Dry Van Freight Rates 2025
Dry van freight is the backbone of American logistics — the workhorse of everyday shipping. In 2025, demand for enclosed trailer transport remains steady, but rates continue to shift with the market. Whether you manage a regional supply chain or nationwide distribution, understanding dry van freight rates helps you plan budgets, control costs, and secure reliable coverage.
What Are Dry Van Freight Rates?
Dry van freight rates are the costs of shipping goods in an enclosed, non-temperature-controlled trailer. These 53-foot trailers move most general commodities — from packaged food and household products to consumer electronics and retail freight.
Rates are calculated per mile and reflect multiple factors: lane distance, seasonality, fuel costs, and equipment availability. Because dry vans protect cargo from weather and theft, they’re the most widely used and flexible shipping mode in North America.
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Average Dry Van Freight Rates in 2025
As of Q1 2025, U.S. dry van rates have stabilized after a volatile 2023–2024 cycle. Here’s what shippers can expect this year:
| Lane Type | Average Rate per Mile (USD) |
|---|---|
| East Coast Regional | $2.35 – $3.25 |
| Midwest Regional | $2.10 – $3.00 |
| Southeast to Northeast | $2.45 – $3.15 |
| Long-Haul (1,000+ miles) | $2.00 – $2.70 |
Contract rates are typically 5–10% lower than spot rates, reflecting guaranteed volume and regularity. For shippers who move freight consistently, contracting with an asset-based carrier like MigWay helps maintain cost predictability and reliable service.
What’s Influencing Rates in 2025
Dry van pricing is shaped by both economic conditions and industry capacity. Key factors driving 2025 rate changes include:
- Fuel prices: Diesel has moderated compared to 2022 highs, stabilizing operating costs for carriers.
- Carrier capacity: Smaller operators exiting the market tightened truck availability in early 2025.
- Freight demand: Consumer goods, manufacturing, and construction sectors continue to sustain steady volume.
- Equipment costs: New trailer lead times remain long; maintenance costs for older fleets are rising.
- Insurance and compliance: Higher premiums and safety standards add to overall carrier expenses.
Seasonal Trends to Watch
Like most freight modes, dry van rates fluctuate with the calendar. Here’s the general 2025 outlook:
- Q1 (Jan–Mar): Post-holiday slowdown — best time to secure lower rates.
- Q2 (Apr–Jun): Inventory restocking and construction push rates upward.
- Q3 (Jul–Sep): Peak demand season — higher rates, limited truck capacity.
- Q4 (Oct–Dec): Retail surge and weather impacts drive price volatility.
Spot Market vs. Contract Rates
Most dry van pricing falls into two categories:
- Spot Rates: Real-time quotes that adjust with current supply and demand. Ideal for one-off or urgent loads.
- Contract Rates: Fixed rates over a set term (usually 6–12 months). Offer cost stability and guaranteed capacity for recurring shipments.
In 2025, many businesses are locking in contracted partnerships to protect against short-term price swings. MigWay works closely with shippers to develop custom rate programs that align with their volumes, frequency, and required service levels.
How to Secure Competitive Dry Van Rates
Even as market conditions shift, shippers can take practical steps to keep rates competitive:
- Book early: Advance scheduling gives carriers more routing flexibility and typically lowers costs.
- Offer flexible windows: Allowing pickup or delivery flexibility lets carriers optimize multi-stop routes.
- Consolidate shipments: Fewer, fuller loads reduce per-mile expenses and increase efficiency.
- Leverage technology: Real-time tracking, ELD data, and predictive routing cut delays and detention fees.
- Partner with an asset-based carrier: Working with carriers like MigWay ensures guaranteed equipment, vetted drivers, and transparent 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are dry van rates?
Dry van rates are the per-mile costs of shipping goods in enclosed trailers. They include fuel, labor, insurance, and equipment expenses — typically averaging $2.15–$2.85 per mile in 2025.
What is the current trucking rate per mile?
As of early 2025, U.S. dry van trucking rates average around $2.40 per mile. Short-haul or high-demand lanes may exceed $3.00 per mile depending on market pressure.
What is the DAT rate?
The DAT Freight & Analytics Index provides real-time market averages. In Q1 2025, the national DAT dry van rate sits near $2.35 per mile on the spot market.
What is the standard freight rate?
Standard freight rates are long-term contract rates negotiated between shippers and carriers. They tend to run 5–10% lower than spot rates — roughly $2.20–$2.60 per mile for dry van freight in 2025.
What's a good rate per mile?
A good rate per mile depends on distance, equipment, and urgency. For consistent dry van service with on-time performance and reliable coverage, rates above $2.25 per mile generally deliver strong value in 2025.