Average reefer, van rates remain stable nationwide

National average rates on the spot truckload market remained elevated during the week ending June 13, 2015, reports DAT Solutions, which operates the DAT network of load boards. Rates in all three equipment categories held firm on the heels of big increases during the first week of June. The national average spot van rate was unchanged at $1.90 per mile (including surcharge) after a 5-cent increase the previous week. The number of van load posts declined 9.3% while truck posts increased 15% for the week ending June 13, 2015, driving the load-to-truck ratio down to 2.4, meaning there were 2.4 available van loads for every truck posted on the DAT network.

The national average refrigerated freight rate was unchanged as well after a 4-cent increase the previous week. The number of reefer loads posted fell 13% and posted capacity increased 16%. The national average reefer load-to-truck ratio dropped to 5.5. The number of available flatbed loads dipped 1.5% and truck capacity added 11%, pushing the flatbed load-to-truck ratio down to 26.7. 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. 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. Changes in the ratio often signal impending changes in rates. For complete national and regional reports on spot rates and demand, go to www.dat.com/Trendlines.