National Drayage Spot Market Index Rose 9.8 Percent
Inland transportation demand surged 18 percent compared to the prior six-month period.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Transportation
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The National Drayage Spot Market Index has risen 9.8% year over year as inland transportation demand continues to climb. Current demand levels are 18% higher than the average seen over the last six months.
Why it matters
Elevated drayage costs are being driven by a combination of constrained trucking capacity and rising fuel prices. These factors continue to create a challenging economic environment for moving goods from port terminals.
The national drayage demand index is 9% higher than the previous four weeks, while national on-highway diesel prices averaged $6.382 per gallon for the week of September 28.
The details
Containers currently moving through terminals were booked several weeks ago, reflecting ongoing pressures from tight trucking capacity. Operational hurdles, including extended terminal queue times and strict appointment constraints, continue to dictate current drayage economics.
Timeline
During the week of September 28, national on-highway diesel averaged $6.382 per gallon.
The drayage market transitions from its peak season throughout the month of October.
Market Landscape
This sustained growth in the index reflects a broader consolidation of pressures across the North American supply chain. These metrics underscore a structural shift in how freight moved through terminals is being priced against limited trucking capacity.
Consumers may experience pass-through costs as businesses adjust to higher inland transportation expenses. Shipping delays remain possible as trucking capacity continues to face significant constraints.
The takeaway
Maintaining visibility into supply chain costs is essential for businesses navigating the current peak season transition. Readers should anticipate that freight demand levels will continue to influence shipping prices through the remainder of the month.
What happens next
The National Drayage Spot Market Index is expected to maintain its current 9.8% year-over-year increase through the end of October.
Further reading
For more context on current shipping trends, visit the Transportation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by American Journal of Transportation | AJOT | 1-800-599-6358.
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