Trucking

Refrigerated produce shipments surge from California and Imperial Valley to East Coast

National refrigerated produce volume climbed 7% last week but remains 3% below year-ago levels, driven by strong growth from key agricultural regions. California coast lanes into New York posted gains of 13% to 17%, while the Imperial and Coachella Valley sections experienced a dramatic 72% jump in freight volume. South Texas crossings rose 9%, though Washington volumes declined 5%. California overall grew 5% week-over-week. Spot rates for produce-only refrigerated freight near 34 degrees were mixed, with Washington apple and pear lanes leading at 63% above prior-year levels. California and South Texas lanes held flat, while Salinas and Santa Maria routes into New York gained 13% to 17%. Cucumber volume surged 22% and plum tomatoes climbed 30%, offsetting declines in limes, cantaloupes, and strawberries.