November 2026 Freight Market Update

Inland Transport, Inc. | Market Insight

By Mark Rudnitsky, COO

Published November 9, 2026

Freight Market Overview

The North American freight market enters November with tighter truck capacity, rising transportation costs, and increased demand ahead of the holiday season.

While overall freight activity remains relatively steady, certain regions are experiencing higher rates and limited truck availability. Elevated diesel prices and seasonal shipping demand continue to influence transportation costs.

As the year comes to a close, shippers should prepare for potential rate increases and capacity challenges through December.

Truckload | Capacity Tightens Ahead of the Holidays

Truckload capacity tightened throughout October, particularly in California, the Pacific Northwest, and parts of the Southwest. Increased imports, seasonal freight, and higher operating costs have contributed to rising rates.

The market is expected to remain relatively stable during early November before tightening around Thanksgiving. Holiday shipping demand and reduced driver availability could place additional pressure on rates through December.

Shipper Outlook: Booking freight earlier and maintaining flexible pickup dates can help secure reliable capacity and reduce unexpected costs.

LTL | Stable Capacity, Gradual Pricing Increases

The less-than-truckload (LTL) market remains relatively stable, with no major changes in overall demand or capacity.

However, carriers continue adjusting pricing to account for higher operating expenses. Shipments requiring liftgates, inside delivery, oversized handling, or other specialized services may experience additional charges.

Shipper Outlook: Accurate shipment dimensions, weights, and delivery requirements are increasingly important for avoiding unexpected fees and controlling transportation costs.

Refrigerated | Seasonal Demand Creates Regional Pressure

Refrigerated freight conditions remain relatively balanced across much of the country, although regional differences continue.

The Pacific Northwest is experiencing tighter capacity due to agricultural shipments, while the Southeast remains more stable. Holiday food demand is expected to increase refrigerated freight activity as Thanksgiving approaches.

Higher fuel costs are also contributing to transportation expenses, particularly for temperature-controlled equipment.

Shipper Outlook: Shippers moving refrigerated products should plan ahead during peak holiday shipping periods, especially in regions with strong agricultural demand.

Flatbed | Steady Demand as Winter Approaches

Flatbed freight demand remains supported by construction, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure projects.

Although traditional construction activity typically slows during winter, ongoing industrial projects continue generating freight demand.

Winter weather may also reduce truck availability in northern states and mountain regions, where road conditions and additional cargo protection requirements can affect operations.

Shipper Outlook: Plan ahead for specialized equipment and allow additional transit flexibility when shipping into colder regions.

Intermodal | Rail Becomes More Competitive

Intermodal shipping continues gaining momentum as higher trucking costs make rail transportation more attractive for longer-distance freight.

Demand remains strong across major transportation corridors, although certain markets are experiencing tighter container availability and occasional service delays.

Intermodal pricing remains competitive compared with traditional truckload transportation on many long-haul routes.

Shipper Outlook: For shipments with flexible delivery schedules, intermodal transportation may provide meaningful cost savings.

Drayage | Port Activity Creates Localized Challenges

Drayage conditions remain mixed across major U.S. ports.

Southern California continues experiencing strong import activity, placing pressure on inland transportation. Houston is seeing higher transportation costs, while Savannah faces equipment availability challenges.

Terminal schedules, container availability, and port congestion can also affect pickup times and overall delivery costs.

Shipper Outlook: Early coordination of container pickups, terminal appointments, and delivery schedules can help prevent delays and additional charges.

Diesel Fuel | Elevated Prices Continue Affecting Rates

Diesel prices remain a significant factor in transportation costs across North America.

The U.S. average diesel price was approximately $6.25 per gallon in October, compared with $3.68 during the same month in 2025.

Higher fuel expenses continue affecting carrier operating costs, contributing to increased freight rates and fuel surcharges.

Shipper Outlook: Fuel costs are expected to remain an important consideration in transportation budgets heading into 2027.

Market Outlook | Preparing for Year-End

The freight market is expected to experience continued pricing pressure as November transitions into December.

Holiday demand, higher fuel expenses, and limited capacity in certain regions could create additional transportation challenges.

While conditions vary by equipment type and location, early planning and dependable carrier relationships will remain essential for maintaining consistent service.

At Inland Transport, we continue monitoring market conditions and working closely with our nationwide carrier network to help customers navigate changing freight conditions with reliable service and competitive transportation solutions.

Ship with Confidence.

Inland Transport, Inc. | Your Full-Service 3PL Partner