Truckload Market Sees Contract Premium Shrink

The U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index indicates a shrinking premium for contract truckload rates compared to spot rates, compressing to $0.11 per mile. While spot rates surged 23.3%, contract rates only increased by 5% between March 2025 and February 2026, despite a sharp drop in volumes. This repricing suggests a market shift where shippers are benefiting from more favorable contract terms relative to the volatile spot market, reflecting changing supply-demand dynamics in freight transportation.