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The produce season typically commences in March, with southern states like Florida, Georgia, and Texas leading the harvest. As temperatures rise, the harvest progresses northward, sustaining increased freight activity through the summer months. This surge necessitates a substantial number of refrigerated trucks (reefers) to maintain the freshness of perishable goods during transit. Consequently, regions abundant in produce witness heightened demand for trucking services, leading to tighter capacity and potential rate increases.

Industry forecasts suggest a positive trajectory for truckload spot rates in 2025. FTR, a transportation intelligence firm, anticipates a 5.5% to 6% increase in spot rates over the year. This projection, while slightly moderated from earlier estimates, indicates a favorable environment for carriers, especially during peak seasons like the produce harvest.

The influx of produce-related freight often leads to capacity constraints in key agricultural regions. Carriers may prioritize lucrative produce loads, resulting in reduced availability for other freight types. Shippers in non-agricultural sectors might face challenges securing transportation or encounter elevated rates due to this capacity reallocation. Additionally, the ripple effect of capacity shifts can influence national freight dynamics, affecting rates and availability across various regions.

To navigate the complexities of the 2025 produce season effectively, consider the following strategies:

• For Shippers:
  • Advance Planning: Schedule shipments early to secure capacity and mitigate potential rate hikes.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Adapt to carriers’ availability to enhance the likelihood of timely deliveries.
  • Collaborative Partnerships: Engage in transparent communication with carriers to align expectations and foster reliable service.
• For Carriers:
  • Resource Allocation: Deploy assets strategically to capitalize on high-demand regions during peak harvest times.
  • Market Monitoring: Stay informed about regional produce trends to anticipate demand surges and adjust operations accordingly.
  • Technology Utilization: Implement route optimization tools to enhance efficiency and maximize profitability during the season.

The 2025 produce season is set to bring both opportunities and challenges to the trucking industry. By understanding the seasonal patterns and proactively adjusting strategies, shippers and carriers can navigate this period effectively, ensuring the seamless movement of goods and capitalizing on market dynamics.

Trucking Industry Anticipates Rate Increases Amid Produce Season