Arizona Trucking Businesses Squeezed by Soaring Diesel Prices

Fluctuating crude oil costs and uncertain relief leave local haulers struggling to stay profitable

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Arizona diesel prices have surged above $5 per gallon, putting significant financial strain on local trucking companies like Desert Trucking. Owner John Johnson has had to implement fuel surcharges and other cost-saving measures to keep his 42-year-old business afloat as the high prices squeeze his profit margins. With crude oil prices fluctuating between $90 and $100 per barrel and no clear relief in sight, truckers in the state are bracing for an extended period of elevated fuel costs.

Why it matters

The rising diesel prices are having a ripple effect across Arizona's economy, impacting not just trucking companies but also farmers, retailers, and consumers who rely on the transportation of goods. As a key industry in the state, the struggles of trucking businesses could lead to higher prices and supply chain disruptions if the high fuel costs persist.

The details

Desert Trucking owner John Johnson said the company has had to implement a fuel surcharge to pass on the increased diesel costs to customers. Johnson has also added a reserve fuel tank in the past to help conserve fuel during price spikes. Despite these measures, the high prices are still putting a significant dent in the company's revenue after 42 years in business.

  • As of March 16, 2026, the average price for diesel in Arizona was $5.167 per gallon.
  • In 2022, Arizona diesel prices reached a record high of $5.942 per gallon.

The players

John Johnson

Owner of Desert Trucking, a 42-year-old transportation company in Arizona.

Julian Parades

AAA spokesperson who commented on the impact of international conflicts on crude oil and gas prices.

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What they’re saying

“Our customers feel it and they're feeling the pinch even when they buy diesel.”

— John Johnson, Owner, Desert Trucking (kgun9.com)

“The tricky and scary thing about right now is the impact of the oil market and gas prices really depends on how long this conflict lasts and nobody really knows.”

— Julian Parades, AAA Spokesperson (kgun9.com)

What’s next

According to the report, relief for high diesel prices may not come quickly, as crude oil prices are fluctuating between $90 and $100 per barrel, which plays a significant role in determining gas and diesel prices. The ongoing international conflicts in the Middle East are also making the situation difficult to predict.

The takeaway

The soaring diesel prices in Arizona are putting significant financial strain on local trucking businesses like Desert Trucking, forcing them to implement fuel surcharges and other cost-saving measures to stay afloat. With no clear relief in sight and the ripple effects impacting the broader economy, the high fuel costs pose a serious challenge for the state's transportation industry.