Back to August 2026 Industry Update
August 2026 Industry Update: Reefer
DAT National Average Reefer Spot Rate excl. FSC
Key Points
- Refrigerated linehaul spot rates increased further for the fourth straight month in July, rising 0.8% MoM ($0.02) to $2.74.
- On an annual basis, reefer spot rates excluding fuel were up 39.6% YoY ($0.78) and were 32.8% ($0.68) higher compared to the long-term average.
DAT National Average Reefer RPM Contract vs. Spot
Key Points
- Initially reported contract linehaul rates for reefer increased 2.4% MoM ($0.06) and are 13.2% ($0.31) higher YoY compared to July 2025.
- Despite the stronger gains in the contract market, spot rates continue to trend at a 4% premium relative to contract rates, slightly lower than the 5.5% recorded in June.
DAT Reefer Load-to-Truck Ratio
Key Points
- The reefer load-to-truck ratio weakened further in July for the second straight month, dropping 3.8% MoM to 19.21 but remains 62.8% higher YoY compared to July 2025 levels and 120.4% above the 5-year average.
- Weaker reefer demand continued to be reflected in DAT load board data, with refrigerated load posts down 9.2% MoM and equipment posts down 5.5%.
DAT Reefer Outbound Market Conditions Map, Past 30 Days
