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Reefer Load Seasonality in the United States

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  • GLI Dispatch Services
  • July 17, 2025

Reefer Load Seasonality in the United States

What Reefer Operators Need to Know About Produce Season

Reefer trucking is the backbone of temperature-sensitive freight in the U.S., especially when it comes to hauling fresh produce. But success in this space depends on more than just having the right equipment — it requires understanding the seasonal patterns that drive demand, shape freight rates, and affect nationwide capacity.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the seasonality of reefer freight, highlighting the timing of produce harvests, their impact on the freight market, and key strategies reefer operators must use to stay competitive.

What Is Produce Season and Why Does It Matter?

Produce season refers to the annual periods when fruits and vegetables are harvested across various U.S. regions. These harvest windows create spikes in demand for refrigerated transportation, often leading to higher freight rates and tighter capacity.

Key Regional Harvest Timelines:

  • California: Strawberries, citrus, lettuce (Feb – June)
  • Florida: Tomatoes, bell peppers, citrus (Jan – April)
  • Georgia & Carolinas: Peaches, onions, melons (May – July)
  • Texas & Arizona: Greens, melons, citrus (Nov – April)
  • Midwest (MI, WI): Apples, sweet corn, berries (June – Oct)
  • Pacific Northwest: Apples, cherries, potatoes (June – Nov)

As crops move from field to market, reefers become essential for preserving freshness and avoiding spoilage. These regional peaks rotate throughout the year, triggering surges in both freight demand and operational complexity.

How Produce Season Impacts the Freight Market

The produce surge doesn’t just influence agricultural regions — it affects the entire freight ecosystem.

1. Rate Spikes and Lane Volatility

When harvests peak, regional spot rates can surge as much as 20–30%. This draws capacity away from other regions, creating widespread rate shifts.

2. Dry Van Capacity Shrinkage

Because reefers can carry both refrigerated and dry freight, many reefer carriers drop dry loads in favor of higher-paying produce. This increases pressure on dry van markets nationwide.

3. Increased Dwell and Loading Delays

During high-volume periods, farms and packing facilities can experience congestion, leading to longer wait times and missed appointment windows.

Month-by-Month Reefer Activity Breakdown

Timing your operations around these trends helps maximize profit and minimize downtime.

📅 January - March: Southern Start

  • Florida, Arizona, and Texas lead with citrus and leafy greens.
  • Demand builds gradually; rates begin climbing.
  • California strawberries begin appearing by March.

📅 April - June: National Peak

  • Southeast and West Coast experience high-volume harvests.
  • California surges with lettuce, broccoli, grapes.
  • Spot market tightens; carrier availability drops.

📅 July - September: Northern Expansion

  • Midwest and Northwest produce enters the scene.
  • Cherries, potatoes, berries dominate loads.
  • Market stabilizes, but volumes remain high.

📅 October - December: Cooldown

  • Harvest activity slows.
  • Reefers return to dry freight or long-haul retail contracts.
  • Seasonal retail replenishments keep freight flowing.

Top Challenges for Reefer Carriers During Produce Season

Produce shipping is high-risk, high-reward. Here’s what carriers must watch out for:

1. Temperature Control Precision

Small deviations in trailer temp can lead to:

  • Load rejection
  • Product spoilage
  • Insurance claims

Maintaining the correct range (e.g., 34°F for berries, 45°F for citrus) is non-negotiable.

2. Strict Shipper Protocols

Many produce shippers require:

  • Pre-cooling documentation
  • Pulp temperature verification
  • Strict adherence to appointment times

Noncompliance can cost time and revenue.

3. No-Flex Load Scheduling

Produce loads are often “one-shot” pickups. Delays or mechanical issues can cost the load entirely.

4. Cargo Claims and Liability

Spoilage claims rise dramatically in produce season due to:

  • Delays
  • Cross-docking mishandling
  • Improper packaging or airflow

Regional Dynamics: East Coast vs West Coast Reefer Freight

Both coasts play a pivotal role in seasonal produce shipping, but their dynamics differ:

East Coast Highlights

  • Shorter, high-density hauls during spring/summer
  • Strong demand from Northeast distribution centers
  • Better backhaul opportunities

West Coast Strengths

  • California remains king of year-round produce
  • Larger loads and longer hauls = higher revenue
  • Greater climate variability = tighter scheduling

Carrier Playbook: Winning the Produce Season

To succeed in seasonal reefer freight, proactive strategy is key.

1. Pre-Plan Backhauls

Reduce deadhead miles by aligning inbound and return loads near produce zones.

2. Perform Pre-Season Maintenance

Ensure reefer units are fully inspected:

  • Compressor function
  • Door seals
  • Insulation integrity

3. Build Long-Term Broker Relationships

Produce brokers often return to reliable carriers. Excellent service can lead to preferred carrier status.

4. Stay Flexible and Dispatch Smart

Keep drivers rested and trucks mobile. First-available trucks often get premium produce loads.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead of the Season, Stay Ahead of the Market

Produce seasonality is not just a scheduling concern—it’s a strategic cornerstone for reefer success. Carriers who understand crop calendars, monitor regional demand trends, and invest in compliance technology can capture the most profitable loads and build long-term client loyalty.

If you’re in the reefer game, your calendar should be as important as your GPS. Know the season, position your fleet, and optimize for freshness—because when the fields are full, so are the opportunities.

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