Record rates mask ‘dire situation’ for hauliers as costs outstrip earnings

Record European road freight rates are masking a “dire situation” for hauliers, with soaring fuel costs eroding margins and operators struggling to pass increases on to shippers, according to industry bodies.

The Q3 European Road Freight Rate Benchmark, published yesterday by IRU, Upply and Transport Intelligence (Ti), showed contract rates reaching a record 148.9 index points in Q3 2026, up 14.6 points year on year, while spot rates hit 147.6 points, up 12.9 points.

However, IRU told The Loadstar that rising freight rates were not translating into improved profitability, with operating costs increasing substantially faster than the prices carriers could charge.

In France, operating costs rose approximately 14% between January and September with contract rates increasing just 7%.

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