Rising diesel prices are straining the U.S. trucking industry, with the national average at $5.68 per gallon and California averaging $7.73, AAA reported.
Average heavy trucks that achieve about 5–6 mpg face steep operating costs, and carriers including Amazon, UPS, FedEx and the U.S. Postal Service have reintroduced fuel surcharges, industry reporting shows.
Smaller carriers and independent owner-operators face cash-flow pressure because customers often pay on extended terms while fuel must be paid immediately, CNN reported, while Reuters said off-contract spot rates remain about 25% higher year-on-year amid fewer drivers.
Large trucking companies can better absorb short-term fuel swings and negotiate bulk fuel deals. Higher diesel and shipping costs are increasing transportation expenses that will affect retailers and consumers.
This summary is based on coverage by Jalopnik.
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