Dry Van Truckload (TL) Sector

April 30, 2026 Update

As of April 2026, dry van market conditions remain firmer than they were a year ago, with pricing supported by tighter capacity, healthier freight fundamentals, and a smaller available carrier base. While demand growth is not accelerating sharply, the balance between loads and trucks has improved meaningfully from the downturn, helping sustain stronger rate conditions entering Q2.

Unlike the softer markets of 2024 and early 2025, current dry van pricing is being supported more by structural supply contraction than temporary disruptions. Carrier exits, slower fleet growth, and tighter driver availability continue to reduce excess capacity, creating a more constructive backdrop for carriers and a more competitive environment for shippers.

Spot Rates

Dry van spot rates remain elevated entering April, though seasonal freight patterns have moderated from early-year peaks. Pricing continues to run above prior-year levels as available truck capacity remains tighter across many lanes.

Fuel costs and regional imbalances may create short-term volatility, but pricing floors appear stronger than they were during the previous cycle.

Contract Rates

Dry van contract rates are beginning to firm more clearly as stronger spot conditions move through bid cycles. Shipper leverage has narrowed, and the pricing environment is more balanced than it was during the downturn.

While increases remain measured, the direction of travel has shifted in favor of carriers for the first time in several years.

Capacity Conditions

Capacity tightening remains one of the most important drivers in the dry van market.

Carrier exits, disciplined fleet growth, and tighter driver supply continue to reduce available trucks. Private fleet normalization is also supporting more freight demand in the for-hire market.

As long as supply remains constrained, dry van rates should remain more resilient than in prior soft-market periods.

Summary

Entering April 2026, dry van rates remain supported by healthier market balance and tighter capacity. Spot pricing is stronger year over year, contract rates are beginning to respond, and supply conditions remain more disciplined.

For shippers, carriers, brokers, and investors, the dry van market has clearly moved into a firmer phase than the one that defined the past several years.