Introduction: A Time of Transition in the Refrigerated Freight Industry
As September rolls around, produce shippers in California and the Pacific Northwest face a critical transition. The peak summer produce season comes to an end, and the demands on refrigerated freight (reefer) transportation shift. This change can affect everything from availability to pricing, making it essential for shippers to adapt their logistics strategies. In this blog, we’ll explore how the September shift impacts reefer freight and what West Coast shippers can do to stay ahead of the curve.
The Produce Shift: Key Crops in Decline
September typically signals the end of the harvest season for crops like berries, stone fruits, and many summer vegetables. Shippers in regions like California’s Central Valley and Washington’s Columbia Basin experience a marked decline in the demand for reefer transportation as produce volumes decrease. Potatoes, onions, and apples are among the few crops still requiring consistent reefer services, but even these have a lower volume compared to peak season.
This decline in produce shipments often leads to a surplus of refrigerated equipment, creating an opportunity for shippers to negotiate better rates. However, timing is crucial—some crops like strawberries and grapes extend their seasons into the fall, meaning that the demand for refrigerated capacity isn’t gone entirely (Food Logistics).
Reefer Freight Availability: A Shifting Dynamic
The end of peak season also impacts equipment availability. During the height of summer, reefer trailers are in high demand, with carriers often struggling to meet the needs of the agricultural sector. As the harvest slows down in September, carriers redeploy their equipment to other sectors, such as frozen foods and pharmaceuticals, which maintain steady demand year-round.
Shippers in California and the Pacific Northwest need to be mindful of this shift. While rates may drop initially, equipment shortages can still occur if trailers are moved to more lucrative lanes. Proper planning and carrier relationships are essential to maintaining steady service during this period.
How to Navigate the September Shift
To manage the complexities of this seasonal transition, West Coast shippers can take the following steps:
- Plan Early for Capacity Needs: Forecasting demand accurately during this transitional period is critical. Shippers should communicate early with their logistics partners to secure capacity during weeks of high demand, especially for late-season crops like grapes and strawberries.
- Diversify Carrier Relationships: Don’t rely on a single carrier. Partnering with multiple carriers gives shippers flexibility when capacity gets tight or shifts geographically. Consider working with carriers that specialize in both agriculture and other temperature-sensitive products, such as pharmaceuticals.
- Take Advantage of Lower Rates: With reduced competition for equipment, now is the time to renegotiate freight contracts. Locking in favorable rates for the remainder of the year can save shippers from paying peak season premiums later on.
- Consider Seasonal Storage Solutions: For produce like potatoes and apples, which can be stored for longer periods, shippers might explore temporary storage solutions to reduce immediate pressure on transportation.
Conclusion: Stay Flexible and Strategic
The September shift in reefer freight poses both challenges and opportunities for West Coast shippers. While demand for produce transportation decreases, the need for refrigerated services remains, particularly for crops that extend into the fall. By planning ahead, diversifying carrier relationships, and negotiating favorable rates, shippers in California and the Pacific Northwest can navigate this transitional period with confidence.
