Elevated U.S. Diesel Prices Add Pressure to Inland Freight Costs

U.S. diesel prices remain near record levels, continuing to create cost pressure across domestic freight transportation.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the national average for on-highway diesel stood at approximately $6.38 per gallon as of September 28, down from the previous week’s record high of approximately $6.53 per gallon.

While the week-over-week decline provides some relief, diesel remains a significant cost factor for trucking, drayage, final-mile delivery and distribution operations.

For importers and exporters, higher fuel costs may appear through fuel surcharges or broader adjustments to transportation pricing. As a result, the total landed cost of a shipment can increase even when the underlying ocean or air freight rate remains stable.

During periods of fuel price volatility, businesses should review transportation quotes carefully, confirm applicable fuel surcharges and consider how long quoted pricing can reasonably remain valid.