California Diesel Prices Hit Record Highs: What It Means for Moving Costs
California diesel prices surged to record levels in 2026, creating significant challenges for moving companies. In September 2026, I appeared on FOX Business to discuss how these price increases are affecting our operations and customers.
The Real Numbers: QShark’s Experience
Our monthly diesel bill for QShark’s all-diesel fleet increased from approximately $8,200 in August 2025 to about $16,000 in August 2026—nearly doubling in one year.
Watch the full breakdown of the real numbers and their impact on QShark's operations
However, our customer fuel fee only rose from about $60 to $70—an increase of roughly 17%. The company absorbed most of the increase to keep services affordable.
“Our customers are already struggling to pay, because California’s very expensive, and they’re also paying gas prices,” I explained in a Bloomberg News story published by Transport Topics.
Impact on QShark Moving Company
Monthly Diesel Bill
Customer Fuel Fee
The September 2026 Crisis
In September 2026, California diesel reached unprecedented levels, with some stations posting prices as high as $9.99 per gallon. Bloomberg News documented the crisis, featuring QShark’s experience. FOX Business reported on September 22, 2026, that California diesel had hit a record high of $6.52 per gallon.
Featured on FOX Business
I joined FOX Business on September 22, 2026, to discuss the impact of soaring diesel prices on California businesses. The interview aired on “The Big Money Show” as part of a segment on how record-high diesel costs affect transportation companies and consumers.
"California diesel HEATS UP with the HIGHEST price tag ever" - FOX Business, September 22, 2026
The Challenge of Passing Costs to Customers
Moving companies face a difficult balance when fuel prices spike. Market competition and customer affordability mean companies often can’t pass on 100% of fuel increases. QShark’s customer fuel fee rose by only $10 while monthly diesel costs nearly doubled, meaning we absorbed the majority of the increase.
If you’re planning a move, ask any mover how their fuel fee is calculated before you book.
For more information about our long-distance moving services or to get a free quote, contact QShark Moving Company today.
About the Author
Vlad Kandybovich is the CEO and founder of QShark Moving Company. A Belarus immigrant who started the company with his father in 2014, Vlad has grown QShark into a moving company serving California and Florida. He regularly shares insights on the moving industry, small business operations, and transportation costs through media appearances and industry publications. Learn more about QShark Moving Company.
For media inquiries, email info@qshark-moving.com or visit our media page.
