Truckload rates are staying strong despite a slight fall-off in demand. That’s according to a report issued by DAT Solutions, which operates the DAT national network of load boards.

According to the report, the number of available loads on the spot truckload market slipped just 3% during the week ending July 22, better than expected for the middle of July.

Nationally, the overall number of truck posts was up 2% compared to the previous week as demand for capacity stayed solid and prices remained high. Load-to-truck ratios for all three major freight segments fell 5%: the load/truck ratio for vans was 4.8; flatbeds 36.1; and reefers 8.5. Spot van load posts declined 1% and the number of posted trucks increased 2%.

The national average van rate fell 2 cents to $1.81/mile as most major markets saw lower pricing. Los Angeles ($2.18/mile, down 5 cents), Chicago ($2.07/mile, down 2 cents), Houston ($1.80/mile, down 5 cents), and Atlanta ($2.12/mile, down 7 cents) all reflected lower spot truckload prices for outbound van freight. The spot reefer market mirrored vans, as load posts decreased 6% while truck posts were up 11%. 

There were some bright spots, including a boost in activity and rates out of the Midwest where fruit and vegetable harvests are coming in. The national average spot reefer rate fell 3 cents to $2.09/mile. Flatbed load posts declined 1% last week while truck posts increased 4%. At $2.18/mile, the national average flatbed rate was 2 cents lower compared to the previous week.

Rates are derived from DAT RateView, which provides real-time reports on prevailing spot market and contract rates, as well as historical rate and capacity trends. All reported rates include fuel surcharges.