OLYMPIA, Wash. — While gasoline prices have shown signs of easing, diesel fuel costs remain elevated, creating ongoing financial strain for Washington’s trucking industry and the broader supply chain.
“Diesel prices are not following the same downward trend as gasoline, and that disconnect matters,” said Sheri Call, president, CEO of the Washington Trucking Associations (WTA). “Trucking runs on diesel, and when those costs stay high, it impacts everything—from the cost of goods to the stability of small businesses across our state.”
Rising Diesel Costs Passes on to Consumers
According to Call, continued increases in diesel will likely drive consumer prices even higher in the coming days and weeks. Diesel is the primary fuel that powers the nation’s freight system, and its persistent volatility disproportionately impacts trucking companies. Fuel is the industry’s second-largest expense after labor, and recent price spikes place significant pressure on carriers of all sizes.
Small Fleets Heavily Impacted
Commercial trucks consume approximately 46.5 billion gallons of fuel annually, with nearly 80 percent of that being diesel. These sustained high prices are particularly challenging for small fleets, which make up more than 90 percent of the industry and often lack the financial flexibility to absorb prolonged cost increases.
While fuel surcharges help offset some of the impact, they typically recover only 60–70 percent of rising costs. At the same time, carriers often wait 30 days or longer to be paid for delivered freight, forcing many to rely on reserves or credit to manage fuel expenses in the interim.
Beyond direct costs, fuel price volatility also influences the broader economy. Higher fuel costs reduce consumer spending and disrupt freight demand, compounding challenges for an industry already navigating a prolonged freight recession.
A Double Hit for Fleets
“The trucking industry is facing a double hit: higher operating costs and softer demand,” Call said. “That combination puts real pressure on the supply chain and ultimately affects consumers. All businesses, but particularly small businesses, will be faced with trying to make that difference up somewhere. More than likely, it means higher costs for consumers whether its food, clothing or other household items.”
The WTA continues to monitor fuel price trends and advocate for policies that support a stable and efficient freight system.
“Unlike some areas of the country, fuel costs in West Coast states like Washington are even more volatile due to state taxes and fees that add even more to the price of gas and diesel,” Call said. “In Washington, it’s adding $1.47 to each gallon of gasoline. Businesses and consumers are feeling doubly pinched by these increases, which impacts everything we all buy.”
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
