Rising Diesel Prices Squeeze East Texas Truckers

Ongoing conflict in Iran pushes crude oil above $100, impacting local trucking companies

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:07pm

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Diesel prices have surged in Tyler, Texas and across the country as the ongoing conflict in Iran pushes crude oil above $100 per barrel, according to AAA and local truckers. In Tyler, diesel averaged $4.94 a gallon, about $0.30 below the all-time record set in 2022, while regular gasoline averaged $3.63 a gallon, roughly $1 below its record.

Why it matters

The rise in diesel prices is putting significant financial strain on independent truckers and small trucking companies in the East Texas region, who rely on diesel to power their vehicles. This could lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses that rely on trucking services, as well as potential disruptions to supply chains.

The details

AAA said the rise in crude oil prices is driving the retail fuel increases nationwide, and that retail prices often lag when crude falls again. One local owner-operator said he recently bought more than 200 gallons of diesel and spent more than $1,000.

  • Diesel prices in Tyler, Texas averaged $4.94 per gallon as of April 1, 2026.

The players

AAA

A non-profit federation of motor clubs that provides travel, insurance, and automotive-related services.

Local Truckers

Independent truckers and small trucking companies in the East Texas region that rely on diesel to power their vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“I recently bought more than 200 gallons and spent more than $1,000.”

— Local Trucking Company Owner, Owner-Operator

The takeaway

The sharp rise in diesel prices is putting significant financial pressure on independent truckers and small trucking companies in the East Texas region, which could lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses, as well as potential supply chain disruptions if the high prices persist.