Trucking Costs Jump 32%

Moving freight across America is getting much more expensive.

On October 29, 2026, U.S. Bank released its third-quarter Freight Payment Index.

The report shows that U.S. shippers spent 32.1% more on truck freight compared with the same quarter last year.

Shipping costs also increased 5.2% from the previous quarter.

But here's the interesting part. The number of freight shipments increased only 0.5% compared with last year.

Higher diesel prices, tighter truck capacity, and rising freight rates are pushing transportation costs higher.

The Southwest saw one of the biggest increases, with freight spending jumping 51.6%.

!What This Means for CDL Drivers

For owner-operators and trucking companies, higher freight costs could mean opportunities to negotiate better rates.

But diesel and other expenses are also rising.

Just because shippers are paying 32% more does not mean truck drivers are earning 32% more.