# What will the DAT national average flatbed spot rate average in Q4 2026?

**URL:** https://www.rigload.com/markets/dat-flatbed-rate-q4-2026  
**Type:** Numeric forecast  
**Status:** active  
**Deadline:** 2027-01-31  
**Category:** rates  
**Current consensus:** $4.25/mi  
**Forecasts:** 1

## Description

Flatbed has been the standout truckload segment through 2026. The [DAT national flatbed](https://www.dat.com/trendlines/flatbed/national-rates) spot rate sits near $3.69 a mile all-in, with contract at $3.89, both well above the five-year average, while van and reefer lag. Demand is concentrated in a few capital-heavy sources: data-center construction, grid and energy capex, Permian oil and gas, and rising domestic steel output as mills substitute for tariffed imports.

Flatbed typically peaks during the Q2 and Q3 project season and softens into the fourth quarter. This market asks where the national average lands in Q4 2026, after the seasonal tailwind fades. It extends the [Q2 national flatbed market](https://www.rigload.com/markets/dat-flatbed-rate-q2-2026) into the back half of the year.

## Resolution criteria

Average the DAT national average flatbed spot rate for October, November and December 2026, all-in and including fuel surcharge. Average the three monthly averages and round to the nearest cent. Source: [DAT Trendlines](https://www.dat.com/trendlines/flatbed/national-rates) or DAT monthly rate reports.

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_Rig Load — freight market forecasting. Crowd consensus is public; sign in to submit a forecast. Source: https://www.rigload.com/markets/dat-flatbed-rate-q4-2026_