Back to July 2026 Industry Update
July 2026 Industry Update: Reefer
DAT National Average Reefer Spot Rate excl. FSC
Key Points
- Refrigerated linehaul spot rates increased for the third straight month in June, rising 5.7% MoM ($0.15) to $2.70.
- On an annual basis, reefer spot rates, exclusive of fuel, were up 39.2% YoY ($0.76) and were 30.3% ($0.63) higher than the long-term average.
DAT National Average Reefer RPM Contract vs. Spot
Key Points
- Initially reported contract linehaul rates for reefers increased 1.8% MoM ($0.05) and are 10% ($0.23) higher YoY compared to June 2025.
- As spot rate increases continue to outpace gains in the contract market, the spread remains in favor of spot rates, which remain at a 6.3% premium relative to the contract market.
DAT Reefer Load-to-Truck Ratio
Key Points
- The reefer load-to-truck ratio softened in June following a sharp surge in May, dropping 2.1% to 19.97, but remains roughly 94% above year-ago levels and 141% above the average over the last five years.
- Weaker reefer demand was reflected in DAT load board data as refrigerated load posts dropped 0.2% MoM, while equipment posts were up 1.8% MoM.
DAT Reefer Outbound Market Conditions Map, Past 30 Days
