Old Dominion advances 4.9% LTL rate increase to Oct. 5
Old Dominion Freight Line announced a 4.9% general rate increase effective Oct. 5, moving the hike one month ahead of last year’s schedule. The increase matches last year’s expected 4.9% average and follows similar forward‑dated hikes by ArcBest and Saia.
The GRI applies to the carrier’s 559 standard LTL, 670 cubic‑meter, and 550 fuel‑related tariffs, the same groups adjusted in the prior increase. Old Dominion said the increase is intended to offset cost pressures from real estate, equipment, technology, and competitive wages and benefits. It will also help fund continued investment in the strength, capacity, and efficiency of its service network and technology systems. The change takes effect on Oct. 5, 2025, and will be reflected in invoices for shipments after that date. Historically, Old Dominion has used GRIs to finance capex projects and maintain network reliability amid inflation.
“To continue meeting our customers’ expectations and supporting the commitments we make to them, we must continue to invest in the strength, capacity, and efficiency of our service network and technology systems,” Greg Lawrence, vice president of pricing services said.
Last year Old Dominion also implemented a 4.9% GRI, which had been moved up a month from its usual timing. ArcBest earlier this year put through a 5.9% GRI on June 22, about six weeks ahead of its prior schedule. Saia enacted a 7.1% GRI on July 6, 120 basis points higher and three months earlier than its last increase.
What we know
Old Dominion Freight Line announced Monday a 4.9% general rate increase to various tariff codes effective Oct. 5.
Last year, Old Dominion’s (NASDAQ: ODFL) GRI was also expected to average 4.9%.
It implemented a 5.9% hike for LTL services at both of its business units on June 22.
Saia (NASDAQ: SAIA) implemented a 7.1% general rate increase on July 6.
The 54.6 reading was just 100 bps below a four-year high set in July.