GLI Truck Dispatch Services
  • Home
  • Services
    • Dry Van Dispatch
    • Reefer Dispatch
    • Hotshot Dispatch
    • Flatbed/Stepdeck Dispatch
    • Car Hauler Dispatch
    • Drayage Dispatch
    • Power Only Dispatch
  • GLI Difference
  • Virtual Assistant
  • Trucking 101
  • Accounting
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Blogs
  • IFTA
  • Contact
Menu
  • Home
  • Services
    • Dry Van Dispatch
    • Reefer Dispatch
    • Hotshot Dispatch
    • Flatbed/Stepdeck Dispatch
    • Car Hauler Dispatch
    • Drayage Dispatch
    • Power Only Dispatch
  • GLI Difference
  • Virtual Assistant
  • Trucking 101
  • Accounting
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Blogs
  • IFTA
  • Contact

Reefer Load Seasonality in the United States

Share:

  • GLI Dispatch Services
  • July 17, 2025

Reefer Load Seasonality in the United States

Refrigerated trucking, known in the industry as “reefer” trucking, plays a crucial role in the U.S. supply chain. It is the backbone of perishable freight transport, particularly during produce season when fresh fruits and vegetables must be moved rapidly and under strict temperature control. But being successful in this highly dynamic segment involves more than just operating a reefer unit—it requires a deep understanding of the seasonality that drives demand, dictates lane rates, and alters carrier behavior nationwide.

This guide breaks down the critical elements of reefer load seasonality in the U.S., offering insight into produce harvest calendars, regional shipping trends, market disruptions, and actionable strategies that carriers can use to maximize profit and minimize risk during the busiest times of the year.

Understanding Produce Season and Its Importance

Produce season refers to the specific months when agricultural regions across the United States harvest their fruits and vegetables. These windows of harvest trigger intense demand for refrigerated transportation. When strawberries start coming out of California fields in spring, or apples are harvested in Washington during the fall, reefer capacity tightens. Shippers compete for reliable temperature-controlled transportation, which in turn causes spot market rates to spike.

This isn’t a minor fluctuation—it’s a predictable and often dramatic shift in freight dynamics. Knowing the harvest calendar gives carriers the ability to anticipate demand, position their trucks wisely, and command higher rates during peak windows.

The significance of produce season lies in how it disrupts traditional freight patterns. It not only transforms reefer freight but also spills over into dry van markets as reefer operators prioritize high-paying produce loads, thereby reducing dry van capacity across the board.

Regional Produce Harvest Timeline

While produce is grown throughout the country, certain regions dominate during specific months of the year. These regions each have a unique harvest schedule that dictates when reefer demand will spike locally.

  • California (Feb–June): The Golden State is the largest agricultural state by volume, with major early-season harvests of strawberries, lettuce, citrus, and broccoli. Freight out of California tightens significantly during this window, and rates can climb rapidly.

  • Florida (Jan–April): Citrus, tomatoes, and bell peppers drive freight demand here during the winter and early spring, offering the first wave of reefer opportunities each year.

  • Texas and Arizona (Nov–April): These states offer substantial citrus and leafy green harvests during cooler months. Their long shipping lanes make them key hubs for long-haul reefer operations early in the year.

  • Georgia and the Carolinas (May–July): Peaches, onions, and melons from the Southeast create sharp surges in demand heading into summer.

  • Midwest (June–October): Michigan and Wisconsin begin their peak season with apples, corn, and berries, extending reefer demand well into autumn.

  • Pacific Northwest (June–November): Washington and Oregon become central for apples, potatoes, and cherries. These loads often require long hauls and premium service.

Each region’s harvest overlaps slightly, creating a rolling wave of reefer demand that migrates across the country through the year.

Impact of Produce Season on Freight Markets

The influence of produce season extends beyond individual carriers or agricultural regions. It reverberates through the entire freight ecosystem.

1. Volatile Spot Market Rates

Spot rates in agricultural zones can increase by 20% to 30% during peak harvests. This not only affects local shipping but also pulls capacity from nearby markets, disrupting lanes that aren’t traditionally produce-heavy.

2. Pressure on Dry Van Freight

Since reefer trailers can carry both temperature-sensitive and dry freight, many carriers shift from dry loads to lucrative produce loads. This reduces dry van capacity in overlapping markets, raising rates and tightening availability for shippers not involved in agriculture.

3. Congestion and Delays at Facilities

Farms, packing houses, and produce terminals often face overwhelming volumes during peak harvests. Long lines, extended dwell times, and missed appointments become common, leading to downstream scheduling issues for carriers and brokers alike.

Seasonal Reefer Activity: Month-by-Month Breakdown

A calendar-based strategy is essential for reefer operators. Here’s how each quarter typically plays out:

January - March: Southern Start

The produce season begins in the South. Florida, Arizona, and Texas see steady demand for citrus fruits, leafy greens, and peppers. Rates start climbing gradually. By March, California strawberries begin entering the market, signaling the beginning of spring volume surges.

April - June: National Peak

This is the heart of produce season. Harvests boom across the Southeast, Southwest, and California. Major crops like lettuce, broccoli, and grapes flood into distribution centers. Spot market tightens, capacity becomes scarce, and rates often hit annual highs. Carrier demand peaks during these months, and fleet utilization is at its highest.

July - September: Northern Expansion

As summer rolls in, the Midwest and Pacific Northwest take center stage. Apples, cherries, sweet corn, and berries dominate shipping manifests. The overall market remains busy, though somewhat more stable than the spring chaos. This period also provides consistent opportunities for long-haul reefer carriers heading toward major metro hubs.

October - December: Seasonal Wind-Down

Most harvests begin tapering off, but fall produce like apples and potatoes keep demand steady in select regions. Many reefer carriers pivot to dry freight or retail contracts in preparation for holiday replenishment cycles. Rates generally normalize, but smart positioning can still yield profitable lanes.

Common Challenges Faced by Reefer Carriers

Hauling produce is not only about availability—it’s about execution. The stakes are high, and small errors can lead to rejected loads, lost revenue, and damaged reputations.

Temperature Sensitivity

Different commodities have narrow and specific temperature requirements. Strawberries may require 32°F–34°F, while citrus may ship best at 45°F. Even minor temperature deviations can cause spoilage, mold growth, or texture degradation. Carriers must maintain tight control over trailer settings, regularly monitor reefer unit performance, and document every aspect of temperature compliance.

Shipper Compliance and Documentation

Produce shippers often have strict protocols. These may include:

  • Pre-cooling documentation to show the trailer is at the correct temperature before loading.

  • Pulp temperature readings of the product to confirm its initial condition.

  • Appointment adherence with little to no tolerance for late arrivals.

Non-compliance can result in load refusals, delays, or financial penalties.

Load Scheduling Inflexibility

Produce loads often have extremely narrow pickup windows. If the truck is late, the opportunity may be lost completely. Equipment failure or minor delays can result in canceled loads, damaging broker relationships and wasting hours of effort.

High Risk of Cargo Claims

Produce loads are more prone to claims due to their fragile nature. Causes may include delays, improper airflow, poor stacking, or rough handling at docks. Carriers must carefully manage cargo security, verify packaging integrity, and ensure all documentation is precise.

Regional Differences: East vs. West Coast Dynamics

Both coasts contribute heavily to seasonal reefer activity, but their characteristics differ.

East Coast

East Coast produce tends to be shorter-haul and more frequent during late spring and summer. Carriers here enjoy denser delivery points and stronger access to major distribution centers across the Northeast. Backhaul lanes are often easier to secure.

West Coast

The West Coast, led by California, produces year-round. The loads tend to be longer-haul, with many shipments heading to the Midwest or Eastern Seaboard. While this can lead to higher revenue per load, it also involves more coordination and longer transit windows, making scheduling and temperature control even more critical.

Carrier Strategies for Navigating Produce Season

Carriers who thrive during reefer season aren’t reacting—they’re planning.

Optimize Backhauls

It’s crucial to reduce deadhead miles. Carriers should align their route planning to ensure they can pick up freight on both legs of the trip, particularly near high-volume produce zones. Return loads may not be produce, but strategic alignment can preserve margins.

Invest in Equipment Maintenance

Before the season ramps up, all reefer units should undergo inspection. Ensure compressors function correctly, door seals are tight, insulation is intact, and sensors are calibrated. Preventive maintenance avoids breakdowns that could jeopardize a $20,000 load of fresh berries.

Build Broker Relationships

Produce brokers rely heavily on reliable carriers. Carriers who show consistency and compliance can become “go-to” options, receiving preferred access to high-paying loads. Communication, punctuality, and professionalism go a long way.

Dispatch with Flexibility

Dispatchers should keep drivers rested and tractors available. Produce loads move fast, often with short lead times. Being ready and mobile increases the chances of securing premium freight. Smart dispatching and nimble scheduling can maximize daily utilization.

Conclusion: Master the Seasons, Master the Market

Seasonality is the foundation of success in reefer freight. The most profitable carriers understand crop calendars as well as they understand rate per mile. With regional awareness, fleet planning, and careful compliance, carriers can transform seasonal volatility into dependable revenue.

Produce season isn’t just about availability—it’s about precision. And those who position their fleet correctly, monitor regional shifts, and deliver quality consistently will secure not just great loads, but long-term business opportunities.

GLI Truck Dispatch Services offers one of the best truck dispatch services to owner operators and carriers across USA. We offer other back-office solutions such as compliance and accounting to carriers in addition to our truck dispatch services to help our carriers succeed in this competitive yet rewarding trucking industry. At GLI, our truck dispatchers don’t just dispatch, they go the extra mile to help build relationships to help carriers grow their business. Its where professionalism meets quality. Visit www.glitruckdispatchservices.com to learn more about our processes and how our method of truck dispatching can help you succeed and grow your business. 

Recent Post

Flatbed and step-deck trucking play a vital role in freight transportation across North America. These open-deck trailer types are indispensable for moving oversized, irregular, or

Read More »

Proper load securement is the cornerstone of safety and compliance in the flatbed and stepdeck trucking industry. Unlike enclosed trailers, open-deck trailers expose cargo to

Read More »

In the vast world of freight transportation, not all cargo fits neatly into the back of a standard trailer. Some shipments stretch far beyond the

Read More »

In freight transportation, drayage trucking plays a vital but often overlooked role. While it may cover only a short physical distance, typically under 50 miles,

Read More »

In the world of intermodal freight, drayage trucking is a critical link between ports, rail yards, and final destinations. For any carrier involved in this

Read More »

In freight logistics and maritime operations, the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is a vital form of identification. Issued by the Transportation Security Administration

Read More »

Dry van trucking is one of the most widely used and versatile modes of freight transportation in North America. It plays a vital role in

Read More »

When it comes to freight transportation in North America, few equipment types offer the same reliability and versatility as a dry van trailer. Whether you’re

Read More »

Dry van trailers remain the backbone of over-the-road freight transport, offering a secure, enclosed environment for a wide range of cargo. From electronics and furniture

Read More »

In the ever-evolving landscape of freight transportation, power only carriers play a vital role by hauling trailers they don’t own, offering flexibility and reduced capital

Read More »

Categories

  • Trucking 101
  • Owner-Operator
  • Truck Dispatch Service
  • Truck Compliance Service
  • Truck Accounting Service
  • Trucking 101
  • Owner-Operator
  • Truck Dispatch Service
  • Truck Compliance Service
  • Truck Accounting Service
PrevPreviousEverything You Need to Know About Car Hauling: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
NextThe Ultimate Guide to Reefer Trailer Temperature MonitoringNext
GLI Truck Dispatch Services

GLI Truck Dispatch Services Inc

500 Office Center Drive, Suite 400

Fort Washington, PA 19034

  • (609) 436 0535
  • sales@glitruckdispatchservices.com
Tiktok Instagram Facebook-f Youtube

Our Services

  • Home
  • Services
  • GLI Difference
  • Virtual Assistant
  • Trucking 101
  • Accounting
  • Safety & Compliance
  • IFTA
  • Blogs
  • Contact Us
  • Home
  • Services
  • GLI Difference
  • Virtual Assistant
  • Trucking 101
  • Accounting
  • Safety & Compliance
  • IFTA
  • Blogs
  • Contact Us

Dispatch Services

  • Dry Van Dispatch
  • Reefer Dispatch
  • Flatbed/Stepdeck Dispatch
  • Hotshot Dispatch
  • Power Only Dispatch
  • Car Hauler Dispatch
  • Drayage Dispatch
  • Dry Van Dispatch
  • Reefer Dispatch
  • Flatbed/Stepdeck Dispatch
  • Hotshot Dispatch
  • Power Only Dispatch
  • Car Hauler Dispatch
  • Drayage Dispatch

Trucking Guides

  • FMCSA New Entrant Safety Audit – What Owner Operators Must Know
  • Trucking Insurance Comprehensive Guide for Owner Operators
  • Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) Everything Truck Drivers Must Know
  • Data Qs – Essential Guide
  • Lumper Fees Comprehensive Guide
  • IFTA – International Fuel Tax Agreement – What Owner Operators Must Know
  • FMCSA New Entrant Safety Audit – What Owner Operators Must Know
  • Trucking Insurance Comprehensive Guide for Owner Operators
  • Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) Everything Truck Drivers Must Know
  • Data Qs – Essential Guide
  • Lumper Fees Comprehensive Guide
  • IFTA – International Fuel Tax Agreement – What Owner Operators Must Know

Trucking Resource

  • Truck Stops in New Jersey- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Pennsylvania- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in New York- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in North Carolina- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Ohio- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Texas- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Georgia- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Indiana- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Michigan- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in California- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in New Jersey- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Pennsylvania- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in New York- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in North Carolina- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Ohio- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Texas- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Georgia- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Indiana- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in Michigan- Top 10
  • Truck Stops in California- Top 10
© 2022 GLI Dispatch Services. ​