Back to September 2026 Industry Update
September 2026 Industry Update: Dry Van
DAT National Average Dry Van Spot Rate excl. FSC
Key Points
- Average dry van spot linehaul rates fell in August after four straight months of increases, contracting sharply by 8.1% ($0.19) MoM to $2.19.
- Compared to August 2025, dry van spot rates excluding fuel remain elevated by 35.6% YoY ($0.69) and are 25.7% ($0.45) above the long-term average.
DAT National Average Dry Van RPM Contract vs. Spot
Key Points
- Initially reported contract linehaul rates for dry vans increased slightly in August after surging in July, rising 0.2% MoM (~$0.01) and registering 20.2% ($0.40) higher YoY than August 2025 levels.
- The sharp contraction in spot rates in August further widened the contract rate premium, with contract rates 10.1% higher than spot rates, up from 0.8% in July.
DAT Dry Van Load-to-Truck Ratio
Key Points
- Despite the significant declines in spot rates, the dry van load-to-truck ratio remained relatively stable in August, falling just 1.2% MoM to 10.34.
- On an annual basis, the dry van load-to-truck ratio remains well above 2025 levels, 78% higher YoY and 121% above the 5-year average.
DAT Dry Van Outbound Market Conditions Map, Past 30 Days
