Dry van rates ease, but fewer trucks keep capacity tight

DAT reported average dry van spot linehaul of $2.21 per mile in its August 26 update. That was four cents lower than the previous week, but 35.6% above the year-earlier level. These figures exclude fuel.

A tighter market is not always stronger demand

DAT’s analysis points to shrinking available capacity rather than a broad freight rebound. Truck posts were lower while the load-to-truck ratio remained elevated. That combination can make covering a load harder even when overall demand feels uneven.

Use the right comparison

A national dry van average is context, not a quote for a hotshot load. Equipment, lane, empty miles, loading time and fuel can change the economics considerably. Compare like-for-like rates and separate fuel from linehaul before deciding what a market headline means for your operation.

The report is a dated snapshot. Check current lane conditions and your own costs when pricing the next job.

Source: DAT, Dean Croke — August 26, 2026. This original Hotshot College briefing uses the source’s publication date. Featured image is illustrative.