. Overall spot volumes were driven by solid gains in van loads, ticking up 0.8% despite a decline in flatbed load postings. Total volume was roughly 19% to 29% higher than last year (This week, FTR included year-over-year comparisons for both week 39 and week 40; the more dramatic difference is when compared to week 39).
Here are how rates and volumes changed across the three major spot market equipment types:
Dry van spot rates and freight volumes surge
According to FTR: Spot rates rose just under 7 cents, the largest week-over-week increase since the week before Labor Day. Year over year, rates were up roughly 2.4% to 6.5%. Dry van loads increased 5.7%, with volume nearly 15% to 25% higher than last year.
According to DAT: National linehaul spot rates increased by $0.03 per mile week over week, averaging $1.70 per mile. This rate is $0.05 higher than the same time last year.
Reefer spot rates climb on tighter capacity and strong seasonal demand
According to FTR: Spot rates increased 4.4 cents. Rates were about 3.4% to 7% higher than last year. Refrigerated loads jumped 16.6%, the largest week-over-week increase since June, with volumes roughly 1% to 9% above last year.
According to DAT: The national seven-day rolling average for spot rates increased $0.05 week over week, reaching $2.05 per mile. This marks an increase of $0.08 compared to the previous year.
Flatbed market shows modest rate gains amid slower freight activity
According to FTR: Spot rates increased 1.7 cents, the largest gain in 18 weeks. Rates were roughly 3.4% to 5% higher than last year. Flatbed loads decreased 4.4%, though load volume was 29% to 40% higher than the same 2024 week.
According to DAT: National spot rates increased by just under a penny week over week, reaching $2.07 per mile. The rate is $0.08 higher than last year.
