Trucking News: August 20th, 2024

Reefer Market: Fall Harvest Approaching, Watermelon Season Ending Soon

Watermelon Season – the typical growing season is from April to September; peak shipping volumes typically occur in July and August. Per data from DAT, in the last 30 days watermelon production has surged, now making 20% of the national volume and surpassing potatoes, tomatoes, and apples.

Interestingly enough, the USDA reported a shortage of reefer capacity in Southwest Indiana and Southeast Illinois during last month, even though last week Indiana contributed to nearly 30% of truckload volume last week.

Reefer load postings dropped by 11% last week and are down 18% year-over-year, according to DAT. The USDA reports that truckload produce volumes were 7% lower compared to the same time last year.

Produce season’s impact on truckload: can influence truckload market’s supply and demand dynamics. Not just impacting produce shippers, but also those shipping other foods and beverages. As trucks head into produce-shipping areas to capitalize on temporary rate increases this influx can affect capacity across the entire market.

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