As California diesel sticks above $8 a gallon, truckers are pushed to the brink

What happened: California diesel hit $8.35 a gallon this week, more than 30% above the national average, squeezing truckers. Small operators are losing money, shrinking fleets, fueling out of state, and changing driving habits. Key numbers: California diesel $8.35 a gallon, up over 60% from a year ago; national average $6.32. Why it matters: Higher hauling costs could soon show up in grocery prices. Small truckers, over 90% of US trucking companies, often cannot raise rates when fuel spikes, and some may leave the industry if prices keep rising.

California diesel hit $8.35 a gallon this week, more than 30% above the national average, squeezing truckers. Small operators are losing money, shrinking fleets, fueling out of state, and changing driving habits.

Higher hauling costs could soon show up in grocery prices. Small truckers, over 90% of US trucking companies, often cannot raise rates when fuel spikes, and some may leave the industry if prices keep rising.