Executive Summary
The global logistics market has fully entered peak season, driven by increasing import demand, the ongoing U.S.–China tariff truce, and operational disruptions stemming from the Strait of Hormuz crisis. International ocean freight rates recorded one of the largest weekly increases of the year, while cargo volumes continue to place significant pressure on U.S. port and rail infrastructure.
In the United States, diesel fuel prices posted another weekly decline, providing partial relief from rising operating costs. However, the combination of constrained capacity, driver shortages, and increasing dwell times at ports and inland terminals continues to create significant challenges for shippers and logistics providers.
The trucking market remains strong, led by flatbed rates reaching new all-time highs, reflecting robust demand for industrial materials, infrastructure projects, and specialized freight.
U.S. National Weather Forecast (June 11–13)
Operational Summary
Favorable Conditions
- Most of the Southeast, Gulf Coast, and major central freight corridors are expected to experience favorable operating conditions.
- The ports of Savannah, Charleston, Norfolk, and other East Coast gateways are expected to operate normally.
- No major weather events are forecast that would cause nationwide supply chain disruptions.
Areas of Concern
Upper Midwest & Great Lakes (June 11)
- Moderate risk of severe storms across Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
- Wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, large hail, and isolated tornadoes are possible.
- Potential delays along the I-80, I-90, and I-94 corridors.
Northeast & I-95 Corridor
- Dangerous heat wave with temperatures approaching 95°F and heat indexes exceeding 100°F.
- Possible operational slowdowns at the Ports of New York/New Jersey and Philadelphia.
Texas & Southern Plains
- Temperatures between 95°F and 100°F.
- Additional attention is recommended for refrigerated equipment and driver safety.
Desert Southwest & California
- Persistent extreme heat conditions.
- Phoenix may reach 108°F.
- Elevated operational risk for reefer freight and drivers.
Logistics Impact
- Primary operational risks remain concentrated in severe storms across the Midwest and extreme heat across the South and West.
- Port operations remain largely stable nationwide.
On-Highway Diesel Fuel Prices
Key Highlights
- Fifth consecutive week of declining diesel prices.
- U.S. national average fell to $5.21 per gallon.
- The West Coast continues to experience the highest fuel costs in the country.
Average Prices
| Region | Current Price | Weekly Change |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. National Average | $5.21/gal | -$0.14 |
| Gulf Coast | $4.79/gal | -$0.11 |
| Midwest | $5.18/gal | -$0.21 |
| West Coast | $6.29/gal | -$0.11 |
Impact
Lower fuel prices are helping offset part of the operational cost increases associated with rising freight rates and ongoing congestion.
Container Volume & Dwell Times
Key Highlights
- Los Angeles remains the leading U.S. import gateway.
- National drayage demand is currently 29% above the previous four-week average and 42% above the six-month average.
- Chicago continues to experience the highest inland dwell times among major intermodal hubs.
Major U.S. Ports
| Port | Current Volume (TEUs) | Dwell Time |
| Los Angeles | 79,500 | 5.6 days |
| New York/NJ | 63,100 | 5.0 days |
| Savannah | 53,100 | 4.2 days |
| Houston | 43,300 | 3.8 days |
| Charleston | 30,100 | 3.7 days |
| Norfolk | 27,100 | 3.4 days |
| Port Everglades | 19,700 | 3.1 days |
| Philadelphia | 12,500 | 2.9 days |
Inland Rail Ramps
| Location | Current Volume | Dwell Time |
| Chicago | 39,300 | 7.4 days |
| Atlanta | 29,100 | 5.8 days |
| Charlotte | 19,500 | 5.0 days |
FTL & LTL Freight Market
Key Highlights
Dry Van
- Spot rates declined to $2.49/mile.
- First weekly decline in six weeks.
- Rates remain more than 50% above the same period last year.
Flatbed
- New all-time high of $3.79/mile.
- 28th increase in the last 29 weeks.
- Strong demand driven by infrastructure projects, steel, and aluminum shipments.
Reefer
- Slight decline to $3.24/mile.
- Market conditions remain strong due to seasonal summer demand.
LTL Market
- Pricing remains firm.
- Hazardous materials and specialized freight continue commanding premiums of 15%–25%.
Weekly Market Movement
- Flatbed continues leading market growth.
- Total freight activity increased approximately 9.4% following the Memorial Day holiday period.
- Capacity is expected to remain extremely tight through the end of June.
General Conclusion
The North American logistics market continues to operate under significant demand pressure, driven by the U.S.–China tariff truce, the start of peak import season, and the indirect effects of the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Ocean freight rates continue to rise rapidly, port volumes remain elevated, and intermodal congestion continues to worsen.
Despite lower diesel prices, driver shortages, longer dwell times, and constrained capacity indicate that market conditions will remain tight throughout June. The ocean freight, flatbed, intermodal, and reefer sectors are expected to experience the highest levels of operational pressure and cost escalation in the coming weeks.
