Spot truck rates rise during first week of September

   Fuel prices stayed basically flat during the first week of September when compared to the last week of August, but spot market rates, for the most part, were higher, according to DAT.
   Refrigerated rates rose 4.7 percent compared to the previous week, but had averaged out to a 2.3 percent drop from July to August. Van rates rose 2.7 percent on the week after only ticking up slightly in August. Flatbed spot rates remained basically constant during the first week of September after showing a 1.4 percent drop from July to August. 
   “Van and reefer rates started September off with a bang. Line haul rates rose $.09 for reefers and $.04 for vans, but flatbed rates dropped $.01,” DAT said. “A $.01 increase in the fuel surcharge added to van and reefer rates and offset the flatbed loss. Load volume and capacity declined due to the Labor Day holiday.” – Jon Ross