05 May 2026

Fuel Update - Mainfreight Americas

Understanding The Current Fuel Surcharge

According to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Information Administration (EIA) weekly retail data, U.S. No. 2 diesel prices stood at $3.530 per gallon at the start of the period tracked and increased to $5.640 per gallon by the week ending May 4. The full year 2025 EIA average for U.S. diesel was $3.660 per gallon. The EIA weekly diesel price is the industry standard benchmark used to set fuel surcharges across the freight industry and is the sole data source used to determine the applicable Mainfreight Americas fuel surcharge each week.

The April 2026 EIA Short Term Energy Outlook forecasts a full year 2026 diesel average of $4.80 per gallon. However, this figure reflects the lower price environment earlier in the year and should not be used as a proxy for current or near term surcharge planning.

For customer specific fuel surcharge details, please contact your local Mainfreight branch.

Americas Fuel Surcharge FAQs

Why fuel has a bigger impact on LTL pricing

LTL shipments move through multiple stages—pickup, linehaul, and final delivery—often within a hub and spoke network. Each step uses fuel, so changes in diesel prices affect LTL more than single run truckload shipments.

How fuel surcharges are calculated

Fuel surcharges are tied to the national diesel index published by the U.S. Department of Energy. Most carriers adjust their surcharge weekly using a published table, applying it as a percentage of the linehaul charge. This creates a consistent, transparent method tied to real fuel costs.

Why fuel surcharges differ between carriers

Not all LTL networks are structured the same. Differences in route density, regional coverage, equipment, and operating models mean carriers may apply different fuel surcharge percentages—even when fuel prices are the same.

Why fuel surcharges change even if shipment volume stays the same

Fuel surcharges move based on diesel prices, not shipping volume. If fuel costs rise, the surcharge adjusts automatically—even when shipment size, lanes, or frequency remain unchanged.

Why fuel is kept separate from base rates

Separating fuel from base rates keeps pricing transparent and predictable. It allows base rates to remain stable while fuel costs fluctuate, so customers can clearly see what portion of their cost is driven by fuel rather than service pricing.

How customers can manage fuel related costs

Customers can often reduce fuel impact by consolidating shipments, improving packaging to reduce space and weight, and maintaining consistent shipping patterns. Your logistics partner can also help identify service options that align with your cost and transit time priorities.

Want to learn more about fuel surcharges and updates? Reach out to your local Mainfreight team!

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