The American trucking industry sees rising diesel prices as its largest concern in 2026, as the war in Iran has sent fuel costs to record highs.

According to an American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) survey of 3,000 U.S. truck drivers, freight stakeholders and motor carriers, fuel prices were identified as the top concern among 11.3% of respondents, followed by lawsuit abuse reform at 10.2%, compliance safety accountability at 7.9%, and insurance costs at 4.6%. Diesel prices also rose to the top spot from the 17th most prominent issue last year, with truck drivers included in the survey flagging it as their chief concern for the first time ever.

Diesel prices in the U.S. rose above $6 a gallon for the first time ever in 2026, before hitting a record $6.52 a gallon on September 22. As of October 19, prices are down slightly at $6.31 a gallon, but remain elevated compared to that same time last year, when diesel was just $3.63 a gallon.

More than 65% of respondents in the ATRI's survey said that they believe the best strategy for addressing high fuel prices is action at the federal level to manage supply issues and mitigate fluctuations. However, a recent move from the Trump administration to expand exemptions for the use of tax-free dyed diesel has been met with mixed reviews, given inconsistencies among individual states in how the fuel is regulated.

The ATRI also noted that the White House's recent bid to purchase Russian reserves of diesel despite broader Congressional sanctions "creates new geopolitical confusion, both domestically and among U.S. allies."