The Brent–WTI gap: the role of U.S. transport bottlenecks
A case of regional transport and storage conditions shaping crude-price differences.
Updated Oct 29, 2026
U.S. bottlenecks contributed to the gap
In 2011, annual average spot prices were $111.26 per barrel for Brent and $94.87 for WTI. EIA attributed WTI’s discount partly to transport bottlenecks around Cushing that separated inland U.S. crude from global markets.
Routes into and out of a region differ
EIA identified limited outbound routes relative to pipelines supplying the Midwest, alongside concerns about spare storage. Separate supply problems and Asian demand also supported Brent prices.
Examine both sides of the spread
A wider spread calls for checking transport and storage constraints on the cheaper side as well as scarcity on the expensive side.
Historical evidence does not establish today’s cause
This illustrates historical causal distinctions. It does not establish the broadcast-date spread, Middle East conflict developments or future interest-rate direction.
Sources
- EIA — 2011 Brief: Brent crude oil averages over $100 per barrel in 2011Accessed Oct 29, 2026
- EIA — WTI-Brent crude oil price spread has reached unseen levelsAccessed Oct 29, 2026