Transport costs rising swiftly, warns J.B. Hunt

J.B. Hunt is warning customers about cost increases up to 10% or more as fall distribution season and the upcoming electronic logging device (ELD) mandate deepens the driver shortage, JOC.com reported Monday. Qualified driver availability is the main issue. Application numbers are healthy, but skills and experience are often lacking. Sign on bonuses and double-digit pay increases are becoming standard issue for new hires. Previous rate increase predictions were more modest before Hurricanes Irma and Harvey. Peak fall season also arrived early, driving rates higher. Spot market and intermodal rates are also higher than they were a year ago.