rki.news | Sources: Xinhua
LOS ANGELES, July 16: Rising diesel prices across the United States are placing fresh financial pressure on trucking companies, increasing freight costs and raising concerns over higher consumer prices.
The national average diesel price climbed above 5 dollars per gallon, compared with 3.72 dollars a year earlier, according to the American Automobile Association. The U.S. Energy Information Administration also reported a sharp weekly increase, with the average reaching 4.796 dollars per gallon, a key benchmark used to calculate fuel surcharges in trucking contracts.
California recorded the country’s highest diesel prices at 6.126 dollars per gallon, reflecting reduced refining capacity and disruptions to global energy supplies linked to tensions in the Gulf.
The price surge comes as freight companies continue facing weak demand, rising equipment costs, and higher maintenance expenses. Industry analysts say small trucking operators are under the greatest pressure because they have limited ability to negotiate higher shipping rates.
The American Transportation Research Institute reported that the average cost of operating a truck reached a record 2.336 dollars per mile in 2025. Many carriers have reduced fleet sizes and parked trucks to limit losses.
Economists warn that prolonged diesel price increases could raise costs for groceries, construction materials, online deliveries, and other consumer goods, adding further inflationary pressure across the U.S. economy.