Diesel prices remain elevated, and the impact is hitting local trucking companies and consumers. Rising fuel costs, driven in part by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, are cutting into profits and raising concerns about broader economic effects. On highways across the region, traffic contin ues to move steadily. But for trucking companies, the cost of keeping those vehicles on the road is rising sharply. At Penny’s Trucking Academy, the impact is immediate. “The last month has been crazy for us,” Director of Operations Mike Njenga said. “Where we were paying diesel at maybe $3.50, now it’s gone all the way to $5. So, which means at this point we’re not making money.” The North Texas company operates 20 trucks hauling nonperishable goods across the country. Njenga said rising fuel costs are leaving the business close to breaking even. Before the U.S. war with Iran began, he said it cost about $600 to fill one truck. Now, that same fill-up costs closer to $900 — an increase of roughly $300 each time. Industry analysts say the impact goes beyond trucking. “The diesel side of the picture, we’re seeing prices there pushing closer to $6 a gallon,” said Matt Smith, an oil analyst with Kpler. “That’s going to have a ripple-through effect on inflation. All of our groceries that move around the country are moved by diesel trucks, and that will be reflected in those prices.” According to AAA, diesel prices in Texas reached a record $5.37 per gallon earlier this month. While prices have dipped slightly, they remain high. Back in Grapevine, Njenga said the future is uncertain. “Right now, if the price of diesel stays the way they are for the next even three months, we are doomed,” he said. For now, the company is hoping for relief as fuel costs continue to strain operations and raise concerns about how long businesses can hold on. ...read more read less