Dry Van Freight Rates 2026
Dry van freight is the backbone of American logistics, the workhorse of everyday shipping. In 2026, demand for enclosed trailer transport remains strong, but pricing has shifted from open spot volatility to structured, region-based planning. Whether you manage regional freight or nationwide distribution, understanding 2026 dry van freight rates helps you control costs, reduce risk, and secure dependable capacity.
What Are Dry Van Freight Rates?
Dry van freight rates are the costs of shipping goods in an enclosed, non-temperature-controlled trailer. Standard 53-foot dry vans handle most general commodities, including retail freight, packaged food, consumer goods, and manufacturing products.
Rates are typically calculated per mile and influenced by distance, origin and destination region, seasonality, fuel costs, and equipment availability. In 2026, pricing is increasingly structured around regional lanes and minimum charges, rather than purely spot-market bidding.
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Average Dry Van Freight Rates in 2026
As of 2026, dry van freight rates have stabilized following the 2023–2024 market reset. Capacity is tighter, carriers are more disciplined, and shippers are prioritizing execution and reliability over chasing the lowest possible rate.
| Lane Type | Typical Rate per Mile (USD) |
|---|---|
| Northeast regional lanes | $3.00 – $4.60 |
| Midwest regional lanes | $3.50 – $4.00 |
| Southeast outbound lanes | $3.75 – $4.50 |
| Florida inbound or outbound | $5.00 minimum |
| Long-haul interstate routes | $3.30 – $4.00 |
Minimum charges now play a major role. In 2026, most professional carriers enforce lane-based minimums ranging from $1,500 to $2,000, particularly on Northeast, Midwest, and long-distance routes.
Regional Pricing Structure in 2026
Rather than one-size-fits-all pricing, dry van freight in 2026 is priced by regional behavior:
- Northeast: Higher rates due to congestion, tolls, labor density, and appointment constraints
- Southeast: Strong outbound demand, especially from manufacturing and distribution hubs
- Midwest: Stable production lanes with consistent contract volume
- Western and long-haul routes: Priced to reflect repositioning and distance efficiency
Rates rise with congestion, dwell time, and repositioning cost. Dense metro areas and one-way freight markets consistently command premiums.
Florida Pricing Rule
Florida remains a one-way freight market with limited outbound recovery. To protect driver time and equipment utilization, carriers apply a fixed rate floor on these lanes.
New York and Pennsylvania Zip Areas
Shipments involving specific high-density zip codes in New York and Pennsylvania may be charged at higher rates.
This applies to both pickups and deliveries in those areas and reflects congestion, dwell time, and limited appointment flexibility.
Spot Market vs. Contract Rates in 2026
Dry van freight pricing generally falls into two categories:
- Spot Rates: Transactional pricing for one-off or urgent shipments, with higher volatility
- Contract Rates: Structured lane pricing with defined RPMs and minimums for recurring freight
In 2026, many shippers are reducing spot exposure and shifting toward structured contract programs with asset-based carriers to gain predictability and execution control.
What’s Driving Dry Van Rates in 2026
- Carrier discipline: Reduced oversupply and tighter pricing controls
- Insurance and compliance costs: Higher fixed operating expenses
- Fuel stability: Less volatility, but no return to pre-2020 pricing
- Driver retention: Pay and home-time expectations influencing lane selection
- Equipment utilization: Minimums and RPM floors protecting asset efficiency
How Shippers Can Control Costs in 2026
- Plan consistent lanes: Volume stability lowers per-mile cost
- Account for minimum charges: Ignoring them increases tender rejections
- Understand regional pricing: Rates vary by market behavior, not just miles
- Limit Florida spot exposure: Lock pricing in advance
- Partner with asset-based carriers: Control and reliability outperform cheap spot pricing
Why Shippers Choose MigWay
MigWay operates a precision-built fleet of over 260 trucks and 450 late-model dry van trailers. Our asset-based network provides direct control over capacity and performance — no brokers, no middlemen. We cover key East Coast and Midwest lanes with next-day delivery to over 80% of destinations.
Our dedicated operations and 24/7 dispatch teams keep freight moving with total visibility. From Charlotte to Chicago, Richmond to Dallas — we deliver freight on time, every time.
Get a Dry Van Quote or use dry van rate calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are dry van freight rates in 2026?
Dry van freight rates in 2026 typically range from $3.00 to $4.60 per mile, with Florida and certain Northeast lanes reaching $5.00 per mile.
Why are Florida lanes more expensive?
Florida is a freight imbalance market with limited outbound volume, which results in higher repositioning costs for carriers.
Are minimum charges common now?
Yes. In 2026, minimum charges between $1,500 and $2,000 are standard on many regional and long-haul routes.
Is spot pricing still reliable?
Spot pricing exists but carries higher risk. Most shippers now prefer structured contracts for predictable service.
What’s considered a good dry van rate in 2026?
A strong rate balances price and execution. Rates above $3.25 per mile with consistent service often deliver better total value.