Business Logistics Costs in the U.S. Reach an All-Time High

Shipping and transportation costs surge as supply chain challenges persist

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:39pm

A photorealistic studio still-life image featuring a stack of shipping boxes, a fuel canister, and a tablet device arranged on a clean, monochromatic background, symbolizing the challenges and complexities of modern business logistics.As logistics costs soar to record highs, businesses face mounting pressure to optimize their supply chains and adapt to an evolving economic landscape.Coachella Today

U.S. business logistics costs exceeded $2.316 trillion in 2022, reaching a new record high of 9.1% of the country's GDP. The report cites rising transportation, fuel, and e-commerce costs as key drivers behind the increase, with the logistics industry facing ongoing supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainties.

Why it matters

The sharp rise in logistics costs is putting significant pressure on businesses, forcing them to reevaluate their supply chain strategies and operational models. This trend could lead to higher consumer prices, reduced profit margins, and challenges for companies trying to remain competitive in a volatile market.

The details

According to the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' (CSCMP) 2023 State of Logistics Report, total transportation costs in the U.S. grew by 7.4% year-over-year from $1.296 trillion in 2021 to $1.391 trillion in 2022. Road freight and transportation made up the largest portion of logistics spending, reaching $896 billion in 2022, a 6.1% increase from the previous year. Rail costs also experienced a 17.6% year-over-year boost. Meanwhile, e-commerce sales continued to rise, growing by 8% in 2022 to $1.034 trillion and accounting for 14.5% of total U.S. retail market.

  • U.S. business logistics costs exceeded $2.316 trillion in 2022, the highest mark on record.
  • Total transportation costs in the U.S. grew by 7.4% year-over-year from $1.296 trillion in 2021 to $1.391 trillion in 2022.
  • Road freight and transportation costs reached $896 billion in 2022, a 6.1% increase from 2021.
  • Rail costs experienced a 17.6% year-over-year boost from 2021 ($84.4 billion) to 2022 ($99.2 billion).
  • E-commerce sales grew by 8% in 2022 to $1.034 trillion, accounting for 14.5% of total U.S. retail market.

The players

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)

The global organization that produces the annual State of Logistics Report, which provides insights into the U.S. logistics industry.

Kearney

The global consulting firm that collaborated with CSCMP on the 2023 State of Logistics Report.

Penske Logistics

The company that presented the 2023 State of Logistics Report.

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The takeaway

The surge in U.S. business logistics costs, driven by rising transportation, fuel, and e-commerce expenses, is putting significant strain on companies and consumers alike. As supply chain challenges persist, businesses will need to reevaluate their operational strategies to remain competitive and mitigate the impact of these escalating costs.