For week 50 in the spot market, 3 of the 4 key market indicators increased. Broker-posted spot rates in the Truckstop.com system rose sharply for all equipment types during the week ended December 19 (week 50). Dry van spot rates were especially notable, jumping to their highest level since early January 2023. A spot rate surge was inevitable in late December but typically not this early in the month. Still, variations in when holidays fall during the week can disrupt seasonal expectations, so any confirmation of a sustained market shift must wait until at least January.

The overall Market Demand Index (MDI) rose by 7.5 points to 108.0 as load availability increased 2.2% and truck availability declined 4.9%. Compared to last year the MDI is up 40.5 points, or 60.0%. Last week, market rates rose 3.1% to $2.41. Compared to last year, rates are up 8.3%. National fuel prices eased 6 cents to $3.61 from $3.67 per gallon in the previous week.