High Diesel Prices Squeeze Owner-Operators Across the U.S.

High diesel prices are hitting independent truck drivers hard.

Owner-operators interviewed by The Wall Street Journal said fuel costs are forcing them to cut expenses wherever possible. Some are cooking in their trucks, skipping truck washes and avoiding paid parking to keep more money in their pockets.

A fill-up can still cost hundreds of dollars. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a national on-highway diesel average of $6.199 per gallon on October 5, down from $6.529 on September 21.

The impact can be especially difficult for owner-operators who pay their own fuel, maintenance and other operating expenses. Larger fleets may have more protection through fuel surcharges, while independent drivers can have less room to absorb sudden increases in fuel costs.