ARA Addresses Impact of Rising Fuel Costs Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

The American Recovery Association (ARA) is issuing a call to action to industry partners, lenders, and clients regarding the sharp increase in fuel prices driven by the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its impact on recovery operations nationwide.

Since the escalation of the Iran conflict in late February 2026, global energy markets have experienced significant volatility and rapid price increases. At the onset of the conflict, crude oil prices were approximately $80–$85 per barrel but quickly surged as supply disruptions intensified.

As the conflict has continued, oil prices have climbed further, with recent trading levels ranging from approximately $110–$116 per barrel. Gasoline prices have followed this trend, rising from roughly $2.78–$3.25 per gallon at the beginning of March to between $3.99 and over $6.00 per gallon today, depending on the region.

Operational Impact on the Recovery Industry

As a transportation-dependent industry, recovery operations are directly affected by fluctuations in fuel prices. The rapid escalation in fuel costs has significantly increased expenses across agency operations and field activity. This impacts not only agents and transporters in the field, but also facilities and operational staff.

ARA members remain committed to delivering professional, compliant, and timely services. However, the sustained increase in fuel prices is creating immediate and ongoing pressure on operational sustainability.

Commitment to Transparency and Partnership

ARA encourages open communication between recovery agencies, lenders, forwarders, and clients. In response to current market conditions, agencies may need to evaluate:

Adjustments to fee structures
Implementation of fuel surcharges
Reassessment of service coverage areas

While we recognize that several partners have taken a measured, wait-and-see approach as conditions evolved, the current environment demands immediate and decisive action. Continued delay is no longer viable.

ARA has scheduled an industry-wide strategic discussion with leadership at NARS. We encourage all partners to actively participate in this critical conversation and be prepared to move forward with implementing immediate relief measures to help address and mitigate this growing burden.

These measures are necessary to:

Maintain service quality and coverage
Ensure compliance and safety standards
Support workforce retention and operational continuity

Industry Collaboration Moving Forward

ARA continues to advocate for fair, transparent, and sustainable practices across the recovery industry. Collaboration among all stakeholders will be essential as the industry navigates ongoing economic pressures stemming from fuel costs and global instability.

We encourage all partners to engage in proactive discussions to ensure continued service stability and mutual success. If you are interested in attending this discussion, please contact the ARA Client Committee.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to the industry.

ARA Addresses Impact of Rising Fuel Costs Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

Sincerely,
Todd Case
President, American Recovery Association (ARA)

About the American Recovery Association (ARA)
The American Recovery Association is the world’s largest association dedicated to the advancement and professional development of the recovery and remarketing industry. ARA provides education, compliance resources, and advocacy for hundreds of recovery professionals nationwide. It is also the host of the annual North American Repossessors Summit (NARS), the largest event in the industry. 🔗 Visit: repo.org | 📞 Call: (972) 755-4755