🚚 Freight, Fuel & Football: Week 1

Diesel & Market Update

As of the week ending September 8, the U.S. national average for on-highway diesel rose to $3.766/gal, up 3.2 cents from the previous week and about 21 cents higher than a year ago. This marks the first year-on-year diesel increase after a long stretch of declines. Rising diesel costs are already putting pressure on margins, and some carriers are introducing peak-season surcharges as imports soften. Meanwhile, overcapacity is shrinking as the FMCSA continues revoking carrier authorities—setting the stage for tighter capacity heading into Q4.

Commodity Spotlight – Energy & Refining

Global energy supply chains are on alert after Ukrainian drone strikes knocked out roughly 17% of Russia’s refining capacity. While this may disrupt European markets, U.S. Gulf Coast refiners could benefit from increased demand. Domestically, this creates ripple effects across oil and diesel flows—good to watch if you’re tied to construction, heavy equipment, or any sector sensitive to fuel swings.

Transportation Market Shockers

Norfolk Southern will now legally prioritize Amtrak’s Crescent Route passenger trains from NYC to New Orleans. That means potential freight delays unless shippers get pre-approved time slots. With rail congestion likely in the Southeast, more freight may spill over into truckload and intermodal alternatives.

Sports Corner 🏈⚽

• NFL: The 2025 season is officially underway. Forty-six players from the UFL, USFL, and XFL made NFL rosters this year—a record pipeline of talent. Power Rankings after Week 1 put the Bills and Packers on the rise, while the Lions drop out of the top five.

• La Liga: Real Madrid remain unbeaten, with Jude Bellingham continuing to shine. Xabi Alonso earned Manager of the Month honors for August, with Madrid posting 3 wins, 6 goals, and just 1 conceded.

• Premier League: Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham are setting the early pace. Manchester City stumbled with a 2–1 loss, while Manchester United drew 1–1. The table is already heating up.

• FIFA World Cup 2026: Ticket presales kick off September 10 via Visa draw, with prices ranging from $60 to $6,730. Stadium prep continues, though a new report warns that 10 of 16 host venues face extreme heat and water stress risks by 2050—especially Dallas and Houston.

  
  

Closing Note

From rising diesel costs to shifting rail priorities, this month reminds us how fast the freight market can change. Whether you’re managing construction supplies, refined products, or just keeping an eye on the weekend games, I’m here to help keep freight moving and keep you in the loop.

– Hector Escobar | Eterna Logistics