Fuel Costs Are Rising Across the Industry — Here Is Where Joyner Stands
Fuel costs have become one of the most talked-about topics across the freight and logistics industry this year. What was once a manageable variable has become a meaningful line item for carriers, brokers, and shippers alike — and the numbers coming out of the industry reflect just how significant that shift has been. At Joyner, we believe our customers deserve clarity, not confusion. So we are sharing our position directly.
What the Industry Is Experiencing
Fuel surcharges across major transportation carriers have reached levels not commonly seen in recent years. The data tells a clear story about how quickly and significantly the cost environment has shifted — and why so many shippers are now receiving notices of rate adjustments from their existing providers.
To put that last figure in plain terms: for every dollar diesel prices have actually risen, some carriers have increased their fuel surcharges by the equivalent of five dollars. That kind of disproportionate adjustment has raised serious questions among shippers about whether surcharges accurately reflect real costs — or whether they have become a broader revenue tool. We understand why customers are asking those questions, and we think it is a fair one to ask.
Where Joyner Stands: Our Commitment by Service Type
We have reviewed our cost position carefully, and we want to be straightforward about what that means for each segment of our customer base. Our approach is not a blanket policy — it is tailored to reflect the relationships and commitments we have already made, and the realities of each service line.
Customers in these service lines will see absolutely no change to their current rates. These rates are locked, and we intend to keep them that way. No fuel surcharge. No adjustment notice. No surprises. We made a commitment to these customers and we are honoring it in full — regardless of what the broader market is doing.
For customers operating under a freight contract with Joyner, your agreed-upon rates remain in place for the duration of that contract. We are absorbing the increase in fuel costs rather than passing them on to you mid-agreement. We entered into those contracts in good faith, and we believe that honoring them — even when it costs us more to do so — is simply the right thing to do.
For spot, on-demand, and broker-arranged shipments, pricing will reflect current market conditions at the time of booking — including any applicable fuel-related cost adjustments. This is consistent with how the spot market has always functioned, and we remain committed to competitive, transparent pricing within that segment. Customers in this category are always welcome to discuss contract options with our team if predictable pricing is a priority.
"Fuel costs are a real challenge for every company in this industry. But we think the way a carrier responds to that challenge says a great deal about who they are. We are choosing to protect our customers wherever we can."Joyner Companies — Corporate Statement, September 2026
Why We Are Handling It This Way
We recognize that absorbing fuel cost increases on behalf of contracted customers is not the easiest financial decision. But we also know that our customers made plans based on the rates we agreed to, and disrupting those plans mid-contract because of market volatility would not reflect the kind of company we want to be.
For customers in our locked-rate service lines, the reason is even simpler: a commitment is a commitment. Autow, Corporate Shuttle, Mobility, and Delivery Service Partner customers chose Joyner in part because of the rate stability we offered. We will not change that without due notice and a proper conversation.
We do want to be honest about one thing: the current cost environment is unlikely to be short-lived. Fuel pricing across the transportation sector remains volatile, and the structural factors driving surcharge growth are not expected to resolve quickly. We are monitoring the situation closely, and we will continue to communicate openly with our customers as it develops.
For customers currently using Joyner on a spot or on-demand basis, now may be a good time to consider whether a contract arrangement would better serve your planning needs. Contracted customers are shielded from market-rate fluctuations — including fuel surcharges — for the duration of their agreement. If that kind of pricing stability is something your business could benefit from, our team is happy to have that conversation at no obligation.
Reach out to discuss contract options →What You Can Expect Going Forward
We are committed to keeping our customers informed as the fuel cost situation evolves. If anything changes with respect to the commitments outlined in this article — particularly for locked-rate and contract customers — we will communicate that directly and well in advance. We will not surprise you.
If you have questions about how these changes affect your specific account, your current rate structure, or your options going forward, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help you navigate this and to make sure Joyner remains the right choice for your transportation needs.