A dated market overview, not a live price list. These indices are not quotes for a particular route or refrigerated shipment.
Verified market data
Both contract and spot rates increased
Both freight rate indices rose in Q2 2026, driven mainly by costs according to the benchmark.
| Market | Index points | Change from previous quarter |
|---|---|---|
| Contract market | 148.0 | +7.9 index points |
| Spot market | 146.8 | +14.6 index points |
Index points are neither percentages nor EUR/km. The European aggregate cannot determine the price of an individual refrigerated shipment.
Cost factors
Fuel remains an important factor
On 29 September, the European Commission reported stable EU supply alongside high diesel prices. Purchasing costs therefore remain an important part of discussing a shipment.
Weekly data source
National averages are not actual purchasing prices
The Commission’s weekly Oil Bulletin publishes national fuel prices. The 8 October edition was available when checked. These figures support comparisons but do not represent an individual carrier’s actual purchasing price.
Planning considerations
What should you discuss in advance?
Alongside collection and delivery locations, direction, time windows, the number of loading points and vehicle availability matter. Refrigerated cargo also requires clear temperature instructions, handling requirements and documentation.
Mention flexible loading dates or time windows when requesting a quote. Earlier discussions provide more options for arranging the shipment, but do not by themselves guarantee a lower rate.
These are general planning considerations, not market statistics calculated from our own orders. A specific quote can be discussed once the cargo and route are known.
Sources checked on 11 October 2026. Data periods and publication dates are shown separately.