Is $6 Diesel Coming? What Every Trucking Company Needs to Know | Brake Check

Rates are finally climbing... so why are trucking companies still struggling to make money? ATRI just revealed the highest operating cost in trucking history: $2.336 per mile. Diesel is pushing $5 a gallon AND SOME ARE WORRIED MAY HIT $6. Insurance keeps climbing. Maintenance isn't getting cheaper. So where is the money actually going? In this episode of Brake Check, we expose the hidden costs draining carrier profits and separate the technology that's delivering real ROI from the expensive hype that's emptying wallets. First, FreightWaves Enterprise Trucking Analyst Thomas Wasson joins us fresh off the Supply Chain AI Symposium to break down the freight market, exploding operating costs, AI, and the tools that can actually make carriers more profitable. Then, FOX Business contributor and energy expert Phil Flynn explains what's really driving diesel prices, whether another fuel spike is coming, and how smart fleets can stay ahead instead of getting blindsided at the pump. If you own trucks, manage a fleet, dispatch freight, or simply want to know where the trucking economy is headed next...This is the episode you can't afford to miss. Topics covered: Why trucking costs hit a record $2.336 per mile Where carrier profits are really disappearing AI that saves money—and AI that's just hype Freight rates vs. operating costs Diesel price forecasts and fuel strategy What small fleets need to survive the rest of 2026 Brake Check. No fluff. Just the truth that moves trucking ⁠Follow the Brake Check Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices