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Uber Freight: Cross-Border Peak Season Arriving Early Amid Mexico Produce Surge

Cross-border transportation markets are tightening faster than anticipated as Mexican agricultural exports, rising fuel costs and driver shortages drive rates higher, according to Uber Freight's Q2 outlook released Thursday.

Produce volumes moving through Laredo are at record levels, with March citrus, fruit and nut shipments up 36% compared to the same period in 2025. Total exports through the border crossing climbed 8% compared to 2025.

The agricultural surge has redirected trucking capacity toward cross-border corridors, creating dry van shortages. Reefer spot rates from Fresno to Chicago jumped 43% in one month, while California-to-Chicago produce rates increased nearly 25% recently.

Uber Freight forecasts truckload spot rates will remain 20-25% above 2025 levels through year-end, with contract rates potentially rising 5-10%. The company recommends shippers tender freight four to five days in advance and secure reefer capacity early.