They say you have to repeat something at least seven times before people remember it. We’ve shared a lot over the past few weeks about the impact of the May 14, 2026, Supreme Court decision on freight costs and capacity, and we’re going to keep talking about it.
Trucks are harder to find than ever right now, and if you can find one, it costs a lot more. That’s simply the reality of the world we’re operating in. You can argue with it if you’d like.
Good luck.
A quick reminder list
Keep close when the proverbial sh*t hits the fan:
Earlier in 2026, we began to emerge from a three-year recession in freight rates.
In April, the war with Iran began, which sent diesel prices skyrocketing on top of already rising rates.
On May 14, the Supreme Court issued a decision that many, myself included, feel is the biggest development in the freight world since deregulation.
- Essentially, this puts brokers, and by extension shippers, on the liability hook for hiring a potentially “unsafe” carrier.
- Previously, the argument was that the FMCSA had the authority to determine which carriers could safely operate a truck on public highways. No more.
- About 90% of carriers are unrated in the FMCSA database, yet the FMCSA has granted them operating authority.
- No one can clearly define what a “safe” motor carrier is. So any broker or shipper with common sense has started significantly tightening who they do business with. Stricter vetting guidelines = fewer trucks.
- Liability insurance rates are expected to increase 3x–10x.
Here’s the bottom line
Fnding a truck right now is very difficult, and when you can find one, it costs much more. Shippers have gotten used to easy capacity and low rates over the past three years, but conditions have changed dramatically.
That means you must expect longer lead times at a higher cost. If you need a last-minute load covered, it’s entirely possible it won’t happen. Please understand.
Adjust expectations. Plan for longer lead times. Communicate with your customers.
By the way, it’s kind of comical how all the biggest brokers are sending out communications about how strong their vetting is, how responsible they are, etc., etc. Funny how it’s the biggest brokers who incentivize the bad behavior that led to this situation. And, funny how they’re the ones getting sued for negligent hiring all the time. Maybe it’s me. I don’t know.
Charts always illustrate the story.
Tell me where I’m off.
