As temperatures rise, the freight market enters one of its busiest times—spring produce season. With fresh fruits and vegetables moving in high volumes, demand for trucks surges, tightening capacity and driving up rates. Whether you're a shipper, carrier, or agent, staying ahead of these market shifts is key.
Spring produce season is driven by harvests across the southern U.S. and Mexico, where warmer climates allow for early-season fruits and vegetables to hit the market. As these regions ramp up production, reefer capacity tightens, especially in major shipping hubs. This shift impacts the entire freight network, influencing rates and availability across the country.
This influx of freight creates higher spot rates, as reefer trucks become harder to secure. Carriers prioritize produce loads, making it challenging for shippers to find capacity. Outbound rates from key agricultural states increase, while inbound rates remain low.
How to Prepare
For shippers, securing capacity early and working with a mix of contract and spot market carriers can help avoid last-minute price spikes. Flexibility with pickup and delivery windows is also crucial.
For carriers, this season presents an opportunity to maximize profits by focusing on reefer lanes. Planning return loads strategically ensures steady revenue while maintaining efficiency.
For agents, staying informed on rate trends and carrier availability is essential. Expanding your network of reefer carriers and preparing shippers for rate fluctuations will help keep operations smooth.
Looking Ahead
As spring transitions into summer, produce shipping will continue to evolve. Harvests shift northward, bringing new challenges and opportunities. Capacity will remain tight, but understanding these seasonal shifts can help you stay ahead of the curve. Stay tuned for our summer produce season update.
