Why are my freight costs so high?

Your shipping bills jumped 30% this year. Every time you call for a quote, you get a different rate. You're watching your margins shrink and wondering why trucking got so expensive in Michigan.

Freight rates swing with fuel prices, driver shortages, and seasonal demand spikes. When fuel hits $4 per gallon, carriers pass those costs to you. The trucker shortage means fewer drivers competing for your loads, driving prices up. Winter weather in Michigan creates capacity crunches that push rates even higher.

LTL rates typically cost 15-25% more than they did two years ago. Your costs depend on freight class, distance, and timing. Shipping auto parts from Detroit costs more in January than July. Peak seasons around holidays can double your normal rates. Dense freight moves cheaper than bulky items.

Track rate patterns instead of calling random carriers each time. A freight broker like Gateway Logistics monitors daily market shifts and locks in better rates through carrier relationships. They spot when you're getting overcharged and find alternatives when your usual carrier spikes their price.

You'll pay consistent rates based on actual market conditions, not whatever a carrier quotes that day. Your shipping costs become predictable again. You can plan your margins without guessing what freight will cost next month.

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