Full Truckload Shipping Rates in North Carolina
January 22, 2025
What Drives Full Truckload Rates in North Carolina?
- Freight Demand & Seasonality: North Carolina is a logistics powerhouse: manufacturing, agriculture, consumer goods, and e-commerce all flow through our highways. Peak shipping seasons—produce harvests, back-to-school, holidays—tighten capacity and push rates higher.
- Lane Popularity: The route matters. High-volume corridors like Charlotte-to-Atlanta, Raleigh-to-Greensboro, and regional hauls to the ports see more competition and, often, steadier rates. Less common or rural lanes can cost more due to limited return loads.
- Fuel and Operating Costs: Diesel prices, tolls, insurance, and driver wages are all trending up. Carriers must price accordingly to maintain service and safety standards.
- Market Conditions & Regulation: Tight labor markets, changing safety regulations, and even weather events (hurricanes, winter storms) can swing rates by double digits overnight.
How Much Are Full Truckload Rates in North Carolina?
Rates change by the week, but here’s a ballpark for 2025:
- Standard dry van FTL (53’ trailer): $2.30–$3.10 per mile
- Refrigerated FTL: $2.70–$3.60 per mile
- Flatbed FTL: $2.60–$3.45 per mile
High-demand periods or expedited loads may run higher. For short hauls (under 250 miles), minimum charges often apply.
Example: Charlotte, NC to Atlanta, GA (245 miles):
- Dry van: ~$725–$950
- Flatbed: ~$775–$1,000
Tip: The most accurate rate is always a custom quote—built on your commodity, lane, timing, and special requirements.
Why Choose MigWay for FTL in North Carolina?
- Next-day delivery: 80% of the East Coast
- Zero outsourcing: Every mile managed by MigWay
- Asset-based: No brokers, no guessing games
- Live updates: GPS tracking, dedicated account support
- Transparent rates: No hidden charges, ever
When your shipment matters, you need a carrier who thinks like you.
2025 Trends: What’s Next for Truckload Rates?
- AI-Powered Routing: Dynamic pricing and optimized routing are streamlining costs for shippers who work with modern fleets.
- Driver Retention: Carriers investing in drivers (pay, home time, safety) can offer steadier service—and steadier rates.
- Resilient Supply Chains: More companies are locking in contract rates to hedge against market swings, especially for repeat lanes.
- Visibility & Control: Real-time data is now the expectation, not a bonus. Live updates help you manage exceptions before they impact your customer.
Ready for a Real FTL Quote?
MigWay delivers the speed, service, and certainty North Carolina shippers demand. Get a tailored, transparent quote—no delays, no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a full truckload shipment?
A full truckload (FTL) means your freight fills an entire trailer—usually 53 feet—either by weight, volume, or for exclusive use. FTL offers direct transit, faster delivery, and less risk of damage compared to LTL.
How are full truckload shipping rates calculated?
FTL rates depend on distance, weight, commodity type, current demand, and the specific route. Fuel costs, market trends, and equipment needs (van, flatbed, reefer) also factor in.
How far in advance should I book an FTL shipment?
For best rates and guaranteed capacity, book at least 3–5 days in advance. For urgent loads, MigWay offers same-day or next-day options across much of the East Coast.
Can I track my shipment in real time?
Yes. MigWay provides live GPS tracking on every truckload shipment, so you’re never in the dark about your freight’s location or ETA.
Do FTL rates change throughout the year?
Yes. Rates often increase during peak seasons (produce, holidays, back-to-school) and during weather disruptions. Flexible scheduling and contract pricing can help manage costs.
What’s the difference between FTL and LTL shipping?
FTL dedicates an entire trailer to your freight—faster and with less handling. LTL (less-than-truckload) combines multiple shippers’ freight in one truck, usually slower and with more stops.
How do I get the most accurate FTL rate for my shipment?
Provide detailed info: pickup/drop-off locations, weight, dimensions, commodity, timing, and any special requirements. The more specifics, the sharper your quote.
Why should I choose an asset-based carrier like MigWay?
Asset-based carriers own and operate their own trucks—delivering more control, consistency, and accountability. MigWay’s fleet is managed in-house, with zero outsourcing and real-time support.
Want to talk to a shipping expert?
Call us or request a quote—we’ll get you moving, fast.