Freight Pulse & Law Update: Spot Rates Climb Across All Equipment Types as FMC Expands Charge Complaint Path

Truckload pricing turned higher across every major equipment category for the first time since May. At the same time, a new Federal Maritime Commission rule gives shippers more ways to challenge unreasonable ocean charges.

What changed in the truckload market?

For the week ending September 11, 2026, all-in spot rates increased, driven largely by higher fuel surcharges:

• Dry van: up 9 cents per mile

• Reefer: up 13 cents per mile

• Flatbed: up 3 cents per mile

• Year over year: rates remain approximately 39%–42% higher

FTR and FleetOwner market data point to broad-based firming. Uber Freight is also warning that tight capacity could trigger a fourth-quarter rate surge. Contract rates are up 18% year over year, while tender rejections are moving above 14%: a clear signal that primary carriers are declining more contracted freight.

What does the FMC’s new rule mean for charge disputes?

The FMC’s final Charge Complaint rule, effective September 1, confirms that complaints under 46 U.S.C. § 41310 may proceed through:

• The interim complaint procedure

• A formal process before an Administrative Law Judge

• A small-claims process before a Small Claims Officer

There is no three-year statute of limitations for covered charges assessed on or after June 16, 2022. The carrier also bears the burden of proving demurrage and detention charges reasonable.

Why does the Peloton decision matter?

On September 10, the FMC rejected Peloton’s $33.7 million demurrage, detention, and storage claim against Flexport. The decision reinforces a practical requirement: parties must maintain invoice-level, container-level, and operational records: not just aggregated billing summaries.

How should logistics teams prepare for Q4?

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As CVSA Brake Safety Week underscores, disciplined records and operational control remain essential. Lanta Logistics combines Mid-Atlantic fulfillment, transportation, and supply chain management for reliable execution when rates and regulatory exposure rise.