Back to October 2026 Industry Update
October 2026 Industry Update: Flatbed
DAT National Average Flatbed Spot Rate excl. FSC
Key Points
- Average flatbed linehaul spot rates continued to decline in September for the third consecutive month, dropping 3.6% ($0.10) MoM to $2.60.
- Compared to September 2025, flatbed spot rates excluding fuel were up 30.1% ($0.60) YoY and are 28% ($0.57) above the long-term average.
DAT National Average Flatbed RPM Contract vs. Spot
Key Points
- Average flatbed contract linehaul rates declined for the second straight month in September, down 0.8% ($0.03) MoM but still 19.2% ($0.49) higher YoY.
- The sharp contraction in spot rates further widened the spread from contract rates, with contract rates 17.3% higher than their spot market counterparts.
DAT Flatbed Load-to-Truck Ratio
Key Points
- The flatbed load-to-truck ratio rebounded in September following five consecutive months of declines, rising 8.3% MoM to 38.98.
- Compared with September 2025, the flatbed load-to-truck ratio remains 50.3% higher YoY and is 79.3% above the 5-year average.
DAT Flatbed Outbound Market Conditions Map, Past 30 Days
