National average diesel prices reached $5.37 per gallon as of March 31, 2026, with Florida operators paying $5.74, according to NewsChannel 13 in Orlando. Independent owner-operators face the sharpest pressure because they absorb fuel costs directly without corresponding rate adjustments from contract clients. One 30-year trucking veteran said the spike forced her to park her vehicle entirely. The surge is linked to global supply disruptions, with diesel prices rising more than $1.50 per gallon in recent weeks. Towing companies running multiple heavy units are absorbing thousands of dollars in additional monthly fuel expenses.
Operator takeaway
Review your non-consent rate schedules now — if your rates were set before the diesel surge, you may be absorbing losses on every call until your next contract renewal.